Galations 6:7-10.
7. "Don't be misled. Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You always reap what you sow."
It's funny how we make wrong choices, thinking no one will notice. As long as no one sees us, then what will it hurt? I have made some stupid mistakes in my life, thinking no one would know. Sin is sin. Regardless of how and why I made those choices, it is still sin.
8. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful desires will harvest the consequences of decay and death.
Death. My sin certainly did not kill me, but it killed my relationship with God. I definitely have felt the consequence of some of my bad behavior. Thank God, he is a God of mercy and grace.
9 - 10 But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
My problem from my past mistakes is that I did get tired of doing what was good. I gave up because of the circumstances that I was dealing with. I did become discouraged and numb. At least I know that I can become what God wants me to become and to choose to do what is good. The good thing about the harvest is that some years are bad ones and some are good ones. When we make bad choices, we reap destruction. But, when we make good choices, we reap blessings. Not to say I am perfect or never sin. But keeping my eyes on God's blessing helps me to make the right choices. Therefore, I reap blessings.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Fruit of Self Control
I have read Galations many times. I have heard the many pastors who preach about the fruit of the spirit. But as I read this passage the other day, something popped out at me that I never realized before. I know God was speaking to me loud and clearly about self-control. As a woman whose desire is to please God and to do what is right, I try very hard to obtain self-control.
Galations 5:22-26 says, "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another."
Notice the phrase, "when the Holy Spirit controls our lives". Ouch. Who is in control of my life? Is it ME or the Holy Spirit who lives in me? When I am in control, I will continue to fail in the area of self-control. Interesting. You would think that to control ones-self, then one need to be in control... However, it is only when the Holy Spirit is in control that I am able to obtain self-control. That is what the passage says.
Let me illustrate. I am one who likes to participate in discussions about my philosophy of education or theology. However, sometimes I blurt out my opinions, unfiltered. In other words, I speak my mind without thinking really about the effect of what I am saying on other people. Therefore, I can offend people, without meaning to. Obviously, I am in control of my own life there and am not submitting to the Holy Spirit. But when I allow the Holy Spirit to control my life, then I am better equipped to have self-control over my words. Self control also includes my thoughts, my actions, my attitude, and even my emotions, such as anger. I do have an anger problem. Once again, when I am living in the Spirit, I can control my anger much better than when I am living for myself.
So what does it mean to live in the Spirit. For me, reading my Bible, meditating on God's word, such as this passage, praying, allowing God to control my thoughts, having an attitude like Jesus. Basically, it is taking the focus off of my own selfish desires. Notice the second have of the passage, "those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed their passion and sinful desires to the cross." Here lies the problem. I allow my passions and sinful desires to take over, which basically keeps me in a state of bondage. When I give these desires to God, I feel so much lighter and victorious.
The last part of the passage says that if we live by the Holy Spirt, he will direct every part of our lives. When he directs our lives, then we can help but to have the fruit of the spirit flow from us, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I think of people in church who I know that exude these qualities. They have so much fruit, I am drawn to them. I know I lack in these areas sometimes. Sometimes my fruit is pretty scare. I wonder if people see these in me the way I see the fruit in others. I know sometimes I am able to produce the fruit, but not as often as I should. It all falls down to my own obedience to God in allowing the Holy Spirit to control my life.
God, forgive my self-centeredness in my life. Let my light shine is such a way that the fruit is bursting from me. I desire to have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Forgive me for letting my self get in the way. I give you my sinful passions and desires that keep me in bondage. Take that from me. Prune away the dead branches that are keeping me from growing and producing the fruit. Amen.
Galations 5:22-26 says, "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another."
Notice the phrase, "when the Holy Spirit controls our lives". Ouch. Who is in control of my life? Is it ME or the Holy Spirit who lives in me? When I am in control, I will continue to fail in the area of self-control. Interesting. You would think that to control ones-self, then one need to be in control... However, it is only when the Holy Spirit is in control that I am able to obtain self-control. That is what the passage says.
Let me illustrate. I am one who likes to participate in discussions about my philosophy of education or theology. However, sometimes I blurt out my opinions, unfiltered. In other words, I speak my mind without thinking really about the effect of what I am saying on other people. Therefore, I can offend people, without meaning to. Obviously, I am in control of my own life there and am not submitting to the Holy Spirit. But when I allow the Holy Spirit to control my life, then I am better equipped to have self-control over my words. Self control also includes my thoughts, my actions, my attitude, and even my emotions, such as anger. I do have an anger problem. Once again, when I am living in the Spirit, I can control my anger much better than when I am living for myself.
So what does it mean to live in the Spirit. For me, reading my Bible, meditating on God's word, such as this passage, praying, allowing God to control my thoughts, having an attitude like Jesus. Basically, it is taking the focus off of my own selfish desires. Notice the second have of the passage, "those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed their passion and sinful desires to the cross." Here lies the problem. I allow my passions and sinful desires to take over, which basically keeps me in a state of bondage. When I give these desires to God, I feel so much lighter and victorious.
The last part of the passage says that if we live by the Holy Spirt, he will direct every part of our lives. When he directs our lives, then we can help but to have the fruit of the spirit flow from us, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I think of people in church who I know that exude these qualities. They have so much fruit, I am drawn to them. I know I lack in these areas sometimes. Sometimes my fruit is pretty scare. I wonder if people see these in me the way I see the fruit in others. I know sometimes I am able to produce the fruit, but not as often as I should. It all falls down to my own obedience to God in allowing the Holy Spirit to control my life.
God, forgive my self-centeredness in my life. Let my light shine is such a way that the fruit is bursting from me. I desire to have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Forgive me for letting my self get in the way. I give you my sinful passions and desires that keep me in bondage. Take that from me. Prune away the dead branches that are keeping me from growing and producing the fruit. Amen.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Search My Heart, Oh God
Psalms 139:23-24 says,"Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way."
Well, God brought this scripture into my life today as he was revealing some areas I need to work on. I can be very critical of others. The irony of my own criticism is that I am very sensitive to others criticism of me.
Today, two instances came up where my hurtful words affected others in a negative light. One person, I made a comment to years ago that wasn't meant to be hurtful. Somehow, it came up today in our discussion, but the person had forgotten it was me who said the hurtful words. When I realized the person was talking about a comment I made, I felt so stupid, you know. Why did I have to say that comment? What did it gain by saying.
The second situation came up when a colleague and I were discussing another person who was promoted. She was telling me that she was kind of dissapointed the person got the job because she had heard so much negative things about this person. As she was describing what she heard, I realized it was me who said all these terrible things about this person because I had a conflict with this person and was upset with this person. I was complaining to my friend about what had happened. Today, my words were repeated back to me. Again, the colleague did not remember that I was the one who spoke them. I felt so small...
I am ashamed of my actions in that I should never have had these conversations. As I was driving home, God reminded me of Pslams 139. Why do I have to be so critical of others. Proverbs 21:23 says, "If you keep your mouth shut, you will stay out of trouble." Proverbs 18:20-21 says, "Words satisfy the soul as food satisfies the stomach; the right words on a person's lips bring satisfaction. Thsoe who love to talk will experience the consequences, for the tongue can kill or nourish life."
God, give me the power to nourish life and not destroy it. Help me to be an encourager, not a discourager. Forgive me for hurting others with my tongue.
Well, God brought this scripture into my life today as he was revealing some areas I need to work on. I can be very critical of others. The irony of my own criticism is that I am very sensitive to others criticism of me.
Today, two instances came up where my hurtful words affected others in a negative light. One person, I made a comment to years ago that wasn't meant to be hurtful. Somehow, it came up today in our discussion, but the person had forgotten it was me who said the hurtful words. When I realized the person was talking about a comment I made, I felt so stupid, you know. Why did I have to say that comment? What did it gain by saying.
The second situation came up when a colleague and I were discussing another person who was promoted. She was telling me that she was kind of dissapointed the person got the job because she had heard so much negative things about this person. As she was describing what she heard, I realized it was me who said all these terrible things about this person because I had a conflict with this person and was upset with this person. I was complaining to my friend about what had happened. Today, my words were repeated back to me. Again, the colleague did not remember that I was the one who spoke them. I felt so small...
I am ashamed of my actions in that I should never have had these conversations. As I was driving home, God reminded me of Pslams 139. Why do I have to be so critical of others. Proverbs 21:23 says, "If you keep your mouth shut, you will stay out of trouble." Proverbs 18:20-21 says, "Words satisfy the soul as food satisfies the stomach; the right words on a person's lips bring satisfaction. Thsoe who love to talk will experience the consequences, for the tongue can kill or nourish life."
God, give me the power to nourish life and not destroy it. Help me to be an encourager, not a discourager. Forgive me for hurting others with my tongue.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Meet Me Where I Am At
Although my writing is sporadic, my reading is consistent. Blogging is more time consuming than I realized.
I've been struggling lately with issues in my life. Sometimes, I feel as a Christian, I should have my life all together, with no struggles. I know that I am only human and I sin everyday. Regardless, what amazes me the most is God's mercy and love towards me in my life, even when I fail. This morning as I was crying to God for his help as I am trying to do what is right, God gave me this passage. I Corinthians 1:4 says, "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. So when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your benefit and salvation! For when God comforts us, it is so that we, in turn, can be an encouragement to you."
God is so good. In this passage, Paul is referring to persecution and difficulties in his travels as he is preaching the gospel. However, it can apply to any circumstance. I know that as I overcome my struggles, I will claim victory in Christ. I know He will meet me where I am at. I am reading through the New Testament and have just finished 1 Corinthians. Now I have started II Cor. I had no idea that the first chapter would comfort me so much. God is so good.
Thank you, God, for meeting me where I am at. Thank you for your grace and mercy in my life. Thank you for caring about my needs. Father, I pray I can be used to comfort others who share my similar struggles. Thank you for those you put into my life to help me through my own. Amen.
I've been struggling lately with issues in my life. Sometimes, I feel as a Christian, I should have my life all together, with no struggles. I know that I am only human and I sin everyday. Regardless, what amazes me the most is God's mercy and love towards me in my life, even when I fail. This morning as I was crying to God for his help as I am trying to do what is right, God gave me this passage. I Corinthians 1:4 says, "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. So when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your benefit and salvation! For when God comforts us, it is so that we, in turn, can be an encouragement to you."
God is so good. In this passage, Paul is referring to persecution and difficulties in his travels as he is preaching the gospel. However, it can apply to any circumstance. I know that as I overcome my struggles, I will claim victory in Christ. I know He will meet me where I am at. I am reading through the New Testament and have just finished 1 Corinthians. Now I have started II Cor. I had no idea that the first chapter would comfort me so much. God is so good.
Thank you, God, for meeting me where I am at. Thank you for your grace and mercy in my life. Thank you for caring about my needs. Father, I pray I can be used to comfort others who share my similar struggles. Thank you for those you put into my life to help me through my own. Amen.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
The Book of Romans
I am now in Romans. I have a new perspective on Romans after reading Acts first because Paul wrote the book of Romans and Acts documents his journey, where his journey was concluded. Paul has a special love for the church of Rome because he was a Roman citizen.
What I like most about God is that he meets me where I am at. The book of Romans is definitely meeting me where I am at in my journey through life. I did not realize it would have such a practical impact on me because it is known for it's deep theology and the majority of Christian doctrine is based on Romans.
Like everyone, I struggle with issues of sin. (Romans 6, 7, 8) Romans talks about the struggle of the flesh verses the spirit (Romans 7). He also talks about our thought life and how even our thoughts can trip us up. (Romans 7:21 - 8:8) Rom 7:23-25. "But there is another law at work within me that is at war with my mind. This law wins the fight and makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin." Thank God, he can break the bondage. Sometimes, I feel discourage because I can't seem to get a handle on my thought life. But the answer is here. Even Paul struggled with his thought life according to this passage.
I love Romans 4:7-8, which says, "Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. Yes, what joy for those whose sin is no longer counted against them by the Lord." I do have something to be joyful about. I remember a time where I had NO joy in my life. I had my girls, but my joy had been snuffed out. I was in a bad place emotionally and was struggling in my life. The good news is God has forgiven my disobedience to him.
Although I sometimes still struggle, God does help me when I choose to be obedient to him. Lately, I have been struggling in my mind more than I would like to admit. Not only does Paul explains the power of sin, he provides a solution to having victory over bondage. Romans 8:5-6 says, "Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirt. If your sinful nature controls your mind, there is death. But if the Holy Spirit controls your mind, there is life and peace." I do feel at peace when my thoughts are focused on God and what he is doing in my life. I feel "lighter" when I am doing what is right.
I would like to conclude with Romans 12:2, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." I love this. God will transform my mind. When my mind is clear, I can hear God's voice. When I am disobedient and my thoughts are not where they should be, then I don't hear God speaking to me. God makes me a new person when I am obedient.
What I like most about God is that he meets me where I am at. The book of Romans is definitely meeting me where I am at in my journey through life. I did not realize it would have such a practical impact on me because it is known for it's deep theology and the majority of Christian doctrine is based on Romans.
Like everyone, I struggle with issues of sin. (Romans 6, 7, 8) Romans talks about the struggle of the flesh verses the spirit (Romans 7). He also talks about our thought life and how even our thoughts can trip us up. (Romans 7:21 - 8:8) Rom 7:23-25. "But there is another law at work within me that is at war with my mind. This law wins the fight and makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin." Thank God, he can break the bondage. Sometimes, I feel discourage because I can't seem to get a handle on my thought life. But the answer is here. Even Paul struggled with his thought life according to this passage.
I love Romans 4:7-8, which says, "Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. Yes, what joy for those whose sin is no longer counted against them by the Lord." I do have something to be joyful about. I remember a time where I had NO joy in my life. I had my girls, but my joy had been snuffed out. I was in a bad place emotionally and was struggling in my life. The good news is God has forgiven my disobedience to him.
Although I sometimes still struggle, God does help me when I choose to be obedient to him. Lately, I have been struggling in my mind more than I would like to admit. Not only does Paul explains the power of sin, he provides a solution to having victory over bondage. Romans 8:5-6 says, "Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirt. If your sinful nature controls your mind, there is death. But if the Holy Spirit controls your mind, there is life and peace." I do feel at peace when my thoughts are focused on God and what he is doing in my life. I feel "lighter" when I am doing what is right.
I would like to conclude with Romans 12:2, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." I love this. God will transform my mind. When my mind is clear, I can hear God's voice. When I am disobedient and my thoughts are not where they should be, then I don't hear God speaking to me. God makes me a new person when I am obedient.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Thoughts Only
I have been reading in Acts. It's been a while that I have read from that book. As I read it I am reminded how God called the Gentiles to love him and used Paul to spread the news. Paul was chosen because of his background. He was a highly educated, prominent Roman citizen who originally persecuted Christians. Now he is spreading he word of God to Jews and Gentiles alike. God chose Paul because only Paul could be able to speak to both Gentiles and Jews with the authority he had. He could debate the intellectuals of the time because he knew the law and knew how to approach the word of God.
Today's posting is just to praise God for who he is. I just seem to keep failing. Over and over I try to do what is right, but I keep failing. However, God keeps blessing me and using me. I don't understand it sometimes. I feel so ashamed sometimes because I should know better to make the right choices. Yet, I continue to blow it. As I went for my morning walk, I was talking to the Lord. It's a good thing most people were not up yet, because they would have thought I was crazy. But I talked it out with him and asked for his forgiveness in my life. I just praised him for loving me and accepting me. I thank God my parents love the Lord and have brought me up in the ways of the Lord. I couldn't imagine living my life without him. Talk about failure. At least I can get back up and try again. If I did not have Christ in my life, I would feel hopeless. God is good. I praise him everyday for what he does in my life. As I read his word, he reveals his truth to me. It seems like the words I read from his word deal exactly with the issues I am dealing with. I know that God is there and cares for me. Yeah, God.
I am going on vacation for a week.
Today's posting is just to praise God for who he is. I just seem to keep failing. Over and over I try to do what is right, but I keep failing. However, God keeps blessing me and using me. I don't understand it sometimes. I feel so ashamed sometimes because I should know better to make the right choices. Yet, I continue to blow it. As I went for my morning walk, I was talking to the Lord. It's a good thing most people were not up yet, because they would have thought I was crazy. But I talked it out with him and asked for his forgiveness in my life. I just praised him for loving me and accepting me. I thank God my parents love the Lord and have brought me up in the ways of the Lord. I couldn't imagine living my life without him. Talk about failure. At least I can get back up and try again. If I did not have Christ in my life, I would feel hopeless. God is good. I praise him everyday for what he does in my life. As I read his word, he reveals his truth to me. It seems like the words I read from his word deal exactly with the issues I am dealing with. I know that God is there and cares for me. Yeah, God.
I am going on vacation for a week.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Psalms 40
As I write this entry, I am listening to U2's version of Psalm 40. Summer is here and now I have time to blog my devotions again. Well, at least part of them. I would be here all day if I wrote about everything I read in the Bible.
Psalms 40:1-
I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be astounded. They will put their trust in the Lord.
I have been through some tough times in my life where I have cried out to the Lord to help me out of the muck I found myself stuck in. I was in the pit of despair. But praise God, he set my feet on solid ground. It hard when you grow up a Christian and find yourself in the mud and mire. Who wants to admit they failed God and ended up in a place of despair because of their own sin? Not me. But yet, I was there, in the mire and clay. I was in bondage that kept me trapped in a dark state. But God has given me a new song. I am so grateful for him and what he has done in my life. He continues to bless me in-spite of my failures. I wish I could offer my daughters a legacy that is not blemished. I wish I could say to them I did the made the right choices when my life got tough. But I can't. I have these blemishes in my life that I will carry for the rest of my life. Yes, Jesus has healed me, but the scars are visible. At least I can praise God and hopefully others will see what God has done and be astounded. Hopefully others will see God's light in my and know they can trust the Lord.
Father, than you for saving me from the miry clay and setting my feet on solid ground. I praise you for what you have done. May others see your work in me. Amen.
Psalms 40:1-
I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be astounded. They will put their trust in the Lord.
I have been through some tough times in my life where I have cried out to the Lord to help me out of the muck I found myself stuck in. I was in the pit of despair. But praise God, he set my feet on solid ground. It hard when you grow up a Christian and find yourself in the mud and mire. Who wants to admit they failed God and ended up in a place of despair because of their own sin? Not me. But yet, I was there, in the mire and clay. I was in bondage that kept me trapped in a dark state. But God has given me a new song. I am so grateful for him and what he has done in my life. He continues to bless me in-spite of my failures. I wish I could offer my daughters a legacy that is not blemished. I wish I could say to them I did the made the right choices when my life got tough. But I can't. I have these blemishes in my life that I will carry for the rest of my life. Yes, Jesus has healed me, but the scars are visible. At least I can praise God and hopefully others will see what God has done and be astounded. Hopefully others will see God's light in my and know they can trust the Lord.
Father, than you for saving me from the miry clay and setting my feet on solid ground. I praise you for what you have done. May others see your work in me. Amen.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Peter's Sermon
Well, I must go back to the topic in the Book of John. Some of what I wrote about is answered in Acts. It makes me feel good when my thoughts are validated through scripture. In one of my postings, I discussed how people focused on who killed Jesus and not on why he died. Peter addressed this very topic in a sermon he gave shortly after Jesus was resurrected from the dead and had ascended to heaven.
Acts 3:17-19, "Friends, I realize that what you did to Jesus was done in ignorance; and the same can be said of your leaders. But God was fulfilling what all the prophets had declared about the Messiah beforehand, that he must suffer all these things. Now turn from your sins and turn to God, so you can be cleanses of your sins. Then wonderful times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will send Jesus your Messiah to you again. For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his prophets."
Basically, it was God's plan that Jesus was killed. The significance of the Jews was because they were his chosen people from the beginning. It was not after the resurrection that God opened salvation up to the Gentiles, or non-Jews. Although, people who were not Jews did adopt the Jewish traditions and followed God. All of this occurred to fulfill the prophecies. It was all part of God's plan. Peter was telling them that they can turn away from their sins and follow Christ. The good news is that many Jews did accept Christ and became believers. God has a promise here. For those who follow Christ, "wonderful times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord." Not to say that life would be easy. It is hard to be a Christian sometimes. But, God is there when I need him. He watches over me and keeps me from harm. I don't know what I would do with out God in my life.
Acts 3:17-19, "Friends, I realize that what you did to Jesus was done in ignorance; and the same can be said of your leaders. But God was fulfilling what all the prophets had declared about the Messiah beforehand, that he must suffer all these things. Now turn from your sins and turn to God, so you can be cleanses of your sins. Then wonderful times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will send Jesus your Messiah to you again. For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his prophets."
Basically, it was God's plan that Jesus was killed. The significance of the Jews was because they were his chosen people from the beginning. It was not after the resurrection that God opened salvation up to the Gentiles, or non-Jews. Although, people who were not Jews did adopt the Jewish traditions and followed God. All of this occurred to fulfill the prophecies. It was all part of God's plan. Peter was telling them that they can turn away from their sins and follow Christ. The good news is that many Jews did accept Christ and became believers. God has a promise here. For those who follow Christ, "wonderful times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord." Not to say that life would be easy. It is hard to be a Christian sometimes. But, God is there when I need him. He watches over me and keeps me from harm. I don't know what I would do with out God in my life.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Freedom
Galations 5:1 "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."
One of the excuses people have for not becoming a Christian is that they don't way to give up their freedom. They want to be able to do whatever they want. The irony of it all is that the choices they make create a bondage. Sin has a way of keeping us in slavery to the sin such as drinking, promiscuity, gambling, etc. People become addicted to their drug of choice, which put them in a state of bondage to begin with. I understand this as I have struggled with bondage myself. But it is Christ who sets us free from the bondage. I like how this verse puts it. "Stand firm." When I stand firm and do not give into my temptations, it keeps me out of bondage and free to have a clear mind. I have so much more joy when I am living a life of freedom. I know that God is pleased with me when I stand firm and stay the course. It is hard to stand firm sometimes. Notice here that the verse says do not let yourselves be burdened again... Paul is talking to the church of Galatia and encouraging them to stay out of bondage. People in the church used to be in bondage and they have chosen to trust Christ. Paul is encouraging them to not go back to their old ways but to stand firm. This in turn encourages me to stand firm in my faith.
One of the excuses people have for not becoming a Christian is that they don't way to give up their freedom. They want to be able to do whatever they want. The irony of it all is that the choices they make create a bondage. Sin has a way of keeping us in slavery to the sin such as drinking, promiscuity, gambling, etc. People become addicted to their drug of choice, which put them in a state of bondage to begin with. I understand this as I have struggled with bondage myself. But it is Christ who sets us free from the bondage. I like how this verse puts it. "Stand firm." When I stand firm and do not give into my temptations, it keeps me out of bondage and free to have a clear mind. I have so much more joy when I am living a life of freedom. I know that God is pleased with me when I stand firm and stay the course. It is hard to stand firm sometimes. Notice here that the verse says do not let yourselves be burdened again... Paul is talking to the church of Galatia and encouraging them to stay out of bondage. People in the church used to be in bondage and they have chosen to trust Christ. Paul is encouraging them to not go back to their old ways but to stand firm. This in turn encourages me to stand firm in my faith.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Please God
"So our aim is to please him always, whether we are here in this body or away from this body. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies." I Cor 5:9-10
My pastor always says that the fear of the Lord keeps him from making the huge mistakes many pastors have made. As I read this verse, I know someday I will stand before Christ my savior and be judged. This verse alone should be enough to keep me from making stupid mistakes and keeping my thought life pure and my actions righteous. However, my flesh gets the best of me sometimes. The strongholds in my life keep me in bondage. I am embarrassed by my behavior that I know I will be accountable someday to God. Oh to be in a place where I am strong enough to resist the thoughts that often consume my time. Instead I should be praying and meditating on God's word. But, yet I choose to feed into my unhealthy thought life. I know I will go to heaven someday as I have asked Jesus to be my savior. From my understanding, when we go to heaven, people will receive rewards for the good they have done. I know I have done some pretty good things. I have had the opportunity to lead many people to the Lord. But can I do more. Can I pray more? Can I be a better friend? Can I love more? The answer is yes.
Paul is telling the church of Corinth that we will receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies. Like I said, I have done a lot of good. But I have also done things in my life I regret. I'm not sure what evil is, but if it is sin, then I am guilty. This alone should be enough to motivate me to do the right thing. It is definitely a verse I need to memorize and keep in my mind as I face temptations.
Father, keep me from doing evil. Guard my mind and keep my mind pure and holy. Help me to break the strongholds in my life that keep me in bondage. Forgive my sins. Amen.
My pastor always says that the fear of the Lord keeps him from making the huge mistakes many pastors have made. As I read this verse, I know someday I will stand before Christ my savior and be judged. This verse alone should be enough to keep me from making stupid mistakes and keeping my thought life pure and my actions righteous. However, my flesh gets the best of me sometimes. The strongholds in my life keep me in bondage. I am embarrassed by my behavior that I know I will be accountable someday to God. Oh to be in a place where I am strong enough to resist the thoughts that often consume my time. Instead I should be praying and meditating on God's word. But, yet I choose to feed into my unhealthy thought life. I know I will go to heaven someday as I have asked Jesus to be my savior. From my understanding, when we go to heaven, people will receive rewards for the good they have done. I know I have done some pretty good things. I have had the opportunity to lead many people to the Lord. But can I do more. Can I pray more? Can I be a better friend? Can I love more? The answer is yes.
Paul is telling the church of Corinth that we will receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies. Like I said, I have done a lot of good. But I have also done things in my life I regret. I'm not sure what evil is, but if it is sin, then I am guilty. This alone should be enough to motivate me to do the right thing. It is definitely a verse I need to memorize and keep in my mind as I face temptations.
Father, keep me from doing evil. Guard my mind and keep my mind pure and holy. Help me to break the strongholds in my life that keep me in bondage. Forgive my sins. Amen.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Family Verse
My husband found our family verse during the Easter Weekend. He purchased a plaque with the verse on it and decided to make it our family verse. Many people have verses in their house such as "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." I love that verse, but it is over-used. This verse is nice because it encompasses everything it needs to and is a good way to live our lives.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 "Be on guard. Stand true to what you believe. Be courageous. Be strong. And everything you do must be done with love."
Be on guard: Just because I am a Christian doesn't mean I will fall into temptation. Also, the enemy will attack those who are trying to do God's will. I need to be on guard and keep myself in prayer and meditation so that the enemy will have a harder time affecting me. Lastly, I should never let my guard down.
Stand true to what you believe: I know the truth and the Truth, Jesus Christ, will set me free from all bondage. I believe that Jesus is the only way to God because Jesus says, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no man come to the Father but by me." I believe that "Jesus died on the cross for my sins and was buried and resurrected on the third day."
Be courageous: Sometimes, facing trials can be scary and it is easier to run than to face trials. "I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me."
Be strong: When temptations come, I need to resist. Satan knows our weakness. Unfortunately, I have given in to temptations where I am weak. Being strong is not only conquering temptations, but doing what is right when everyone else is doing what is wrong. Gossip is a huge one. For the most part, I am pretty good at keeping secrets. But I would lie if I said I have never gossiped. Christians love to gossip in the name of prayer. "Did you know that Jane is having an affair? We need to pray for her." I have actually had this happen to me where a friend came up to me and was concerned about someone. I was upset because I didn't need to know this. If Jane (a made up name) wanted me to know, she would have told me. Being strong also means holding my tongue. So many times, I say stupid things that can be hurtful. Why can't I learn how to hold my tongue and just smile when another person does something stupid. But I have to say something.
And everything you do must be done with Love: Everything must be done in love or it is meaningless. 1 John 4:7-8 says, "Beloved, let us love one another. For love is of God and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God for God is love." The verse goes on to say that if you call yourself a Christian and do not love your brother than you are a liar. Ouch.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 "Be on guard. Stand true to what you believe. Be courageous. Be strong. And everything you do must be done with love."
Be on guard: Just because I am a Christian doesn't mean I will fall into temptation. Also, the enemy will attack those who are trying to do God's will. I need to be on guard and keep myself in prayer and meditation so that the enemy will have a harder time affecting me. Lastly, I should never let my guard down.
Stand true to what you believe: I know the truth and the Truth, Jesus Christ, will set me free from all bondage. I believe that Jesus is the only way to God because Jesus says, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no man come to the Father but by me." I believe that "Jesus died on the cross for my sins and was buried and resurrected on the third day."
Be courageous: Sometimes, facing trials can be scary and it is easier to run than to face trials. "I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me."
Be strong: When temptations come, I need to resist. Satan knows our weakness. Unfortunately, I have given in to temptations where I am weak. Being strong is not only conquering temptations, but doing what is right when everyone else is doing what is wrong. Gossip is a huge one. For the most part, I am pretty good at keeping secrets. But I would lie if I said I have never gossiped. Christians love to gossip in the name of prayer. "Did you know that Jane is having an affair? We need to pray for her." I have actually had this happen to me where a friend came up to me and was concerned about someone. I was upset because I didn't need to know this. If Jane (a made up name) wanted me to know, she would have told me. Being strong also means holding my tongue. So many times, I say stupid things that can be hurtful. Why can't I learn how to hold my tongue and just smile when another person does something stupid. But I have to say something.
And everything you do must be done with Love: Everything must be done in love or it is meaningless. 1 John 4:7-8 says, "Beloved, let us love one another. For love is of God and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God for God is love." The verse goes on to say that if you call yourself a Christian and do not love your brother than you are a liar. Ouch.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Changing Directions
Well, I have finally had time to finish John. I am moving in a new direction. I will continue to read through Acts on my own time, but what I write here will be more random. I will write about Spiritual Strongholds and focus on verses that have to do with being set free from the stronghold in my life so that I can be closer to God. I am reading a book called Praying Through God's Word by Beth Moore. So I will use this as a journal to what speaks to me the most.
Peter's Opportunity to Redeem Himself
John 21:15-17
After breakfast Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you."
"Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
"Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you."
"Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said.
Once more he asked him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was grieved that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know I love you."
Jesus said, "Then feed my sheep."
It was not too long ago that Peter denied Jesus three times. I do not think it is a coincidence that Jesus asked Peter if he loved him three times. Jesus is speaking figuratively in regards to his sheep and his lambs. Jesus referred to himself as the Great Shepherd. Now he was going to be returning to heaven. He is asking Peter to take care of his people and feed them the word of God. It wasn't too much longer after this that Peter gave one of his greatest sermons. Not only is Peter preaching great sermons, he is also healing people and spreading the word. You can read about these events in Acts.
Like Peter, I have messed up in my life and felt shame. But that doesn't mean I have to feel sorry for myself and stop serving the Lord. If I look at Peter's example, it was after he denied Christ and Christ empowered him that he became as great preacher. I know in my life, I am a better Christian now and have tried harder to serve God because it is now I have experienced his mercy in my life.
After breakfast Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you."
"Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
"Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you."
"Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said.
Once more he asked him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was grieved that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know I love you."
Jesus said, "Then feed my sheep."
It was not too long ago that Peter denied Jesus three times. I do not think it is a coincidence that Jesus asked Peter if he loved him three times. Jesus is speaking figuratively in regards to his sheep and his lambs. Jesus referred to himself as the Great Shepherd. Now he was going to be returning to heaven. He is asking Peter to take care of his people and feed them the word of God. It wasn't too much longer after this that Peter gave one of his greatest sermons. Not only is Peter preaching great sermons, he is also healing people and spreading the word. You can read about these events in Acts.
Like Peter, I have messed up in my life and felt shame. But that doesn't mean I have to feel sorry for myself and stop serving the Lord. If I look at Peter's example, it was after he denied Christ and Christ empowered him that he became as great preacher. I know in my life, I am a better Christian now and have tried harder to serve God because it is now I have experienced his mercy in my life.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Jesus Appearance to the Disciples
John 20:19 That evening, on the first day of the week, the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! "Peace be with you," he said. 20 As he spoke, he held out his hands for them to see, and he showed them his side. They were filled with joy when they saw their Lord! 21 He spoke to them again and said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." 22 Then he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive any one's sins, they are forgiven. If you refuse to forgive them, they are unforgiven."
This verse is packed with so many truths. The is the first time the disciples saw Jesus as a group. Mary saw him on the trail a week earlier, but he had not yet been "gloried" by his father it he told her not to touch him because of that reason. However, now, he had been glorified he made his appearance. The disciples were scared because the body was "missing" and the people who crucified Jesus were spreading rumors that the disciples stole the body so they could tell everyone that Jesus had risen from the dead. No one could explain the missing body and no one could find it. But here was Jesus, now glorified, standing before his disciples and the woman who followed him.
There is so much here I don't know where to go.
1) Jesus was gloried. In the books written by Paul, Paul writes about how we, as believers will be glorified when we go to heaven to be with Jesus. Notice how Jesus was able to appear in the room without walking through the doors. When Jesus was in the human form, he could not do that. But as a glorified being, he could appear. I think that we will be like that when we go to heaven. It's just a thought of what I think it will be like when we get to heaven. This is totally my own theory and I'm sure other will concur.
2.) The disciples received the Holy Spirit for the first time. Notice how Jesus breathed on them and gave them the Holy Spirit, which he referred to in his teachings. He said that when I leave, I will send you a comfort or to guide you. He also indicated that the comfort or will guide us in truth. So, this is the first time that the Holy Spirit has been released. When a person accepts Jesus into his heart, the Holy Spirit comes and dwells within us.
3.) If you forgive any ones sins, they will be forgiven. This is powerful. We have the power to forgive others who sin against us. How freeing is that? When people don't forgive others, the person who sinned is left unforgiven and the person who is holding the sin against the other will become embittered. What a sad way to live. Notice how it is the Christian who has the power to forgive. We have a huge responsibilty to do what is right and are now held accountable to forgive others who sin against us. In fact, Jesus preached in Matthew that when we don't forgive others, how can God forgive us?
Father, I fogive those who sin against me, even if I feel they don't deserve it, even if they have hurt me. You know these people and what they have done wrong. Out of obedience to you, I forgive these people. Amen
This verse is packed with so many truths. The is the first time the disciples saw Jesus as a group. Mary saw him on the trail a week earlier, but he had not yet been "gloried" by his father it he told her not to touch him because of that reason. However, now, he had been glorified he made his appearance. The disciples were scared because the body was "missing" and the people who crucified Jesus were spreading rumors that the disciples stole the body so they could tell everyone that Jesus had risen from the dead. No one could explain the missing body and no one could find it. But here was Jesus, now glorified, standing before his disciples and the woman who followed him.
There is so much here I don't know where to go.
1) Jesus was gloried. In the books written by Paul, Paul writes about how we, as believers will be glorified when we go to heaven to be with Jesus. Notice how Jesus was able to appear in the room without walking through the doors. When Jesus was in the human form, he could not do that. But as a glorified being, he could appear. I think that we will be like that when we go to heaven. It's just a thought of what I think it will be like when we get to heaven. This is totally my own theory and I'm sure other will concur.
2.) The disciples received the Holy Spirit for the first time. Notice how Jesus breathed on them and gave them the Holy Spirit, which he referred to in his teachings. He said that when I leave, I will send you a comfort or to guide you. He also indicated that the comfort or will guide us in truth. So, this is the first time that the Holy Spirit has been released. When a person accepts Jesus into his heart, the Holy Spirit comes and dwells within us.
3.) If you forgive any ones sins, they will be forgiven. This is powerful. We have the power to forgive others who sin against us. How freeing is that? When people don't forgive others, the person who sinned is left unforgiven and the person who is holding the sin against the other will become embittered. What a sad way to live. Notice how it is the Christian who has the power to forgive. We have a huge responsibilty to do what is right and are now held accountable to forgive others who sin against us. In fact, Jesus preached in Matthew that when we don't forgive others, how can God forgive us?
Father, I fogive those who sin against me, even if I feel they don't deserve it, even if they have hurt me. You know these people and what they have done wrong. Out of obedience to you, I forgive these people. Amen
Saturday, March 22, 2008
The Resurrection
Well, how appropriate to be writing about the resurrection the day before Easter. I didn't plan it this way, it's just where I ended up on my journey through the book of John. Again, I am drawing attention to what most people skim over when they talk about the resurrection. My focus here is similar to one I wrote about recently; that is, the fulfillment of the prophecies. Although the Old Testament refers to the Messiah, no one expected the Messiah to be born in a poor family as a baby. I don't know what they were expecting, but not that. In fact, many people were stilling waiting for the Messiah to come and even today, many Jews are still waiting. I find it interesting the whole time Jesus was there, they didn't connect the scriptures from the Old Testament to what was going on until Jesus' body was missing from the grave. Then it hit them. It is like everything they read about finally clicked in for them.
John 20:8: Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Then the other disciple also went in, and he saw and believed, for until then they hadn't realized that the Scriptures said he would rise from the dead. Then they went home."
As a side not, John, one of Jesus' disciples, wrote the book of John. He refers to himself in this passage as "the other disciple" and not as his name.
It is interesting to me that even though they knew from the scriptures of the Old Testament that Jesus would raise from the dead, they didn't comprehend it until they saw the body. I guess as we wait for the second coming of Christ, the same thing is occurring. The New Testament has given us many clues to the second coming of Christ, but yet, there will be those who miss it because they don't know. Some people even think that we are already in the pre-millenium stages. Regardless, the times are getting worse and the scriptures are being fulfilled. The earth is screaming with earthquakes, floods, and other disasters that are described in the bible as a sign of the end times. At what stage we are currently in, I don't know. But I do know we are getting closer and I know I need to be ready. Part of being ready is being right with the Lord and drawing close to him.
John 20:8: Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Then the other disciple also went in, and he saw and believed, for until then they hadn't realized that the Scriptures said he would rise from the dead. Then they went home."
As a side not, John, one of Jesus' disciples, wrote the book of John. He refers to himself in this passage as "the other disciple" and not as his name.
It is interesting to me that even though they knew from the scriptures of the Old Testament that Jesus would raise from the dead, they didn't comprehend it until they saw the body. I guess as we wait for the second coming of Christ, the same thing is occurring. The New Testament has given us many clues to the second coming of Christ, but yet, there will be those who miss it because they don't know. Some people even think that we are already in the pre-millenium stages. Regardless, the times are getting worse and the scriptures are being fulfilled. The earth is screaming with earthquakes, floods, and other disasters that are described in the bible as a sign of the end times. At what stage we are currently in, I don't know. But I do know we are getting closer and I know I need to be ready. Part of being ready is being right with the Lord and drawing close to him.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
The Death of Christ, Part II
I'm focusing on a part of John 19 that often gets overlooked, but is significant in the validation of Jesus' death. John 19:34, "One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out. This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account; it is presented so that you also can believe. These things happened in fulfillment of the Scriptures that say, "Not one of his bones will be broken," and "They will look on him whom they pierced."
The above scripture begins after the three men were taken down from the cross. It was customary that during the Passover, no work would be done. If they left the men up over night, then they would have to "work" to take them down during the Passover. However, if they took them down that night, they would break their legs. I am not sure the significance of breaking the legs. But, it was customary to do so. However, the old testament clearly prophecies that not a bone in Jesus' body would be broken. When the soldiers came to break Jesus' legs, he was already dead so they did not break his legs. So they pierced the side of his body and when the blood ran out separated from the water, they knew he was dead. All of these things occurred to fulfill the scriptures.
Not only were the scriptures fulfilled, people witnessed the crucifixion. I don't understand how people can't believe. It all fits together for me.
The above scripture begins after the three men were taken down from the cross. It was customary that during the Passover, no work would be done. If they left the men up over night, then they would have to "work" to take them down during the Passover. However, if they took them down that night, they would break their legs. I am not sure the significance of breaking the legs. But, it was customary to do so. However, the old testament clearly prophecies that not a bone in Jesus' body would be broken. When the soldiers came to break Jesus' legs, he was already dead so they did not break his legs. So they pierced the side of his body and when the blood ran out separated from the water, they knew he was dead. All of these things occurred to fulfill the scriptures.
Not only were the scriptures fulfilled, people witnessed the crucifixion. I don't understand how people can't believe. It all fits together for me.
Monday, March 17, 2008
The Death of Jesus (part 1)
It saddens me how people miss the significance of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ by focusing on who killed Jesus instead of why Jesus was killed. People blame the Jews for his death and totally miss the point of the passage. Jesus was a Jew. The Jews are God's chosen people. The people who wanted Jesus dead were the religious leaders who were threatened by Jesus. However, John 19:11 sums this up pretty well when "Jesus said, You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who brought me to you has the greater sin." It was God's plan that Jesus be crucified as a sacrifice for our sins regardless of who brought him to be killed. The prophecies of the Old Testament describe the death of Jesus in detail.
Although I am not an expert on the subject, I do have minor in Bible and know enough about the Old Testament to know about the Jewish traditions. Before Christ came, the people of Israel had to offer a lamb as a sacrifice for their sin. The lamb, which Jesus refers himself as, had to be one with no blemishes. Only those who follow the sacrificial rituals could be forgiven by God. I don't know how often this occurred, but sacrifice signified the atonement of their sins. Now, through the death of Jesus Christ, we don't have to follow this ritual. Jesus became the sacrifice of our sins.
This is the first part and I will continue because it is too much for one posting. The point here is that God allowed this to happen to fulfill the prophecies and to allow Jesus to die for our sins. But it isn't over yet.
Although I am not an expert on the subject, I do have minor in Bible and know enough about the Old Testament to know about the Jewish traditions. Before Christ came, the people of Israel had to offer a lamb as a sacrifice for their sin. The lamb, which Jesus refers himself as, had to be one with no blemishes. Only those who follow the sacrificial rituals could be forgiven by God. I don't know how often this occurred, but sacrifice signified the atonement of their sins. Now, through the death of Jesus Christ, we don't have to follow this ritual. Jesus became the sacrifice of our sins.
This is the first part and I will continue because it is too much for one posting. The point here is that God allowed this to happen to fulfill the prophecies and to allow Jesus to die for our sins. But it isn't over yet.
Just a Note
It's been awhile. I need two Bible's; one to keep by my computer and one in my car to take with me to church and Bible study. Although I have been in the word, I haven't taken the time to write. My youngest daughter and I have developed a routine in the morning. We read the Bible on the way to school. I drop off the oldest, then we continue to discuss what we read. Thus, my Bible is in my car most of the time. I'm encouraged as my 11 year old is able to digest the word and comprehend it more than I thought she would. All that to say, it's been awhile.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Peter's Denial
Peter's human nature was soon to be revealed. A while back, I wrote about how Peter told Jesus how he would die for Jesus and Jesus said that he would betray him three times before the cock crowed. Peter did not realize what Jesus said until the cock crowed. Even when in John 18:17 when the woman asked Peter, "Aren't you one of Jesus' disciples?" Peter answered, "No, I am not." At this time, Jesus was taken into the inter courtyard, where Peter could not go. Peter was watching from a distance to see what would happen. It was cold and he was trying to warm himself around the fire. Peter was scared and afraid. He remained there by the fire as Jesus was being questioned by the high priest. Again, someone asked (v 23), "Aren't you one of his disciples?" "I am not," he said. One of the household servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, "Didn't I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?" Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed. According to some of the other books in the gospels, Jesus actually made eye contact with Peter when the rooster crowed. Also, some of the other gospels talk about how they recognized his accent as being one like Jesus'.
As I read this, I think about how Peter must have felt when he realized that he did deny Jesus, just as Jesus predicted earlier that day. He must have felt terrible. The bible said he ran away from there. Could you imagine what it was like to look Christ in the eye as the rooster was crowing, knowing he knew you had denied him? Although I have never denied him with my words, I have have denied him with my actions. I am ashamed to say, I have made choices in my life that denied Christ the opportunity to work in my life. Instead of choosing what God would want me to do, I chose to do what I wanted. Like Peter, I was afraid and in a very lonely place. I felt alone and rejected. I was numb. Basically, I was in a pretty bad place emotionally. To ease the pain in my life, I made bad choices and denied Christ's power to ease the pain. I regret those choices and have paid the consequences for my actions. I acted in the ways of the world and not how Christ would have acted. Thank God that my story had a happy ending.
The story about Peter doesn't end here. God gave Peter the opportunity to make things right in Chapter 21:15. I will discuss this when I get there.
As I read this, I think about how Peter must have felt when he realized that he did deny Jesus, just as Jesus predicted earlier that day. He must have felt terrible. The bible said he ran away from there. Could you imagine what it was like to look Christ in the eye as the rooster was crowing, knowing he knew you had denied him? Although I have never denied him with my words, I have have denied him with my actions. I am ashamed to say, I have made choices in my life that denied Christ the opportunity to work in my life. Instead of choosing what God would want me to do, I chose to do what I wanted. Like Peter, I was afraid and in a very lonely place. I felt alone and rejected. I was numb. Basically, I was in a pretty bad place emotionally. To ease the pain in my life, I made bad choices and denied Christ's power to ease the pain. I regret those choices and have paid the consequences for my actions. I acted in the ways of the world and not how Christ would have acted. Thank God that my story had a happy ending.
The story about Peter doesn't end here. God gave Peter the opportunity to make things right in Chapter 21:15. I will discuss this when I get there.
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Prayer of Jesus
I've read the bible numerous times and this is the first time I realized that Jesus prayed to his Father on MY behalf. He was going to be crucified and before he was to be taken away, he prayed for the future believers. John chapter 17 is too long to type into this format, but I will highlight some of the prayer that touched my heart the most.
"My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. ... Now I am departing the world; I am leaving them behind and coming to you. Holy Father, keep them and care for them, all those you have given me, so that they will be united just as we are. .... I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They are not part of this world any more than I am. Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth. ... I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony. My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as you and I are one, Father, that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me."
At first Jesus is praying for his disciples. Then he prays for anyone who will ever believe. That includes me. I never realized this. I don't even recall this passage ever being preached about. Even 2000 years ago, Jesus prayed for me. How special is that? Jesus pleaded with God to protect me and watch over with me. He asked that we will be one with him and the World will know that I am apart of God and not of the world.
I also like how the prayer models the way I should be praying for my two girls. Not only should I pray for my girls, but my grandkids and future generations to come. My mother and I were discussing our genealogy. According to the records she has, my mothers family has strong Christian roots that go back 200 years. I have read some of the comments my ancestors wrote to their children, which is a prayer similar to the one Jesus prayed to his Father.
Here is my prayer for my girls. Father, I bring to you Abby and Emily, that you will protect them and watch over them. Draw them to you in all of their days. I pray they will remain close to you and follow you all of their lives. I pray you will keep them away from abusive relationships with men and keep them sexually pure. Father, help them to grow in you and protect them from the power of the prince of the world. Keep them in your arms. I pray they will not stray from you. I pray for their husbands that they will be men of God. For Abby, I pray for a musician who plays guitar. I pray for my grand children that they will also remain close to you and will accept you as their personal savior. Thank you Father for sending your son as an example to us and for dying on the cross for our sins so we might be free. Amen.
"My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. ... Now I am departing the world; I am leaving them behind and coming to you. Holy Father, keep them and care for them, all those you have given me, so that they will be united just as we are. .... I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They are not part of this world any more than I am. Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth. ... I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony. My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as you and I are one, Father, that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me."
At first Jesus is praying for his disciples. Then he prays for anyone who will ever believe. That includes me. I never realized this. I don't even recall this passage ever being preached about. Even 2000 years ago, Jesus prayed for me. How special is that? Jesus pleaded with God to protect me and watch over with me. He asked that we will be one with him and the World will know that I am apart of God and not of the world.
I also like how the prayer models the way I should be praying for my two girls. Not only should I pray for my girls, but my grandkids and future generations to come. My mother and I were discussing our genealogy. According to the records she has, my mothers family has strong Christian roots that go back 200 years. I have read some of the comments my ancestors wrote to their children, which is a prayer similar to the one Jesus prayed to his Father.
Here is my prayer for my girls. Father, I bring to you Abby and Emily, that you will protect them and watch over them. Draw them to you in all of their days. I pray they will remain close to you and follow you all of their lives. I pray you will keep them away from abusive relationships with men and keep them sexually pure. Father, help them to grow in you and protect them from the power of the prince of the world. Keep them in your arms. I pray they will not stray from you. I pray for their husbands that they will be men of God. For Abby, I pray for a musician who plays guitar. I pray for my grand children that they will also remain close to you and will accept you as their personal savior. Thank you Father for sending your son as an example to us and for dying on the cross for our sins so we might be free. Amen.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
The Spirit of Truth
John 16:13-15 "The Spirit of Truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not be presenting his own ideas; he will be telling you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by revealing to you whatever he receives from me. All that the Father has is mine; this is what I mean when I say hat the Spirit will reveal to you whatever he receives from me."
Jesus is telling his followers that after he goes to heaven, the Holy Spirit would come. However, the disciples did not fully understand what he meant because he had not yet been crucified. However, the Holy Spirit could not come until Christ died. When the Holy Spirit comes, he will reveal the truth to us. In fact, he is in us when we accept him into our lives. He will reveal God's word to us. For me, when I read God's word, God reveals it's meaning to me. Sometimes, I am confused, but he reveals what he wants me to hear at just the right time. He speaks to me through his word.
Jesus is telling his followers that after he goes to heaven, the Holy Spirit would come. However, the disciples did not fully understand what he meant because he had not yet been crucified. However, the Holy Spirit could not come until Christ died. When the Holy Spirit comes, he will reveal the truth to us. In fact, he is in us when we accept him into our lives. He will reveal God's word to us. For me, when I read God's word, God reveals it's meaning to me. Sometimes, I am confused, but he reveals what he wants me to hear at just the right time. He speaks to me through his word.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
The World's Hatred
John 15:18 "When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you."
Jesus tells us here that we are not apart of the world. As Christians, we should live a life that is separate from the world, which might cause people to hate us. I remember when I worked for a computer firm and they new I was a Christian because I just graduated from Biola University. The firm had over 100 employees, including programers, operation techs, etc. The people in my department hated me. I didn't do anything to bring that on. I was a nice, kind person. But I would remember walking in a room where the three of them were gathered and it would get really quiet. Sometimes I would go to the back room and come out to find they were all gone. Later I found they all ditched me to go to lunch. One of my co-workers left his computer on with an email up and I read it being curious. It was about me and how one of the guys couldn't stand me because I worked hard and made him look bad. It was a terrible feeling to read things people wrote about you. He never tried to get to know me. It was a very painful experience in my life. But I know, with out a doubt, that my Christianity was the cause of animosity against me.
Jesus tells us here that we are not apart of the world. As Christians, we should live a life that is separate from the world, which might cause people to hate us. I remember when I worked for a computer firm and they new I was a Christian because I just graduated from Biola University. The firm had over 100 employees, including programers, operation techs, etc. The people in my department hated me. I didn't do anything to bring that on. I was a nice, kind person. But I would remember walking in a room where the three of them were gathered and it would get really quiet. Sometimes I would go to the back room and come out to find they were all gone. Later I found they all ditched me to go to lunch. One of my co-workers left his computer on with an email up and I read it being curious. It was about me and how one of the guys couldn't stand me because I worked hard and made him look bad. It was a terrible feeling to read things people wrote about you. He never tried to get to know me. It was a very painful experience in my life. But I know, with out a doubt, that my Christianity was the cause of animosity against me.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Love One another
John 15:9-14 "I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! I command you to love each other in the same way that I love you. And here is how to measure it, the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me."
Jesus loves me the way a father loves his son, the way God loves his son Jesus. By obeying Jesus, I remain in his love. Jesus models this by being obedient to God, even to the point of dying on the cross for our sins. When Jesus was on earth, he did not fall into temptation, even though he had plenty of opportunities. However, God is perfect. I am not. Unfortunately, I have messed up and have many mistakes in which I regret. When I am obedient, Jesus promises that I will be filled with his joy. The times I have done the right thing, I do feel the joy of the Lord. In fact, when I'm really on track, my joy will overflow. On the other hand, when I don't do the right thing, I feel guilty and terrible afterwards. Maybe at the time, I'm glad. But then later, I feel bad. Jesus is challenging me to show my love to him by obeying him. In fact, he goes on to say that if I obey him, he will call me his friend.
Jesus loves me the way a father loves his son, the way God loves his son Jesus. By obeying Jesus, I remain in his love. Jesus models this by being obedient to God, even to the point of dying on the cross for our sins. When Jesus was on earth, he did not fall into temptation, even though he had plenty of opportunities. However, God is perfect. I am not. Unfortunately, I have messed up and have many mistakes in which I regret. When I am obedient, Jesus promises that I will be filled with his joy. The times I have done the right thing, I do feel the joy of the Lord. In fact, when I'm really on track, my joy will overflow. On the other hand, when I don't do the right thing, I feel guilty and terrible afterwards. Maybe at the time, I'm glad. But then later, I feel bad. Jesus is challenging me to show my love to him by obeying him. In fact, he goes on to say that if I obey him, he will call me his friend.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
The Counselor
John 14:15-17
If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirt, who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But you do, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.
The true test of whether or not we love God is by obeying him. To do the right thing is harder than it seems. It is like the classic scenario of the devil on one shoulder and the angel on the other shoulder whispering in our ear what we should do. Sometimes doing the right thing is harder than doing what we want because it feels good to do what we want. Unfortunately, I have not done the right thing at times and have regretted it. For whatever reason, I was caught up in my own selfish ways and it was easier to do the wrong thing than to do what is right. However, if I love God, I will obey him. When I come to these situations that seem tempting, I have to think about what is right. For example, let's talk about Gossip, seemingly harmless and everyone does it. But is it the right thing to do? No. Sometimes, I don't even realize I am gossiping. What would people think if I said, "We shouldn't be talking about someone when they aren't here"? They would mock me. It's easier just to be stay and laugh and make comments than it is to walk away.
Jesus promises us the Holy Spirit for those who believe and love God. At this point the counselor had not been given to mankind. Jesus was God in the form of man and the Holy Spirit would not come until after Jesus left and returned to heaven. The Holy Spirit is referred to as the counselor, one who will lead us in truth. While Jesus was present, he was the truth, now the Holy Spirit has taken his place and lives in those who believe. Notice how it says, the Holy Spirit will never leave us. Even when we sin, the Holy Spirit is with us always. That is why we feel the grieving of the Holy Spirit in us when we do wrong.
If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirt, who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But you do, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.
The true test of whether or not we love God is by obeying him. To do the right thing is harder than it seems. It is like the classic scenario of the devil on one shoulder and the angel on the other shoulder whispering in our ear what we should do. Sometimes doing the right thing is harder than doing what we want because it feels good to do what we want. Unfortunately, I have not done the right thing at times and have regretted it. For whatever reason, I was caught up in my own selfish ways and it was easier to do the wrong thing than to do what is right. However, if I love God, I will obey him. When I come to these situations that seem tempting, I have to think about what is right. For example, let's talk about Gossip, seemingly harmless and everyone does it. But is it the right thing to do? No. Sometimes, I don't even realize I am gossiping. What would people think if I said, "We shouldn't be talking about someone when they aren't here"? They would mock me. It's easier just to be stay and laugh and make comments than it is to walk away.
Jesus promises us the Holy Spirit for those who believe and love God. At this point the counselor had not been given to mankind. Jesus was God in the form of man and the Holy Spirit would not come until after Jesus left and returned to heaven. The Holy Spirit is referred to as the counselor, one who will lead us in truth. While Jesus was present, he was the truth, now the Holy Spirit has taken his place and lives in those who believe. Notice how it says, the Holy Spirit will never leave us. Even when we sin, the Holy Spirit is with us always. That is why we feel the grieving of the Holy Spirit in us when we do wrong.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
"My Father's House"
John 14:2-6
Jesus said, "There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know where I am going and how to get there."
"No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We haven't any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
Jesus is telling the disciples about heaven. Jesus will prepare the place for us in heaven. It is hard to imagine what Heaven is like because no one has ever been there, except John. Even John had a difficult time describing what he saw when he wrote the book of Revelations. However, the purpose of this passage is not to describe heaven, but to describe how to get to heaven. Jesus is there now, preparing heaven for us. When he returns, he will come get us and bring him to heaven with him. Thomas and the others didn't understand how to get to heaven, even though Jesus had told them before. Regardless, Jesus makes it very clear how to get to heaven. He told them, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." He made it very clear that the ONLY way to get to God is through Jesus. Many people think that you can work you way to heaven or if you believe in God you can go to heaven. However, the Bible tells us that the ONLY way to heaven is by accepting Christ into your heart. It is through Jesus, we get to heaven.
Jesus said, "There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know where I am going and how to get there."
"No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We haven't any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
Jesus is telling the disciples about heaven. Jesus will prepare the place for us in heaven. It is hard to imagine what Heaven is like because no one has ever been there, except John. Even John had a difficult time describing what he saw when he wrote the book of Revelations. However, the purpose of this passage is not to describe heaven, but to describe how to get to heaven. Jesus is there now, preparing heaven for us. When he returns, he will come get us and bring him to heaven with him. Thomas and the others didn't understand how to get to heaven, even though Jesus had told them before. Regardless, Jesus makes it very clear how to get to heaven. He told them, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." He made it very clear that the ONLY way to get to God is through Jesus. Many people think that you can work you way to heaven or if you believe in God you can go to heaven. However, the Bible tells us that the ONLY way to heaven is by accepting Christ into your heart. It is through Jesus, we get to heaven.
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
Jesus was metaphorically discussing his death and how he will soon be leaving the disciples. They didn't understand until after his death what he was referring to. This conversation was recorded at the end of John 13.
In the discussion, Peter said, "Lord, where are you going?"
And Jesus replied, "You can't go with me now, but you will follow me later."
"But why can't I come now, Lord?" he asked. "I am ready to die for you."
Jesus answered, "Die for me? No, before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three time that you even know me."
This verse is important because of what will happen. I will write about that when I get to that verse.
However, this verse is important. Peter didn't know what he was saying when he said "I am ready to die for you." I wonder how many American Christians would die for Christ. I wonder how many people, if pushed, would run or deny Christ, like Peter was going to do. In some countries, even today, Men and Woman have been killed for their faith and even tortured. I wonder how many Christians are willing to loose everything for Christ.
In the discussion, Peter said, "Lord, where are you going?"
And Jesus replied, "You can't go with me now, but you will follow me later."
"But why can't I come now, Lord?" he asked. "I am ready to die for you."
Jesus answered, "Die for me? No, before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three time that you even know me."
This verse is important because of what will happen. I will write about that when I get to that verse.
However, this verse is important. Peter didn't know what he was saying when he said "I am ready to die for you." I wonder how many American Christians would die for Christ. I wonder how many people, if pushed, would run or deny Christ, like Peter was going to do. In some countries, even today, Men and Woman have been killed for their faith and even tortured. I wonder how many Christians are willing to loose everything for Christ.
Friday, January 11, 2008
The Resurrection
John 11:35 says, Jesus told her (Martha), "I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die like everyone else, will live again. They are given eternal life for believing in me and will never perish. Do you believe this, Martha?" The question could be restated, "Do you believe this, (fill in your name).
Jesus said this to Martha after her brother Lazarus died and was buried for some time. He performed this miracle so that the people would believe that he was the Messiah, from God. Only God could raise someone from the dead. Jesus is God, therefore, Jesus raised him from the dead. Before Jesus performed this miracle, he said the above words to Martha, Lazarus's brother. Basically this verse is saying that if we believe in Jesus, we will have life eternal with him. The controversy still exists today in regards to where we go when we die. A lot of people think every good person goes to heaven. But here, Jesus clearly states that those who believe in him will live.
I believe in Jesus, that he is the son of the living God and through him, I can be saved. God is good.
Jesus said this to Martha after her brother Lazarus died and was buried for some time. He performed this miracle so that the people would believe that he was the Messiah, from God. Only God could raise someone from the dead. Jesus is God, therefore, Jesus raised him from the dead. Before Jesus performed this miracle, he said the above words to Martha, Lazarus's brother. Basically this verse is saying that if we believe in Jesus, we will have life eternal with him. The controversy still exists today in regards to where we go when we die. A lot of people think every good person goes to heaven. But here, Jesus clearly states that those who believe in him will live.
I believe in Jesus, that he is the son of the living God and through him, I can be saved. God is good.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
The Good Shepherd
John 10:14 Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice; and there will be one flock with one shepherd."
Growing up in sheep country, where our ranch was surround by sheep, this verse has additional meaning to me.
God's people know his voice. In this context, he is referring to the Jews as his people. "I lay down my life" means he died on the cross for his people. But the best part is when he says, I have other sheep too. He is referring to the "Gentiles", or the non-Jews, such as myself. The cool part is that when Jesus brings in the non-Jews into his sheepfold, they also hear his voice. I do hear God speak to me. Not audibly, but through his word and through other people. God is amazing.
On the contrary, those who don't know God, don't hear him, they have no clue. That is why they don't understand who God is because they can't hear him unless they accept him.
Growing up in sheep country, where our ranch was surround by sheep, this verse has additional meaning to me.
God's people know his voice. In this context, he is referring to the Jews as his people. "I lay down my life" means he died on the cross for his people. But the best part is when he says, I have other sheep too. He is referring to the "Gentiles", or the non-Jews, such as myself. The cool part is that when Jesus brings in the non-Jews into his sheepfold, they also hear his voice. I do hear God speak to me. Not audibly, but through his word and through other people. God is amazing.
On the contrary, those who don't know God, don't hear him, they have no clue. That is why they don't understand who God is because they can't hear him unless they accept him.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The Truth Shall Set You Free
John 8:32"And you will know the truth, and truth will set you free." 34 "I assure you that everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free."
Jesus said, "I am the truth". (John 14:6). Jesus is the truth, then if you know Jesus, he will set you free. Free from want? The bondage of sin, addictions, obsessions or whatever else keeps you in bondage. Many people reject Christ because they don't want to be bound by rules and they want to be free to do whatever they want. The irony of this all is that the very reason people want to be free is what keeps them in bondage. For example, people smoke for many reasons, one reason is rebellion. But ask someone who wants to quit smoking how difficult it is. The addiction becomes the bondage. They become a slave to cigarettes. The same applies to any addiction, such as alcoholism, gambling, lust, gossip, shopping.
"I want to do what I want to do" comes with a cost. Think about it. Going back to the example of cigarettes, which are not only addictive, the habit is expensive. Even if the addiction or habit or obbssession doesn't cost money, it cost time. Being addicted to the computer, for example, is one I can admit to. It doesn't cost me any money, but it does consume my time. If I am not careful, I can waste hours on the computer, when I should be spending my time more effectively.
On the contrarty, being set free by the truth, is free. It is a free gift from God. Unfortunately, many people don't accept the gift. Many people are in denial that they are in bondage. How many times have you heard someone say, "I can quit anytime." I've said those words. Once we recognize that we have an addiction or a bad habit, we step out of denial. So, we admit we have a bad habit. Do we WANT to be free from the bad habit, or do we like the bondage we are in? Why do we stay in harmful, addictive behavior at such a high cost? Sometimes the cost is so high, people have lost everything; family, homes, jobs. But yeat they continue in the remain in the bondage of their addiction.
Jesus said, "I am the truth". (John 14:6). Jesus is the truth, then if you know Jesus, he will set you free. Free from want? The bondage of sin, addictions, obsessions or whatever else keeps you in bondage. Many people reject Christ because they don't want to be bound by rules and they want to be free to do whatever they want. The irony of this all is that the very reason people want to be free is what keeps them in bondage. For example, people smoke for many reasons, one reason is rebellion. But ask someone who wants to quit smoking how difficult it is. The addiction becomes the bondage. They become a slave to cigarettes. The same applies to any addiction, such as alcoholism, gambling, lust, gossip, shopping.
"I want to do what I want to do" comes with a cost. Think about it. Going back to the example of cigarettes, which are not only addictive, the habit is expensive. Even if the addiction or habit or obbssession doesn't cost money, it cost time. Being addicted to the computer, for example, is one I can admit to. It doesn't cost me any money, but it does consume my time. If I am not careful, I can waste hours on the computer, when I should be spending my time more effectively.
On the contrarty, being set free by the truth, is free. It is a free gift from God. Unfortunately, many people don't accept the gift. Many people are in denial that they are in bondage. How many times have you heard someone say, "I can quit anytime." I've said those words. Once we recognize that we have an addiction or a bad habit, we step out of denial. So, we admit we have a bad habit. Do we WANT to be free from the bad habit, or do we like the bondage we are in? Why do we stay in harmful, addictive behavior at such a high cost? Sometimes the cost is so high, people have lost everything; family, homes, jobs. But yeat they continue in the remain in the bondage of their addiction.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
The Light of the World
Jesus said to the people, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12
Jesus is the light of the world. In a previous blog, I wrote about how sin occurs in the darkness. Not many people sin in public. They hide their sins. Jesus is not only speaking figuratively, but he is speaking on a spiritual level. He often used metaphors in his teaching because those who know God, understood what he was saying. Jesus is the light, but he is also the way to God. In John 14:6 Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but by me." If we follow the light, Jesus, it leads to life, which is basically saying those who follow Jesus are going to Heaven. The contrast of life is death. Death means total separation from God, which is ultimately, Hell. The choice here is life or death. In order to have life, you must follow Jesus, who is the light of the world and will lead you to life, eternal life. There is a promise here. If you follow Christ, you won't stumble through the darkness.
In my own life, I notice when I take my eyes off of Christ, those are the times I stumble. When I become self absorbed into my own desires, eventually I fall down. It is a process. Everyday, I have to committ to follow Christ and not my own desisres. Everyday, I need to turn my eyes on him. Sometimes it is harder to follow Christ because then I have to set aside my own selfish desires. The the outcome is so much more rewarding.
Jesus is the light of the world. In a previous blog, I wrote about how sin occurs in the darkness. Not many people sin in public. They hide their sins. Jesus is not only speaking figuratively, but he is speaking on a spiritual level. He often used metaphors in his teaching because those who know God, understood what he was saying. Jesus is the light, but he is also the way to God. In John 14:6 Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but by me." If we follow the light, Jesus, it leads to life, which is basically saying those who follow Jesus are going to Heaven. The contrast of life is death. Death means total separation from God, which is ultimately, Hell. The choice here is life or death. In order to have life, you must follow Jesus, who is the light of the world and will lead you to life, eternal life. There is a promise here. If you follow Christ, you won't stumble through the darkness.
In my own life, I notice when I take my eyes off of Christ, those are the times I stumble. When I become self absorbed into my own desires, eventually I fall down. It is a process. Everyday, I have to committ to follow Christ and not my own desisres. Everyday, I need to turn my eyes on him. Sometimes it is harder to follow Christ because then I have to set aside my own selfish desires. The the outcome is so much more rewarding.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Woman Caught in Adultry
Chapter 8 4:-11
"Teacher," they said to Jesus, "this woman was caught in the very act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?"
They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, "All right, stone her. But let those who have never sinned throw the first stones!" Then he stopped down again and wrote in the dust.
When the accusers heard this, they stopped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to her, "Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?"
"No, Lord," she said.
And Jesus said, "Neither do I. Go and sin no more."
I love this passage. Jesus saw through their trickery. I just want to know where the man was. They brought the woman, but where was the man? Who was the man? If this was adultery, then someone was married. Was she or he married, or both? What was he writing in the sand? Many people have speculated that he was either writing the names of the people in the crowd or perhaps even sins committed by people in the crowd. No one knows. Regardless, the older, wiser people left first. I love this passage because Jesus forgave the woman. Jesus came to save, not to condemn John 3:17 says, "God did not send his Son into this world to condemn it, but to save it."
God uses the sinners, not the self righteous to do his work. First of all, the self righteous have alternative motives, such as that of the Pharisees, who brought this woman to Jesus. Most of these people try to make themselves look good to others and are more concerned by what others think about them that what Christ thinks. For the sinner, they have the most to be thankful for. Adultery is one of the big "No" "No's". It's ok to tell a white lie, but to commit adultery, "Shame". However, the story of the woman caught in adultery was used here.
I know what it feels like to have people throw stones at me because I've made mistakes. Not the physical stone, but verbal stone. It's not a good place to be. It hurts when people judge. They don't know my heart. When people judge, they become self-righteous. I used to be like a Pharisee, self righteous and proud. Hey, I have a minor in Bible, I was raised in a Christian home. But God allowed me to be the one to be on the ground with people throwing verbal rocks at me because he wanted to teach me about judging others. I try very hard not to judge other people who are making bad choices because I've been there. Thank God, I found a safe place where other people who have been there helped me get up. The hardest part was that the people who had the rocks in their hands, judging me, called me their friends. Ouch. Their words still ring in my head. Those friendship have been strained. But, I've made new friends, friends I can be real with. Friends who still love me, even when I mess up.
I had a discussion about the mistakes I made with a friend. We were discussing the choices another friend had made, which had many similarities as my own. My friend was telling me how this woman was not respected anymore because of her bad choices. I reminded my friend that I had made some similar mistakes. My friend said, "Yes, but you got up. I respect you for that." It likes Jesus said, "Go and sin no more." I guess that's what I did.
"Teacher," they said to Jesus, "this woman was caught in the very act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?"
They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, "All right, stone her. But let those who have never sinned throw the first stones!" Then he stopped down again and wrote in the dust.
When the accusers heard this, they stopped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to her, "Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?"
"No, Lord," she said.
And Jesus said, "Neither do I. Go and sin no more."
I love this passage. Jesus saw through their trickery. I just want to know where the man was. They brought the woman, but where was the man? Who was the man? If this was adultery, then someone was married. Was she or he married, or both? What was he writing in the sand? Many people have speculated that he was either writing the names of the people in the crowd or perhaps even sins committed by people in the crowd. No one knows. Regardless, the older, wiser people left first. I love this passage because Jesus forgave the woman. Jesus came to save, not to condemn John 3:17 says, "God did not send his Son into this world to condemn it, but to save it."
God uses the sinners, not the self righteous to do his work. First of all, the self righteous have alternative motives, such as that of the Pharisees, who brought this woman to Jesus. Most of these people try to make themselves look good to others and are more concerned by what others think about them that what Christ thinks. For the sinner, they have the most to be thankful for. Adultery is one of the big "No" "No's". It's ok to tell a white lie, but to commit adultery, "Shame". However, the story of the woman caught in adultery was used here.
I know what it feels like to have people throw stones at me because I've made mistakes. Not the physical stone, but verbal stone. It's not a good place to be. It hurts when people judge. They don't know my heart. When people judge, they become self-righteous. I used to be like a Pharisee, self righteous and proud. Hey, I have a minor in Bible, I was raised in a Christian home. But God allowed me to be the one to be on the ground with people throwing verbal rocks at me because he wanted to teach me about judging others. I try very hard not to judge other people who are making bad choices because I've been there. Thank God, I found a safe place where other people who have been there helped me get up. The hardest part was that the people who had the rocks in their hands, judging me, called me their friends. Ouch. Their words still ring in my head. Those friendship have been strained. But, I've made new friends, friends I can be real with. Friends who still love me, even when I mess up.
I had a discussion about the mistakes I made with a friend. We were discussing the choices another friend had made, which had many similarities as my own. My friend was telling me how this woman was not respected anymore because of her bad choices. I reminded my friend that I had made some similar mistakes. My friend said, "Yes, but you got up. I respect you for that." It likes Jesus said, "Go and sin no more." I guess that's what I did.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Knowing God
I read chapter 7 from John today and the verses that stood out to me where 17-18 "Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. Those who present their own ideas are looking for praise for themselves, but those who seek to honor the one who sent them are good and genuine."
John 6:44a says "For people can't come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me." God draws us to him. I believe he knows our hearts and those who are seeking him, God will draw to Jesus. For example, I have friend who was an atheists. One day he got up on a Sunday morning and told his wife, "We are going to church". Now he loves the Lord. When he told me this story, I replied, "God was drawing you to him." I love that about God.
John 7:17 talks about how those who know God will understand the teaching of Jesus. It is God's spirt in us who bears witness in the spirit of others. If you are a Christian, have you ever had the feeling someone you just met is a Christian? It is the same way with God's teaching. Those who know God, understand his word, while those who do not know God, don't understand unless God reveals himself to that person.
John 6:44a says "For people can't come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me." God draws us to him. I believe he knows our hearts and those who are seeking him, God will draw to Jesus. For example, I have friend who was an atheists. One day he got up on a Sunday morning and told his wife, "We are going to church". Now he loves the Lord. When he told me this story, I replied, "God was drawing you to him." I love that about God.
John 7:17 talks about how those who know God will understand the teaching of Jesus. It is God's spirt in us who bears witness in the spirit of others. If you are a Christian, have you ever had the feeling someone you just met is a Christian? It is the same way with God's teaching. Those who know God, understand his word, while those who do not know God, don't understand unless God reveals himself to that person.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Bread of Life
John 6:32-38 says,
Jesus said, "I assure you, Moses didn't give them bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
"Sir," they said, "give us that bread every day of our lives."
Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again. Those who believe in me will never thirst. But you haven't believed in me even though you have seen me. However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want."
This passage holds so much. I only took a portion of the passage, which consists of pretty much all of chapter 6. It starts off talking about Moses and the Israelites who were walking in the wilderness. Basically it starts of discussing the physical symbolism of bread. Then it switches to the spiritual symbolism of the bread; comparing and contrasting the physical and spiritual meaning of bread of life.
In the physical aspect, physical bread provide nutrition such as sustaining life in the desert for 40 years. God provided manna from heaven to the Israelites. Then the passage switches to the spiritual aspect. As humans, we have a void in our life that needs to be filled. We are hungry to fill the void. We can fill it with junk food, that goes right through us, or we can fill it with real food, which is the word of God. Jesus said, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again." When we fill our lives with Jesus, he fills the void in our lives. He makes our life complete. God has sent Jesus from heaven, like he sent manna from heaven, to fill our void. Unfortunately, people would rather live off of junk food, that never satisfies, than to accept Jesus, who satisfies.
Taking this a step further, the bread of life is the symbolism that is used in communion. The Israelites did not wonder in the desert just to wonder. God had a purpose to teach them obedience. Now, we can learn from their lesson.
Lastly, the passage talks about the promise made by Jesus. Those who reject the bread, will turn from God. But those who accept the bread, Jesus will NEVER reject them. Obedience comes up once again as Jesus talks about how he does the will of God, not to do what he wants, but what God wants us to do. This is the example Jesus sets before us. Sometimes we want to do what we want to do. But if we follow Jesus' example, we do what God wants us to do. This is hard sometimes. Our flesh gets in the way and we want to do what we want to do. Paul talks about this in Romans 6. But if we are to be obedient to God and to reap his blessings, then we need to do what God wants us to do.
Jesus said, "I assure you, Moses didn't give them bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
"Sir," they said, "give us that bread every day of our lives."
Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again. Those who believe in me will never thirst. But you haven't believed in me even though you have seen me. However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do what I want."
This passage holds so much. I only took a portion of the passage, which consists of pretty much all of chapter 6. It starts off talking about Moses and the Israelites who were walking in the wilderness. Basically it starts of discussing the physical symbolism of bread. Then it switches to the spiritual symbolism of the bread; comparing and contrasting the physical and spiritual meaning of bread of life.
In the physical aspect, physical bread provide nutrition such as sustaining life in the desert for 40 years. God provided manna from heaven to the Israelites. Then the passage switches to the spiritual aspect. As humans, we have a void in our life that needs to be filled. We are hungry to fill the void. We can fill it with junk food, that goes right through us, or we can fill it with real food, which is the word of God. Jesus said, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again." When we fill our lives with Jesus, he fills the void in our lives. He makes our life complete. God has sent Jesus from heaven, like he sent manna from heaven, to fill our void. Unfortunately, people would rather live off of junk food, that never satisfies, than to accept Jesus, who satisfies.
Taking this a step further, the bread of life is the symbolism that is used in communion. The Israelites did not wonder in the desert just to wonder. God had a purpose to teach them obedience. Now, we can learn from their lesson.
Lastly, the passage talks about the promise made by Jesus. Those who reject the bread, will turn from God. But those who accept the bread, Jesus will NEVER reject them. Obedience comes up once again as Jesus talks about how he does the will of God, not to do what he wants, but what God wants us to do. This is the example Jesus sets before us. Sometimes we want to do what we want to do. But if we follow Jesus' example, we do what God wants us to do. This is hard sometimes. Our flesh gets in the way and we want to do what we want to do. Paul talks about this in Romans 6. But if we are to be obedient to God and to reap his blessings, then we need to do what God wants us to do.
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