4/1/20                                           The Perfect Councellor                                                 1         For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.   Hebrews 4:12

Recommended Reading: 1 PETER  1:22-25 “²² Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, ²³ having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, ²⁴ because “All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away,²⁵ But the word of the Lord endures forever. ”Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.”

COMMENTS:  Do you have a friend or mentor whose opinion and council you trust.  Someone who has given you wise council in the past?  Maybe a parent or grandparent or older friend or neighbor or relative.  Someone in your church.  Are you such a friend to someone?  During times of crisis, we all both need to have such a friend and counselor and be such a friend and counselor. 

Proverbs 12:15 “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.”

Proverbs 11:14 “Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory.”

Proverbs 19:20 “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.”

Proverbs 24:6 “For by wise guidance you will wage war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.”

Proverbs 27:9 “Oil and perfume make the heart glad, so a man’s counsel is sweet to his friend.”

Well, guess what!  God wants that too.   He wants each of us to seek His council and He wants each of us to then be accessible to give council – council based on His Word.  Council based on His Holy Spirit’s influence and council to you.   Council based on wise council we have received.

A trusted friend or counselor is “living” (engaging with us), “sharp” (wise, discerning), can see into our heart and mind, and can help us understand our thoughts, intentions, and motivations. In short, the Word of God, according to Hebrews 4:12, is like a wise counselor.

“The Word of God is perfect; it is precious and pure; it is truth itself.”  Martin Luther

4/2/20                                 The Shadow of the End Time                                 2

COMMENTS: When the sun is setting, shadows cast by large objects become more exadurated.  Likewise, the closer large objects are, the shadow they cast covers us first.   Today we are facing unique circumstances.  Disasters are coming with increasing frequency and intensity.  Old testament prophets and Jesus give us details of what to expect as we approach the time of Christ’s return.   Today with increasing intensity and frequency of disasters – floods and fires and earthquakes and epidemics of deadly diseases and wars and destructive acts of extremists, all seem to be working with a common goal or purpose.  What could that be and why?   Well, reading sinister purposes into natural disasters isn’t globally believed. 

But what does the Bible say?  

Matthew 24 – Jesus was asked what would be evidence of His return approaching.  He responding by noting there will be increasing frequency and intensity of wars and violence and earthquake in previously calm areas.  He also noted increasing intensity of persecution and contempt for Christians – followers of Christ.  He also revealed that hate will replace love, distorting judgment and actions to make things worse instead of better.  Those who build and heal and bring life and hope, especially those who honor and worship Christ, will be viewed as evil and blamed for disasters while those who bring division and encourage evil will be viewed as good.

Life will be no longer be viewed as precious and many will claim to be divine and armed with a solution to the world’s problems.  But the warning and command is to NOT FOLLOW THESE FALSE PROPHETS AND STAY TRUE TO CHRIST.  Christ indicated He would return in the same method or way He left, so anyone born will not satisfy this.  Likewise, anyone who does not follow scripture or distorts scripture is not to be followed.  But most will follow such false prophets.

Think about Hitler and way he distorted and persecuted and killed Jews especially but also Christians.  He pretended to be Christian but his actions and words and decisions DID NOT!  Dietrich Bonhoeffer is an example of a Christ follower he personally had executed in last days of his reign of terror.

I am wondering what would have happened if Hitler had won WWII?  I dare say the world would not have lasted very long and Christ would indeed have returned and stopped the insanity by now.

Consider Matthew 24:22 “If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.”  and Mark 13:20 – “If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive. But for the sake of the elect, whom he has chosen, he has shortened them.”

Scripture confirms that God responds to the actions of men – either by grace and forgiveness and healing when man repents and turns to Him or by judgment when man follows satan inspired actions.   These verses reveal that man left to his own devices without God’s influence will destroy himself.  So, I am of the opinion that Hitler was defeated physically by the wise and sacrificial effort of millions of men and women and families but even more by the passioned prayers and obedience of multitudes of devout Christians.  Hitler had sufficient military might and skilled soldiers to defeat the Allied forces but failed due to a few foolish decisions on his part.

What would the world be like if the Axis forced had prevailed? I believe God would have intervened by now to stop the extermination of Jews and Christians. I can’t imagine how much worse the world would be like if Hitler hadn’t been defeated.  Yet, it seems there is always an evil man seeking to  rule the world while fulfilling their evil agenda at any cost.

You and I are human and vulnerable to fear and despair and being  deceived by a charismatic speaker or leader.   Jesus warned us that the coming “Anti-Christ” will be satan inspired and indwelled but will present himself as the answer to world’s problems and  will persuade most to follow him.   He will deceive most but his true colors and evil destructive agenda will unfold.  His goal and intend is to destroy humanity believing doing so will grieve God and make God weak so he can defeat God.   Just stop and think what the world will be like when ruled by someone far worse than Nero or Hitler.  Jesus will return to take His followers home before the worst comes and Jesus will return to stop the Anti-Christ and his false prophet and satan himself, bind  them and begin His  reign. 

I believe we are living in the shadow of a  time coming called the “Great Tribulation”.  That will be a time to avoid and the only way is to be ready when Jesus returns.   He paid for our redemption on the cross so judgment is no longer our destination. Instead, our destination is heaven.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

In Daniel 8, the angel Gabriel gave Daniel specific information about the unfolding events in Persia and Greece, which contained implications for the latter days of world history. God has everything under His control, and He is guiding us and our planet toward His climactic end.

Today rest assured: God is always accomplishing His plan to prepare the way for His people. Plan, pray, and then watch His purposes unfold.

In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.
Dwight Eisenhower

4/3/20                          A INVISIBLE WAR GOING ON TODAY                                    3

PSALM 91:9-10 “⁹ Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;¹⁰ There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.”

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING EPHESIANS 6:11-18 – “¹¹ Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.¹² For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.¹³ Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.¹⁴ Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;¹⁵ And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;¹⁶ Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.¹⁷ And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:¹⁸ Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”

COMMENTS: We are living in dangerous and uncertain times, aren’t we?  Earthquakes, massive fires, tornados, hurricanes, volcanos, floods, droughts, plagues, and new severely contagious diseases all are filling our news every morning.   Who would have thought 2 months ago that   Coronavirus would be the center of our conversation and action?

I don’t intend for this devotion to become a sermon on bible prophecy since to do subject justice will require many days and much research in scripture.  So, if this subject interest you, I would recommend studying scripture and seek help of your pastor.  I would also recommend Dr. David Jeremiah as a current writer and bible teacher who has written many bible-based books on end time prophecies.

Daniel and Revelation are two books packed with end time prophecies but Ezekiel and Jeremiah and Matthew 24 are a few others too.

But instead of diving into these and other prophecies, today I would like to focus on the battle before us and how to prepare for that battle.

First of all, have you been wondering “What is going on today?”   Is all the chaos and insanity and disasters unfolding around us random or is something more sinister and deliberate behind this? 

Scripture tells us Christ will return as He left (Acts 1:9-12).  Matthew 24 gives us details of circumstances leading up to when Christ returns.  Matthew 24:22 even tells us that times will get so bad, that man would have destroyed himself if Christ delayed His return any longer.

I believe we are now seeing the shadow being cast by the dark Tribulation prophesied about.  We are living in a time when being a Christ follow is no longer popular or respected but resented with contempt.  In most communistic and Muslim dominant countries being a Christian is a death sentence or at least a guaranteed ticket to prison and suffering.  Being a Christian in North Korea is life threatening.  In China it is approaching the same level of persecution, but now China is using “face recognizing” technology and has capability of tracking everyone in their country 24×7.  Think about it, where can Christians hide.  

Today, with the Coronavirus danger, the need and acceptance of  ways to limit and control travel of people is quickly becoming acceptable.  In Communist countries, government tends to not trust their citizen’s willingness to act responsibly in protecting themselves and others from exposure to disease, but even in free countries that trust and freedom is evaporating, isn’t it?

So, what can we expect and how do we prepare?   Should we stockpile months or years of food and water and build a fortress around it so others can’t steal it?  Should we buy guns and rifles to protect our possessions against robbers?

Do you believe the Bible is God’s Word and contains life giving wisdom and knowledge applicable in ancient time but also today?  Do you believe God knows and is in control of the future and our individual future too?   Do you believe God knows and has control of that future?  So how far do you believe that?  Do you have enough faith to put your life and your family in His hands trusting Him to protect and take care of you?

If we are honest, we probably will say yes, but still wonder about examples from scripture of Christians killed in Roman arenas and burnt alive as human torches in Rome under tyranny of Nero and in modern day Korea and China and …  These examples show great faith and trust but also confidence that even death is not to be feared.  Philippians 1:21 “…to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

God did spare Daniel from the lions and his 3 friends from the fiery furnace and Joseph from prison and death in Egypt.  He spared countless millions over the centuries too healing diseases and escape from persecution.  But there are also examples when He allowed His followers to endure death at the hand of persecutors and of diseases.  But those examples show the peace and courage Christ provided by His abiding presence with each and protection as they faced death with hope instead of hopeless despair.   

Well, truth is death claims 100% of every generation thus far, but Christ is preparing a heavenly home for 100% of His followers, those who have accepting His offer and sacrifice for our sins. 

So, if the Coronavirus was born naturally, as it appears, It still appears to be powerful enough and sinister enough to elude containment.  Yet, whether we will be successful in stopping this virus and stop any future outbreaks or not.   Whether other disasters will develop that will be worse in our generation or be postponed to a distant future generation. 

This much I do think we can agree on, man has the capability   of destroying himself and that capability is quickly being accessible to groups and leaders who are insane enough or evil enough to use them.   

I believe the timing of Christ’s return is known by God and hidden from us for a purpose and reasons.  But I also believe there were times in history, like WWII when we were at a pivoting point   that could have gone either way and reason the reign of Hitler didn’t become global was the faithful sacrifice and prayers and obedience and repentance of His people.   We are told Christ’s return will be quick and without warning but not without visible signs – one being man would destroy himself if Christ’s return would be delayed any longer.   

Stop and think, if Hitler would have won the war, our parents would likely have been killed and we either wouldn’t’ t have been born or Christ may have returned before we were born or before we chose to accept Christ.   So, think about that and praise Him for delaying His return.

But remember HE IS RETURNING TO TAKE HIS CHURCH TO HEAVEN AND AWAY FROM THE TERRIBLE TIME COMING.  We will escape that time so accepting Christ is the most important and only way to really prepare for the future no matter what it holds or when.  AMEN?  AMEN!

So, what else should we do?

1. This time of isolation and waiting is a wonderful time to study scripture and pray and seek God’s council.   A wonderful time to encourage others by phone and letter and email.  A wonderful time to…  I invite you to seek God’s answer to that   question
2. Do not make unnecessary purchases – only buy necessities and do not pay with debt or with resources that may be needed for more important purchases. The importance of this advice is great now but value of this advice is true even in peaceful prosperous times since those times don’t last forever.
3. Plan your trips for supplies to minimize exposure and exposing others and do not  take unneeded trips and errands.
4. Follow and conduct ourselves like Christ followers did during crisis before us.   Be Christ-like as  they were.    Stay and be in touch in safe ways like phone and electronically.
5. Don’t forget the needs of your local church.  Tithing is not optional  to the   faithful Christ follower even when circumstances  prevent meeting together .  Technology means we can worship together from home.  Our pastor is leading worship from  our church facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/clintonvillemethodistcharge/
6. Use this time to reconnect with your family since are confined together in your home or apartment.  I know, it might be awkward if used to being apart  most of the time, but is worthwhile to  reconnect and this is a wonderful and important  time to do so.  AMEN?  AMEN!

Putting on the full armour of God means preparing ourselves for battle and using tools God has given available to enable us to withstand satan’s temptations that include fear and despair – acting and reacting to these emotions instead of wise well thought out actions based on God’s direction and council and logic.  God gives us sound mind and individual help to use our mind as He intended.  Doing so will bring blessing to us and to those we influence.

HERE IS OUR HOPE AND CONFIDENCE:

PSALM 91:9-10 “⁹ Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;¹⁰ There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.”

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

4/4/20                                      Christ Moved by Compassion                                         4

But when [Christ] saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.  Matthew 9:36

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 14:14– “¹⁴ And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.” COMMENTS: The first great awakening (revival) was experienced in the colonial New England and began in the 1730s. Jonathan Edwards preached a sermon at a church in Connecticut titled “sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” during that time.

This sermon became famous during that time and even today is referred to and used.  Jonathan Edwards focused on the eternal consequences of not receiving the grace that Christ died to purchase for us and is available to all.  Edwards did not present contents of that message with anger and shouting but with compassion like the compassion Christ showed as He wept over the condition of Israel during His ministry.  A great number were saved during that period while listening and responding to Edward’s message and similar messages given during that time.  A time to prepare colonists for eternal life but for the battle to have freedom of worship they desired and would fight for in next few years.

The colonists were weary of the lifeless sermons and theology of the Anglican and Catholic churches and clergy they had heard up to that time.  But the living Gospel and Joy conveyed by Edwards and John Wesley and many others was a breath of fresh air and sunshine people eagerly heard and embraced.

This was the first of four great awakenings or revivals in USA and in much of the world, resulted in millions of changed lives and communities – positively impacting the outcome of wars and bringing God’s blessings and mercy as well.

Four great awakenings have been experienced so far in USA:

Phase 1 (1730-1755) brought revival meetings, sermons emphasizing spiritual rebirth and repentance.  During this time the American Revolution was fought and won, the government and constitution was divinely inspired and organized and finalized, a great nation was formed.  During this time the Methodist denomination was organized and men like John Wesley taught and preached, resulting in millions coming to Christ during that time.  During that time my home church was organized as the first in Venango County.

 

Phase 2 (1790-1840) During this time the protestant church became dominant in the free world and became impactful in the world through missionaries.

 

Phase 3 (1855-1930) During this time family retreat camps were organized and major reforms were fought for and won, like the Civil War and outlawing    slavery and voting rights for all citizens including blacks and women.  Great evangelists and preachers like Charles Spurgeon and DL Moody and Billy Sunday as well as many other protestant pastors and churches drew and impacted millions of people.  The radio became the instrument of evangelizing mass numbers of people at the same time.  Likewise, the growing protestant church became a powerful force in far corners of the world.  But division  and new denomination branchoffs has not been a healthy result.

 

 

Phase 4 (1960-1980) During this time great evangelists like Billy Graham added television to radio medias to spread the Gospel.  The Jesus movement became popular bringing the gospel to millions of youth turned off by the traditional church style of worship and living.  Billy Graham became one key in reaching and sharing the gospel to both as well as impacting key government leaders.

 

Well, the above is far from complete, but reminds us God is passionate and committed to sharing His Good News and being in personal relationship with everyone willing.  

 

Today we are still mostly in the afterglow of previous times of revival but the ambers are growing cold.  The exception is in countries enduring great persecution.  Countries like North Korea and China and many Moslem dominant countries.  Also, in many other dictator or Communist governed countries.  Christianity is growing rapidly in those countries and revival is underway there.  In China, 20% of the population professes faith in Christ.  Similar numbers are being approached in other countries while numbers are shrinking in most countries, like USA, where Christian persecution is still very modest.

Times of comfort and prosperity tend to draw us away from Christ and rely on our own wisdom and abilities and follow our own selfish ambitions and desires while times of hardship and tragedy and persecution tend to awaken us and make us more open to seek His help and follow His council. 

 

I pray for God’s help in defeating the Covid19 virus but even more God will use it to awaken the Church and open hearts to His saving and life-giving message and presence too.

Biblical orthodoxy without compassion is surely the ugliest thing in the world.
Francis Schaeffer

 

4/5/20           Staying Connected with Your Home Church                              5

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.  Hebrews 10:24–25
COMMENTS: Churches, like people, come in all shapes and sizes and levels of commitment to Christ.  Why?  Well, probably mostly because the church is not the building but the people in and connected to the group identifying with and meeting in that building.  Being a part of a congregation includes not only attending but supporting that group with prayers and help – finances and volunteering.  To just attend now and again or even regularly doesn’t make one a member of the congregation, but all too many attenders believe it does.  Giving a few dollars now and again doesn’t qualify as tithing or meeting financial obligations either.  Keeping a church building in good repair, paying the utilities and pastor’s salary or compensation, supporting outreach and evangelism and missionaries in local and distant communities all require some level of financial as well as prayer support. 

Churches typically progress from a small congregation meeting in a borrowed or rented building or home led by a layman or self-employed pastor who works for provision outside his church responsibilities.  As the congregation grows, a more permanent meeting place and full-time pastor support.  Over time typically the congregation ages and dies or moves away and few and fewer people are supporting a building designed to be used and supported by a larger congregation until eventually the building is closed and remaining congregation joins another congregation.   Sad but all too common especially today in many US and democratic countries where little persecution of Christians occurs.

During the Coronavirus crisis and self- isolating measures to stop the spread, churches and businesses and schools all have or are cancelling worship and other meetings.  But still worship continues thanks to Facebook and other means for pastors and other congregations’ leaders to connect to their congregations in worship and prayer.  Not quite like meeting but certainly better than full isolation.  Our church has begun doing that and will soon expand to include bible study too.  But congregations need to remember the costs and expenses of their church continue and to withhold or delay their gifts and tithes is not being responsible nor being obedient to Christ’s direction either. 

So, don’t forget or neglect your church.  You may find it will be open when the current crisis has passed.  I pray not, but do know many small church congregations were barely able to keep their doors open before we heard about coronavirus just a few weeks ago.

Well, when we are children or even young adults, we find it difficult to relate to feeble elderly not able to care for themselves or do tasks so easy for the young.  Likewise, the elderly finds it difficult to connect especially to young confident or arrogant people.   Well, as congregations age, likely the same thing happens and the young leave to connect with higher energy churches.  I too am finding it increasingly difficult to sustain the level of commitment and service in my local church.

So, what should a healthy church be in order to not go through the this “cycle of life and death”?    Not every church ends up dying as its ages.   What must happen for the church to sustain life and grow is to:

1. Be and remain faithful to preach and teach scripture and practice its teaching.
2. For elderly to pass their faith and values, youth also need to seek and embrace Christ themselves.
3. When conflict arises in the church, instead of people leaving, it is better by far to forgive and work and seek God’s help for healing to happen. When conflict and division happen in the church, if some leave the church grows weaker and that conflict ends up eventually infecting other churches, not unlike a virus being passed on.

Truth is, a church should not grow or shrink based on personality or how powerful the pastor preaches or teaches or relates to their congregation and community, but it does.  The congregation should support and lift up a pastor’s weak points making that pastor strong by filling in where gaps happen, but congregations fail in this area.  Instead, they more commonly criticize and refuse to fill the gap.

So, WWJD (what would Jesus do)?   He was close to and compassionate to old and young.  He focused on need, whether individual was rich or poor, old or young, weak or strong, and even evil or good.   To any and all willing to open their mind and heart to   Him.      

Truth is, what is most important and what will matter 100yrs from now will not be if our church building is in good  repair or survives, but if those influenced by that church and it’s congregation accept Christ’s redemption and share that life giving good news with family and friends (young and old) and all cross paths with.  

God will use even the current coronavirus crisis for our good and for His honor if we open ourselves to let Him.  Otherwise, we will miss the associated blessing He has for us and will end up using someone else to partner with instead of you.  What a that means and what He wants us to do and live, He will show you and me if we open ourselves and seek Him and His instruction and do it.  God created us to be in community, first with Him and then with other believers. In fact, this is an important imperative. Our Christian relationships enable us to develop confidence to face whatever life may throw at us. God’s family motivates one another to do good works, provides encouragement, and promotes love. As the day of Christ’s coming draws ever nearer, make fellowship with other believers a priority.  AMEN?  AMEN!

 

4/6/20                                            Seek and Save                                                                    6      

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.   Luke 19:10

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING MATTHEW 28:18-20 – “¹⁸ And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. ¹⁹ Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.”

COMMENTS: The Great Commission is repeated in more than one place in the New Testament, so was recognized by the writers to be important, especially since were Jesus’ own words and also His last words.  A dying person usually chooses his most important thoughts if knows they are his last.

John 20:21 “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”

Jesus also exampled this command during His life and ministry as well.   But seeking and reaching out to the lost can be intimidating and discouraging too.  No one likes to be shunned or criticized or rejected.  But Jesus is not pushing us to go an easy path but instead a life giving and life sharing path.  He didn’t journey down an easy path or a path               that would make Him popular or liked by all either.   BUT HE IS ASKING US TO WALK A PATH HE WILL WALK WITH US, A PATH THAT WILL BEAR ETERNAL BLESSING AND BENEFIT FOR FAR MORE THAN WE CAN IMAGINE.

Elizabeth Elliot was Jim Elliot’s widow.  Jim was killed trying to reach the Aucas Indians for Christ. He was only 28 and died not seeing the fulfillment of his work.  But the guilt of their actions created by the seeds Jim and his friends planted, who died with Jim, prepared the tribe to later embrace Christ’s teaching and let Christ transform them when Elizabeth later went to them.  Elizabeth lived to see the tribe change and start spreading Christ’s good news to other tribes.   Once they knew, they didn’t want to keep it to themselves.  Neither should we even though opportunities may seem infrequent or unfruitful.

But opportunities do come if we are open.  They may not be life changing but God will use us for His purpose in mostly simple ways if we let Him.  Who will you and I cross paths with today who needs an encouraging word of hope?  We can still do that 6 ft away if we are of a mind to, right?

God’s command “Go ye, and preach the gospel to every creature” was the categorical imperative. The question of personal safety was wholly irrelevant.
Elisabeth Elliot

4/7/20                                          STAY CENTERED ON CHRIST                                     7

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Colossians 3:1–4

COMMENTS: I love to read over and over the stories of the saints of old.  How David faced and defeated Goliath, who mocked David’s God.  How Daniel endured captivity for 70 years, facing real enemies and dangers and persecution and even death while shining bring with a life that even his enemies had to respect.  How Joseph remained faithful to God while his brothers hated him so much to plan a way to get rid of him.

What does a Christ-like look like and how do we reflect and live such a life?  When the early Christians faced real persecution and painful death during Roman rule.  When Christians were burnt alive as living torches to light the streets of Rome.  Parents had to watch their children tortured and killed and children their parents but both would not deny their savior to be spared. 

How did those faithful – courageous Christians stay strong and stay true?  That same courage is being lived out by millions of Christians around the world, but mostly in hostile Muslim and Communist countries – hostile to the Christian doctrine and Gospel – hostile to Jesus and to any and all who believe in Him.  Christianity thrives not in prosperity and peace but in poverty and danger and persecution. 

Why?  Well, the obvious answer is because Jesus is our only hope and the future, He promises is wonderful and eternal.  To deny Jesus is to deny One who loves us like none other and provides and helps us like none other and who will do so forever.  To know Jesus is to want to be like Him, which inspires us to live at a higher plane because His Holy Spirit abides with each of us 24x7x365.

Satan inspires desperation and fear and self-satisfaction that will not last while Jesus offers far greater and permanent joy and peace with Him and each other. 

Coronavirus has demanded our attendance and is inspiring fear and desperation but also defiance.  But defiance results in spreading the virus like the despair and fear and destruction sin always does. 

Coronavirus may not be humanly engineered nor put on the world by God in judgment for our sins, but it is pretty evident God’s protection, which we in USA have enjoyed for so long, has been removed.  The sins of our nation and people has exposed us to satan’s mischief because we have pushed God away along with His blessings and protection.   The Old Testament reflects the repeated cycle that Israel lived through over and over.  The cycle of repentance – forgiveness-obedience-blessing/prosperity/protection.  Then indulgence in sin- rejection of God-embracing the gods of their pagan neighbors.  Then God backs off and removes his protection and blessing.  Then God sends prophets to warn of judgment if they don’t repent.  When they repent, God forgives, but when they don’t, judgment comes until they finally do repent.

God doesn’t demand much but He does require a penitent heart and obedient spirit.

God is giving us time with our families.  Time to pray and study His Word or time to waist on a i-pad or computer or TV.  Sure, these are amazing tools to enable us to keep in touch without exposing each other to virus, but they are also addictive distraction that more often keep us from knowing Christ and learning more about Him.    Let’s use this time to get reacquainted with Him and let Him in to get reacquainted with us and our families.   He so wants to restored us and the protection and blessing He would much rather shower us with    instead of judgment.  Judgment is how He stops and limits sin and its destructive nature.  He gives life and is the source of life.   AMEN?  AMEN!

4/8/20                                       ALWAYS PRAY!                              8

Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.  Daniel 9:3

RECOMMENDED READING:  JAMES 5:16  “¹⁶ Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”

COMMENTS: April 1^st is identified as “April Fool’s Day” The day when practical jokes are played by family and friends to see the reaction from unsuspecting “victims”.  Sure, most of the time it is harmless fun or at least intended to be, but how often is the outcome harmful with hurt feeling and memories that may linger for a long time.

But when in serious or dangerous times, like now, timing is not appropriate for such foolishness.  Instead, it is a time to look out for each other, to focus on what is most seek and let God bring healing to broken or damaged relationships and bodies.   Afterall, we will all get along in heaven, why not practice and get a head start now.  God’s blessings will come when we do.  Prayer will become a practice we look forward to and enjoy instead of an awkward uncomfortable unnatural or empty practice.  

Life is no joke—on April 1 or any other day. We should always “pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1).

“We can do nothing without prayer.”   E. M. Bounds

4/9/20           STAY CONFIDENT IN THE WORD                         9                  

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.  2 Timothy 4:1–2

COMMENTS:  History recorded in our Bible, as well as proved by historians from  those periods, give us overwhelming proof that Our God is faithful and trustworthy and able to sustain and protect and empower us to live the full and abundant life we dream and strive for.  But even more,  God is worthy of our praise and our obedience and devotion.   He created us, He sustains us, He redeems us, and He prepared a eternal home for us while making Himself available in fellowship with us continually in the meantime.  

One big thing I see so lacking on our communities and society, and even in our families, is a lack of wisdom and logical reasoning especially in personal choices.   Choices like using a credit card and associated debt and high interest rates to purchase non-essential things or even essential things instead of doing without or buying or looking for free alternatives.  Choices like who to be in relationship with or not and especially moving in with someone instead of waiting and following God’s council and moral standards.   Choices like planning realistic career development with proper steps to reach incremental goals.   Hard work and school or training   programs are often abandoned for short cuts and “get rich quick schemes” that might work once or rarely but never work consistently.

Instead, praying and seeking God’s council and direction when choosing a career and career path (school  and skill training program), a mate, a place and location to live, a church to attend,   major purchase choices and options, a budget and saving plan, …..   The list goes on but basically is learning to seek God’s will and follow it instead of focusing on what we want and then looking for  ways to justify that choice.

Learning from the mistakes and wise choices made by our parents and grandparents.  Become a student of scripture and seek God’s advice from scripture and Christian church family all are valuable resources all to often are ignored or discounted.

But instead, help is sought only after poor choices had resulted in deep holes dug and in which require great effort to climb out of and fill first before positive (and painful) changes can be implemented.  Far easier is to seek and follow wise choices first before holes are dug and fallen in.

Well, where there is life there is choice and, as a wise supervisor once told me “It is never to late to stop going down a wrong path, turn around, and go down a right path.”  He is referring to repeated old approaches to problems that do not work instead of trying new approaches to problems.

Well, we all make poor choices and go down paths we later regret or wish we hadn’t done or made.   Some were easier to recover from than others.  One popular bit of wisdom is “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting a better result”.  Isn’t it about time we all “Try God” instead of “ourselves or …”?

God has guided me in making many good choices, like choice of career – school – employer – wife – …   However, tomorrow I will be sharing with you a very foolish choice I made which cost me a sum of money that grieved me greatly at the  time, but God’s Grace helped me recover from.

When you find yourself craving a sure thing to cling to, you will find that the Word of God is that one sure thing—that one Word of Truth. When you are in need of a sure, serious, systematic, and sensitive word of encouragement, you can go to God’s Word and find comfort. God promises peace to those who love His Word. In the midst of chaos, you have His promise that you will not stumble. Rest in his promises—you can take God at His Word!

AMEN?  AMEN!

4/10/20                                     BURST BALLOON                                                    10

The unsearchable riches of Christ.  Ephesians 3:8

Scripture: EPHESIANS 3:1-12  “3 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles— ² if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you, ³ how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, ⁴ by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), ⁵ which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: ⁶ that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel, ⁷ of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.⁸ To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, ⁹ and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; ¹⁰ to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, ¹¹ according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, ¹² in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. ”

COMMENTS: Ruth Balloon, last year, came home from work and checked her bank account balance on her smartphone, like she habitually did.  To her surprise, there was $37million in her account.  She knew that couldn’t be right because her salary and previous transactions make that impossible and previous day only shows a few hundred dollars.

She quickly started to dream about what she would do with that money.  She did think about tithing (giving 10% to her church) and in addition to donate some money to other worthy charities.  Then a new house and car and ways of investing the money all started to come to mind.

But all to quickly she realized what was real and knew her bank had made a mistake and would not let it continue for long.  It wasn’t long before the only evidence was a screen shot, she took of her account.  In a few hours, her account once again only showed a few hundred dollars.

A few years ago, I decided I wanted to grow my 401k retirement account faster than my limited deposits and conservative growth plans were realizing in account growth.   I had seen how Joy Mining Machinery (my employer) stock had consistently doubled and then dropped back to original value.  So, I foolishly decided to try to catch that waive and invested too much of my retirement account in Joy stock.  That “get rich quick scheme” didn’t work!  I went through one cycle and saw intoxicating growth but when sold high and then bought stock back after dropped, the next cycle burst my balloon when the company went bankrupt and stop dropped from a bottom value to “nothing”.   I lost 2/3 of my account value but fortunately I still had 20 years to work so had time to recover.

That lesson was painful but taught me wisdom that served me well and still does.  God knew I was starting down a dead-end path and corrected me early, which looking back I am very grateful for.

When we receive Jesus Christ, He erases our debt, and He deposits into our account the unsearchable riches of Christ. On this planet, Jesus lavishes His grace on us, and He places the Holy Spirit in our heart as a down payment and guarantee of the eternal wealth we’ll enjoy in heaven.

Granted, the debt and riches Christ manage is eternal and spiritual, but does not end there.  While living in this world, He works in and through us to heal the “red ink” and damage from poor choices.  It is a process that likely will take time and be painful but none the less will have a bright destination if we trust and obey.

We can be confident God will do what He says. The heavenly bank makes no mistakes, the treasuries of heaven are inexhaustive, and our Heavenly Father is faithful to fulfill His promissory notes.

The kingdom of heaven is worth infinitely more than the cost of discipleship.

1. A. Carson

 

 

4/11/20                      STAY CONSISTENT IN OUR WALK                          11

He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.  1 John 2:6

COMMENTS:  We expect those we depend on to be stable and focused on their jobs and duties.  Doctors and pilots and nurses and teachers and policemen and even preachers are among those we trust, depend on, and expect to be anchored solid enough to be available and consistent in their work and judgment.   We depend on them to provide quality work and not allow personal problems or tragedy to distract or negatively impact their work. 

Well, doesn’t our employer expect us to continue to work the same hours and provide the same work quality and quantity no matter if we go through peace and good times or through desperate and difficult times.  Our employer excepts employees not let personal issues distract them.   But how can they not?

As I write this, businesses are closing and millions of employees are being laid off or fired because of government orders not to gather in public places of gatherings of more than 10 people and to instead stay home due to the Coronavirus epidemic.  Just in USA, over 5000 have died to day and prediction is epidemic will get a lot worse before it gets better.  The biggest reason is the illness is extremely contagious for as long as 14 days before noticeable symptoms alert or would motivate victims to stay a safe distance away.  

As I write this, the news is full of reports of hospitals being overwhelmed by numbers of coronavirus patients and doctors and nurses not having sufficient equipment and items to protect them or enable them to properly treat their patient.  Large cities like NYC is where problems are worse.   Some doctors and nurses are being gripped by fear and despair.  Many are becoming more vocal that they feel at risk of illness too, especially when they see their piers getting sick and some dying after exposure.  Being in “harms way” in order to serve and heal.

The world expects sustained almost superhuman performance without providing sufficient resource to achieve such.  They offer salary and maybe respect and maybe other incentives which all don’t hold a candle to life and family.  Only offered are things which are lost at death or even sooner.

But what can provide what the world can’t?   What can inspire and energize and compel doctors and nurses to give sacrificially and you and me to discover ways to encourage and help heal too?

The answer can be found among Samaritan Purse doctors and nurses who donate their time and   resource in makeshift tents in NYC assisting hospitals and medical staff there.   Doing there what they have done in 3^rd world countries after hurricanes and other disasters.

Only Christ can and does offer and provide such courage and passion and determination.   When we look more closely at how early Christians were able to face inhuman – unrelenting persecution and death at the hand of tyrannical Roman soldiers and rulers, in more recent generations from equally tyrannical dictators. 

So, what can we do?? 

1. PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!
2. Respect and follow guidelines so don’t put yourself and others at risk of exposure.
3. Reach out to encourage and support those serving
4. Reach out to encourage and help in ways we can. Our phones and our computers are still working.  What is God wanting us to do? Why not ask Him?

 While we expect quality work from people like our doctor or airplane pilot, and in things like our car brakes and hot water heaters, we are often lax in our personal accountability. The marks that we are accountable—believing and obeying God’s truth— are frequently elusive. By following the example set for us by Jesus, in every way, whatever we do, we can always submit to the will of the Father. You can be consistently Christlike. Let the certainty of His return motivate you to be consistent in your Christian life so that you are assured and not ashamed at His coming. Afterall, heaven is our destination and home and for any and all who will accept Him and His gift of forgiveness and eternal life.  Death isn’t an end but a new beginning. 

4/12/20                                     THE WHITEST WHITE                                  12

His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow.  Revelation 1:14

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING:  REVELATION 1:12-17  ^“12 Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, ¹³ and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. ¹⁴ His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; ¹⁵ His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; ¹⁶ He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. ¹⁷ And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.”

COMMENTS:  White is a color that is made up of all colors.  Pure white perfectly reflects all colors so is brilliant in sunlight.  The description the Bible gives us of God is being perfect in power and authority and in wisdom and …. But also, perfectly Good.  Goodness is associated with the color white.

When Jesus was transfigured and He revealed His Glory, He became clothed in brilliant white.  Matthew 17:2 “He was transfigured before them. His face shown like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light.”

Revelation 19:11 pictures Christ coming again on a white horse; and the eternal throne of judgment is described in Revelation 20:11 as “a great white throne.”

Revelation 21 and 22, the city of New Jerusalem will be illuminated by the Lamb Himself, who radiates light. The city will shimmer, gleam, and flash with supernatural light.

Since all this is true, let’s grow in holiness and reflect the glory of the Lord to a darkened world. Others should see in us the whitest white.   One day, in heaven, we too will be transformed with new bodies and perfectly reflect a Christ-like perfect character He will transform us into.  But in the meantime, we can shine a lot brighter and reflect Him much clearer if we are willing and ask Him to do. 

“Break down every idol, cast out every foe. / Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” James Nicholson

4/13/20                      APRIL  SHOWERS OF LOVE                       13

[The crowd] took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ The King of Israel!”  John 12:13

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE:   JOHN 15:9-13  ^{“9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. 12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”}

COMMENTS:   We are living in a dangerous world.  Dangerous because of the natural disasters that seems to seek us out in our own communities and homes.  Disasters like massive fires and earthquakes and tornadoes and hurricanes and floods and unheard of diseases like “coronavirus” and deadly illnesses like cancer AIDS and even “flesh eating bacteria.   But every generation has had dangerous circumstances.

Even Christians have always experienced dangerous environments and persecution at the hands of evil and misguided people.   The first century Christians endured death by lions and gladiators and being burnt alive as torches to light the roads in Rome during tyrannical rule of Emperor Nero.  Since then every generation of Christians have endured equally severe persecution somewhere in the world.  Why?  Satan hates God and hates those who love and obey Him.  Satan knows the only way he can hurt God is to hurt the creation He loves.  When satan deceives humans to hurt and kill other humans, especially those who are faithful to God, then he has accomplished his sinister goal.   

BUT GOD IS STILL ON THE THRONE!   HE ABIDES WITH AND ENABLES HIS FAITHFUL FOLLOWERS TO ENDURE UNJUST PERSECUTION AND SUFFERING FOR A TIME FOR A DIVINE PURPOSE!   That purpose is likely unclear but past evidence reveals others are more impressed and persuaded to follow Christ too when Christians show hope and courage and LOVE instead of hate when unjustly treated.   Likewise, when those Christians share the reason for their courage and hope and joy, the scales tip toward Christ and to His ultimate goal – for His sacrifice and blood to redeem more of His beloved children.

If Christ had returned in the middle of WWII, I would never had been born.  Most of you wouldn’t have either.  So for Christ to delay His return to stop satan’s evil schemes and work, gives opportunity for millions more of lost to come to the cross for redemption and life and joy that only Christ can give.

Christ will return before man destroys himself.  Man has the capability of destroying all mankind and that capability is finding its way into the hands of more radical groups and people who are not afraid to use them and who insanely are not inhibited about destroying mankind.

But what is God calling us to do?  TO LOOK TO HIM INSTEAD OF TO THEMSELVES AND TO THE WORLD.  TO SEEK AND BE SUSTAINED BY CHRIST – LOOK DEEP INTO HIS WORD / HIS LIFE / HIS EYES AND THEN TO SHARE THAT LOVE SO OTHERS ARE DRAWN TO HIM TOO….

Take advantage of the extra time at home and opportunity  to do things together  with family with you to draw closer.  To take advantage of staying in contact with others by phone and other  means that doesn’t  put ourselves and others at risk. To be that light of hope to others and let them be that light to us in this time God wants to use to help us reset our priorities and focus more to His priorities and focus.

Every missionary has to make the decision to exchange a familiar, secure, and probably safe environment for an unfamiliar, insecure, and possibly dangerous new environment. That decision is a choice, an act of the will, made on the basis of sacrificial love for those who need to know about Jesus. That decision reflects Jesus’ own words: “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13).

Jesus demonstrated that same choice, that same sacrifice, and that same decision when He “set [His] face like a flint” (Isaiah 50:7) and went to Jerusalem knowing that His death would shortly come. He entered into the praises of many who welcomed His arrival, but He soon found Himself the object of His opponents’ plans for His demise. Yet, His love for us overcame His knowledge of what He would face. This is the love of God that knows no bounds and is extended to all.

God’s love falls gently like April showers. Don’t fail to receive the refreshment He offers you today.  Then share it!

The true measure of God’s love is that He loves without measure.

 

4/14/20                          STAYING COMMITTED TO OUR FAITH                                           14

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
James 5:7–8

COMMENTS: I think the insight farmers give is a profound word of encouragement to us  while in the midst of an invisible war against Coronavirus.  James reminds us from ancient  times of the faith  every farmer lives by, a faith true in ancient times and still true today.   If you have ever planted and nurtured a garden, you understand that faith. 

Farmers prepare soil for the seed by tilling the soil so air and nourishment can get to seed and young plant.   Fertilizer  is added to optimize that nourishment and to replenish depleted soil from previous growing seasons.

The seed are planted and weeds and rocks are removed , but once is not enough.  Repeating weeding and watering is necessary depending on weather conditions.   But  evidence of successful seed sprouting and  successful root growth into good soil does not become visible  right away, so faith and proper care before that evidence is necessary.  The same is true of parents      as  they raise their children.  

Sometimes life’s storms come, resulting in heart-breaking loss.  But the farmer soon discovers each new morning offers new hope and opportunity.  Experience, both personal and from others serve to guide them to make good choices and set  wise priories so the young plants grow and thrive and ultimately bear a bountiful crop.  

Jesus even uses the example of the sower (Matthew 13) to help the listeners understand the importance of sharing God’s Good News with everyone knowing not everyone will receive it nor respond right away.

But God often does His most profound life-giving work during the most difficult and tragic seasons in our lives.   Nature has plenty of examples that  proves this to be true.  Winds cause trees to extends their roots deeper to provide stronger anchor to hold the tree secure during stronger storms and winds.  Trees never experiencing such storms and enjoy ample water with shallow roots fail to extend their roots deeper and easily are toppled over  when a storm does come. 

These and similar parables recorded in the Bible and in life experiences lived and shared, all serve to teach us to embrace tough times and ask God to teach us and prepare us.  Weak-heated Christians who complain and grumble and nurture a selfish attitude who continue to live with shallow  roots in His Word will face life’s storms unprepared when they do come.

But God wants us to be prepared and is eager to help and guide and prepare us for greater work.  Life changing work  that bears eternal fruit.  The impact  the early persecuted Christians of the first century impacted the world causing the number of Christians to explode.  For us to know Christ reflects on the witness and faith of  those before us, but the eternal future of others are now dependent on our  willingness and obedience to let God guide and help us to know and follow His Will.

Yes, God frequently or even normally does His most profound work through the difficult seasons of our lives. If you embrace the tough times and ask God to teach you what He wants you to know, He will give you the patience and strength to endure. This is no time for weak-heated Christians who complain and grumble in today’s world. The Word of God challenges you to develop an attitude of courage, firmness, and confidence in the God you serve. Stand firm, assured of His faithfulness.  When we do that, others notice and are greatly impacted and are open to welcome God into their lives to do the same for them too.

 

4/15/20                               WHO GOD IS                                     15      

And I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, “O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments.”  Daniel 9:4

Recommended Reading:  HEBREWS 4:16 “16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

COMMENT:   On  national news today reported the difficulty businesses and individuals are having signing up for government  benefits and loans related to coronavirus epidemic.  Government agencies are overwhelmed with inquiries and volume of people seeking help, overloading phone and internet sites.  

So, imagine what it would be like if we had such difficulties reaching God and if He was overwhelmed with the volume of  inquiries for help He gets each day.

We, He doesn’t get over whelmed and can do everything everywhere all the time and all at the same time, so  no waiting line to reach Him.  But when we do wait on Him, it is  then past experience and recorded experience of those before us and Jesus own words all add to give us faith and confidence He is orchestrating a response best for you and me but also for far  more  as well.  We need reminded often that God’s ways are best and His timing is perfect but not always quick or as quick as we would like.

So keep praying and keep waiting but also keep serving and obeying – doing His  will moment by moment  responding to the light He gives us without reaching beyond what His light reveals, like the headlights of an automobile.

When Daniel began praying about the release of God’s people from captivity in Babylon, he began his prayer with an acknowledgment of God’s ability, authority, and faithfulness. He addressed God as “great” and “awesome,” as merciful and promise keeping. Mercy implies forgiveness; promise keeping implies faithfulness; great and awesome imply power and authority. Daniel knew he was praying to the God who would answer his prayers. He just didn’t know how or when.  GOD ANSWERS YES OR NO OR LATER.  No becomes a different and better YES and LATER becomes a better time for YES.

Imitate Daniel’s prayer in your own life by confessing who God is as a way to build your faith.

The recognition of who God is, is a lifelong process.  Elizabeth Elliott

 

4/16/20                               TO KNOW HIM IS TO TRUST HIM                                                 16

7 The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment.
8 He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.
9 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.  Psalm 9:7-10

COMMENTS:  When we were children, we trusted and depended on our parents, especially our mothers, didn’t we?   Our mothers because she was there for us more since our fathers had to work outside the home earning  money to provide for us.  But our fathers were who taught us the importance of a work ethic,  keeping our word, and doing quality work and putting in a full days work for a full days pay.  Our mothers taught us the importance of love and taking care of each other and compassion but  both taught us about discipline and obedience to their rules.

Trust they both loved us and we knew they both had our best interest in the rules they made and trusted them.   When discipline was needed, we knew what we did wrong and understood discipline was necessary since punishment and cost of disobedience was necessary even though we didn’t like it at all.

They taught us to love and fear and obey God too.   The need and purpose of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross was clearly taught, which helped us understand  why punishment is necessary.  For Christ to take our punishment  for sin proves He does have our backs and our best interest in mind.

To conclude  who our true enemy is (satan) and who it is not (Christ).  Who we dare not trust and  who we our eternal lives depend on trusting.

Having good  parents helped us relate to Christ being a perfect parent   to us.

Having Him as our  perfect parent who is preparing a perfect eternal home and body for us.  So enduring hardship for even a few years is endurable knowing Christ is in control and is more than willing and able to  defeat our true enemy (satan).  We know we need not  fear since there is nothing we can face, even death, that Christ hasn’t already defeated .

Like a child, all too often we are “out of sight, out of mind”, which means we start doubting and loosing faith when we become distracted and take our eyes off Him.  So keeping our minds and eyes focused on Him is key  to reaching and sustaining the level of faith and trust needed.

 

4/17/20                                      HE KNOWS YOUR NEEDS                                     17

Now while I was speaking, praying, and confessing my sin … and presenting my supplication before the Lord. … the man Gabriel … informed me, and talked with me, and said, “O Daniel, I have now come forth to give you skill to understand.”  Daniel 9:20-22

RECOMMENDED READING:  MATTHEW 6:5-15 ” ^{5 “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 6 But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.}                                                                                                                             8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray:

Our Father in heaven,Hallowed be Your name.10 Your kingdom come.Your will be doneOn earth as it is in heaven.11 Give us this day our daily bread.12 And forgive us our debts,As we forgive our debtors.13 And do not lead us into temptation,But deliver us from the evil one.For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

COMMENTS: Today’s scripture from Daniel 9 and Matthew 6 reveal to us insights into the example of how God wants us to pray.    Daniel shows us the impact and insights prayer provided from God to Him.   Daniel knew and had a personal relationship with God and enjoyed fellowship and received spiritual strength and nourishment the 3 times each day he took time out to pray.  But even Daniel   experienced “dry times” when his prayers  didn’t seem to  penetrate the ceiling and only reflected back  to him.

If  you  read  closely the first 9 chapters of Daniel, you will start getting a picture of how powerful and meaningful his prayer times were.  But when read Daniel 10, you  will notice that Daniel prayed 21 days without any response from God, not something he was used to experiencing.   But he still remained faithful to pray until finally the angel came in response to His prayers and gave an explanation why he was so late.   That   angel, likely Gabriel, encouraged him by saying God had dispatched him the same day he started praying but was delayed due to a battle with “the king of Persia”.   Michael came to help him.  Why the battle took 21 days is not explained but Gabriel shared to Daniel that he is highly favored by God.   Daniel didn’t know why God  was silent but t rusted Him enough   to not let discouragement or disappointment   hinder his prayers.  He remained faithful in praying.  

Daniel knew it would be 70 years before God would free Israel to return home.  Daniel had been told that  thru Jeremiah’s prophecies but those 70 years were finally coming to an end and Daniel knew that so was likely getting a bit anxious.

God had revealed so much to Daniel and has been very close to Daniel over the years.   Gabriel’s beginning words to Daniel reveal that.  He told Daniel that he is highly favored with God.   Very few in scripture have been told that, but very few took the time to get that close to God, but Daniel was such a person. 

I love reading and  reflecting on these chapters because they reveal some wonderful personality traits about Daniel but also about God.   Daniel would not be allowed or be able to return with his people.  Since he was over 80, he likely either concluded that do to failing health or was  revealed that, but we are not given any indicated he was complaining to God about.  But the importance and urgency of Gabriel’s visit and message to Daniel did reveal much.  

1. God  was getting ready to fulfill His promise.
2. Daniel would have a key role in getting his people  ready and had much to record because his time on earth was coming to a conclusion soon too.
3. It appears satan knew this and  was also preparing – preparing to do  all he could to try to stop it.  He attempted to stop Gabriel.   We wonder  why it took 21 days and Michael’s help to do that, but then again God  always has a good reason for  what and how and when  He accomplish His Will.  It is not do  to a lack of ability!

A common question from Christians young and old involves prayer: “If God already knows everything, why do I need to tell Him everything in prayer?” But if reflect, you should know the answer.  Pray is far more than us giving information to God and making  requested or even trying to persuade Him.  Prayer is God conveying His mind and decisions and Will to us. 

Jesus Himself addressed this question in His teaching to His followers in the early days of His ministry: “For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8). Clearly, the purpose of prayer is not to convey information to God. The prophet Daniel learned the same thing. When he was praying for an end to the Jews’ captivity in Babylon (Daniel 9:4-19), the angel Gabriel appeared to him while he was still praying with the answer to his prayer: “As soon as you began to pray, a word went out” (Daniel 9:23, NIV).

When you pray, be assured that God knows your need. Speak with God more than to God.

“Prayer without thanksgiving is like a bird without wings.”  William Hendriksen

 

4/18/20         God’S Perfect Timing or Coincidence?                         18                  

Seventy weeks are determined for your people and for your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sins, to make reconciliation for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy.  Daniel 9:24

Recommended Reading: ISAIAH 55:8-9  ““For My thoughts are not your thoughts,Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.⁹ “For as the heavens are higher than the earth,So are My ways higher than your ways,And My thoughts than your thoughts..”

Jeremiah 29:11  “¹¹ For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Romans 8:28  “²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

COMMENTS: When we look back at history, especially biblical history since we are given God’s insights and explanation for events of that history, we gain insights into God’s influences and interventions in more recent events, including ones we are dealing with now but also events yet to come.

God honored Daniel’s faithfulness and enabled him to see and interpret dreams of kings as well as his own. Daniel lived nearly all his long life captive to king of Babylon and then to Medo-Persia.   These invading enemies were pagan and were motivated by ambitious evil who didn’t know nor want to know and obey God.   Daniel was faithful to God but lived among a people (even his own fellow Israelites) who were not faithful to God.

God chose to bless and protect Daniel and even enable him to prosper while in captivity, but he and his fellow Israelites remained in captivity for 70 years. 

Why?  Well, God sent prophets to warn Israel and her kings that if they continue to sin and rebel against God, judgment would come – Israel would be taken from her home land and become slaves to other men.  Jeremiah was the last such prophet to come and warn Israel but he failed to persuade Israel to repent.   Yet, God told them through Jerusalem that God’s punishment on them would last 70 years and their land would be restored to them when they repented.  God knew it would take 70 years of captivity to cause them to repent.  Repent they did, but Daniel was instrumental in that repentance but also repentance and conversions of their captor’s king too.  They all were clearly shown God’s grace as well as His power and authority by Daniel, his faithful friends, and then by others including Nehemiah and even Esther.

God put his faithful in key positions of authority for the purpose of leadership and guidance to God’s path to life and hope and redemption.

Their experience provides important lessons and insights to us too.

We are given evidence of ways God faithfully spared and shielded Israel from her pagan enemies and prospered her as long as she was faithful to God.  God intended Israel to be the evangelist to the pagan world so they would become His faithful followers.  If doubt that, read the book of Job and discover how God forgave and dealt with Nineveh.

God would lift His protective hand from Israel when she turned from God.  I believe it is more they removed themselves from God’s protection but they lost the protection of God when they did so.    But God sent prophets to warn them.  When they heeded, they were spared like Hezekiah was. But the more common reaction was defiance followed by judgment and suffering.

Truth is, judgment came was their own fault.  SO WHAT ABOUT US?  WHERE ARE WE IN THIS CYCLE OF OBEDIENCE/GOD’S PROTECTION/BLESSING – TO – INDIFFERENCE AND TURNING FROM GOD’S PROTECTION/BLESSING – TO – DEFIANCE/DISOBEDIENCE/SIN – TO –  DENYING GOD’S VERY EXISTENCE –T0- GOD’S JUDGMENT AND –TO – REPENTENCE/FORGIVENESS –TO- RESTORATION OF GOD’S BLESSING/PROTECTION

America has enjoyed a long legacy starting with many God followers colonizing and fathering and organizing the USA, a 200+year history of God’s blessing and protection but also great times of revival and evangelization.

The revivals and legacy of my grandparent’s generation, the afterglow of my parent’s generation, the rebellion of my generation (baby boomers) remind me it has been a very long time, far too long, since we had a national revival or time of repentance resulting in a majority lacking knowledge of and respect for God’s Word quickly growing far worse than when my generation was in its prime.

Daniel is among many biblical prophets warning us that disaster awaits those who deny God their obedience and worship, while also warning of a coming time when Christ will return to put an end to satan’s evil deeds and deceptions

Matthew 24:7 ”For ⁱnation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And  there will be ^jfamines, ²pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.”

So   are we living in the last days?  Is Christ’s return imminent?  Is coronavirus one of the pestilences identified in Matthew 24?  Are we about to enter a dark time of suffering?  

Scripture does not give us that answer, nor should we.  But scripture does tell us that when we see evidence of a coming storm, we should prepare.

So how do we prepare.  How did Hezekiah respond to storm of coming invaders?  How did the early Christians prepare for the suffering and persecution that they endured?  Are things bad enough for us to respond in kind?

 

My brother-in-law, my wife’s next older sister’s husband, shared a significant insight I would like to share with you.

He said “What is the significance of the worst week of coronavirus deaths in USA being during “Holy Week” and “Easter”.   What does this tell us?   Is this a coincidence or God’s warning and call to repentance to our country and to the world?    When 911 hit in 2001, the churches were full for 2-3 weeks but quickly people forgot and turned back to their own self-consuming lives leaving God out.

Was 911 such a warning and call to repentance and now is God speaking the same warning with a louder voice?  The answers to these questions are being debated, but our response is what is even more important.   A response to the question, what does God desire of you and me?   The answer is to seek Him with all our heart, ask Him to heal our soul, change is mind, and heal our land                      (II Chronicles 7:14 “¹⁴ if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”)

When we look at the Israel’s history and moral state of Israel when God withdrew his hand of blessing and protection, we notice immoral behavior, denial of sin and repentance, and disregard for God and wellbeing of others.  So how do we compare?

Well, the crisis has inspired giving and sharing and many being in harm’s way in order to treat and care for the sick and dying.  Many reports of increasing numbers attending internet broadcasted church service but it remains to be seen if number of born again Christians is increasing during this time.

We are not able to convert others but we can live a positive example.

We can show compassion and kindness toward others.  We can be like Christ in motives and conduct.   We can be the only Christ many others will see.   We are seeing more and more people reaching out and helping.  We are even seeing news coverage of some of those acts of kindness and giving too.   But what God requires is confessing and repenting of sin and receiving Christ’s redeeming gift of redemption.   THAT IS THE REASON OF THE SEASON – EASTER!

God is not responsible for coronavirus, satan is!  But God may just be using this epidemic to waken us and warn us and remind us just how much we depend on Him and need His protective cover and His redemption.  Life is a precious gift that must not be taken for granted. 

So is coronavirus one of the pestilences referred to in Matthew 24 in the last days approaching Christ’s return?  Christ’s return is also referred to as timed to stop man from destroying himself.  Today is the first time in history man possesses the means to destroy himself by atomic bombs, by dangerous diseases, and by cyber-attacks on power grids and a multitude of other vital services controlled by computer directly or indirectly.   These weapons and tools are now potentially accessible to very dangerous groups and people who are not afraid to use them.   That is different from previous generations and times too.

So, whether we are in the last days or not.  Whether coronavirus will be successfully stopped soon or mutes or replaced by even worse epidemics, our response must be the same. 

Surrender to His Will and accepting His Grace.   To give Him the worship and honor He deserves and desires.   To seek His help to turn from sin and to a personal relationship with Him.  To seek Him to revive us individually and as a nation.  Then He will respond in restoring and healing us and our land.  AMEN?  AMEN!

Today is Maundy Thursday – the Last Supper with His disciples and day Christ was arrested and day Peter denied Christ.  Tomorrow is Good Friday, the day of Christ’s crucifixion and death.  Sunday is Easter, the most important day on the Christian calendar.   The day Christ rose – defeated death – satisfied the Fathers price for sin and the keys of sin and death satan has been reigning over mankind since the fall.

So Christian, this is your time to shine.  You have the hope and promise of heaven and God’s abiding presence.  You have the hope of seeing deceased loved ones again and an eternal home in heaven.  Now is the time to live as though you believe that!  That is what the world will notice and be persuaded by.  That is our calling and that is our mission.  If we do that, God can and will do great things.

God’s timing can mean more than one thing. In any case, His timing is always perfect. Let God be God when it comes to the times of your life.

“I will therefore be prepared at all times for that which may come at any time.”  Unknown

4/19/20                                       Unwavering                                                19

The Lord has promised good things.  Numbers 10:29

Scripture: 2 PETER 1:2-4 ” ² Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, ³ as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, ⁴ by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”

COMMENTS:  On 911, over 3000 lost their lives.  Fear and impact of that day was ominous, which forced many to adjust their priorities and put church back in their lives seeking help and a relationship with God.  When the crisis passed, their returned to their normal lives, which had no room for God. Will the same happen today?   Already 15,000 have died in US alone as of 4/9/20.  The disruption is far worse with this present crisis.  We can’t see the enemy and until symptoms show up, none of knows if we are carrying and passing on the virus, putting loved ones at risk.   Doing our part to isolate ourselves and finding other way to stay in touch like phone calls, Facebook, having church worship and studies online are necessary to comply with the importance of stopping the spread of the virus.

So, taking advantage of this time by spending time with God in prayer and devotions, spending time with family reconnecting too.   Taking time to stay connected to family and friends and shut-ins by phone.  Following instructions and guidelines.  Taking walks and spending quiet time with Christ each day seeking His council and praying for His revival and healing of our land.  Like Daniel, pray for His mercy and for the return of His protective Hand once again, but also pray He will prepare and equip you and me and our families and church family and … for the future and for work He is calling us to do and servants He wants us to be.  But don’t forget to pray for others, including those who are putting themselves in harm’s way treating the sick and dying. 

So, when feeling unprepared and uncertain what to do and needing a place to go for help, turn to scripture and to Christians you trust but also turn to Christ directly in prayer.   He is there ready to help when invited.  Here is a few verse to start with:

When worried: “For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion” (Psalm 27:5).

When weak:    The Lord declares, “My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

When anxious:   Proverbs 3:5-6 says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

There’s always a Bible verse waiting to be requisitioned to your need. Search it out and write it on the tablet of your mind. If our faith is founded solely on God’s promises, we’ll be unwavering.

“That which God promises to us in word he seals by act.”  John Calvin

4/20/20                               When Nothing Else Could Help                               20                                                     

I called on the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.
Psalm 118:5

RECOMMENDED READING: ROMANS 10:8-15 “ ⁸ But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): ⁹ that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. ¹¹ For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” ¹² For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. ¹³ For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”¹⁴ How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? ¹⁵ And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written:“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!”

COMMENTS:  We live in a war zone that is global.  We have a common enemy but only One worthy and powerful enough to do battle.   But as we look around, we soon discover the destruction of the war but also so many victims and consequences of that war that chose the wrong general to lead them.  Battles against foot soldiers while paying no attention nor waging battle against their general.

Granted, the Hitler’s of our time need dealt with but we also need to deal with who they report to – to satan himself.   Well, truth is that satan is much closer to each of us and influences and tempts each of us.   His skills and experience make him a formidable enemy that not one of us are a match to defeat.   But if we don’t recognize and deal with him, we’ll find that defeating his foot soldiers will only result in others coming up and replacing them.  That is why evil men and leaders never become extinct.   Kill one ant and 1000 come.

So, what is the world missing?   That our common enemy is satan and our common Champion – our common General – Our common Savior is none other than Christ.    Giving Him our allegiance opens the opportunity for Him to shield us – council us – lead us – save us.    He knows our enemy very well – He defeated him on the cross and will ultimately imprison him so he can no longer tempt and deceive.  In the meantime, “free will” to choose good or evil, to choose who will lead and who to follow.   Battling the Hitler’s is still necessary but to do battle with Christ as our general is essential both for victory but also so Christ’s much bigger and lasting objectives are achieved.

Well, Christ will achieve His objectives with or without us, but the difference will be what happens to us and how much we will be blessed as a result.  If we are not with Christ, the default is against Him.  There is no grey or half way.  If we are not Christ’s foot soldier, we are satan’s.

Consider the handiwork of each.  God’s handiwork is the stars, the sun on a sunny day and moon and stars on a clear night.  The beauty of spring and fresh snow.  The miracle of new life and confidence when face death for the saved Christian.   The way God provides water and air and gravity and warmth without our effort or even thought.   The love Christ demonstrated and continues to for each of us.  The difference knowing Him makes in each believer and how they treat each other.  The complexity of our own bodies but reliability to function for 70 or 80 years without our ability to repair or understand it.

On the other side, what is satan’s handiwork?  Killing and destruction.  Death and misery.  Indulging selfish lust and passions at sacrifice of others.  Stealing and robbing.  Storms and diseases and hatred and broken families and …

Just look around and recognize the handiwork of both God and satan.  It is a black and white difference.  But the world prefers to blame God for satan’s handiwork and credit satan or one of his foot soldiers or imaginary gods satan inspired men to invent, for God’s handiwork.

Christ told us none of us are worthy nor can earn His redemption and forgiveness for sin.   Sin is identified based on His perfect standard.   Sin that cannot be cancelled by good deeds so forgiveness can’t be earned or bought.  Instead, Jesus took our sins and blame on himself so we don’t need to pay that price.  Instead He give freely forgiveness and life and redemption and an eternal home to any and all who will simply accept it and invite Him into their soul to change them to be changed into better people – that we were designed and meant to be.

EASTER IS WHEN CHRIST DEFEATED SATAN AND BOUGHT OUR SALVATION AND REDEMPTION.  WHEN WE ACCEPT THIS PRICELESS GIFT, WE BECOME HIS ADOPTED CHILDREN AND HEIRS OF ALL HE HAS MADE AND PREPARED FOR US.

Christ has promised to abide with us and provide all we need to get us to our final destination, heaven.   He has also promised to deal with satan for us if we ask Him.  Be reminded that any struggles satan puts on us are limited by Christ to what we are able to bear and Christ takes up and carries the rest.  Stop and reflect on how He has done so in past and in your direct experience.

So, is coronavirus coming to a peak of infections and deaths during Lent and at Easter Sunday a coincidence or designed and intended by satan to hinder and prevent Christians and seekers from worship and fellowship during Easter season? Does God allow timing in order to warn and waken us to repent and turn to Christ.

If you are sinking in sin with no apparent help in sight, call out to the Lord. He responds to our voice, and He knows how to rescue us. Joel 2:32 says, “Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”  Romans 10:12 promises, “The same Lord is rich to all who call upon Him.”

Because of the resurrection of Christ, we have forgiveness of sin and the promise of eternity in heaven. The Lord is calling us to Himself, but we have to call upon Him and trust Him for salvation. He will rescue us and bring us to safety.

I was sinking deep in sin. … Love lifted me!         James Rowe

 

 

 

4/21/20                           THE DAY BEFORE EASTER                          21

Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).              John 20:16

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE  1 CORINTHIANS 15:50-58   “⁵⁰ Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. ⁵¹ Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— ⁵² in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. ⁵³ For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. ⁵⁴ So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”⁵⁵ “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?”⁵⁶ The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. ⁵⁷ But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.⁵⁸ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”

COMMENTS: Take a few minutes and put yourself where Jesus disciples and closest followers were from the Last Supper through Easter.  The disciples had been with Him for 3 years but many of His closest followers much less time.  He had so much to show an example to teach them and so little time to do so.  Their education was far from over but the time of teaching them from limits of being human were coming to a close.  They only knew Him as the human Jesus but not as God.  They saw Him praying to the Father as a human as they would and as He encouraged them to, but not as God they would be praying to.  On the boat they cried out to Him for help and saw Him calm the winds and waves but as a man. 

But on Maundy Thursday they saw Him arrested and on Friday they saw Him endure great suffering and die as a human.   What would you have said and done if you had been there?    We have the benefit of looking at the Holy Week events from now but what about His followers then?  What did they think and feel? 

Well, stop and reflect on the fear and grief and confusion and indecision that gripped them in waves like the waters of Galilee in the middle of a storm.  But what about Jesus’ words and instruction.  What did He mean about being raised on the 3^rd day?   He did raise Lazarus and Jarius’ daughter and others from death, but would He really raise Himself?  After all, crucifixion was such a brutal way to die.  The Romans left no doubt to onlookers.  Crucifixion was intended to spur fear and submission on onlookers, so Jesus’ death that way was intended to do so too.

No one had ever come back to life after crucifixion.  Would Jesus be the first?  Let’s reflect on the time between Jesus death on Good Friday afternoon until Easter Sunday morning when He greeted Mary and the disciples and then many more ….  Can you imagine it when Jesus’ mother saw Him? 

The tragedy was not Jesus dying.  It was not Judas’ betrayal or Peter’s denial.  The tragedy was not how they all grieved.  The tragedy was that Judas took his life before he had opportunity to receive Jesus’ forgiveness like Peter did. 

Notice that during the days after Easter until His ascension, Jesus took the time to make Himself know to all His followers. We are told it amounted to as many as 500, but details of those encounters are only a small portion. 

How many encounters were like Peter’s or the men on the Emmaus Road.  He met them all at their greatest need, but first allowed them to experience and remorse.  Before Jesus would give redemption, He needed to prepare the souls of those in need so they could receive it.  He had to plow and prepare the soil of their souls first.

I am writing this on Saturday morning, the day before Easter 2020.  This was the darkest day for Jesus followers and disciples because the reality of His death was sinking in and the hope of His resurrection was starting to fade and doubts starting to take hold.  The absence of His human presence was starting to create an empty hole.  No one was there to guide and instruct them so they waited in hiding wondering who would be next to be arrested and crucified.  Any protection they felt from Jesus’ presence was absent now.  What a long day that must have been.  Can you visualize and relate?

Well, God in His mercy did limit how long his disciples and followers had to wait.  Otherwise, I wonder if more than Judas would have taken their lives or scattered in discouragement.  Each year we experience the length of time from Jesus’ crucifixion until Easter morning.  Not a very long time, but normally we wouldn’t sit waiting in fear and grief as they did.  But then again, when we lose a loved one, from the time of their death until the funeral is usually about that long.  That seems like a torturously long time, doesn’t it?

I believe it is no coincidence that the current coronavirus epidemic came and revealed itself and peaked during Lent and especially on Easter.  The illness was crafted by satan and thrust on mankind for his evil purpose, but God always uses his evil deeds to accomplish God’s divine purpose and is doing so this time too.  Stop and think, over 100,000 have died and over 1.7million people have contracted this illness.  Think about how sinister this illness is – it is the most contagious before it shows any symptoms so the maximum spread of illness is realized.  It lets most recover with minimal symptoms so motivation and need to stay away from uninfected people isn’t noticed, but some grow deathly sick and die in a few days.  The thoughtless actions of those spared result in death of many.  Then again, the health care workers face exposure deliberately in order to care for the sick and dying.  In the USA alone, 18000 have died and over 500,000 are infected.  Who would have thought this possible a few weeks ago?

Israel’s experiences in the old testament teach us that God blesses and protects His people when they worship and obey Him, but removes that protection when they turn from Him and follow their own sinful path.   That didn’t work well for them, and is not working for us, like it or not.  Well, for those who don’t believe that and are putting their hope in the wisdom and leadership of the medical and government leadership and experts, I would remind you God is on His throne.  Keeping isolated is wise and necessary to avoid putting ourselves and others at risk.  But praying and repenting seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness is what made a difference for Israelites and will for us too.

I invite you to read Solomon’s message and prayer when he dedicated the temple in Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 5-7). I invite you to read and reflect on these chapters and especially 2 Chronicles 7:14 “¹⁴ if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Easter is the most important day of the Christian calendar – the day Jesus defeated satan and death, bought our redemption and took the keys of death from satan.  He promised a bright eternal future to any and all who accept His free offer of redemption.  So the question is, will we hold fast to our sins and misery?  Will we settle for being like Peter before or like he became after his encounter with a resurrected Jesus?  Will we settle for living an unforgiven life thinking we must earn our forgiveness or will we listen to His instruction and council and accept His redemption first and then allow Him to guide and lead and help us change to be more like His example.

WE CAN NOT EARN OR BUY OUR SALVATION.  THE PRICE IS TOO HIGH.  BUT HE BOUGHT IT AND OFFERS TO US WHAT CAN’T BE BOUGHT OR EARNED!  

Easter wasn’t intended to punish or fill us with guilt.   Easter was and is intended to give us hope and joy.   A day to worship and praise.  A day to celebrate what Christ has done because of His love for you and me!!  AMEN?  AMEN!!

Many live in “fear of death” their whole life (Hebrews 2:15). But no one needs to live in such fear. The miracle of the resurrection we celebrate this weekend means that an eternal reunion awaits all who die in Christ. As Jesus told His friends Mary and Martha, “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25). This weekend brings showers of hope to all who have lost a loved one, and showers of hope for our own eternal life.

Have you experienced showers of hope through faith in Christ? Celebrate two resurrections this Easter weekend: Christ’s and your own!

“Christianity is in its very essence a resurrection religion.”                            John R. W. Stott

4/22/20                                       THE DAY AFTER EASTER                               22                                         

He…supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you.  Galatians 3:5  .

RECOMMENDED READING: MATTHEW 8:14-17 “¹⁴ And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever.¹⁵ And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.¹⁶ When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick:¹⁷ That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.”

COMMENTS:   EASTER is quickly becoming a distant memory .  But Easteer is the most important day and Holiday on the Christian calendar.  The first century church celebrated Easter but not Christmas.  There is no firm reason identified, but by the time Christianity had become the official religion of the Roman Empire, December 25^th was changed from a Roman pagan holiday to a Christian holiday observing Christ’s birthday.  For this reason, the actual date of Christ’s birth is uncertain but historically is believe to be in the fall, possibly in September even though Christians have continued to observe Christmas on December 25^th since the 3^rd century.   I hope this doesn’t shake your beliefs or faith and shouldn’t become an issue of debate or division.  Christ was born to a virgin and rest of His birth recorded in scripture are factual and believed by faithful Christians universally.  Christ’s death and resurrection are as well.

Every miracle Jesus did, including Easter, was in response to a problem presenting an opportunity for Christ.   The miracle of the healing of Peter’s mother noted above was a good example.  But also notice that those healings were not spontaneous but planned by God and implemented by Jesus.  Also demonstrated was God’s perfect timing.  From the healing of Lazarus or Jairus’s daughter or Peter’s mother or His own death and resurrection, all were a result of a problem with no human solution.  God’s intervention with a solution but not before the absence of a human solution was fully evident.  Not until we surrender our energies going to our own or another human solution is God open to intervene.  But when He does, the result is a miracle.  A solution not possible by any human. 

Easter Is the ultimate miracle of God’s intervention because His Easter Miracle affected every human being by giving a way of eternal redemption man could not earn or provide and God’s law could only provide proof of man’s desperate need.

But God’s miracles were not even completed on Easter.  He then provided His Holy Spirit to abide with and help and sustain each and every believer all the time and at the same time personally as a sustained miracle 24x7x365xlifetime.  Why?  Because He knew even after Easter, we would not be strong enough nor willful enough to sustain the Christian life. A forgiven and cleansed soul would not stay clean without His abiding Holy Spirit’s involvement.  He knows we couldn’t keep the newly cleaned and remodeled house of our soul and life clean and pure.  He also knew we could not maintain a personal relationship with Him without some one on one help.  That sustain miracle needed was given at Pentecost and is still being given new each day to every believer, new and old.  But like every miracle, it must be received in order to be enjoyed. But more than enjoyed, the Holy Spirit needs to be active in our lives instead of put on a shelf and forgotten. 

 

Well, normally the day after Easter, everyone returns to work and kids go back to school and life gets back to normal.  But not this year.  The reality of coronavirus remains.   The spread of this illness and staggering death toll continues.  Isolation from friends and relatives and co-workers is a necessity and reality that still is weighing on everyone and forcing everyone to re-evaluate what is most important.  Neighbors are bringing groceries and medications to the elderly and handicapped.  Many are demonstrating their faith in acts of kindness without any recognition or compensation.  Even the news reporters are taking notice and share some of these acts instead of reporting only on evil and dark news.  

God is calling us back to the Cross.  He is calling us back to revival and repentance.  He is calling us back to His protection and the life He gives.    He is calling us individually and as a nation back to Himself.  Will we obey?   It will take a miracle, but Easter is  the season for miracles!

“When He saved my soul, cleansed and made me whole, it took a miracle of love and grace!”  John W. Peterson     

4/23/20                        ON SCHEDULE                                                  23                                           But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law.   Galatians 4:4

Scripture Reading: PSALM 139:16 “¹⁶ Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.And in Your book they all were written,The days fashioned for me,When as yet there were none of them..”

COMMENTS:  Coronavirus has infected 1.2millions lives worldwide, claiming 110,000 globally; and infected 500,000, killing 22,000 just in USA.  Due to lack of ability to test larger populations, the numbers likely are even higher. Pictures in the news of large refrigerated semi-trailers in New York City to store the dead and mass graves being dug to bury the  dead just in New York City shock. 

During times of crisis,  many turn to and pray to God for help and protection  while many blame and curse God for allowing or bringing tragedy on us.  They think living a decent life and not killing or stealing is enough to get into heaven and win God’s favor, but when tragedy comes, they blame God and feel cheated.

Well, truth is we are all sinners and even the best of us fall short of the perfect example Christ lived and showed His disciples.  Truth is, even the best of us deserve hell and damnation instead of His love and forgiveness and protection. We simply can’t earn or buy our way to God’s love and mercy and forgiveness.  But the Good News of Easter is WE DON’T HAVE TO.  CHRIST ALREADY DID!!  He bought our salvation and willingly and freely gives it to any and all who come to Him seeking and asking for His forgiveness and new life.

Jeremiah prophecied that Israel’s captivity in Babylon, God judgment for sin, would last 70 years.  Daniel later prophesied that there would be 483 years (69 weeks of seven years each) between the Persian king’s permission to rebuild Jerusalem and the appearance of the Anointed One, the Messiah. Many biblical scholars have worked out the details of this chronology and found it to be accurate. That means that the appearance of Christ came in “the fullness of the time” (Galatians 4:4). Jesus Himself said at the beginning of His ministry, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand” (Mark 1:15). Christ’s birth, ministry, death, and resurrection were based on God’s prophetic calendar.

The 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy is coming but is being delayed so the opportunity extended to all to receive His redemption.  But Matthew 24:22 reveals to us that Christ will return, and delay no longer, to gather His followers and judge satin and all his followers.

Life’s tragedies and disasters and hardships are not God’s Will nor His doing.  It is satan’s handiwork.  God permits satan, within limits, to do his evil but those limits are affected by our choices, good or bad.  But God does use even satan’s evil deeds and our poor choices in order to fulfill His Will in our lives.  He fulfills His Will either in spite of or because of what we do.   But far better if His Will is fulfilled because of good we choose and do.

Never doubt God’s timing for events in your life. Your days have been ordered by Him (Psalm 139:16).

“God’s plan will continue on God’s schedule.”       A. W. Tozer

 

 

4/24/20                                     WELL ORDERED                                                   24

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.
Psalm 37:23 

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE PSALM 37:23-24 – “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord,And He delights in his way.²⁴ Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;For the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

COMMENTS:  I have been puzzled how anyone could believe there is no God and especially that the universe – the earth and everything in and on it could have evolved without a creator.   The evidence of a creator is overwhelming but many claim to be atheist denying existence of God and determined that the world and all living beings evolved without an intelligent creator.

Without God, there is no moral standard and compass defining right and wrong, no resource for council and help, no hope of eternal life.  Well, I have not interviewed many athiests but I have started studying others who have and  have discovered a common trait.    Athiests deny existence of and evidence of God because they refuse to accept or follow His moral standard.  They will not accept the value of the 10 commandments and high standard of moral living He requires. 

But  we all are living below God’s standard.  The difference is knowing we are sinners and seek help versus denying sin so can continue to sin without accountability or criticism.

Psalm 37 says the steps of a good man are guided by the Lord.  That doesn’t mean a sinless or perfect man because no human is sinless.   It does mean following God’s council and forgiveness.  It does mean   recognizing God as the ultimate and final authority and seeking Him for help and redemption.

It is much like a man who had a fatal disease who does not want to admit he is sick.  So he lives in denial instead of seeking help and healing from the source of that healing, medical experts.

History and personal experience of those we know personally   as well as our own remind us  and prove to us that following God is the best way to a much better life.   Even logic and common sense supports God’s  way even though at times doing so isn’t very appealing.

The examples of men and women who did follow God’s way are shining examples of positive impact of following God and blessing that comes from doing that, including a bright destination.  Likewise, when consider those who followed their own passions without God show a much different and more tragic destination.

We do well to recognize that God personally orders and arranges our steps. Nothing happens to us by accident. Even adverse incidents become part of His long-term strategy for our good. The God of the universe is keenly involved in our lives.  God doesn’t will nor put evil in our lives but will use satan’s evil deed to our good and His honor.  When we surrender to Him and trust Him, we soon discover  that miraculous plan unfolding.  Maybe not  right away but in His perfect timing.

According to 2 Chronicles 8:16, Solomon built the temple of the Lord according to a master blueprint: “Now all the work of Solomon was well-ordered from the day of the foundation of the house of the Lord until it was finished.”

You are God’s temple, and His blueprint for your life leaves nothing to chance.

“How comprehensive is the love of Jesus! There is no part of His people’s interests which He does not consider, and there is nothing which concerns their welfare which is not important to Him.”  Charles H. Spurgeon

4/25/20                 POWERFUL  AND PERSONAL                   25      

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.  John 11:5

RECOMMENDED  READING:  JOHN 11:1-11 “ Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. ² It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. ³ Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”

⁴ When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

⁵ Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. ⁶ So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. ⁷ Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.”

⁸ The disciples said to Him, “Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone You, and are You going there again?”

⁹ Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. ¹⁰ But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him..” ¹¹ These things He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.”

COMMENTS:  Which is more difficult – building or tearing down?  Which requires more skill and ability?  Creating life or destroying life?  Building a bridge or blowing it up? 

We live in an age where killing and destroying and violence is portrayed as evidence of strength and power and love and kindness and repairing and healing are not so glamorous.   During the recent coronavirus, healthcare workers have gained a new respect by news and public because they are discovering how important they are and how they sacrifice and risk by putting themselves in harm’s way in order to care for and help the sick and injured and dying.

Christians, especially those in ministry, has likewise lost respect as well.   Why? Hypocrites and those who are marginal or shallow Christians are blamed for this by outsiders, but truth is people believe what they want in order to justify their own conclusions and actions and indulgences / sins. 

The Bible has over 31,000 verses.  It takes 72 hours of steady reading to cover the 66 books cover to cover.  If you read through John 11, you will see the love and compassion and understanding Jesus had for Mary & Martha & Lazarus.  But confidence we too have is that He loves and know each and everyone just as much.  He wants us to know and love Him too.  Even though we need Him far more than He needs us, His passion for us far exceeds our passion for Him.  Sin and pride hinder us loving and being in a meaningful relationship with Him.  Yet, His sacrifice and redemption provide opportunity for that relationship with Him for each and every human, but only if we accept His gift of redemption and surrender our will and life to Him.  He is all powerful and final authority but also personal.  He knows us better than we know ourselves.  He knows our problems and sins and failings as well as our strengths and still loves us like none other even our least loveable moods and times.                                                                               The Lord Jesus thinks of you constantly, so you can shift your sorrows onto His shoulders. He knows how to bear burdens, and He knows how to bless believers.

“God loves each of us as if there were only one of us”.

Attributed to Augustine

MacLaren

4/26/20                         BEGIN WITH PRAYER                                                          26  

In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.
Daniel 10:2-3

Recommended Reading:  LUKE 6:12-16 “¹² One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. ¹³ When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: ¹⁴ Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, ¹⁵ Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, ¹⁶ Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.”

COMMENTS:  It is wise and more likely for us to pray when experience crisis or tragedy or facing a major life changing decision.  We know the importance of prayer and value in seeking God’s council.  So why do we wait ‘til such times and neglect prayer during normal days making normal decisions and choices.  Why do we think we should only “bother God” when in crisis?

Some fallacies we have about God: 

1. God has limited time and power, so if “bother Him” with little things, He may not be there for big things.
2. We are better off making our own decisions and only pray when in trouble.
3. Following God’s way is always less appealing than our own way.
4. We need to give up or clean up things in our lives before God will hear us or answer our prayers.
5. God doesn’t respond quickly enough and I can’t wait until He gets to me.
6. If I ask His help, I’ll have to give up what I enjoy doing and do His wants but I don’t want to.
7. God wants me to give up my sins and I’m not ready to yet.
8. The cost of being in relationship with a Him is too high.

 

What are some of the other fallacies you have heard others say or maybe even you have thought?

Satan sinned and was thrown out of heaven because He thought His ideas and plan was better than God’s.  He is trying to convince us to do likewise.  How well is that going?

 

So let’s reflect back on some decisions we’ve made or others made without seeking God’s council  or going against God’s council that we later regretted.  Some choices that would have been a lot better if we would have waited and sought God’s council first and then followed that council.

How about God’s council when seeking a wife or husband?  What about choices your spouse didn’t support or had other ideas.  I can recall a number of choices my wife was not onboard with but agreed to follow my lead, and then later wished I’d followed her advice.   Likewise, experience over our 42 years of marriage have made me grateful for the times we did follow her wisdom and insights. 

All this to reinforce the reality and value of praying – seeking – following God’s council every day instead of just during crisis.    The time to repair a leaking roof is on a sunny day, not on a stormy day.    The time to seek and follow God’s Will is during calm days, thereby, giving us wisdom to avoid many of life’s storms and giving us valuable insights to prepare for those storms that are unavoidable.

When we buy items that require assembly, often we prefer only to read the assembly instructions when all else fails.  Result is always taking longer and is often damaging pieces and rendering assembly weak or unusable.  Using instructions written by the manufacturer and reviewed by the designer is important.    So is following the instructions of our Designer and Manufacturer is vitally important too!!   Instead of “when all else fails, pray”, our approached should be “always pray about all things and then wait for and follow God’s council”.

Abraham Lincoln wisely said it is quicker and easier to spend 4 hours sharpening an axe before cutting down a tree instead of spending that 4 hours on using a dull axe.   The tree will be down sooner with less effort if a sharp axe is used.

We sharpen our discernment and ability to make wise choices by praying first.  AMEN?  AMEN!

 It wasn’t Daniel’s approach to act without first praying but he was used to not waiting long after praying to receive God’s council. When he had a vision of a great conflict that was to take place (Daniel 10:1), he was greatly burdened by what he saw but that council was delayed for 21 long days. So what did he do? He immediately set himself apart to seek the Lord. For three weeks he fasted and prayed for greater understanding of the vision he had seen. A heavenly messenger came to him to answer his prayer at the end of the three weeks and granted him the understanding he sought.

You and I need to remember that when God’s response to us comes slow, there is a very good reason.  Measures to sharpen our spirits to hear God’s voice when it comes is good and important, but even more important is not acting ahead of God, but instead to wait on Him!  God never comes late, but just in time.  Reflect on past experience to confirm this.  A wrong choice early is far worse than a right choice later.   We need to remind ourselves often that this is true.  I need reminded too.  This is where my wife’s input historically has been the greatest value and source of steady wisdom.  How about you?

Let us follow Daniel’s example by beginning everything with prayer: meals, our day, meetings, problems. Let us pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Waiting on the Lord is important.  “Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
²⁹ He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
³⁰ Even youths grow tired and weary,and young men stumble and fall;
³¹ but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;  they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”   ISAIAH 40:28-31

“Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden.”

Corrie ten Boom

4/27/20                                       DON’T STOP PRAYING                                           27  

Then [the man from heaven] said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard. … But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days.”
Daniel 10:12-13

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING:  JAMES 4:1-8 “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? ² You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. ³ When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

⁴ You adulterous people,^[a] don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. ⁵ Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us^[b]? ⁶ But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”^[c]

⁷ Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ⁸ Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

 

COMMENTS: Why does God often delay answering, or at least give us confirmation that he is answering, our prayers?  Why are there times our prayers seem to bounce back off the ceiling?  Daniel took time out to pray 3 times a day so was accustomed to being in close fellowship with God and getting answers from Him regularly.  He also had discovered the ability to be in communication with God all day long while he worked and interacted with others.  “Praying without ceasing” was what keep him open to God’s influence and council as he worked and interacted with friends and enemies, faithful Jews and pagans.  Those who respected him and those who despised him.  His scripture did not include the New Testament, so I Thessalonians 5:16-19 “ ¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray continually, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

¹⁹ Do not quench the Spirit.” was not in the scripture he read but he knew and followed these words because he was in fellowship with God who already had shared this truth with Daniel.  

The above passage from Daniel 10 reflects Daniel’s disappointment and longing because of praying for 21 days seeking God’s council and fellowship, which Daniel was accustomed to, that was missing these days.  The explanation the angel gave him after the 21 days surprised him but helped him understand.  He didn’t know about the cross but He knew the Christ that was going to sacrifice His life on the cross for him.   He trusted Christ even though he didn’t know Him by that name nor understand how He would redeem.  But he knew Christ personally and trusted Him.  He didn’t understand the Trinity but had fellowship with the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  But Daniel’s faithfulness and love and trust for God resulted in God revealing amazing insights in the future, some of which still lies in our future.

Timing is best left in God’s  hands.  Jesus taught His disciples, and us, to “pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1).  The timing of needed answers for Job or for Daniel or for Joseph, three old test ament examples, seemed painfully slow to them but was clear and made perfect sense later.   What struggles and even crisis are you dealing with while seeking God’s help and intervention?  Scripture tells us to “NOT LOSE HEART”, keep praying and wait for God.  We have no idea what roads He is building for us to use to the destination we seek.  Likewise, we have no idea who and when others may join us on that road too.  BUT HE DOES AND THE BATTLES AND BUILDING IN PREPARATION AS WELL AS WALLS HE MUST TEAR DOWN TAKE TIME MOSTLY BECAUSE HE NEEDS TO PERSUADE OTHERS BESIDE US TO TRUST HIM TOO!

“Days of trouble must be days of prayer.”   Matthew Henry

 

  4/28/20                                       APRIL SHOWERS WITH POWER                                    28

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.  Acts 1:8

 RECOMMENDED READING:  ACTS 2:1-4  “ When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. ² And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. ³ Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. ⁴ And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”

COMMENTS: Christ’s crucifixion happened during that time of Passover observance.  Passover was the time when faithful Jews celebrated God’s redemption from slavery in Egypt.  They were required to sacrifice a lamb and place the blood from that sacrifice on the door seal of their home.  Doing so would spare those in their home when the angel of death passed by.  The redemption of Passover was for Jews but included those gentiles who would seek Israel’s God and make Him their God and Redeemer too.  For the Christian, Easter didn’t replace Passover but added more to that observance.  Pentecost was a Jewish celebration 50 days after Passover celebrating the grain harvest.  Tradition tells that Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mt. Sinai 50 days after the first Passover.

Pentecost took on more meaning for the Christian when the Holy Spirit fell on believers embolden them to proclaim Jesus’ Gospel and Redemption.   Receiving the Law (10 Commandments) is identified with the Jewish observance of Pentecost, but indwelling of the Holy Spirit to empower Christian believer to live a Christ-like life transformed Pentecost into a day of joy and victory instead of a day of condemnation.

Jesus was crucified in Jerusalem during Passover, the memorial celebration of God’s redemption of the Hebrew slaves from bondage in Egypt. Fifty days after Passover was the Feast of Pentecost—the celebration of the grain harvest. At the time, Jerusalem was filled with Jews from the Mediterranean region who gathered for these two feasts.

Jewish tradition holds that Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai fifty days after the original Passover. The signs and wonders that accompanied that event, and the sending of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem—wind and fire—would have drawn an immediate parallel in astute Jewish minds. But in contrast to the giving of the Law, the gift of Pentecost in Jerusalem was the Holy Spirit—the seal of God on all who believe (Ephesians 1:13-14) and the power of the indwelling Christ.

Thank God today that you have been sealed in Christ by the Holy Spirit—and that you have His power in you to overcome the world.

“The Christian is called upon to live a supernatural life, and he has been given the power to live that life.”    Donald Grey Barnhouse

4/29/20                                          Man’s Plans vs. God’s Plans                               29                         And now I will tell you the truth: Behold, three more kings will arise in Persia, and the fourth shall be far richer than them all; by his strength, through his riches, he shall stir up all against the realm of Greece.   Daniel 11:2

RECOMMENDED READING: JAMES 4:7⁷ Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

COMMENTS:  Bible prophecies have been a source of controversy and debates for centuries.  Fulfilled prophecies are obvious since clarity of history satisfies debate.  Someday that will also be true of yet to be fulfilled prophecies currently.  Revelation and Daniel’s 70^th week prophecies and Matthew 24 are some examples.  But fulfilled they will be someday and with the accuracy of fulfilled ones we now have.  Many scholars believe Daniel was not written by Daniel in lifetime of Daniel because of how accurately his prophecies relating to Persia and Greece and Rome were fulfilled while Nebuchadnezzar was still in power.  But instead of denying their accuracy and faithfulness of God to keep His promises, why won’t we simply admit God knows all and is faithful and fully put our trust in Him?  When will we realize and believe God’s plans are better than ours and abandon ours to follow His?

The choice is ours.  We can follow His like some have done throughout history and enjoy His mercies and abiding presence and eternal rewards, or follow those who refused throughout history and repeat their paths of misery and regrets and judgment.

Ephesians 6:10-20 “¹⁰ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the ^[b]wiles of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of ^[c]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

¹⁴ Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; ¹⁶ above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. ¹⁷ And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; ¹⁸ praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— ¹⁹ and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Scripture tells us our enemy and source of evil in the world are not the evil tyrants who reign terror on subordinates and followers.  They too are pawns of satan, our true enemy.  We are not strong enough or wise enough to battle him alone or even his pawns.  We must be and stay in close relationship with Christ, who not only is strong and wise and smart enough but has already defeated him at the cross. 

In recent years there have been a number of books written by people claiming to have had “out of body” or “near death” experiences in which they saw heaven, hell, or eternity. Unfortunately, these “revelations” cannot be deemed as authoritative—but there is one glimpse of heavenly activity that can.

After Daniel prayed for three weeks for understanding of the vision he had seen, a “certain man” (angel) appeared before him with answers. He revealed to Daniel that he had set out from heaven on the first day of Daniel’s prayers, but that he had been obstructed by a demonic angel—the prince of Persia—for 21 days. That is, the entire three weeks that Daniel was praying, there was spiritual warfare between heaven and earth that delayed the answer to his prayers.

Jesus taught his disciples to “pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Let’s leave the timing of God’s answers to Him as we imitate Daniel—praying and not losing heart.

“Days of trouble must be days of prayer.”   Matthew Henry

 

4/30/20                                                   PERFECT TIMING                                                     30         September 12, 2013

My lord, O king, this is the woman.  2 Kings 8:5

SCRIPTURE:  2 KINGS 8:1-6  “Then Elisha spoke to the woman whose son he had restored to life, saying, “Arise and go, you and your household, and stay wherever you can; for the Lord has called for a famine, and furthermore, it will come upon the land for seven years.” ² So the woman arose and did according to the saying of the man of God, and she went with her household and dwelt in the land of the Philistines seven years.

³ It came to pass, at the end of seven years, that the woman returned from the land of the Philistines; and she went to make an appeal to the king for her house and for her land. ⁴ Then the king talked with Gehazi, the servant of the man of God, saying, “Tell me, please, all the great things Elisha has done.” ⁵ Now it happened, as he was telling the king how he had restored the dead to life, that there was the woman whose son he had restored to life, appealing to the king for her house and for her land. And Gehazi said, “My lord, O king, this is the woman, and this is her son whom Elisha restored to life.” ⁶ And when the king asked the woman, she told him.So the king appointed a certain officer for her, saying, “Restore all that was hers, and all the proceeds of the field from the day that she left the land until now.”

COMMENTS:  It amazing me that anyone can be an atheist, but I’ve heard x-atheists said it wasn’t a lack of evidence but a resistance to submit to will and laws of God that causes them to deny God’s existence.   They use evil and injustice in the world as evidence against God’s existence and involvement in the world.  The Bible has something to say about that.

“⁴³ Ye have heard that it hath been said, thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy.

⁴⁴ But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

⁴⁵ That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

⁴⁶ For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?

⁴⁷ And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

⁴⁸ Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”  Matthew 5:43-48

“All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. ² They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. ³ They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. ⁴ I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, ⁵ but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ ⁶ Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. ⁷ But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. ⁸ When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: ⁹ about sin, because people do not believe in me; ¹⁰ about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; ¹¹ and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.¹² “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. ¹³ But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. ¹⁴ He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. ¹⁵ All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”¹⁶ Jesus went on to say, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”  John 16:1-16

The Bible tells us why evil is in the world and seems to prevail for a time.  God gives each human freedom to choose good or evil.  To choose the source of Good (God) or the source of evil (satan).    He allows satan to prevail over many of Christ’s followers for a time, but promised to bring judgment and justice in His time.  Satan does have limits in what he is permitted to do and how long, as story of Job explains so well.  But there is a time coming soon when God will say “ENOUGH!” and bring an end to satan’s evil – destructive mischief.  That day I am so looking forward to, as is every believer.  How about you?

I have to admit, God gives satan far more “rope” than I would, but then again I can’t see the strengthening and good that comes out of persecution and suffering and how much more effectively suffering draw us closer to Him than prosperity and comfortable surroundings do.  Besides, I can’t see the ripple affect either.  I’m still learning to trust Him, as am sure you are too.  But time and experience only serves to cause me to trust Him more and more as time continues.  How about you?  His perfect timing is the most consistent evidence of His love and faithfulness and wisdom.

An old fashion word commonly used by the founders of USA some 200-400 years ago is “providence” which means “the protective care of God or of nature as a spiritual power.”  They were not referring to nature or a pagan god but to God Himself.  It was not freedom to practice atheism that motivated the pilgrims and colonists to coming to America during its founding years.  It was Christians desiring and seeking freedom to worship and share Christ.  Their faith and belief in God’s providence was what gave them the motivation and passion and will to do so at great personal sacrifice.  It is time we too recognize and capture their passion and faith and willingness to sacrifice too.

There are no coincidences when we are in the will of God—His timing is perfect.

There are no coincidences in our life, only God’s providence.   Greg Laurie

 

4/31/20                     Consider His Heavens                               31

When I consider Your heavens.  Psalm 8:3

RECOMMENDED READING: PSALM 8 “O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth, who have set Your glory above the heavens!² Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength, Because of Your enemies, That You may silence the enemy and the avenger.

³ When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained,⁴ What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?⁵ For You have made him a little lower than the angels, And You have crowned him with glory and honor.

⁶ You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet,⁷ All sheep and oxen—Even the beasts of the field,⁸ The birds of the air, And the fish of the sea That pass through the paths of the seas. ⁹ O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth!”

COMMENTS:  It is good to regularly stop and take notice of God’s creation.   The beauty of a sunrise and sunset.  The flowers and leaves and grass and fields that all come alive with plant and animal life each spring.  The amazing bodies God gave us to function reliably for many decades with little maintenance.   Companionship and fellowship with others.  How faithfully God provides all we need – air and food and water and warmth and gravity and so much more.  The way He cares for and guides and loves us.  But most of all the way He paid for and sacrificed Himself for our redemption from the consequences and judgment for our sins.  All this and so much more that demonstrates His power and majesty and wisdom but also His love and faithfulness.  To doubt God’s existence or involvement in the world is to ignore all the evidence all around us.  Satan tries so hard to cover or distort or abuse all God’s creation and appears to be successful at times but never for long and always must stop when God intervenes.  One day soon God will say “enough” and satan will be bound and no longer do his destructive work in the world.  Then Jesus will take full control and rule of God’s creation and this world.  He will restore what satan has ruined and destroyed.  I am so looking forward to His return.  The time no man knows but we are told the time of His return will be so bad that if He delayed any longer, man would totally destroy himself, satan’s ultimate goal because he hates what God loves and wants to hurt God by destroying what God lives – YOU AND ME!!

Isaac Watts wrote, “I sing the mighty power of God that made the mountains rise, that spread the flowing seas abroad and built the lofty skies.”

 God’s power is available to strengthen His children through Jesus. It’s available to you. The Bible speaks of “the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe” (Ephesians 1:19).  If you feel weak today, remember God doesn’t. Consider His heavens, and be strengthened by His Spirit.

Who can study the science of astronomy and contemplate the star-lit heavens with a knowledge of the dimensions of the celestial bodies, their movements, and their enormous distances, without bowing his head in reverence to the power that brought this universe into being and safely guides its individual members?

Arthur M. Harding

 

Today’s devotion completes another month of studying God’s Word and sharing.  I pray God will allow us to continue this journey of discovered another month.  Below is the Gideon Bible Reference I have been included in monthly devotions for some time.  I decided to continue including this for benefit of new readers and to continue to make it accessible to any and all who read and share this journal.  I encourage you to use and share as God directs.  If you wish to contact me or access more devotions, below is link to access.   

If you wish, you can access my blog at “https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com“. There you will find 577 blog posts I have made plus a link to my devotional journal material archives from 2013 to present (https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com/2016/03/02/link-to-dons-devotional-journal-entries-2013/ )

You may also access my Facebook page and request to be my friend and automatically receive my daily journal publications daily.  My Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/Dondevotionals/ Many thanks to a pastor and dear brother in Christ in Nepal who set up the above Facebook page to help and encourage and give opportunity for more to   explore and use my devotional blog materials.

My hope and prayer are, my blog and devotional materials will become a source of encouragement

In His Service,

Don McDaniel

Email: dmcdaniel12@zoominternet.net

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Don1951

Blog:  https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com/

GIDEON BIBLE REFERENCE SCRIPTURES:

HELP IN TIME OF NEED:

• The way of salvation:         John 14:6, Acts 16.32, Romans 10:9
• Comfort in time of loneliness: Psalm 23, Isaiah 41:10, Hebrews 13:5-6
• Comfort in time of sorrow 2 Cor. 1:3-5, Romans 8:26-28
• Relief in time of suffering 2 Cor. 12:8-10, Hebrews 12:3-13
• Guidance in time of decision James  1:5-6, Proverbs 3:5-6
• Protection in time of danger Psalm 91, Psalm 121
• Courage in time of fear Hebrews 13:5-6, Ephesians 6:10-18
• Peace in time of turmoil Isaiah 26:3-4, Philippians 4:6-7
• Rest in time of weariness Matthew 11:28-29, Psalm 23
• Strength in time of temptation James 1:12-16, 1Cor. 10:6-13
• Warning in time of indifference 5:19-21, Hebrews 10:26-31
• Forgiveness in time of conviction Isaiah 1:18, 1Jn, 1:7-8

 

SUGGESTED READINGS (HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS):

• The creation Genesis 1-2
• The fall of man Gen 3
• The flood of Noah Gen 6-9
• The call of Abraham Gen 12:1-9
• Deliverance of Israel from Egypt Exodus 11-14
• Dedication of the temple 2 Chronicles 5-7
• The Babylonian Captivity of Israel 2 Chr. 36
• Revival of Israel after captivity Nehemiah 8-9
• Promises of the coming Messiah Isaiah 9:2-7, Ps22, Is.53
• The Birth of Christ Mtt1:18-2:23, Lk1:26-2:40
• The Triumphal Entry Lk19:28-44
• The last supper Mk14:2-26
• The Garden of Gathsemane 26:36-46
• The Betreyal of Jesus 26-47-56
• The arrest and trial of Jesus Jn 18:12-19:16
• The death of Christ Lk 23:26-56, Jn19:16-42
• The resurrection of Christ Lk24, Jn20
• The ascension of Christ Acts 1:1-12
• The coming of the Holy Spirit Acts2:1-21
• The conversion of Paul Acts 9:1-31
• The heroes of Faith Hebrews 11

 

SUGGESTED READINGS (SPIRITUAL STANDARDS)

• The 10 commandments Exodus 20:1-17
• The sermon on the mount Mtt 5-7
• The golden rule Mtt7:12
• The greatest commandment Mtt 22:36-40
• The righteousness of Faith Romans 3:19-28
• The Royal Law James 2:8, Romans 13:8-10
• Christ’s New Commandment John 13:34-35
• Christian love               1 Cor. 13

 

DYNAMIC DOCTRINES

• God’s greatness and man’s weakness Isaiah 40
• The two fold Revelation of God Psalm 19
• Man’s universal guilt Rom 1:18-2:16
• Atonement Leviticus 16, Romans 5
• The new birth John 3
• Justification by Faith Eph 2:1-10, Gal 2:16-21
• Christ, the Good Shepherd Ps 23, John 10:1-18
• Christ’s intercession for His Own Jn 17, Heb 7:25
• The High Priestly Work of Christ 7:25, Heb. 4:14-16
• Christ’s Humiliation and Exhaltation Philippians 2:5-11
• Resurrection of the Christian Dead 1 Cor. 16, 1Thess. 4:13-18
• The second coming of Christ Mtt 24, 2 Thess. 1:7-2:12
• The Last Judgment 20:10-15
• The New Heaven and New Earth 21-22

 

PRACTICAL PRECEPTS:

• Christian Home relationships 5:22-6:4
• A model wife and mother 31:10-31
• Marriage and divorce Mtt 19:3-9, Malachi 2:14-16
• The sin of adultery 6:23-33
• The prodigal son Luke 15:11-32
• Employer-employee relationships Col 3:22-4:1
• Business and prof. principles Ps15, Prov. 3:1-12
• Seperation of worldliness 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1, 1 Jn 2:15-17
• Decisions of doubtful things 14
• Christian fruitfulness Jn15
• Heavenly wisdom James 3:14-18
• Christian responsibilities 12-13
• Christian stewardship 2 Cor. 8-9
• Christian witnessing Mtt 28:18-20, Jm17:18-20
• Prevailing prayer Mtt 6:5-15, Philippians 4:6-7
• Heavenly priorities Mtt 6:25-33
• Brevity of man’s days Ps 90
• The causes of war James 4:1-4
• The value of the soul 8:36-37

 

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT:

• ITSELF:                                                                2 Tim. 3:15-16   , Psalm 19:7
• GOD:                                                                Psalm 99:9, 1 Tim.1:17, Isaiah 45:21-22
• MAN:                                                                 1:27, Gen 2:7, Isaiah 43:7
• HEAVEN: 21:3-4, 21:27
• SIN: Romans 5:12, Isaiah 59:2, Romans 3:23
• HELL: 2 Thess 1:8-9, Rev. 20:15
• CHRIST –HIS ADVENT                                     Micah 5:2, Mtt.1:21-23, Lk 2:10-11
• CHRIST – HIS PERSON John 10:30, 14:6
• CHRIST –HIS WORK 22:19-20, 1 Peter 2:24, Col.1:14, Isaiah 53:5-6
• CHRIST-HIS RESURRECTION 24:36,39, 1 Cor. 15:3-4
• FAITH Acts 20:20-21, Heb. 11:6, Eph. 2:8-9
• LIFE John 3:3, 1:12-13, 3:36, 2 Cor.5:1