Do what you're told ...

When we are young children we do well to tune into the voice of our parents and to follow the instructions they give us. Sometimes this assists us to remain safe (when crossing the road without watching and they call "stop", in time for us to not be knocked over). At other times it serves us well with wisdom (putting money aside for a rainy day - when something might go wrong or not as planned and we suddenly need funds to fix it). Or for instruction (how to drive a car safely, or the benefits of reading the Scriptures and being in prayer and following Christian disciplines in our lives).

In the account that follows, the mother of Jesus gives some wise instruction to the servants at the wedding feast - “Do whatever he tells you.” Have a read -

John 2:1-12 (New Living Translation)

The Wedding at Cana

1 The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration. 3 The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, “They have no more wine.” 4 “Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” 5 But his mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. 7 Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled, 8 he said, “Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So the servants followed his instructions. 9 When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. 10 “A host always serves the best wine first,” he said. “Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!” 11 This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. 12 After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.

It is good instruction for us as followers of Jesus. When He speaks to you and I, we will do well to listen to what His instruction is and follow it. It is wise and beneficial to do so for we know Jesus always and only wants the best for us. He loves us. We can trust Him. So - “Do whatever he tells you,” and I reckon you will find much benefit from this advice.

Anointed with a purpose ...

Don't you love when you are blessed and along with the blessing there is some purpose? I love this passage of Scripture, though it is not all nice and easy and beneficial for me. However, it affirms that God has blessed me (anointed me) with a purpose in mind. The task, though at times it may seem daunting, that is, until we remember again that we are just vessels to fulfilling the purpose of God in the lives of others.

What a privilege is mine (ours) when we take up the mantle of the Lord to bring Good News to the marginalised and disadvantaged today - have a read again:

Isaiah 61:1-2 (New Living Translation)

Good News for the Oppressed

1 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me,

for the Lord has anointed me

to bring good news to the poor.

He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted

and to proclaim that captives will be released

and prisoners will be freed.

2 He has sent me to tell those who mourn

that the time of the Lord’s favor has come,

and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.

Lord, as you anoint me, let me receive this and the commission that sits alongside it, with a willing heart. Help me in my reliance upon Your Holy Spirit to fulfill this task as You have given it to me. Help me to be honouring of You in the way I serve and give of my life for Your purpose, to those in need.

What's the hurry ...

I am interested on occasions by those who are in a hurry for the return of Christ.  Sure I look forward to spending eternity in the presence of the King, but I also enjoy life now in Christ and the challenge that is ours as Christians, (His followers) to reach an unsaved people around us. I suppose another peeve of mine are those who concentrate on the end times, attempting to determine the signs and understand the coming of Christ. I hold to a belief that we firstly need to know we are right with the Lord, and secondly that we are doing all we can to reach the lost.

The Scripture here reminds us of the importance from God's perspective, to have none lost to the Kingdom:

2 Peter 3:8-9 (New Living Translation)

8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends:

A day is like a thousand years to the Lord,

and a thousand years is like a day.

9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise,

as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake.

He does not want anyone to be destroyed,

but wants everyone to repent.

2 Peter 3:8-9 (The Message)

The Day the Sky Will Collapse

8-9Don't overlook the obvious here, friends.

With God, one day is as good as a thousand years,

a thousand years as a day.

God isn't late with his promise as some measure lateness.

He is restraining himself on account of you,

holding back the End because he doesn't want anyone lost.

He's giving everyone space and time to change.

 

Surely we are compelled to take seriously the task to introduce Christ to those who are yet to know Him.

 

What it is You require of us Lord? How might we best serve You and Your desire that none be lost? Help us to faithfully present the Gospel in a way that is helpful and beneficial to the extension of Your Kingdom.

Turn around ...

Have you ever been on a trip and suddenly you (or someone else traveling with you) begin to question whether you are actually going in the right direction or not? Of course, it is one of those roads that has no indication of where you are, where you are going or where you have been (no sign posts). At this point you have a choice to make and there seems to be only one of two of these available to you, either to persist in the direction you are going, or to turn around and go back.

Let me ask you, how are you at taking directions? Or here is a bigger question, how are you at being told you are going in the wrong direction? Think about this a moment. Does it sit easy with you then someone suggests you are wrong? Your choices are out of whack, out of alignment with what God might want for you. How do you take such conversation?

Have a look at this passage from the Bible with me:

Isaiah 55:6-7 (New Living Translation)

6 Seek the Lord while you can find him.

Call on him now while he is near.

7 Let the wicked change their ways

and banish the very thought of doing wrong.

Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them.

Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.

To repent is merely to turn around, to go in the opposite direction than the one you have been going (take a u turn). It is to respond to the fact that our lives are heading the wrong way, most times a destructive and harmful direction of wasted opportunity. It is then we need to understand that God has something better and different for us, a plan that is fulfilling, worthwhile, healthy and beneficial. But it does mean discarding the way we were going. The way we were living. To turn our back on this and go in a different direction.

This passage reminds me that there is a time for this. In fact, more urgently, that we need to respond while the opportunity is there for us, for it may get too late and not be an option available to us anymore. And I love the response of God when we do this: Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. Don't you love that?

Lord, I desire to be found on the right track, following Your way, going the direction You have mapped out for my life. Help me to listen to the prompting of Your Spirit who at times needs to correct me in this, who attempts to guide me back onto the right path. Help me in listening to obey and to follow You more closely.

What do you proclaim ...

Do you love the Psalms? I know they are often a place of inspiration for me. Often times when things have been tough I have found myself in them. I see them as being real, after all it is someonelses experience being related to us. I have many times spoken of this with others in relation to the fact that the experience is many times difficult, complicated, the Psalmist feels all alone, like everything, everyone is against him. He may even feel abandoned by God, and yet, by the closing of the verses there is that proclamation, You are my God, I will trust in You (or words to that effect).

Today I appreciated another reminder for me:

Psalm 92:2 (New Living Translation)

2 It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning,

your faithfulness in the evening,

Here's what stood out for me. My proclaiming unfailing love of God in the morning is a step of faith. It is in a belief of what He is capable of, what I am believing in. It has maybe happened in the past that I have experienced this to be so, but I am again in belief that He will show up in the same manner. And it is in this light that I will live this day. Believing that God will be in it with me, loving me and loving through me.

In the evening my proclaiming His faithfulness, should be evident in how I lived this day. It ought to be a bearing testimony of my experience of this day.

Lord, help me to live true to Your unfailing love, in my life and through my life affecting the lives of others.

The task ...

From time to time we come across descriptions of what we are to do for God. What calling is upon our lives. Instructions as to the responsibility that belongs to us. Although the passage below directs this to the "Elder", I believe it is as relevant to any who would follow Jesus:

1 Peter 5:1-4 (New Living Translation)

Advice for Elders and Young Men

1 ... As a fellow elder, I appeal to you:

2 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you.

Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—

not for what you will get out of it,

but because you are eager to serve God.

3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care,

but lead them by your own good example.

4 And when the Great Shepherd appears,

you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.

 

I believe we each have a responsibility to care for one another (the flock that God has entrusted us), both congregationally if we are in a pastoral role, or I would even see this relating to the peer to peer relationships we have as well. We all need (require) care. We are entrusted a responsibility to care for one another. But sadly we may need to be reminded to do this not for our sake, not in a begrudging manner, but because we desire to serve God faithfully. Because God requires this of us, it is a part of our service.

 

Lord, help me to lead as one who is caring and loving and faithful to You.

Assurance in difficult circumstances ...

We often consider God as One who rescues us from some difficult circumstance. The thought of a Saviour who takes us out of the situation, removes the threat or plucks us from it. And sometimes this might be the case. However, on other occasions we may continue in the difficulty, but God promises to be right there with us, in the midst of it.

I remember well the 9/11 attacks in New York, etc. I recall the questions, many, many questions that people had. Amongst them was the question, where was God in all this. And the answer that often came in response from those who were there, those affected and in the midst of it all - God was right there with us.

If you remember the story or account of the "Footprints in the Sand" you will remember that whilst the journey of the person highlights the companionship of One (Christ) traveling beside him through life (symbolised by two sets of footprints), when the going got tough, there remained only one set of footprints. Naturally he queried, Lord, where were You when it got tough, when I needed You most. And the Lord responded, I was carrying you.

Today's passage of Scripture reminded me of these occasions/examples:

Isaiah 43:1-3 (New Living Translation)

The Savior of Israel

1 But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you.

O Israel, the one who formed you says,

“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.

I have called you by name; you are mine.

2 When you go through deep waters,

I will be with you.

When you go through rivers of difficulty,

you will not drown.

When you walk through the fire of oppression,

you will not be burned up;

the flames will not consume you.

3 For I am the Lord, your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...

The passage reminds me that there will be difficult times that I will face in my life. There is no escaping these, in fact, in 1 Peter 4: 12-19 I am reminded that I will face much more because of being a Christian than if I were not. People will oppose me just for this reason, because they do not understand. But, in the circumstance, whilst I am right in the midst of it, my God, the One who created me and ransomed me, will be there with me. The Lord will not let the circumstance overtake me, or beat me.

Lord, there are times when I question what is happening in my life. Times when I might ask, where are You Lord? And yet I am challenged by the reminder that You are there with me. You, the One who created me and bought me back with the price of your only Son, and You will continue to be my Saviour. Lord, I look to You again today and ask that I might never forget this. That I might not question this. That I might bear testimony to Your faithfulness to do ALL You have said.

Got your testimony ...

Well here is another one of those passages that reminds me that being a Christian (a follower of Christ) is no guarantee that life will be easy. In fact, it may very well mean there will be all the more challenges. Not all are appreciative of those who claim Christ to be Lord, no matter how much good accompanies this life.

But here is the main thing, if you are asked to explain something of your Christian hope, be prepared to do so. And not only this, make sure you do this in a manner that is unoffensive. Be faithful, but ensure this is not condemning of the listener.

1 Peter 3:13-17 (New Living Translation)

Suffering for Doing Good

13 Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. 15 Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 17 Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!

It is a challenge to put our faith into words at times. To describe how Jesus has made a difference in our live's. It is good to keep this simple. To use plain english, without the use of church language, or jargon. It is a good exercise to contemplate your experience, maybe it will help to write it out and get used to sharing it with others. Having said this, remember the Spirit of God is our confidence and when we struggle to know what to say, if we leave it to Him, He will speak through us.

More than anything, live the journey (the experience), then you will easily know what to say - just be faithful and rely upon God.

How much do you want it ...

We can go to the movies, or merely turn on our televisions to see the extremes that people will go too to get what they want. Whether that be power (climbing the corporate ladder, or some other form of leading/leadership, recognition and so on), wealth (the accumulation of funds property, goods, etc.), popularity and fame, (or some other definition of success, etc). Some of it might be attributed to much hard work, long hours, the expending of much energy. For others it is through ruthless means, cutting corners, illegal means, etc.

Interestingly, I am aware that there are times when as Christians, we can attempt short cuts to obtain the experience or positioning we desire in life with Christ. We might think a few minutes here and there doing good things will do it. A quick prayer every now and again will mean we have prayed. The occasional verse from the Scriptures. Or it might be the fact that we play church - be seen doing what appears on the surface to be "right" whilst living another life outside of the eyes of those who see us in the church circles.

Peter writes:

1 Peter 2:2-3 (New Living Translation)

2 Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk

so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation.

Cry out for this nourishment,

3 now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.

1 Peter 2:2-3 (The Message)

You've had a taste of God.

Now, like infants at the breast,

drink deep of God's pure kindness.

Then you'll grow up mature and whole in God.

 

You may recall a child suckling at the breast, in fact the best picture for me, is thinking of a calf and the persistence to suckle and obtain more and more and more of it's mothers milk - the craving is so strong. Just think about that a moment (yes, literally pause) -

 

• Is that your experience as you seek after the things of God?
• Do you have that sort of intensity for the Spirit of God in your life?
• Do you ensure that you don't do without God's Word regularly (daily, after all isn't that how you would generally otherwise feed)?
• How about prayer?
• And Holy Spirit produced fruit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control (Galatians 5: 22)?

Like Peter, I would reckon you have had a taste, don't you want much, much more - to drink deep? And here is the purpose - Then you'll grow up mature and whole in God.

This is my desire, to honour You, Lord with all my heart, to worship You - and the best way I can see to do this is to crave after, pursue intensely the things that are of You - help me to keep on track, and guard me from the distractions around me Lord.

Tested ...

I am certain I would not get too many hands raised if I asked for people to indicate if they enjoyed some form of pain, discomfort, inconvenience or testing. And yet, isnt it interesting that in these sorts of circumstances we see the real person stand up. It is then we find true character, that which we admire and seek after for ourselves. When we see people who have come through some difficulty, through trials and they shine, we have a greater admiration for them.

Intersetingly, what is it that I might pray, Lord, guard me from all harm, safe guard me from my enemies, from attacks, protect me. So I become challenged by these verses:

1 Peter 1:6-7 (New Living Translation)

6 So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. 7 These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.

I am reminded it is going through these tough things that my faith is tested and as it is tested it becomes stronger. A greater reliance upon the Lord. A seeking fervently after Him, not merely to be removed from the testing, but for strength to endure, to be sustained in the testing.

Think about this for a moment. What is the impressive element that stands out about Jesus? It is not His willingness to be put to death, is it? It is the fact that He was put to death. He did go to the cross. He did die. But, then rose again. It wasn't that we knew the commitment to do this for us, it was that it was proven, tested, tried.

My prayer must be, as much as I am fearful to say it, that in the testing, I will look to the Lord and will be found to be worthy. That through the experiences of life, I might be made holy, as He is Holy. Lord, help me in all this!

What are you trusting in ...

The scenario to date - Hezekiah is the King of Judah, Sennacherib is King of Assyria and in the process of invading Judah. King Sennacherib has a very mighty force, far greater in number and power than King Hezekiah and the people he is leading.

Have you experienced the "cocky" sort of attitude from people who think they have it all over you? Those who believe they have the superior and upper hand  over you? Well that is the thought that comes to mind for me when I read this next passage:

2 Kings 18:19-25 (New Living Translation)

Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem

19 Then the Assyrian king’s chief of staff told them to give this message to Hezekiah:

“This is what the great king of Assyria says: What are you trusting in that makes you so confident? 20 Do you think that mere words can substitute for military skill and strength? Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me? 21 On Egypt? If you lean on Egypt, it will be like a reed that splinters beneath your weight and pierces your hand. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is completely unreliable!

22 “But perhaps you will say to me, ‘We are trusting in the Lord our God!’ But isn’t he the one who was insulted by Hezekiah? Didn’t Hezekiah tear down his shrines and altars and make everyone in Judah and Jerusalem worship only at the altar here in Jerusalem?

23 “I’ll tell you what! Strike a bargain with my master, the king of Assyria. I will give you 2,000 horses if you can find that many men to ride on them! 24 With your tiny army, how can you think of challenging even the weakest contingent of my master’s troops, even with the help of Egypt’s chariots and charioteers? 25 What’s more, do you think we have invaded your land without the Lord’s direction? The Lord himself told us, ‘Attack this land and destroy it!’”

Ahhhh, that really rubs me up the wrong way. Anyway, that is not where our story ends. We venture over a couple of books to this passage which captures the response of King Hezekiah (now here is some encouragement):

2 Chronicles 32:6-8 (New Living Translation)

6 ... Then Hezekiah encouraged them by saying: 7 “Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! 8 He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!” Hezekiah’s words greatly encouraged the people.

What a sensational leader! What a man of God! What a man of faith!

Things don't always go our way. We can face much opposition and the attack of people around us that appear to be much stronger, much greater than us. They might even be like the Assyrians who almost were rubbing the nose of Hezekiah and his people in it - "What, you think your God is going to save you? You think He is going to come to your aid? You think you have a hope? Ha!"

Well they did. And God did. And they did have a great hope.

Lord, I seek to have such a strong belief and faith in You to be my defence in time of opposition. My strength in any battle. My hope for the future. Help me to remain faithful and trusting in You through all things. Help me to stand firm on the promises You give me.

What do you want ...

We might be reminded that the battle that rages is not one of flesh and blood but with principalities and powers (not even of this world). And James reminds us of this again in the fourth chapter of his letter. The battles we have are often from within. They are not always about external forces. In the instances he mentions it is about what we desire from a world view. As I think of this I contemplate the comforts, the pleasures, the "things", power, position, etc.

The problem is, these tend to pull us away from or separate us, from God, and what His will and plan is for us. They tend to take over and become a distraction to the simplicity of what God offers and promises us. They not only effect our relationship with God, but on many occasions the relationships we have with others, and James mentions the quarrels and fights, the jealousy and even the extreme of death (think even of King David as he pursued Bethsheba).

James highlights further the problem: "if you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God" - ouch! That is full on.

The secret or success to overcome is found in "coming close to God, and God will come close to you." Develop the relationship with God. Allow God's voice to be the One you hear and heed. Seek or search out His plan, His character and live it.

Have a look at the verses:

James 4:1-10 (New Living Translation)

Drawing Close to God

1 What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.

4 You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. 5 What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the spirit God has placed within us is filled with envy? 6 But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say,

“God opposes the proud

but favors the humble.”

7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. 9 Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.

May it be that we seek to further pursue and develop our relationship with God.

And know ...

There is often some real gems in the Psalms for us. Tonight I pick up on a couple of points that stood out for me, you will find them in bold in the Psalm below:

Psalm 46 (New Living Translation)

1 God is our refuge and strength,

always ready to help in times of trouble.

2 So we will not fear when earthquakes come

and the mountains crumble into the sea.

3 Let the oceans roar and foam.

Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!

4 A river brings joy to the city of our God,

the sacred home of the Most High.

5 God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.

From the very break of day, God will protect it.

6 The nations are in chaos,

and their kingdoms crumble!

God’s voice thunders,

and the earth melts!

7 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;

the God of Israel[b] is our fortress.

8 Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:

See how he brings destruction upon the world.

9 He causes wars to end throughout the earth.

He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;

he burns the shields with fire.

10 “Be still, and know that I am God!

I will be honored by every nation.

I will be honored throughout the world.”

11 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;

the God of Israel is our fortress.

I love the reminder that in God, I find both my refuge and strength. The Psalmist highlights the effects of disaster that obviously would have been familiar to the people, earthquakes, high seas ... This reminded me of a Blog by Major Brad Watson whilst on deployment to Haiti. Attending a worship service one Sunday, the people were singing of this very fact, though the elements were against them, they trusted in the Lord. Oh that I might continue to place my trust in God to be there for me when stuff is happening around me, and especially when I am affected by it. I want to bear testimony to His faithfulness to me in all things.

The next point was the lovely invitation to - “Be still, and know that I am God!" For me a challenge to settle back and take some time out with God. Reflect upon His majesty, His goodness, His presence, His being. To know Him, and get to know Him better, as God.

Enjoy the Psalm and see what the Lord has to say to you through it.

What favour ...

One part of today's reading is James chapter 2. The latter half of this chapter could easily follow up on what we discovered and discussed yesterday in relation to faith and works. The fact that they should go hand in hand - together. Not one over the other.

The first part of this chapter considers an issue that existed amongst these Jewish believers to whom James wrote this letter, for they were showing preference to the rich and were looking down or neglecting the poor. It could be easy to condem them and point the finger at them, but I wonder, if the spotlight were on us, whether we would be found to be any different than they. I am challenged by this personally, for even this morning I was given an opportunity to walk across the room (or down the isle a few chairs and across the isle), to be inclusive of a person who was sitting by himself (I did by the way, though I recall the fact that it was a conscious call from me to do this, it wasn;t an immediate or natural action). He looked a bit deshevilled, unfortunatly, like he didn't belong (and let me clarify that is not about him as much as what it says about who attends the Corps I belong to). And I am not sure that we even necessarily intentionally neglect the poor or those who seem different. It seems to come from what we are comfortable with, we are concerned too much about ourselves over others.

I encourage you to read the chapter from James and to examine your interactions with others. As I consider theses questions, will you be willing to check them out for yourself too?

• Am I willing to put myself out there, to step out of my comfort zone to ensure others feel a part of the Body of Christ?
• Am I prepared to walk across the room and talk to a stanger (taking the first step, the initiative), regardless of how they are dressed, or how they look?
• Will I be a servant to the lost, the least, and the last?
• Will I trust the Holy Spirit to give me the words to say that I might communicate with others from all walks of life effectively and meaningfully?
• Will I show genuine love and care for the people God places across my path?

Friends, let's make a difference in the communities that we are a part of. Let's be prepared to be indiscriminate in all our interactions.

And do ...

There has been a shift over the last number of years toward ensuring that we are a people (Christians) who listen to God. That we stop amongst the busyness of our days and remove ourselves from the activity of our lives (even ministry stuff) and spend some time hearing (listening) what God has to say to us. In fact, I personally have been a huge advocate to giving our attention to BEing, and though I have emphasised this over "doing", I would not have wanted this to misinterpret the need to "do". Just that the greater emphasis, the first action be, to "BE".

Apart from the Scripture verse that I will reveal in a moment, only today I had an opportunity to attend some training to which I was reminded, "the gaining of knowledge (hearing, listening, learning), is nothing if I do not put it into practice."

The following verse is a part of a slightly larger grouping of verses on the topic (James 1: 19-27) so have a look at them in greater fulness:

James 1:22 (New Living Translation)

22 But don’t just listen to God’s word.

You must do what it says.

Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.

Have you heard the expression, "they are so heavenly minded that they are of no earthly use." I liken the advise of this passage to this. I can hear all that God has to say to me. I can be an amazing scholar of the Word (the Scriptures). I can gain a tremendous amount  of insight into the love and care of God, and His plan of salvation for all people. But, if I don't make any application of this learning, this listening, this instruction and guidance, what good is it? What will be accomplished? Will the Kingdom of God see any growth through me? (highly unlikely).

"Father, I understand that merely doing is not what you call me too. I am not required to be preoccupied with activity and action, whereby I loose sight of BEing who You created me to be, with spiritual purpose and depth and growth in developing more and more the charachter of Your Son Jesus. Yet, I also understand that in this development and learning, I am to be active for You, a doer. Help me to keep this all in check and follow Your plan for my life."

Always the same ...

In 26 years of being an Officer I have seen much, read much and practiced much that is new, changing and often about trends, generations, etc. In other words, things are not the same as they were 20+ years ago. We do things differently. We sing different songs. We seem to use more effects (powerpoint, lighting, high tech amplification, etc.) Peopl come to church in a much different dress code (or is that - with no dress code, anything goes). Now this is not to say any of this is right or wrong. In fact, one of the quotes used is - "the only constant is change." But one of the reminders that got these reflective juices going was this passage:

Hebrews 13:8 (New Living Translation)

8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday,

today, and forever.

You see, almost everything seems to be changing around us, but Jesus remains constant, consistent, reliable, steady, unvariable, He never changes. His message of love and forgiveness are a given - always true, always real, always available. His acceptance of us to be His people, the application of His grace - never swerving, never moving, always constant. No generational change makes a difference. No attitudinal shift alters Him. No trend affects Him.

Hebrews 13:8 (New Living Translation)

8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday,

today, and forever.

Now that is something to celebrate and be glad of - "Thank you Lord!"

Get rid of it ...

I suppose the first question you might have is - what is "it"?

Have a look at:

Hebrews 12 (New Living Translation)

God’s Discipline Proves His Love

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd

of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off

every weight that slows us down,

especially the sin that so easily trips us up.

And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

What might be the weight that slows us down, or the sin that easily trips us up? Interestingly there are passages that spell out explicitly what is meant at times, but on this occasion it might seem it is left for us to explore and discover for ourselves (the Lord helping us of course).

I have some thoughts in regard to this, especially when relating it back to the imagery of a race (and a runner). I wouldn't dream of running with a large coat on for instance, or work boots, or carrying a ladder or something else. So aligning that to the Christian journey and thinking of it to be like a long distance event, to which I want, desire, and aim to get to the end unscathed if possible. Even in this I am mindful of the physical body, the need to be fit and in good condition. I know when I am not performing well. When the kg's are a bit more than they ought to be. When the muscles are unconditioned. How much harder it is to accomplish things. Can I get them done - yes! But it might take longer. It may require more effort. I might take much longer to recover from the task. So I find I am better off attempting to remain in a good condition physically. And yet, I must watch that even this does not get in the way, that I focus too intently on this rather than getting on with what the Lord requires of me.

This is not all. What else might be considered as entangling us? Could it even be a matter of bettering ourselves in education? Working long hours? Spending too much time with or neglecting to spend any time with family? The consideration needs to be in aligning these to what it is the Lord requires of us, and are these things getting in the way of this? Do we give them greater priority?

"Lord, it is my desire that I might function well for you. Help me in the prioritising of what is right and what is not for this purpose. Help me to be conditioned physically, mentally, socially and spiritually, so that I might operate well for You, as You desire of me."

The who's who of faith ...

Well that is what the eleventh chapter of Hebrews is really about. In fact, the writer, having named many many people, gets to a point in saying:

Hebrews 11:32 (New Living Translation)

32 How much more do I need to say?

It would take too long to recount the stories of

the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah,

David, Samuel, and all the prophets.

It is interesting to encounter people who do not believe in God,, who do not share a personal faith as we might. People who cannot get their heads around the concept, the belief and practice of faith. And yet here are many, many, many people who through history stand out as examples of faith, (belief in God without seeing), and they carry amazing credentials. The writer echoes in my own mind again, and there are yet so many more, to which if I were to recall them we would be here a while.

Think about the difference their (those recorded throughout the Scriptures and particularly in Hebrews 11) belief, their faith made. Strength, might, victory in battle, survival from being slaughtered, a sustaining in difficult times, resilience through drought and plague ..., claimed promises, experienced blessings, life through children, etc.

What about you and I? What has been accomplished through our faith? What has God done through us because we have taken Him at His word, trusted Him and stepped out in faith?

Well, that certainly should leave us something to contemplate - go well!

To do ...

The Scriptures from Hebrews (chapter 10) continue the thought of yesterday in relation to the sacrifice that was made for total cleansing from sin. Christ, giving up His own life for the forgiveness of my sins (our sins) and thus replacing the defunct sacrifices of animals (and the application of their blood) of various kinds that were deficient and now superseded.

In the dialogue that differentiates the two orders or systems, Jesus is found to say:

Hebrews 10:9 (New Living Translation)

9 Then he said, “Look, I have come to do your will.”

He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect.

It had me thinking, what is the Father's (God's) will for my life?

We see in this following verse that we are being made holy:

Hebrews 10:14 (New Living Translation)

14 For by that one offering he forever made

perfect those who are being made holy.

Further on we see:
 

Hebrews 10:24-25 (New Living Translation)

24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another

to acts of love and good works.

25 And let us not neglect our meeting together,

as some people do, but encourage one another,

especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

We are reminded of the importance of motivating one another in actions that display love and good works. The necessity of meeting regularly together and again to encourage one another. However, I don't think it answers the question of what is God's will for me - I think these requirements are for us each generally, universally, inclusively.

 

What I do believe is, we need to develop our relationship with God to the point that in our state of full surrender and total dependence upon Him, we find clarity in that which He determines and calls me (us) to, His will for me (for us).

 

"Lord, tonight I surrender myself over to You afresh. That I might more clearly discover the plan You have for me, what Your desired will is for my life. Lord, help me to come before You in silence, with a willing heart and mind, to hear Your voice as you reveal to me Your will."

Ultimate sacrifice ...

We read often in the Old Testament of the many ceremonies that were instituted for various purposes. For instance, if a person, or a group of people were to know the forgiveness of sins – this required the blood of an animal to be used for the ceremony of cleansing. Yet this needed to be repeated time and time again. It was only of a temporary nature.

The writer to the Hebrews clarifies that there is a change that has taken place. A new order has come to being, a new system. And this is quite different from what they had experienced in the past with the temporary measures they had to follow. Now Jesus has become the sacrifice (the required payment for the forgiveness of sin). However, His death is not something requiring a repeating of this same act. His death was the ultimate payment.

Have a look at Hebrews 9:13-15 (New Living Translation)

13 Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a young cow could cleanse people’s bodies from ceremonial impurity. 14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds[a] so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. 15 That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.

Does that mean that because of what Christ has done we have no responsibility any longer? As we don’t have to perform any sacrifices, is there no part for us to play? Actually, what it means is, with Jesus having made Himself the sacrifice, we purpose to live our lives in a manner that follows the example He gave us. Examining His character and the way He lived His life, we aim to live in this same manner. This shows an acceptance of the act He performed on our behalf in His sacrificial death upon the cross.

It is our choice to receive the gift of forgiveness through the acceptance of Jesus sacrifice. Will we choose to follow Him and live according to His purpose?

Who wins ...

Today I was part of a leadership team who met with the purpose of getting to know each other. Tomorrow we have a bunch of children coming to a camp (Adventure Camp in South Australia). Generally speaking these children come from some form of disadvantage to be there. It was my privilege, along with my family to commence these camps about 20 years ago, so I have had a long association with them (though not having done every camp in this time).

As I was thinking about it again tonight, and reflecting upon the difference we can make in a young persons life. I recall many years ago the question being asked what difference can we make in less than a week with these young ones. This prompted me to recall the letters we would receive from a principal from a primary school who would say, I don't know what it is you do to these children when they come to your camp, but don't stop doing it (The school faculty had noticed a difference in the child's behaviour). Or the parents who would write and tell us how different their child was after attending the camp. And sometimes the parent who would explain that this was the first break they had had in such a long time with a behaviorally challenged child (and to think how much trust they had placed in us to look after their child over this period - it wasn't always easy or straightforward, but I sure reckon it was worth it).

I recall on another occasion, a One Mission Conference here in Adelaide a few years ago. The topic of an elective was around working with youth and some of the challenges associated with this. One youth leader was somewhat exasperated by the fact they would get "somewhere" with the youth and then they would hang around mates a lot, and things would tend to go backward. Another youth leader shared his thoughts - he who spends the most time with them wins. In other words, if you want to influence then you need to spend time with them, as much time as you can. Otherwise, others who do spend a lot of time with them will have the greater influence.

Two thoughts from this.

1. Firstly, the importance of the camps is to introduce these children to the difference Jesus makes in a persons life. It isn't by way of preaching at them, rather by demonstrating in the way we carry ourselves, how we interact with them, our generosity of giving out ourselves to them.
2. Secondly, I am reminded that if I want to live like Jesus. If I desire to mirror Him in my actions and character and behaviour, then I need to spend time with Him. In prayer. In the Word. In silence just listening to Him.

Who is going to win in your life?

The requirements ...

Constantly we discover in the Old Testament, God trying to get through to His chosen people. At times they seem to get it, then it appears they loose their focus again, wander off doing their own thing a while, until something happens or someone else comes along with a message from God to remind them. Here is where the prophets come in (and finally in the New Testament Jesus BECOMES the Living Word). Micah is one of these early prophets. In today's chapter we find God spelling out for the people of Israel:

Micah 6:5 (New Living Translation)

5 Don’t you remember, my people,

how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed

and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead?

And remember your journey from Acacia Grove to Gilgal,

when I, the Lord, did everything I could

to teach you about my faithfulness.”

God time and time again attempted to make it clear that He desired to be in relationship with His people. He continues to be faithful in this. The real message for us in this passage comes next. Maybe we wonder ourselves, how do I respond to this? How might I make it right with God? What is it He might require of me in response to His faithfulness, His forgiveness, His provision for me being enabled to come back into relationship with Him? Well you might actually be surprised how simple it actually is, examine the dialogue with me:

Micah 6:6-8 (New Living Translation)

6 What can we bring to the Lord?

What kind of offerings should we give him?

Should we bow before God

with offerings of yearling calves?

7 Should we offer him thousands of rams

and ten thousand rivers of olive oil?

Should we sacrifice our firstborn children

to pay for our sins?

8 No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good,

and this is what he requires of you:

to do what is right, to love mercy,

and to walk humbly with your God.

And again:
 

Micah 6:6-8 (The Message)

6-7How can I stand up before God

and show proper respect to the high God?

Should I bring an armload of offerings

topped off with yearling calves?

Would God be impressed with thousands of rams,

with buckets and barrels of olive oil?

Would he be moved if I sacrificed my firstborn child,

my precious baby, to cancel my sin?

8But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do,

what God is looking for in men and women.

It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,

be compassionate and loyal in your love,

And don't take yourself too seriously—

take God seriously.

Now I reckon you would join me in agreeing that this is possible. It is something we can achieve, especially with the Spirit of God helping us. Think of the impact we will have upon our communities if we took this seriously. You want to transform society? Well I reckon this is a great way to do it - will you join me?

And then ...

This week has been a tremendous time for me as I have had the opportunity to participate in the Hillsong Conference (Sydney, Australia). There have been some inspirational speakers, including one of my favourites in Andy Stanley. The music and singing has been top notch and something that affects deep into the heart. This year also had a strong focus on the social justice issues and focused on the response that we as Christians may have and should have.

You might have gathered from the title of today's contribution that I am somewhat a realist though. I believe I would be irresponsible if I didn't examine and answer the question "And then?" or "And now what?" I have been around long enough to realise that unless I actually allow that which I have been exposed to, to impact my world, then it avails to nothing. "What difference will it now make?" is a fair question. It is not unlike the daily reading of the Scriptures and what this Blog attempts to do - to answer the same questions, What have I learnt? What is going to be different? The lessons learnt, as revealing as they might be and as impactful as the required response may be, are not nearly as hard or trying as getting back home and putting them into practice in the day to day.

I must be prepared to come away from such an experience and allow God to continue the good work He has begun in me. My surrender here, MUST continue, daily and throughout the day from now on. I must be obedient and submissive to my Master and Lord, Jesus.

So, here's to another new day in the journey of life. I must say, I am grateful to God for the opportunity that is mine to have such rich experiences and sensational mates to journey with in this - every rich and unfathomable blessing to you as you learn and live - journey well!

Got your fill and then what ...

Do you remember that first commandment in Exodus 20:

Exodus 20 (New Living Translation)

Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community

1 Then God gave the people all these instructions:

2 “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from

the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.

3 “You must not have any other god but me.

No other god. It might be interpreted, no other thing, whether possession, desire, form of worship. Anything that is placed in preference or prominence over God. You probably know the drill – commonly we might immediately think of money (you cannot serve both God and money, the root of all evil is the love of money, etc.). But we might also be reminded of the preference that we give to possessions in our lives (cars, a house, a boat, etc.). Or what about the striving for a position (leader, CEO, president, etc.). Then it might be an achievement (sports star, personality, one striving for acknowledgement in your field, etc.). That which you are drawn to worship, exalt, give prominence to in your life – over God, before God.

In Hosea God echoes the reminder to His people:

Hosea 13:4-5 (New Living Translation)

4 “I have been the Lord your God

ever since I brought you out of Egypt.

You must acknowledge no God but me,

for there is no other savior.

5 I took care of you in the wilderness,

in that dry and thirsty land.

However that is not all God had to say on this. For we discover that at some point the people had obviously acknowledged Him as Lord, God, the One before all others. How do we know this, for in their satisfaction of knowing this to be true, where God has met them at their point of need, and having been satisfied they now have forgotten, turned their backs on Him.

Hosea 13:6 (New Living Translation)

6 But when you had eaten and were satisfied,

you became proud and forgot me.

It is easy to remember God in the difficult times. When things are on top of us, when we are overawed by the circumstances, when we feel trapped and there seems nowhere else to turn – "O God help me!" And often the testimony we have is – He does - He helps, He provides, He shelters, He comforts, He shields, He loves me.

Yet how soon we can forget. How soon we become complacent to the promise to honour Him for the rest of our lives. How soon we find pleasure in the company of another or something else, over God. How soon we begin to operate on our own, in our own strength and wisdom and limited and deficient knowledge again. Just like the people of Israel – satisfied and moved into being proud and forgetting God.

“Lord, I take the warning given to me today and first I ask that You forgive me for the times I have mirrored the actions of these people of Israel, forgive me for having been proud and having forgotten You. Lord, thank You for ALL You do in and through my life, for every provision You gift to me. I honour You and desire to bring glory to Your name!”

The difference ...

Today I was reminded how much I am glad God is not like me (or any other mortal for that reason). The fact that I (we) can be so quick to rite people off when they have got it wrong. When their lives have messed up big time and I (we) have been offended or disappointed by their actions in some way.

Think about it. If someone we know goes behind our back and tells stuff that we have shared in confidence, or worse still utter lies. We might pretty much cut them off, want nothing more to do with them. And if this were to be repeated time and time again, I am certain we would give up on them.

When I read the many accounts of the people of God getting it so wrong, so often, I would not wonder if God were to say, enough is enough, you will be wiped out – your choice has been made. It seems to be the impression we have of God when He is not happy with a nation who comes against His people. Yet have a look at this passage with me:

Hosea 11:8-11 (New Living Translation)

8 “Oh, how can I give you up, Israel?

How can I let you go?

How can I destroy you like Admah

or demolish you like Zeboiim?

My heart is torn within me,

and my compassion overflows.

9 No, I will not unleash my fierce anger.

I will not completely destroy Israel,

for I am God and not a mere mortal.

I am the Holy One living among you,

and I will not come to destroy.

10 For someday the people will follow me.

I, the Lord, will roar like a lion.

And when I roar,

my people will return trembling from the west.

11 Like a flock of birds, they will come from Egypt.

Trembling like doves, they will return from Assyria.

And I will bring them home again,”

says the Lord.

We read through the proceeding verses that the Lord has given so many opportunities. So many warnings. Yet the people continue to worship false gods. They continue to look to satisfying themselves in any way they choose. But, these are His people. His chosen people. He cannot just let them go. He desires for life to be different for them. It rips Him apart to think of loosening them from His care and protection. So the Lord chooses to give them another go, yet again. Better they come up against Him and His love, than me and my unforgiving nature (at times). That is the difference between He and I.

“Lord, I am glad You don’t treat me as I deserve at times. That You do not abandon me to my own devices, rather, You remain faithful and compassionate and slow to anger with me. Help me Lord, not to take this for granted. Help me to allow You to make the changes in my life that are necessary. I surrender this life over to You and Your plan for me.”

Know Him ...

The words of this passage might seem odd:

Hosea 6:3a (New Living Translation)

3 Oh, that we might know the Lord!

For don’t we know Him? Isn’t that our firm belief? That we know God.

And yet, when I pause a moment to contemplate this I am reminded that, I don’t really KNOW Him. (I am not sure if you are confused but I think I almost have myself confused). What I am attempting to say is, how can I lay claim to truly KNOWING God? Seriously, think about this a moment. I may know certain elements of who He is because of my experience, my encounters with Him in this journey of life. I can pick up more through the encounters of others as recorded in the Scriptures. But can God be contained in just these experiences, encounters, discoveries? Is it not possible that there is more to be discovered, realised, experienced? And so the writer comes to this desire:

Hosea 6:3a (New Living Translation)

3 Oh, that we might know the Lord!

Let us press on to know him.

I am interested in the way this is captured with the term - “press on”. It seems to express a need for expending energy in this pursuit. It doesn’t merely fall in our laps. It requires effort, determination, a willing and intentional desire on our behalf. “Lord, I want this!”

It might help to understand that the people of God in the time of Hosea are "way off" the course that God would have for them. They continue with the practices, the motions, the ceremony. But in essence their acts are empty, meaningless, without real cause. Yes, they sacrifice. But it is counted as nothing because their hearts are not in it all and they continue to make for themselves idols, other gods in place of the One True God. They and their acts are unacceptable to God.

“Lord, tonight I would utter those words afresh for my own life. I want to KNOW You! I want by the power of Your Spirit to press on, intentionally act in ways that are meaningful and holy and right, toward encountering You more in my everyday life. Thus as You share this journey with me, shall I further come to KNOW You more and more and more. Lord, help me to trust. Help me to listen. Help me to follow.”

Just like us ...

As I read from Hebrews tonight there was something I began to realise afresh. Often my thinking is drawn to the divineness of Christ. As God dwelling amongst us. With all His awesome power and authority and ability to stand firm and against the powers of the world.

And yet, at other times I will have focused on the humanness of Jesus. Drawing the parallels which remind us that He was just like us, He got thirsty, He was hungry, He needed sleep for He was tired.

Yet in Hebrews I am reminded that Jesus became human so that He could save me. He needed to be human to die and conquer death, breaking the power death has over me as a mortal being. In this way He could free me from any fear of dying. The writer continues:

Hebrews 2:16-17 (New Living Translation)

16 We also know that the Son did not come to help angels;

he came to help the descendants of Abraham.

17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in

every respect like us, his brothers and sisters,

so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God.

Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people.

It makes me realise again the nature of God’s plan for me. That He would give up His Son that I could have life in abundance and fullness through Him (Jesus).

I like this final verse from this chapter too:

Hebrews 2:18 (New Living Translation)

18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing,
he is able to help us when we are being tested.

Here I am reminded that Jesus knows what it is to be tested, so when I cry out to Him in my times of struggle, He knows what I am going through. He understands the pressure and the temptation and the struggle for me to stay true. Yet I also am aware that victory is possible. For if Jesus can become like me and make it through even tougher experiences than I will ever know, then surely I can have great hope in Him to see me make it too. I am going to lean on this, learn from this, rely on this.

From your strength ...

I have commenced another book which some friends recommended to me, and I must say, I am not at all disappointed in this - Leadership Gold by John Maxwell. The chapter I was reading today brought back a theory and pet conversation of mine when discussing school curriculum and education of children today. That of the strong focus around a base group of subjects, often to the neglect of the personal lean or gifting of the person concerned. You know what I mean, writing, reading and arithmetic, where a person might not be very good at some of these areas, but strong in the arts, drawing, carpentry, music, etc. and yet these are not seen to be as important or even of value (not at least in high school years anyway).

John Maxwell was sharing in the chapter Get in the Zone and Stay There, the need for leaders to know what there zone is (become familiar with this) and to operate from within this strength. In fact, he suggests it even more strongly than this, for when one identifies their strong area to operate within, they should not only ensure they make every effort to operate within this, they ought to be doing all they can to develop this area too.

Aligned to this, we as leaders should also be assisting those whom we lead to find what their strong areas are, help them to keep focused in these for the benefit of them as individuals (feeling fulfilled and successful in their contribution), the organisation and of course the Kingdom of God. So what about this success.

John Maxwell says, I believe success is:

• knowing your purpose in life
• growing your maximum potential, and
• sowing seeds that benefit others

"Lord, it is my desire to lead well. To understand clearly the way you have wired me, gifted me and to ensure I operate well within this. Help me to bring others along in this journey as well, to teach them, develop them and always to encourage them, for their sake and Your Kingdom's sake."