I John 1 I love John's testimony here... we heard, we saw, we beheld, we touched.. the "Word of Life". We had "fellowship" with God the Father and with Jesus Christ, His Son. Fellowship - koinonia - communion, partnership; John shared life with the Giver of Life and now it brings him great joy to pass these truths on to others.
Where he starts is a bit surprising.. " God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all."
We would expect something like.."God is the Creator" or God is the King of the Universe", "God is the Judge" or "God is love..."
But, John starts with this bold statement.. " God is light.. " God is phōs- manifest, shine, luminousness, fire, light.... and "in Him there is no darkness at all" - no dimness, no obscurity, no shadiness..
And, those who say we are in partnership with Him, cannot walk with Him unless we also "walk in the light". .. cleansed from all sin by the "blood of Jesus His Son". If we deny the darkness, saying we have no sin.. we are liars. If we "confess our sins He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
God will forgive us when we are honest about the darkness that hides in our souls. He is Light and He will shine so that the darkness is overcome. What a wonderful Savior and God we serve. He sends our sins away.. further than the east is from the west. Hallelujah!
Father in heaven, we bow before You and exalt Your Holy name. You are Light and You have sent the Light of the World, Your only Begotten Son, Jesus, to pay the price for our sins. Thank You. Fill us with Your Light, always for we want to live in fellowship with You forever. Amen.
Friday, March 29, 2019
Thursday, March 28, 2019
II Peter 3 Some.. many people live in complete denial of the fact that Jesus is coming again. Peter reminds us that it only because of God's patience... and His desire that "all come to repentance" that Christ tarries. Yet, the day will come "like a thief".. a day when the heavens and the earth will burn up and be destroyed. Only those who have "living hope".. living as holy and godly servants of Jesus, will be able to see the" new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells."
"Therefore beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found in Him in peace, spotless and blameless." ( v14)
This is what the Shepherd and Guardian of our souls desires for us. This is our living hope, our inheritance, and our purpose. Diligence is necessary. Self-discipline is necessary. Perseverance is necessary. This will not happen to us without effort on our part..
O Father in heaven, Majesty on High, fill us with Your Holy Spirit power that we might live in unity with Your Son, completely..that we might be ready for that day when You will call us home. Death can come at any moment.. it can be totally unexpected.. may we live in readiness. The day of Christ's coming can be at any moment.. it will be totally unexpected.. may we be found blameless, abiding in Him, walking in Your Spirit.. living a victorious, purposeful, fruitful life to the glory of our Lord.
Amen.
"Therefore beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found in Him in peace, spotless and blameless." ( v14)
This is what the Shepherd and Guardian of our souls desires for us. This is our living hope, our inheritance, and our purpose. Diligence is necessary. Self-discipline is necessary. Perseverance is necessary. This will not happen to us without effort on our part..
O Father in heaven, Majesty on High, fill us with Your Holy Spirit power that we might live in unity with Your Son, completely..that we might be ready for that day when You will call us home. Death can come at any moment.. it can be totally unexpected.. may we live in readiness. The day of Christ's coming can be at any moment.. it will be totally unexpected.. may we be found blameless, abiding in Him, walking in Your Spirit.. living a victorious, purposeful, fruitful life to the glory of our Lord.
Amen.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
II Peter 1-2
In 1:16-21 Peter reminds his readers of the fact that he was an eyewitness "of His majesty". He saw and heard and felt the power of God on the mountain with Jesus. To him, this confirmed everything that the prophets had written about the coming of the Messiah... " the prophetic word made more sure". Peter warns that prophecy was never "an act of human will but men moved by the Holy Spirit".. who spoke what God told them to speak. It can be trusted.. But, he warns that some men speak from falsehoods and malign the Truth. We must be diligent to persevere in the Truth.. which will keep us in moral excellence , knowledge, self-control, love, kindness, and godliness.
False teachers.. should be easy to spot when we know the Truth.. but so many people do not study the
Word of God and are easily led astray. The temptations are powerful and everywhere...
".. false teachers will secretly introduce destructive heresies even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves." (2:1)
They "follow their sensuality".
In their greed they "exploit" the followers of Christ.
They" indulge the flesh in its corrupt desires"
They "despise authority".
They are "daring".
They are "self-willed".
They revile "where they have no knowledge"
They revel in their sins and "their deceptions".
They have "eyes full of adultery"
They forsake "the right way".
They speak arrogantly.
They entice others.
They promise "freedom while they themselves are slaves of corruption".
Peter states clearly that those who once "escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" but once again are "entangled in them and are overcome" are worse off than before they were saved.
Judgement is coming. It is not something that we want to talk about or think about.. but we need to take seriously. God did not "spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness reserved for judgement." He did not spare the ungodly in Noah's day. He did not spare Sodom and Gomorrah.. He knows "how to rescue the godly from temptation and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgement."
Remember.. Peter writes.. and keep remembering.. stay diligent. Pay attention. Choose to walk in light and in truth. Choose to increase in purity, knowledge of the Word, godliness and love. Persevere. Have self-control. Don't be drawn in by "destructive heresies.."
We can see this clearly in the church today.. we call them "liberals".. but they are false teachers who are bringing destruction upon themselves. Sin is sin. Whether we want to say its ok or not.. God has the final Word and He will bring judgement on all sin. May God help us to stand firm in the day of evil.
Father, once again, we seek You and You alone, for You are God, the Majestic Glory, who sent Your Beloved Son so that we might be saved. Bring repentance and revival to Your people, O Lord. Draw us to the throne of grace.. to pray more fervently for the lost, knowing that You do not wish "for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. " I ask for the salvation of those in my own family who are still lost, thanking You for having patience and pleading for You to bring them to Yourself through Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
In 1:16-21 Peter reminds his readers of the fact that he was an eyewitness "of His majesty". He saw and heard and felt the power of God on the mountain with Jesus. To him, this confirmed everything that the prophets had written about the coming of the Messiah... " the prophetic word made more sure". Peter warns that prophecy was never "an act of human will but men moved by the Holy Spirit".. who spoke what God told them to speak. It can be trusted.. But, he warns that some men speak from falsehoods and malign the Truth. We must be diligent to persevere in the Truth.. which will keep us in moral excellence , knowledge, self-control, love, kindness, and godliness.
False teachers.. should be easy to spot when we know the Truth.. but so many people do not study the
Word of God and are easily led astray. The temptations are powerful and everywhere...
".. false teachers will secretly introduce destructive heresies even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves." (2:1)
They "follow their sensuality".
In their greed they "exploit" the followers of Christ.
They" indulge the flesh in its corrupt desires"
They "despise authority".
They are "daring".
They are "self-willed".
They revile "where they have no knowledge"
They revel in their sins and "their deceptions".
They have "eyes full of adultery"
They forsake "the right way".
They speak arrogantly.
They entice others.
They promise "freedom while they themselves are slaves of corruption".
Peter states clearly that those who once "escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" but once again are "entangled in them and are overcome" are worse off than before they were saved.
Judgement is coming. It is not something that we want to talk about or think about.. but we need to take seriously. God did not "spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness reserved for judgement." He did not spare the ungodly in Noah's day. He did not spare Sodom and Gomorrah.. He knows "how to rescue the godly from temptation and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgement."
Remember.. Peter writes.. and keep remembering.. stay diligent. Pay attention. Choose to walk in light and in truth. Choose to increase in purity, knowledge of the Word, godliness and love. Persevere. Have self-control. Don't be drawn in by "destructive heresies.."
We can see this clearly in the church today.. we call them "liberals".. but they are false teachers who are bringing destruction upon themselves. Sin is sin. Whether we want to say its ok or not.. God has the final Word and He will bring judgement on all sin. May God help us to stand firm in the day of evil.
Father, once again, we seek You and You alone, for You are God, the Majestic Glory, who sent Your Beloved Son so that we might be saved. Bring repentance and revival to Your people, O Lord. Draw us to the throne of grace.. to pray more fervently for the lost, knowing that You do not wish "for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. " I ask for the salvation of those in my own family who are still lost, thanking You for having patience and pleading for You to bring them to Yourself through Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
II Peter 1 Peter addresses those "who have received a faith of the same kind.. " the kind of faith that comes by "the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ".. and encourages them and us to be "diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you.. "
It is in the "knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord" that we find grace and peace. It is the way we can see "His divine power" that has "granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence."
Jesus has "granted to us His precious and magnificent promises..." so that we can be "partakers of the divine nature". This is our foundation and living hope..
But.. we must be "diligent" - we need to pay personal attention and care to not only KNOW these truths but to increase in these qualities..
By faith, our character must begin to be shaped by Christ..
Moral excellence or virtue will continually grow, being refined and made purer by the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.
Knowledge - of the Lord Jesus and of His Word as well as a personal knowledge of Him as Savior, Master, King, Friend, Redeemer, Sanctifier, and Healer continues to grow.
Self-control - is evidenced in our lifestyles, our homes, and our actions.
Perseverance is increased, so that we remain steadfast in Christ no matter the circumstances.
Godliness, brotherly kindness, and love are genuine qualities witnessed by unbelievers and believers alike.. to the glory of God.
Then.. we will be "neither useless nor unfruitful".
Peter tells us to "practice these things".. so we will not stumble, but will enter "into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ".
Father in heaven, establish us in these truths, in Christ Jesus our Lord. amen.
It is in the "knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord" that we find grace and peace. It is the way we can see "His divine power" that has "granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence."
Jesus has "granted to us His precious and magnificent promises..." so that we can be "partakers of the divine nature". This is our foundation and living hope..
But.. we must be "diligent" - we need to pay personal attention and care to not only KNOW these truths but to increase in these qualities..
By faith, our character must begin to be shaped by Christ..
Moral excellence or virtue will continually grow, being refined and made purer by the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.
Knowledge - of the Lord Jesus and of His Word as well as a personal knowledge of Him as Savior, Master, King, Friend, Redeemer, Sanctifier, and Healer continues to grow.
Self-control - is evidenced in our lifestyles, our homes, and our actions.
Perseverance is increased, so that we remain steadfast in Christ no matter the circumstances.
Godliness, brotherly kindness, and love are genuine qualities witnessed by unbelievers and believers alike.. to the glory of God.
Then.. we will be "neither useless nor unfruitful".
Peter tells us to "practice these things".. so we will not stumble, but will enter "into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ".
Father in heaven, establish us in these truths, in Christ Jesus our Lord. amen.
Monday, March 25, 2019
I Peter 5 As aliens and strangers in this world and new creations in Christ, our citizenship forever established in heaven's realms.. we simply "entrust our souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right." ( 4:19)
To the church leaders, Peter says, "shepherd the flock of God":
willingly and not "under compulsion"
eagerly and not for "sordid gain"
as examples.. not as lords.
To the younger men he says, "be subject to your elders... "
To everyone, Peter writes:
"clothe yourselves with humility.."
cast "all your anxiety upon Him, for He cares for you."
".. be on the alert.." for the "devil prowls about like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour"
We can trust our God in all things. He is "the God of all grace." His promises are true.
He "called [us] to His eternal glory in Christ" and He "will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish [us]."
In this day and age, especially in our culture, humility is greatly undervalued.. yet, so very precious and vital. Peter's letter has emphasized the need to follow the example of Christ in every aspect of our lives.. even if it means we suffer for doing what is right. We cannot begin to scrape the surface of this truth.. we cannot form Christ in our own lives.. we must allow Him to come in and take over.. We must completely "entrust our Creator" with our hearts, souls, minds, bodies..
Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.. Your kingdom come.. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Sanctify us through and through by Your Spirit. Jesus, You are our living hope. Thank You for saving us and giving us true life. Amen.
To the church leaders, Peter says, "shepherd the flock of God":
willingly and not "under compulsion"
eagerly and not for "sordid gain"
as examples.. not as lords.
To the younger men he says, "be subject to your elders... "
To everyone, Peter writes:
"clothe yourselves with humility.."
cast "all your anxiety upon Him, for He cares for you."
".. be on the alert.." for the "devil prowls about like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour"
We can trust our God in all things. He is "the God of all grace." His promises are true.
He "called [us] to His eternal glory in Christ" and He "will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish [us]."
In this day and age, especially in our culture, humility is greatly undervalued.. yet, so very precious and vital. Peter's letter has emphasized the need to follow the example of Christ in every aspect of our lives.. even if it means we suffer for doing what is right. We cannot begin to scrape the surface of this truth.. we cannot form Christ in our own lives.. we must allow Him to come in and take over.. We must completely "entrust our Creator" with our hearts, souls, minds, bodies..
Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.. Your kingdom come.. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Sanctify us through and through by Your Spirit. Jesus, You are our living hope. Thank You for saving us and giving us true life. Amen.
Friday, March 22, 2019
I Peter 4 Peter has exhorted his readers to "gird up your minds" ( 1:13) He wrote in chapter 2 verse 21, "For you have been called for this purpose.. for you to follow in His steps;" And in Ch. 3 verse 9 he wrote, " .. you were called for the very purpose... "
Peter uses this same word three more times in this chapter.
v1 "... arm yourselves also with the same purpose.. "
v6 " For the gospel has for this purpose been preached.."
v7 "The end of all things is at hand; therefore be of sound judgement and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer."
Purpose - ennoia- thoughtfulness; moral understanding; intent, mind.
The KJV uses a variety of words in place of the word purpose - cause, mind, hereunto, thereunto, and watch -
We are called - to thoughtfully and intentionally live like Jesus in:
doing what is right and honorable and respectful;
suffering for what is right;
being "harmonious, brotherly, kindhearted.. humble.. giving a blessing.. "
dying to the flesh and living "for the will of God";
living "in the spirit according to the will of God"
being "of sound judgement and sober spirit" for the "purpose of prayer"
We entrust our whole lives into the Hand of our "faithful Creator".. even if it means suffering. And if we suffer for the name of Jesus Christ, we rejoice.. and keep on rejoicing.. for the day is coming when we will see His glory and know His blessings! The day of judgement is coming, and it will be soon.. whether we are ready or not.
Let us live thoughtfully and intentionally like Jesus, ready for the day ahead.
Father, help us. May the "Spirit of glory and of God" rest upon us. Amen.
Peter uses this same word three more times in this chapter.
v1 "... arm yourselves also with the same purpose.. "
v6 " For the gospel has for this purpose been preached.."
v7 "The end of all things is at hand; therefore be of sound judgement and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer."
Purpose - ennoia- thoughtfulness; moral understanding; intent, mind.
The KJV uses a variety of words in place of the word purpose - cause, mind, hereunto, thereunto, and watch -
We are called - to thoughtfully and intentionally live like Jesus in:
doing what is right and honorable and respectful;
suffering for what is right;
being "harmonious, brotherly, kindhearted.. humble.. giving a blessing.. "
dying to the flesh and living "for the will of God";
living "in the spirit according to the will of God"
being "of sound judgement and sober spirit" for the "purpose of prayer"
We entrust our whole lives into the Hand of our "faithful Creator".. even if it means suffering. And if we suffer for the name of Jesus Christ, we rejoice.. and keep on rejoicing.. for the day is coming when we will see His glory and know His blessings! The day of judgement is coming, and it will be soon.. whether we are ready or not.
Let us live thoughtfully and intentionally like Jesus, ready for the day ahead.
Father, help us. May the "Spirit of glory and of God" rest upon us. Amen.
Thursday, March 21, 2019
I Peter 3
Peter continues to teach and encourage the followers of Christ to have the character of Christ... doing what is right, honoring and respecting others, entrusting ourselves into the Lord' s hands..
To wives, Peter says - focus on the "hidden person of the heart" by being submissive to your husband, being gentle and having a quiet spirit.
To husbands, Peter says - have understanding and yet "grant ( your wife) honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, "
"To sum up, let all be harmonious sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for your were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. " v8
We are told to "sanctify Christ as Lord in [our] hearts" - even if that means suffering for doing what is right or being slandered or reviled. For this is what Jesus did. He "died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit. "
Father in heaven, fashion my heart with Your imperishable grace and beauty - with quietness and gentleness, with patience and hope and love. May I be kind, even when others are unkind. May I be humble and filled with peace, even when things are hard. May I know Your blessings that I might be Yours forever. Amen.
Peter continues to teach and encourage the followers of Christ to have the character of Christ... doing what is right, honoring and respecting others, entrusting ourselves into the Lord' s hands..
To wives, Peter says - focus on the "hidden person of the heart" by being submissive to your husband, being gentle and having a quiet spirit.
To husbands, Peter says - have understanding and yet "grant ( your wife) honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, "
"To sum up, let all be harmonious sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for your were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. " v8
We are told to "sanctify Christ as Lord in [our] hearts" - even if that means suffering for doing what is right or being slandered or reviled. For this is what Jesus did. He "died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit. "
Father in heaven, fashion my heart with Your imperishable grace and beauty - with quietness and gentleness, with patience and hope and love. May I be kind, even when others are unkind. May I be humble and filled with peace, even when things are hard. May I know Your blessings that I might be Yours forever. Amen.
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
I Peter 2:11-25 Peter encourages us, followers of Jesus Christ, to be like Him.. to "follow in His steps". ( v21)
As aliens and strangers in this world, we must deny the "fleshy lusts which wage war against the soul". In other words, we need to have self-control.. we must resist, we must "Take up the full armor of God, that [we] may be able to resist in the evil day and having done everything to stand firm" (Ephesians 6:13)
To "stand firm" - establish, abide, continue, hold up, stanch, - this word indicates an upright and active position...
Peter is teaching us to take our stand against sin and unbelief...
Keep your behavior "excellent".
Do "good deeds".
"Submit.. to every human institution, whether to a king.. or governors... "
"Act as free men... " but not as evil doers.
"Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king"
Submit to those in authority... "not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable."
Endure suffering.. even if it is "when you do what is right".
" For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men." (v15)
This is what Jesus did... He is our example.
When He was reviled " He did not revile in return.."
".. while suffering, He uttered no threats."
Jesus entrusted Himself "to Him who judges righteously."
He bore our sins on the cross.
He died so that we might live.
By His wounds we are healed.
He brought us out of darkness and into light.
He took us from being straying sheep and brought us into His fold.
Father, let the character of Jesus be formed in me. May I stand firm. May I do good. May I entrust myself fully to Your care, no matter what.. I want to fully do Your will. Amen,
As aliens and strangers in this world, we must deny the "fleshy lusts which wage war against the soul". In other words, we need to have self-control.. we must resist, we must "Take up the full armor of God, that [we] may be able to resist in the evil day and having done everything to stand firm" (Ephesians 6:13)
To "stand firm" - establish, abide, continue, hold up, stanch, - this word indicates an upright and active position...
Peter is teaching us to take our stand against sin and unbelief...
Keep your behavior "excellent".
Do "good deeds".
"Submit.. to every human institution, whether to a king.. or governors... "
"Act as free men... " but not as evil doers.
"Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king"
Submit to those in authority... "not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable."
Endure suffering.. even if it is "when you do what is right".
" For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men." (v15)
This is what Jesus did... He is our example.
When He was reviled " He did not revile in return.."
".. while suffering, He uttered no threats."
Jesus entrusted Himself "to Him who judges righteously."
He bore our sins on the cross.
He died so that we might live.
By His wounds we are healed.
He brought us out of darkness and into light.
He took us from being straying sheep and brought us into His fold.
Father, let the character of Jesus be formed in me. May I stand firm. May I do good. May I entrust myself fully to Your care, no matter what.. I want to fully do Your will. Amen,
Tuesday, March 19, 2019
I Peter 2:1-12 We have been "born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that through the living and abiding word of God.."
The Word of God - brings life and salvation.. Peter urges us to "long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation." When we receive, accept, and believe the Word.. we will taste the "kindness of the Lord".
We believe and come to the Lord Jesus - the Cornerstone.. "choice and precious in the sight of God"
We become "living stones".. a "spiritual house".. a "holy priesthood".
We are " a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of God's own possession."
But those who refuse to believe, the unpersuadable, those who reject Jesus and stumble .. "are doomed".
As God's people, Peter urges us to: put aside "all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.." He urges us to "abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul." It is excellent behavior and "good deeds" that will testify of the glory of our God and "proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light;"
This is our purpose and our commission - to live as the holy, chosen people of our God, proclaiming His excellence! If we are living in any way less than God's best.. we smear His reputation as well as our own. No, we are not perfect... but we need to "grow in respect to salvation".. and that comes only through the Word of God.... the "living and abiding Word of God".
Father in heaven, fill us with Your Spirit who will lead us in the Truth of Your Word.. that we might live as obedient and holy followers of Jesus Christ our Lord. Grow us.. that we might know You more and love You more and more.. You are excellent in all Your ways, Lord God! You are kind to us, bringing us into Your Light, showing us Your mercy, making us Your people. Hallelujah! How can we thank You enough? O, that we might glorify You in all we say and in all we do! Let us turn away from the things of this world that do not bring You glory.. and live for You alone. Help us Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.
The Word of God - brings life and salvation.. Peter urges us to "long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation." When we receive, accept, and believe the Word.. we will taste the "kindness of the Lord".
We believe and come to the Lord Jesus - the Cornerstone.. "choice and precious in the sight of God"
We become "living stones".. a "spiritual house".. a "holy priesthood".
We are " a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of God's own possession."
But those who refuse to believe, the unpersuadable, those who reject Jesus and stumble .. "are doomed".
As God's people, Peter urges us to: put aside "all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.." He urges us to "abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul." It is excellent behavior and "good deeds" that will testify of the glory of our God and "proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light;"
This is our purpose and our commission - to live as the holy, chosen people of our God, proclaiming His excellence! If we are living in any way less than God's best.. we smear His reputation as well as our own. No, we are not perfect... but we need to "grow in respect to salvation".. and that comes only through the Word of God.... the "living and abiding Word of God".
Father in heaven, fill us with Your Spirit who will lead us in the Truth of Your Word.. that we might live as obedient and holy followers of Jesus Christ our Lord. Grow us.. that we might know You more and love You more and more.. You are excellent in all Your ways, Lord God! You are kind to us, bringing us into Your Light, showing us Your mercy, making us Your people. Hallelujah! How can we thank You enough? O, that we might glorify You in all we say and in all we do! Let us turn away from the things of this world that do not bring You glory.. and live for You alone. Help us Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.
Monday, March 18, 2019
I Peter 1 Our faith.. " being more precious than gold..." obtains an "outcome... the salvation of your souls."
This salvation was prophesied by those who came before..
It was revealed by those who preached the gospel..
It was attested to by the Holy Spirit and longed for by the angels..
"Therefore gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." (v13)
We take ourselves.. our minds and spirits.. and lay it all at the feet of Jesus.. to fix our hope completely on grace... All of Him, the heir of all things, the One through whom and for whom all of creation was made.. The One who redeemed us "with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ "
We are to live as holy ones, because He is holy.
We are to conduct ourselves "in fear".. for He is our judge.
We are to live in obedience to His Word.. which is imperishable... the Word that is "living and abiding".. that has brought us to new life.
Father in heaven, thank You for giving to us faith and hope.. living hope.. in our Savior and Lord.. He was "foreknown before the foundation of the world." He "appeared in these last days for the sake of you..." For our sake.. for "through Him" we are" believers in God who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory.." This word was preached to us.. revealed to us by the Holy Spirit through Your servants.. that we might also have living hope, an eternal inheritance, and a great deliverance in that day which is coming soon. We belong to You.. we have tasted Your kindness.. we fix our hope on Your grace.. and we give You all of our hearts, souls, minds, and bodies.. For Christ's glory and honor. In His name we come, amen.
This salvation was prophesied by those who came before..
It was revealed by those who preached the gospel..
It was attested to by the Holy Spirit and longed for by the angels..
"Therefore gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." (v13)
We take ourselves.. our minds and spirits.. and lay it all at the feet of Jesus.. to fix our hope completely on grace... All of Him, the heir of all things, the One through whom and for whom all of creation was made.. The One who redeemed us "with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ "
We are to live as holy ones, because He is holy.
We are to conduct ourselves "in fear".. for He is our judge.
We are to live in obedience to His Word.. which is imperishable... the Word that is "living and abiding".. that has brought us to new life.
Father in heaven, thank You for giving to us faith and hope.. living hope.. in our Savior and Lord.. He was "foreknown before the foundation of the world." He "appeared in these last days for the sake of you..." For our sake.. for "through Him" we are" believers in God who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory.." This word was preached to us.. revealed to us by the Holy Spirit through Your servants.. that we might also have living hope, an eternal inheritance, and a great deliverance in that day which is coming soon. We belong to You.. we have tasted Your kindness.. we fix our hope on Your grace.. and we give You all of our hearts, souls, minds, and bodies.. For Christ's glory and honor. In His name we come, amen.
Friday, March 15, 2019
I Peter 1:2-9
We are "chosen" -
"according to the foreknowledge of God the Father"
"by the sanctifying work of the Spirit"
"that you may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood"
All three members of the Trinity are mentioned here so that we can affirm this complete salvation that is from God alone. He chose. He sanctified. He sprinkled us with His blood. All of grace.
And this is why we bless His Name. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.."
He caused us to be born again... He has "begotten us again" (KJV) "according to His abundant mercy".
He chose us.. He bore us.... for His purposes -
... " to a living hope"
.. " to obtain an inheritance"
..." for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Through the "resurrection of Jesus Christ":
- we have "living hope" - an anticipated expectation/ confidence of life.
- we receive "an inheritance "- "imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you." It won't decay, rust, or tarnish. It is pure. It is protected. It is a possession, a treasure.. worth more than we can imagine.. more than anything this world affords..
- we will experience a final "salvation" - a deliverance from this world.. from our mortal and corruptible bodies.. "protected by the power of God through faith...."
Resurrection power... Creation power - the dunamis of God - the strong, mighty, violent, wonderful, and miraculous power of God - protects us "through faith"..
Faith that is tested by trials, so that it may "be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
Faith that brings us to love the One we do not see.." to believe in Him.. to greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory"
Faith - that obtains as its outcome, "the salvation of [our] souls."
Father in heaven, You are holy and we honor and exalt Your Name. We are full of gratitude and praise for what You have done for us, for Your great mercy on us. Give us understanding of Your Word as we seek You and put our faith in You alone. Draw near to us as we draw near to You.
Amen.
We are "chosen" -
"according to the foreknowledge of God the Father"
"by the sanctifying work of the Spirit"
"that you may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood"
All three members of the Trinity are mentioned here so that we can affirm this complete salvation that is from God alone. He chose. He sanctified. He sprinkled us with His blood. All of grace.
And this is why we bless His Name. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.."
He caused us to be born again... He has "begotten us again" (KJV) "according to His abundant mercy".
He chose us.. He bore us.... for His purposes -
... " to a living hope"
.. " to obtain an inheritance"
..." for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Through the "resurrection of Jesus Christ":
- we have "living hope" - an anticipated expectation/ confidence of life.
- we receive "an inheritance "- "imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you." It won't decay, rust, or tarnish. It is pure. It is protected. It is a possession, a treasure.. worth more than we can imagine.. more than anything this world affords..
- we will experience a final "salvation" - a deliverance from this world.. from our mortal and corruptible bodies.. "protected by the power of God through faith...."
Resurrection power... Creation power - the dunamis of God - the strong, mighty, violent, wonderful, and miraculous power of God - protects us "through faith"..
Faith that is tested by trials, so that it may "be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
Faith that brings us to love the One we do not see.." to believe in Him.. to greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory"
Faith - that obtains as its outcome, "the salvation of [our] souls."
Father in heaven, You are holy and we honor and exalt Your Name. We are full of gratitude and praise for what You have done for us, for Your great mercy on us. Give us understanding of Your Word as we seek You and put our faith in You alone. Draw near to us as we draw near to You.
Amen.
Thursday, March 14, 2019
I Peter 1 This letter is packed with so much that I want to dig into and meditate on.. I'm going to take this in small bites..
Verses 1-2 Peter addresses this letter to "those who reside as aliens.." - reminding us that WE are "aliens and strangers" as the people of God.
Hebrews 11:13 speaks of those who "died in faith... having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth." Peter will speak more about this in chapter 2...but it is important that we stop and confess this truth... this world is not our home. Not any more. Not if we are true believers in Jesus Christ. We belong to God's Kingdom. Ephesians 2:19 says.. " So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but are fellow citizens with the saints and are of God's household." We may not have changed our physical nationality.. but we have been changed in a far greater way!
Brings to my mind an old hymn...
Verses 1-2 Peter addresses this letter to "those who reside as aliens.." - reminding us that WE are "aliens and strangers" as the people of God.
Hebrews 11:13 speaks of those who "died in faith... having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth." Peter will speak more about this in chapter 2...but it is important that we stop and confess this truth... this world is not our home. Not any more. Not if we are true believers in Jesus Christ. We belong to God's Kingdom. Ephesians 2:19 says.. " So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but are fellow citizens with the saints and are of God's household." We may not have changed our physical nationality.. but we have been changed in a far greater way!
Brings to my mind an old hymn...
" I am a stranger here within a foreign land,
My home is far away upon a golden strand;
Ambassador to be of realms beyond the sea,
I'm here on business for My King."
And an old chorus:
"This world is not my home
I'm just a-passing through
My treasures are laid up
somewhere beyond the blue
The angels beckon me
from heaven's open door
And I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord, You know I have no friend like You
If heaven's not my home,
then Lord what would I do?
The angels beckon me from heaven's open door
And I can't feel at home in this world anymore."
Which brings me to really examine myself in this matter.. am I living like I really believe this?
Am I feeling too at home in this world?
Sometimes...
Father in heaven, You are MY King and I am Your child. I belong to You and I am "chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, that [I] may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood;" May I truly live as an alien and stranger to this world and an ambassador for You. In Christ I stand and in His name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, March 13, 2019
James 5
Verses 1-6 address the "rich". These particular rich men have lived a life of "wanton pleasure". They have "fattened" their own hearts by failing to pay their workers and condemning and killing the "righteous man". They have not laid up a treasure in heaven.. but on earth where it is rotting, rusting, and eaten by moths. James tells them to "weep and howl" for misery is coming.
In contrast, James encourages "the brethren" to be patient, like a farmer who is waiting for his produce to be ready for harvest. "You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand."
Strengthen your heart...
Don't be complaining about each other.
Don't be judging each other.
Endure.. remembering how Job endured and was blessed.
Don't make oaths.. just speak truth.
Pray.
Sing praises.
Help one another.
Pray.. and pray.. and pray some more.
This is how we strengthen our hearts.
Father in heaven, exalted and mighty God, I honor Your holy name. I worship and serve You.
Help me to live with patient expectation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. Strengthen my heart so that I will be all that You desire for me to be... ready for that glorious day.. Keep me in truth, righteousness, peace, and faith, I pray, in the name of Jesus,
Amen.
Verses 1-6 address the "rich". These particular rich men have lived a life of "wanton pleasure". They have "fattened" their own hearts by failing to pay their workers and condemning and killing the "righteous man". They have not laid up a treasure in heaven.. but on earth where it is rotting, rusting, and eaten by moths. James tells them to "weep and howl" for misery is coming.
In contrast, James encourages "the brethren" to be patient, like a farmer who is waiting for his produce to be ready for harvest. "You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand."
Strengthen your heart...
Don't be complaining about each other.
Don't be judging each other.
Endure.. remembering how Job endured and was blessed.
Don't make oaths.. just speak truth.
Pray.
Sing praises.
Help one another.
Pray.. and pray.. and pray some more.
This is how we strengthen our hearts.
Father in heaven, exalted and mighty God, I honor Your holy name. I worship and serve You.
Help me to live with patient expectation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. Strengthen my heart so that I will be all that You desire for me to be... ready for that glorious day.. Keep me in truth, righteousness, peace, and faith, I pray, in the name of Jesus,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 12, 2019
James 4 - "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you..." James writes in verse 8. This is what we need more than anything. Our sinful nature keeps raising up its ugly head and tries to take us back to self-centered living. "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." James reminds us.
What should we do?
V. 1-4 Turn our needs over to God.. "ask" Him.
Don't quarrel.
Don't envy.
Don't lust.
Don't seek selfish pleasures.
Don't seek what the world does..
Simply ask with pure hearts and clean hands.
V. 5-10 God desires you.. your whole heart, your whole mind, and your whole body, in humble submission to Him.
He is "jealous" for us.
He gives us "greater grace".
He opposes the proud but "gives grace to the humble".
When we humble ourselves before Him.. "He will exalt you."
v11-17 God is the Supreme law giver and the Supreme Judge
Only He has the authority to judge others.. so we should not.
Only He can save or destroy.. it is not for us to judge.
Only He knows what tomorrow holds.. so we need to submit every plan to Him.
Only He is worthy.. so we should not boast in anything except that He is the Lord our God.
These are the "right things" to do...
Submit our needs to Him.
Humble ourselves before Him.
Submit our plans to Him.
Every moment of every day.. we are utterly and completely dependent on our God.. every heart beat, every breath.. is according to His will and plan for every one of us. "You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.." James reminds us, so:
"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." What a great truth and wonderful comfort.
Father in heaven, I need You today, for You alone are God, the Maker of Heaven and earth and there is none other. You have made me Your own and brought me into Your kingdom. I submit my whole being to You.. may Your will be done. I am weak, but You are strong. Help me to walk in faith, worthy of Your calling, bringing my whole self in submission to Your Spirit. Thank You that You give a great grace.. to conquer all sin.. Be exalted above the heavens and in all the earth I pray, in the name of the Son, Jesus Christ. amen.
What should we do?
V. 1-4 Turn our needs over to God.. "ask" Him.
Don't quarrel.
Don't envy.
Don't lust.
Don't seek selfish pleasures.
Don't seek what the world does..
Simply ask with pure hearts and clean hands.
V. 5-10 God desires you.. your whole heart, your whole mind, and your whole body, in humble submission to Him.
He is "jealous" for us.
He gives us "greater grace".
He opposes the proud but "gives grace to the humble".
When we humble ourselves before Him.. "He will exalt you."
v11-17 God is the Supreme law giver and the Supreme Judge
Only He has the authority to judge others.. so we should not.
Only He can save or destroy.. it is not for us to judge.
Only He knows what tomorrow holds.. so we need to submit every plan to Him.
Only He is worthy.. so we should not boast in anything except that He is the Lord our God.
These are the "right things" to do...
Submit our needs to Him.
Humble ourselves before Him.
Submit our plans to Him.
Every moment of every day.. we are utterly and completely dependent on our God.. every heart beat, every breath.. is according to His will and plan for every one of us. "You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.." James reminds us, so:
"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." What a great truth and wonderful comfort.
Father in heaven, I need You today, for You alone are God, the Maker of Heaven and earth and there is none other. You have made me Your own and brought me into Your kingdom. I submit my whole being to You.. may Your will be done. I am weak, but You are strong. Help me to walk in faith, worthy of Your calling, bringing my whole self in submission to Your Spirit. Thank You that You give a great grace.. to conquer all sin.. Be exalted above the heavens and in all the earth I pray, in the name of the Son, Jesus Christ. amen.
Monday, March 11, 2019
James 3 " The tongue", James says, " is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell."
Jesus said this, " You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. The good man out of his good treasure brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings forth what is evil. And I say to you, that every careless word that men shall speak, they shall render account for it in the day of judgement. For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned." ( Matthew 12:34-37)
James' words about blessing and cursing that come from the same mouth, bitter and sweet water from the same fountain, and olives and figs from the same tree.. remind me of what Jesus was talking about in Matthew 12 "... the tree is known by its fruit". In Matthew 7 Jesus said "You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit; but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will know them by their fruits." ( v16-20)
We can only control our tongues when we have a pure heart. James goes on to say that when our hearts are filled with "jealousy and selfish ambition" that we are acting out of an "earthly, natural, demonic" wisdom. What we really need is "the wisdom from above"; that which is "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy."
With this kind of wisdom we can "show by [our] good behavior.. deeds in the gentleness of wisdom".
Father in heaven, give to us this wisdom from above, so that we might do what is good and bear good fruit to the glory of our Savior. Remind us that our words matter. May we have that gift of Your Spirit.. self-control, to control our tongues, to speak words that are gentle and bring peace.. to our spouses, our children, our grandchildren.. and to all those we come into contact with today. Give us Your grace gift of godly wisdom today, we ask in the name of Jesus our Lord and great High Priest. Amen.
Jesus said this, " You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? for the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. The good man out of his good treasure brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings forth what is evil. And I say to you, that every careless word that men shall speak, they shall render account for it in the day of judgement. For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned." ( Matthew 12:34-37)
James' words about blessing and cursing that come from the same mouth, bitter and sweet water from the same fountain, and olives and figs from the same tree.. remind me of what Jesus was talking about in Matthew 12 "... the tree is known by its fruit". In Matthew 7 Jesus said "You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit; but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will know them by their fruits." ( v16-20)
We can only control our tongues when we have a pure heart. James goes on to say that when our hearts are filled with "jealousy and selfish ambition" that we are acting out of an "earthly, natural, demonic" wisdom. What we really need is "the wisdom from above"; that which is "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy."
With this kind of wisdom we can "show by [our] good behavior.. deeds in the gentleness of wisdom".
Father in heaven, give to us this wisdom from above, so that we might do what is good and bear good fruit to the glory of our Savior. Remind us that our words matter. May we have that gift of Your Spirit.. self-control, to control our tongues, to speak words that are gentle and bring peace.. to our spouses, our children, our grandchildren.. and to all those we come into contact with today. Give us Your grace gift of godly wisdom today, we ask in the name of Jesus our Lord and great High Priest. Amen.
Friday, March 8, 2019
James 2:14-26
Faith - pistis - persuasion, credence, conviction - of truth or the truthfulness of God; reliance upon Christ for salvation; constancy in such profession ; assurance, belief; Related to the word peithô - the verb that means to convince; to assent - to evidence or authority; to rely - by inward certainty; agree, assure, believe, have confidence, obey, trust, yield;
James writes that faith without works is dead. He says that believing is not enough, for even the demons believe in God.. and they certainly are not saved. He gives the example of Abraham, who's faith was "reckoned to him as righteousness".. but who acted out of that faith by offering Isaac as a sacrifice in obedience to God's command. Also, Rahab, acted out of faith when she helped the spies escape from Jericho. "For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also is faith without works is dead."
What kind of "work" is James talking about? He tells us, " If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,' and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?" ( v16)
This whole discussion illustrates what James wrote in verse 13 " For judgement will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgement". When we act.. when we show mercy.. this is living faith. It is not dead, nor is it useless.
Jesus has something to say about this too.. Luke 6: 35 - 36 "But love your enemies, and do good and lend expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to the ungrateful and evil men. Be merciful just as your Father is merciful."
We are saved by grace through faith.. not by the works of the Law. But, when we have put our faith in Jesus Christ and He is Lord of our lives, that faith will be put to action as we are transformed into His image. All the riches of Christ are ours - riches of kindness, forbearance, patience, grace, wisdom and knowledge. What we receive freely, Jesus tells us, freely give! " Give and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by the standard of your measure it will be measured to you in return." Luke 6:38
This was my grandson's memory verse this week.. how like God to use it to speak to me as I helped him work on it.
Lord God, I am listening. Help me to obey Your voice and to pour out Your gifts to those who are in need.. Open my eyes and fill my heart with mercy to share with those I see. Amen.
Faith - pistis - persuasion, credence, conviction - of truth or the truthfulness of God; reliance upon Christ for salvation; constancy in such profession ; assurance, belief; Related to the word peithô - the verb that means to convince; to assent - to evidence or authority; to rely - by inward certainty; agree, assure, believe, have confidence, obey, trust, yield;
James writes that faith without works is dead. He says that believing is not enough, for even the demons believe in God.. and they certainly are not saved. He gives the example of Abraham, who's faith was "reckoned to him as righteousness".. but who acted out of that faith by offering Isaac as a sacrifice in obedience to God's command. Also, Rahab, acted out of faith when she helped the spies escape from Jericho. "For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also is faith without works is dead."
What kind of "work" is James talking about? He tells us, " If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,' and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?" ( v16)
This whole discussion illustrates what James wrote in verse 13 " For judgement will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgement". When we act.. when we show mercy.. this is living faith. It is not dead, nor is it useless.
Jesus has something to say about this too.. Luke 6: 35 - 36 "But love your enemies, and do good and lend expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to the ungrateful and evil men. Be merciful just as your Father is merciful."
We are saved by grace through faith.. not by the works of the Law. But, when we have put our faith in Jesus Christ and He is Lord of our lives, that faith will be put to action as we are transformed into His image. All the riches of Christ are ours - riches of kindness, forbearance, patience, grace, wisdom and knowledge. What we receive freely, Jesus tells us, freely give! " Give and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by the standard of your measure it will be measured to you in return." Luke 6:38
This was my grandson's memory verse this week.. how like God to use it to speak to me as I helped him work on it.
Lord God, I am listening. Help me to obey Your voice and to pour out Your gifts to those who are in need.. Open my eyes and fill my heart with mercy to share with those I see. Amen.
Thursday, March 7, 2019
James 2 Before I look at this chapter.. I need to go back to several verses that have been on my mind, from Hebrews 13.
From verse 9 this phrase.. " for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace..." In its context, this is a contrast between reliance on "strange teachings" and practicing certain rituals and / or dietary restrictions. It is the grace of God, through Jesus Christ, that alone is our strength, our hope, our help, and our salvation.
Grace - charis - graciousness, of manner or act; .. the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life... acceptable, benefit, favor, gift, grace, joy, liberality, pleasure, thanks worthy. James wrote "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from the above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." Every grace/ gift comes from our Father in heaven .. He chose us, "He predestined us to adoption as sons" ; He freely bestowed on us His grace..in the Beloved. He redeemed us, He forgave us our sins, He has made His will known to us; He has given us an inheritance.. (Ephesians 1:4-11) All of grace. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by His grace.
And verse 18 "Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things." The KJV translates this word as "honestly" - The Greek word is "kalos" - in a good place.. full well; from the root -kalôs - beautiful, good, valuable, virtuous.. better, fair, good, honest, well, worthy..
James' teaching helps us, with specific illustrations, to live honorably, and grace-fully. In this chapter (2) we begin with "My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism." His illustration is the distinction between treating a poor man with disrespect and a rich man with great honor. This is sinful behavior.. breaking God's law just as much as if we murdered or committed adultery.
"So speak and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgement will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgement. " We leave all judgement in God's Hands. We have received much grace.. and we can give grace and mercy freely.
We can have a good conscience when we conduct ourselves with honor and honesty. Mercy is a measure that is poured out to us.. in proportion to that which we have given to others. If we give little, we will receive little....
Father, once again we give You all praise and honor, for You alone are God, worthy of our love, our worship, and our trust. We need Your holy wisdom and grace, Lord, that we might speak and act with honesty and honor, to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Complete us..sanctify us through and through, so that we will be blameless before You on that great day. May we be merciful, even as You have shown mercy to us, abundantly and freely, through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
From verse 9 this phrase.. " for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace..." In its context, this is a contrast between reliance on "strange teachings" and practicing certain rituals and / or dietary restrictions. It is the grace of God, through Jesus Christ, that alone is our strength, our hope, our help, and our salvation.
Grace - charis - graciousness, of manner or act; .. the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life... acceptable, benefit, favor, gift, grace, joy, liberality, pleasure, thanks worthy. James wrote "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from the above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." Every grace/ gift comes from our Father in heaven .. He chose us, "He predestined us to adoption as sons" ; He freely bestowed on us His grace..in the Beloved. He redeemed us, He forgave us our sins, He has made His will known to us; He has given us an inheritance.. (Ephesians 1:4-11) All of grace. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by His grace.
And verse 18 "Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things." The KJV translates this word as "honestly" - The Greek word is "kalos" - in a good place.. full well; from the root -kalôs - beautiful, good, valuable, virtuous.. better, fair, good, honest, well, worthy..
James' teaching helps us, with specific illustrations, to live honorably, and grace-fully. In this chapter (2) we begin with "My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism." His illustration is the distinction between treating a poor man with disrespect and a rich man with great honor. This is sinful behavior.. breaking God's law just as much as if we murdered or committed adultery.
"So speak and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgement will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgement. " We leave all judgement in God's Hands. We have received much grace.. and we can give grace and mercy freely.
We can have a good conscience when we conduct ourselves with honor and honesty. Mercy is a measure that is poured out to us.. in proportion to that which we have given to others. If we give little, we will receive little....
Father, once again we give You all praise and honor, for You alone are God, worthy of our love, our worship, and our trust. We need Your holy wisdom and grace, Lord, that we might speak and act with honesty and honor, to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Complete us..sanctify us through and through, so that we will be blameless before You on that great day. May we be merciful, even as You have shown mercy to us, abundantly and freely, through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
James 1 This letter, written by James, quickly addresses a variety of issues that the early Jewish Christians were facing.
Issue 1 - Trials.
James encourages his readers to "consider it all joy.. when you encounter various trials," We are in need of endurance in order to be grow.. to be "perfect and complete, lacking in nothing". When we have trials, our faith is tested. This produces endurance, which is needed to make us complete. That is a good thing! In this way, we can rejoice..
Issue 2 - Wisdom
James tells us to simply ask for wisdom when we need it.. and God will give it. He gives "generously and without reproach". But, we must ask "in faith without any doubting". Doubting- the Greek word here is "diakrino" - meaning to separate thoroughly, to withdraw from, oppose, discriminate, hesitate, or waver; We need to be steadfast in believing that God will do as He says. Ask and receive!
Issue 3 - Wealth
James says that those who are of "humble circumstances" can glory in their "high position".
He says that those of means can "glory in his humiliation".
Both live in the knowledge that all belongs to God and that He is Lord of all.
What is most important is not that one has money or not.. what is most important is that one "perseveres under trial".
Issue 4 - Temptation
James teaches that temptations are not from God. He doesn't tempt us. But He does allow us to be tempted. Our problem is that we don't resist the temptation because of our sinful lusts. We are deceived by thinking that we can give in to temptations without consequences . But, sin will lead to death.
God does not want us to give in to sin. He will help us. We need to trust Him fully: " Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." We can resist temptation by resting in this truth. We don't need to yield to our sinful nature, but trust God to provide for what we really need.. what is good and perfect!
What is really important, James teaches, is the Word of God.
Receive it.
Do it.
Look intently at it.
Abide by it.
Remember it.
The Word, implanted in our hearts " is able to save your souls."
The Word will teach us what "pure and undefiled religion" really is - "to visit orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world". In other words... to walk a worthy walk.. to be like Jesus. To have compassion and to act accordingly. To love others and to act honorably.
Father in heaven, we give You praise and honor and glory, for You are God alone and there is none like You. We desire to live like Jesus, bringing honor and glory to Your name. We do ask for wisdom that is from above.. that which is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy. We believe that You will give this to us generously and without reproach.. and we thank You! Fill us with Your Word and Your Spirit that we might endure and persevere in the race that is set before us, for we look ahead to the crown of life, which You have promised to us that love You. Amen and amen. Thank You.
Issue 1 - Trials.
James encourages his readers to "consider it all joy.. when you encounter various trials," We are in need of endurance in order to be grow.. to be "perfect and complete, lacking in nothing". When we have trials, our faith is tested. This produces endurance, which is needed to make us complete. That is a good thing! In this way, we can rejoice..
Issue 2 - Wisdom
James tells us to simply ask for wisdom when we need it.. and God will give it. He gives "generously and without reproach". But, we must ask "in faith without any doubting". Doubting- the Greek word here is "diakrino" - meaning to separate thoroughly, to withdraw from, oppose, discriminate, hesitate, or waver; We need to be steadfast in believing that God will do as He says. Ask and receive!
Issue 3 - Wealth
James says that those who are of "humble circumstances" can glory in their "high position".
He says that those of means can "glory in his humiliation".
Both live in the knowledge that all belongs to God and that He is Lord of all.
What is most important is not that one has money or not.. what is most important is that one "perseveres under trial".
Issue 4 - Temptation
James teaches that temptations are not from God. He doesn't tempt us. But He does allow us to be tempted. Our problem is that we don't resist the temptation because of our sinful lusts. We are deceived by thinking that we can give in to temptations without consequences . But, sin will lead to death.
God does not want us to give in to sin. He will help us. We need to trust Him fully: " Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." We can resist temptation by resting in this truth. We don't need to yield to our sinful nature, but trust God to provide for what we really need.. what is good and perfect!
What is really important, James teaches, is the Word of God.
Receive it.
Do it.
Look intently at it.
Abide by it.
Remember it.
The Word, implanted in our hearts " is able to save your souls."
The Word will teach us what "pure and undefiled religion" really is - "to visit orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world". In other words... to walk a worthy walk.. to be like Jesus. To have compassion and to act accordingly. To love others and to act honorably.
Father in heaven, we give You praise and honor and glory, for You are God alone and there is none like You. We desire to live like Jesus, bringing honor and glory to Your name. We do ask for wisdom that is from above.. that which is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy. We believe that You will give this to us generously and without reproach.. and we thank You! Fill us with Your Word and Your Spirit that we might endure and persevere in the race that is set before us, for we look ahead to the crown of life, which You have promised to us that love You. Amen and amen. Thank You.
Tuesday, March 5, 2019
Hebrews 13 As the writer concludes this letter.. "this word of exhortation" .. he reminds us that walking in faith includes such things as:
loving each other
showing hospitality
having compassion on those in prison for their faith
honoring our marriages
being content with what we have;
Imitating the faith of those who have led us to the Word of God.
and staying away from strange teachings.
God is our helper and has promised to never leave or forsake us.
Christ is our Savior who will never change!
So let us walk in faith.. believing..
".. it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace.. " It is God, Himself, who strengthens and establishes us in faith.. We come to Him, through Jesus Christ.. "outside the camp". Not through the Law, through the temple, or through our religious rituals.. but by grace through faith.
Therefore we give thanks and praise.. We do good and share.. "for with such sacrifices God is pleased. "
Like the apostles and writer, let us "have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably."
" Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever, Amen."
loving each other
showing hospitality
having compassion on those in prison for their faith
honoring our marriages
being content with what we have;
Imitating the faith of those who have led us to the Word of God.
and staying away from strange teachings.
Christ is our Savior who will never change!
So let us walk in faith.. believing..
".. it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace.. " It is God, Himself, who strengthens and establishes us in faith.. We come to Him, through Jesus Christ.. "outside the camp". Not through the Law, through the temple, or through our religious rituals.. but by grace through faith.
Therefore we give thanks and praise.. We do good and share.. "for with such sacrifices God is pleased. "
Like the apostles and writer, let us "have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably."
" Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever, Amen."
Monday, March 4, 2019
Hebrews 12: 14-28 As we live by faith and run the race that is set before us.. as children of God, disciplined and restored to the highway of holiness.. we are instructed to "pursue peace" and "sanctification".. We are to show grace and keep "bitterness" from "springing up". We are to guard against immorality and godlessness.
We have heard of those who were at the mountain with Moses. They witnessed the Presence of God.. they saw the lightning and heard the thunder.. they heard the voice of God and were utterly terrified!
But, we have come to an even greater place, the writer tells us..
" you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God.. "
Here we see "myriads of angels".
The "general assembly and church of the first born.. " are here.
"God, the Judge of all" rules here.
".. and Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.. " dwells here.
All of heaven and earth will one day be shaken, the word tells us. And the only things that will remain is the kingdom we have received... " a kingdom which cannot be shaken."
So, " let us show gratitude, by which we may offer God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Our Father, the Judge of all, the only True and Righteous God, You are a consuming fire. Everything will one day be swept away and all that will be left is Mount Zion, the city of the Living God, the Kingdom which cannot be shaken. How thankful we are, that You have brought us into Your family through Christ Jesus, our great High Priest, the King of kings.. the One through whom and for whom all creation has been made. We give You our praise and our thanksgiving. It is far beyond our grasp to fully understand all that You have done. But, my heart is full of love and joy as the Truth of Your Word fills me and moves me closer to Your throne of grace.. Amen.
We have heard of those who were at the mountain with Moses. They witnessed the Presence of God.. they saw the lightning and heard the thunder.. they heard the voice of God and were utterly terrified!
But, we have come to an even greater place, the writer tells us..
" you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God.. "
Here we see "myriads of angels".
The "general assembly and church of the first born.. " are here.
"God, the Judge of all" rules here.
".. and Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.. " dwells here.
All of heaven and earth will one day be shaken, the word tells us. And the only things that will remain is the kingdom we have received... " a kingdom which cannot be shaken."
So, " let us show gratitude, by which we may offer God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Our Father, the Judge of all, the only True and Righteous God, You are a consuming fire. Everything will one day be swept away and all that will be left is Mount Zion, the city of the Living God, the Kingdom which cannot be shaken. How thankful we are, that You have brought us into Your family through Christ Jesus, our great High Priest, the King of kings.. the One through whom and for whom all creation has been made. We give You our praise and our thanksgiving. It is far beyond our grasp to fully understand all that You have done. But, my heart is full of love and joy as the Truth of Your Word fills me and moves me closer to Your throne of grace.. Amen.
Friday, March 1, 2019
Hebrews 12 When we live by faith, following the examples of the many who have gone before us, we will endure.. for Christ Jesus is our great High Priest and He will help us! He has brought us into the family of God, making us sons and daughters.. and as such, we will be brought under the "discipline" of our Father.
Discipline...
We are to "not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord." v5
We are to not "faint when.. reproved by Him;"
We are to recognize that He disciplines those He loves. v6
Discipline is given to those who are "sons". v7
Those "without discipline" are not sons. v8
We must be "subject to the Father of spirits and live" v9
He "disciplines us for our good that we may share His holiness" v10
Discipline is not "joyful". v11
But, when we are "trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness," v11
Discipline - training, correction, education, chastening, teaching - It is a vital part of our relationship with our Father in heaven. He teaches and we obey. He speaks and we listen. He stops us when we err. He corrects us when we are wrong. He "scourges" us when we have gone astray. Scourge is an interesting word, meaning to flog; the root word in Greek is "mastix" which can mean a whip.. or a disease..
The purpose of God's discipline is "for our good"... for our advantage; to make us better; it is profitable and brings us together.. "that we might share in His holiness."
V 12-13 " Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed."
Therefore - because we are God's children.. because He treats us as such and disciplines us in order to bring us into His holiness - we look to Him in faith.. to find "straight paths" that lead to healing.
Proverbs 4: 25-26 " Let your eyes look directly ahead and let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you. Watch the path of your feet, and all your ways will be established."
Isaiah 35:8-10 " And a highway will be there, a roadway, and it will be called the Highway of Holiness. The unclean will not travel on it, but it will be for him who walks that way... the redeemed will walk there, and the ransomed of the Lord will return.."
Isaiah 57:15-21 - Also speaks of this.. " I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite... because of the iniquity of his unjust gain I was angry and struck him; I hid My face and was angry, and he went on turning away in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will lead him and restore comfort to him and to his mourners... "
When we return to the Lord with contrite hearts and lowly spirits.. when we submit to the Lord's discipline and fix our eyes once more on the path of holiness.. laying aside "every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us.. " then, He promises healing - the hands and knees strengthened; the limbs in joint once more.. able to "run with endurance the race that is set before us.. "
Discipline...
We are to "not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord." v5
We are to not "faint when.. reproved by Him;"
We are to recognize that He disciplines those He loves. v6
Discipline is given to those who are "sons". v7
Those "without discipline" are not sons. v8
We must be "subject to the Father of spirits and live" v9
He "disciplines us for our good that we may share His holiness" v10
Discipline is not "joyful". v11
But, when we are "trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness," v11
Discipline - training, correction, education, chastening, teaching - It is a vital part of our relationship with our Father in heaven. He teaches and we obey. He speaks and we listen. He stops us when we err. He corrects us when we are wrong. He "scourges" us when we have gone astray. Scourge is an interesting word, meaning to flog; the root word in Greek is "mastix" which can mean a whip.. or a disease..
The purpose of God's discipline is "for our good"... for our advantage; to make us better; it is profitable and brings us together.. "that we might share in His holiness."
V 12-13 " Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed."
Therefore - because we are God's children.. because He treats us as such and disciplines us in order to bring us into His holiness - we look to Him in faith.. to find "straight paths" that lead to healing.
Proverbs 4: 25-26 " Let your eyes look directly ahead and let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you. Watch the path of your feet, and all your ways will be established."
Isaiah 35:8-10 " And a highway will be there, a roadway, and it will be called the Highway of Holiness. The unclean will not travel on it, but it will be for him who walks that way... the redeemed will walk there, and the ransomed of the Lord will return.."
Isaiah 57:15-21 - Also speaks of this.. " I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite... because of the iniquity of his unjust gain I was angry and struck him; I hid My face and was angry, and he went on turning away in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will lead him and restore comfort to him and to his mourners... "
When we return to the Lord with contrite hearts and lowly spirits.. when we submit to the Lord's discipline and fix our eyes once more on the path of holiness.. laying aside "every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us.. " then, He promises healing - the hands and knees strengthened; the limbs in joint once more.. able to "run with endurance the race that is set before us.. "
"Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the
ends of the earth
Does not become weary or tired.
His understanding is inscrutable.
He gives strength to the weary,
And to him who lacks might
He increases power.
Though youths grow weary and tired,
And vigorous young men
stumble badly,
Yet, those who wait for the Lord
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles
The will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary"
Isaiah 40:28-31
Father in heaven, we confess that we have not "resisted to the point of shedding blood in [our] striving against sin." Forgive us. Help us.. May we willingly and gladly submit to Your loving discipline, to bring back to the Highway of Holiness.. and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our great example.. our Savior, our High Priest, and our King forever. We wait on You.. in faith, in the name that is above all names.. the name of Jesus.. Amen.
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