"He
has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of
you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8
"Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." Isaiah 1:17
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27
There are many more
Scriptures that answer the question: Exodus 22:21-23, Deuteronomy
15:1-11; 24:18-20, Psalm 10:17-18; 82:3-4, Proverbs 14:31; 23:10-11,
Isaiah 10:1-3; 58:6-11, Zechariah 7:9-10, Matthew 25:31-46, Luke
12:32-34, Acts 2:42-47.
We
are called to be light in this dark world....to help the poor...to
defend the defenseless...to be a voice for the voiceless...to be
artisans of hope to the hopeless...to share with those in need...to make
a difference in the world. There are so many social issues such as
poverty, starvation, lack of clean drinking water, injustice, oppression, diseases, abortion, human trafficking, and orphans. We are to actively demonstrate Christ's love to all people. We
must put our love into action. God wants us to use our time, talents,
and treasure to help the hurting world for His glory and for His
kingdom. Here's a good related article: http://www.gotquestions.org/social-justice.html.
God of Justice
God of Justice, Savior to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served
Jesus, You have called us
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
We must go...live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us what You require
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out, Lord
This post is linked up with Faithful Friday @SimplyHelpingHim, Fellowship Fridays @Christian Mommy Blogger, Faith-filled Friday @Missional Women, Freedom Fridays @My Turn for Us, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", The Weekend Brew @My Freshly Brewed Life, and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Friday, October 25, 2013
Friday's Fave Five #88
My Fave Five this week:
1. I'm very thankful for Skype! We do Skype with our daughter who's in college at least once a week. It's so good to see her and chat with her.
2. A life well lived, indeed! Soli Deo Gloria!
Chuck Smith & Greg Laurie A Final Conversation from Calvary Chapel on Vimeo.
3. Check out this great article on marriage. Don't believe the lies! Your marriage is at stake if you do.
4. Even if you're not a football fan or Seahawks fan, please still watch this video and help spread the word. Soli Deo Gloria!
5. "The Gospel alone liberates us to live a life of scandalous generosity, unrestrained sacrifice, uncommon valor, and unbounded courage." ~Tullian Tchividjian (from his book, One Way Love)
You can read my review and enter to win a copy of One Way Love by Tullian Tchividjian at http://fivesavedbygrace.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-review-one-way-love-by-tullian.html . Ends 10/31
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Caleb: Convictions Count
Caleb was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore Canaan. He represented the tribe of Judah. When the spies returned, they, except Joshua and Caleb, gave a bad report about the land because they were afraid of the people ("of great size") they saw there. "Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, 'We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." (Numbers 13:30) "Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes and said to the entire Israelite assembly, 'The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. If the Lord is pleased with us, He will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.'" (Numbers 14:6-9) Well, the Israelites weren't convinced (actually, they even talked about stoning Joshua and Caleb!) Because of the Israelites' unbelief, unfaithfulness, and disobedience, God made them wander through the wilderness for 40 years. "For forty years--one year for each of the forty days you explored the land--you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have Me against you." (Numbers 14:34)
"But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows Me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it." (Numbers 14:24)
"No one from this evil generation shall see the good land I swore to give your ancestors, except Caleb son of Jephunneh. He will see it, and I will give him and his descendants the land he set his feet on, because he followed the Lord wholeheartedly." (Deuteronomy 1:35-36)
Caleb definitely lived up to his name. The name Caleb in Hebrew ("Colev") means wholehearted, faithful, devotion. He followed and trusted God wholeheartedly. Caleb saw God's promises (that He made to Abraham 400 years earlier) while other spies saw giants. Caleb stepped up with faith while other spies backed out with fear. He did not fall under peer pressure or follow the crowd because he followed the Almighty God wholeheartedly. "I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, but my fellow Israelites who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt in fear. I, however, followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly." (Joshua 14:7-8) He stood firm in his convictions because he followed the one true God wholeheartedly. In fact, Caleb was mentioned in Joshua chapter 14 three times as one who followed the Lord wholeheartedly. That's what God wants from His children: to love, trust, follow, and serve Him wholeheartedly (with full, complete, undivided devotion). Poor Caleb had to wander through the wilderness for 40 years along with his generation who failed to trust the Lord. And then he waited another 5 years before he could receive the inheritance God had promised (Joshua 14:10). In spite of all the waiting (can you imagine waiting 45 years for something that's promised to be yours?!), Caleb continued to be steadfast in his faith and fix his eyes on God's promises. God not only sustained him but also strengthened him throughout those years. "So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out (at 40); I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then." (Joshua 14:10b-11) How many people could say that :)?
Don't let fear keep you from God's blessings. Stand out from the crowd; stand up for what you believe in! Stand on God's promises. Speak the truth in love boldly. Live with conviction and with no compromise. Follow God wholeheartedly and He will give you faith, courage, confidence, strength, stamina, vigor, patience, and perseverance.
This post is linked up with Faithful Friday @SimplyHelpingHim, Fellowship Fridays @Christian Mommy Blogger, Faith-filled Friday @Missional Women, Freedom Fridays @My Turn for Us, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", The Weekend Brew @My Freshly Brewed Life, and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.
"But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows Me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it." (Numbers 14:24)
"No one from this evil generation shall see the good land I swore to give your ancestors, except Caleb son of Jephunneh. He will see it, and I will give him and his descendants the land he set his feet on, because he followed the Lord wholeheartedly." (Deuteronomy 1:35-36)
Caleb definitely lived up to his name. The name Caleb in Hebrew ("Colev") means wholehearted, faithful, devotion. He followed and trusted God wholeheartedly. Caleb saw God's promises (that He made to Abraham 400 years earlier) while other spies saw giants. Caleb stepped up with faith while other spies backed out with fear. He did not fall under peer pressure or follow the crowd because he followed the Almighty God wholeheartedly. "I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions, but my fellow Israelites who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt in fear. I, however, followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly." (Joshua 14:7-8) He stood firm in his convictions because he followed the one true God wholeheartedly. In fact, Caleb was mentioned in Joshua chapter 14 three times as one who followed the Lord wholeheartedly. That's what God wants from His children: to love, trust, follow, and serve Him wholeheartedly (with full, complete, undivided devotion). Poor Caleb had to wander through the wilderness for 40 years along with his generation who failed to trust the Lord. And then he waited another 5 years before he could receive the inheritance God had promised (Joshua 14:10). In spite of all the waiting (can you imagine waiting 45 years for something that's promised to be yours?!), Caleb continued to be steadfast in his faith and fix his eyes on God's promises. God not only sustained him but also strengthened him throughout those years. "So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out (at 40); I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then." (Joshua 14:10b-11) How many people could say that :)?
Don't let fear keep you from God's blessings. Stand out from the crowd; stand up for what you believe in! Stand on God's promises. Speak the truth in love boldly. Live with conviction and with no compromise. Follow God wholeheartedly and He will give you faith, courage, confidence, strength, stamina, vigor, patience, and perseverance.
This post is linked up with Faithful Friday @SimplyHelpingHim, Fellowship Fridays @Christian Mommy Blogger, Faith-filled Friday @Missional Women, Freedom Fridays @My Turn for Us, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", The Weekend Brew @My Freshly Brewed Life, and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Friday's Fave Five #87
My Fave Five this week:
1. I found this powerful video on Facebook and I'd like to share it here. I hope it will encourage you. Our identity, worth, and value are not defined by what we can accomplish but by what Jesus Christ accomplished for us!
2. Free Kindle Edition of The Daily Walk Bible NLT: 31 Days with Jesus (at the time of this posting)
3. Find out what some of the key factors for a healthy & lasting marriage are in this article! You'll be touched by the video of a 96 year old man who wrote a love song for his wife (married for 73 years) who just passed away a month earlier.
4. I like this quote: "A low view of law always produces legalism; a high view of law makes a person a seeker after grace." (~J. Gresham Machen) I found it in the book I'm reading, "One Way Love" by Tullian Tchividjian
5. My cup overflows! This mom's heart overflows with gratitude to God. What a joy it is to see my kids burst with passion for and delight in God and His Word! This weekend, we'll be celebrating a double birthday party. Yesterday, Josiah turned 15 and today, Isaiah turns 12. I'm so thankful that God has molded both of them to be young men after His own heart.
video
recently of a 96 year old man named Fred who entered a songwriting
contest. Fred had been married to his wife Lorraine for 73 years, and
although she had passed away a month earlier, he wanted to honor her
memory by writing her a song. - See more at:
http://www.startmarriageright.com/2013/09/making-love-last/#sthash.mVat7UJX.6qrBOR3B.dpuf
video
recently of a 96 year old man named Fred who entered a songwriting
contest. Fred had been married to his wife Lorraine for 73 years, and
although she had passed away a month earlier, he wanted to honor her
memory by writing her a song. - See more at:
http://www.startmarriageright.com/2013/09/making-love-last/#sthash.mVat7UJX.6qrBOR3B.dpuf
video
recently of a 96 year old man named Fred who entered a songwriting
contest. Fred had been married to his wife Lorraine for 73 years, and
although she had passed away a month earlier, he wanted to honor her
memory by writing her a song. - See more at:
http://www.startmarriageright.com/2013/09/making-love-last/#sthash.mVat7UJX.6qrBOR3B.dpuf
video
recently of a 96 year old man named Fred who entered a songwriting
contest. Fred had been married to his wife Lorraine for 73 years, and
although she had passed away a month earlier, he wanted to honor her
memory by writing her a song. - See more at:
http://www.startmarriageright.com/2013/09/making-love-last/#sthash.mVat7UJX.6qrBOR3B.dpuf
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Help and Shield (Psalm 115)
-
All glory and praises belong to God alone. Soli Deo Gloria! Our goal
should be to glorify and honor Him/His Name in everything we do and say.
God's love and faithfulness are unfathomable!
- God's authority, sovereignty, and power are summed up in verse 3, "Our God is in Heaven; He does whatever pleases Him."
- Idols are foolish and so are those who make them and those who trust in them. Those who bow down to and believe in tangible objects are as foolish and empty as the idols themselves (since idols are things made by human hands, how can humans expect the idols to have any power to help them?)
- God is alive (unlike lifeless idols). He sees, hears, understands us and cares for us. The Lord remembers us!
- God is Help and Shield to those who fear Him and trust in Him.
- Our God will bless us and we will bless His Name/extol the Lord forevermore.
- God's authority, sovereignty, and power are summed up in verse 3, "Our God is in Heaven; He does whatever pleases Him."
- Idols are foolish and so are those who make them and those who trust in them. Those who bow down to and believe in tangible objects are as foolish and empty as the idols themselves (since idols are things made by human hands, how can humans expect the idols to have any power to help them?)
- God is alive (unlike lifeless idols). He sees, hears, understands us and cares for us. The Lord remembers us!
- God is Help and Shield to those who fear Him and trust in Him.
- Our God will bless us and we will bless His Name/extol the Lord forevermore.
Friday, August 16, 2013
Friday's Fave Five #86
My Fave Five this week:
1. Excited about my new (new to me) Life Application Study Bible I bought at Goodwill and my new highlighters (6 vibrant colors on sale)!. I enjoy using highlighters when I read my Bible. You can tell which Bibles have been through my hands...worn, torn, and colorful. God's Word is truly a delight to me! I'm so thankful for God's Word (and highlighters, too :))!
2. Our family had a blast at Mt. Hood Ski Bowl Adventure Park on Monday. Scenic Sky Chairs. 1/2 Mile Alpine Slide (numerous times). Human Hamster Ball (Zorb Ball). 9 Hole Mini Golf. Summer Tube Hill. Bungee Trampoline. The weather was perfectly beautiful, too .
3. Fresh green beans given to us by one of our neighbors. I stir-fried them with garlic, maple syrup, and garlic butter. So yummy!
4. Free ebooks (free at the time of this posting): In Christ Alone: Living the Gospel Centered Life by Sinclair Ferguson and Sweat, Blood, & Tears: What God Uses to Make a Man by Xan Hood.
5. Have I told you how much I love DVD Swap :)? This week we've mailed out 8 DVDs. We'll be receiving 9 credits (one lady gave me 2 credits for the DVD that she sent to me but she wanted it back :)). We've saved lots of money by swapping the DVDs we no longer want for the DVDs we want.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Seek God (Psalm 53)
- Psalm 53 echoes Psalm 14, later partly quoted in Romans 3:10-12.
- It talks about the universal sinfulness of humans (all have sinned) and the foolishness of atheism (you can watch a new documentary, "Evolution vs. God", online for free at http://www.evolutionvsgod.com/ ).
- Fools refer to people who are morally deficient/people who reject God, the only One Who can save them.
- People may say there is no God in order to have an excuse to continue in sin and to avoid the responsibility/the accountability for their sin.
- To be truly wise and understanding is to seek God in every situation (look to Him continually for help and guidance).
- Without God, people live in constant fear and anxiety ("overwhelmed with dread when there was nothing to dread").
- On the contrary, those who trust God rejoice and are glad.
- God restores His people. Even now He is still in the business of restoration.
- It talks about the universal sinfulness of humans (all have sinned) and the foolishness of atheism (you can watch a new documentary, "Evolution vs. God", online for free at http://www.evolutionvsgod.com/ ).
- Fools refer to people who are morally deficient/people who reject God, the only One Who can save them.
- People may say there is no God in order to have an excuse to continue in sin and to avoid the responsibility/the accountability for their sin.
- To be truly wise and understanding is to seek God in every situation (look to Him continually for help and guidance).
- Without God, people live in constant fear and anxiety ("overwhelmed with dread when there was nothing to dread").
- On the contrary, those who trust God rejoice and are glad.
- God restores His people. Even now He is still in the business of restoration.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Love That Is Better Than Life (Psalm 63)
- This is a psalm that David wrote when he was in the wilderness (desert) of En Gedi, in flight from Saul.
- David earnestly sought God and his soul was thirsty for God.
- David's confidence was in God because he had experienced God's presence and had seen God's power and glory.
- To David, God's unfailing love is better than life itself. Therefore, he continued to praise God and sing praises to Him even in the midst of great distress.
- His soul was fully satisfied/filled/nourished by God.
- David turned his sleepless night into a worshipful time with God. He lied awake thinking of God and meditated on Who God is and what God has done.
- David remembered and acknowledged that God had helped him and protected him. He chose to cling to God and rest in God's loving & mighty hand which had kept him safe and secure.
- David trusted God to deal with his enemies. He himself chose to rejoice triumphantly in God because he knew God was on his side and he was on God's side, the winning team .
- To ponder: When in distress, what's our default mode of reaction/response? Panic or pray ? Do we seek God and His wisdom? Do we thirst for Him and His righteousness? Is our soul fully satisfied by God alone? Or we still try to fill our emptiness with possessions, entertainment, food, recognition, etc.? Where are our hope, rest, and confidence? In God or in people or in things? Do we truly believe that God's love is better than life and then live accordingly? Whom or what do we cling to? What do we do during sleepless nights? Dwelling on worries/anxieties? Instead, we should pray and give God all our concerns/burdens. Thoughts of God will calm our soul and lead us into true rest. Do we trust God to deal with our troubles and our enemies?
- David earnestly sought God and his soul was thirsty for God.
- David's confidence was in God because he had experienced God's presence and had seen God's power and glory.
- To David, God's unfailing love is better than life itself. Therefore, he continued to praise God and sing praises to Him even in the midst of great distress.
- His soul was fully satisfied/filled/nourished by God.
- David turned his sleepless night into a worshipful time with God. He lied awake thinking of God and meditated on Who God is and what God has done.
- David remembered and acknowledged that God had helped him and protected him. He chose to cling to God and rest in God's loving & mighty hand which had kept him safe and secure.
- David trusted God to deal with his enemies. He himself chose to rejoice triumphantly in God because he knew God was on his side and he was on God's side, the winning team .
- To ponder: When in distress, what's our default mode of reaction/response? Panic or pray ? Do we seek God and His wisdom? Do we thirst for Him and His righteousness? Is our soul fully satisfied by God alone? Or we still try to fill our emptiness with possessions, entertainment, food, recognition, etc.? Where are our hope, rest, and confidence? In God or in people or in things? Do we truly believe that God's love is better than life and then live accordingly? Whom or what do we cling to? What do we do during sleepless nights? Dwelling on worries/anxieties? Instead, we should pray and give God all our concerns/burdens. Thoughts of God will calm our soul and lead us into true rest. Do we trust God to deal with our troubles and our enemies?
Monday, July 29, 2013
Book Review: Billy Graham in Quotes by Franklin Graham with Donna Lee Toney
I collect quotes :)! Seriously! My kids sometimes get embarrassed because in group gatherings, I often start quoting some great quotes but have to quickly add a disclaimer that it may not be exactly word for word. I enjoy finding, reading, sharing, and pondering over insightful quotes. So you can imagine my excitement when I received this book to review :). Billy Graham is considered one of the most respectable and well-known preachers, authors, and evangelists in the world. People listen when he speaks, especially since he speaks as an experienced, faithful, and devoted ambassador of Christ. This book is definitely a precious gem! It's a wonderful collection of Billy Graham's quotes that cover a wide range of topics (107 in total) from abortion, addiction, angels, anxiety, God's will, Heaven, living the Christian life to marriage, suffering, temptation, war, witnessing, world evangelism, and young people. Over 1,500 quotes (taken from Billy Graham's writings from 1947 to 2010)! Each topic starts with a Bible verse that is relevant to that topic.
Arranged under topics in alphabetical order (from A to Y), it is very easy to look up quotes that I am curious about or want to find while doing a Bible study on a certain topic. The book is packed with Godly wisdom and insights gained from Billy Graham's personal experience of walking with Jesus for more than seventy years. Every page is filled with Biblical truth, hope, faith, encouragement, and heartfelt messages of conviction from a man after God's own heart. His wisdom stems from his knowledge & understanding of God's Word and his words are based upon the Word of God; therefore, these quotes are Biblically sound, meaningful, and inspirational. I highly recommend this book which offers readers a wealth of spiritual nuggets for everyday living! Let's learn from the 94 year old evangelist who has learned much from the Lord over the years. I've discovered so many excellent quotes that have now become some of my favorites :). I'd like to share a few here to whet your appetite...
"This 'I' was made in the image of God for fellowship with God.
Without God it is miserable, empty, confused, and frustrated.
Without God life has no meaning; but with God at its center there is life, an inner strength and peace, a deep satisfaction, an unfading joy known only to those who know Jesus Christ." (p. 204)
"There comes a moment when we all must realize that life is short, and in the end the only thing that really counts is not how others see us, but how God sees us." (p. 210)
"Patience is part of true Christlikeness, something we so often admire in others without demanding it of ourselves." (p. 250)
A note from Franklin Graham:
"My father, Billy Graham, is known for speaking out about the one and only thing that matters in this world: the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. He remembers the call of God seven decades ago to preach the Word of God to all those who would listen about salvation that comes only through Christ. He took this high calling with seriousness and boldness in obedience to God and once said, 'I will travel anywhere in the world to preach if there are no strings on what I am to say.'"My father has always prayed that his words would reflect God's standard of truth as the basis to claim, 'I have given them Your word' (John 17:14). In this book, I believe you will see that he has faithfully spoken God's Word that quenches the thirst of those seeking to draw from the wellsprings of Life. It is highly meaningful to see these statements now collected in one volume."
~ I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Save the Wanderers (James 5:19-20)
-
If we see a fellow Christian wander from the truth/the doctrines of the
Christian faith and/or the moral responsibilities from God's Word, we
should try to bring that person back into fellowship with Christ. Point
them back to the Truth! If you do that, you'll save them from
death/destruction and they will be forgiven. That's true love! "Above
all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of
sins." (1 Peter 4:8)
- If you see a brother or sister in Christ living in sin or believing in false teaching but you don't say anything to him/her or don't try to turn them from the error of their way, that's not love. Pray for them and pray for God's wisdom and guidance to show you how to bring them back. Speak the truth in love and with grace, respect, and gentleness but by all means, speak God's truth! Don't ever sacrifice the truth on the altar of "grace", political correctness, or fear of being labeled "judgmental" or narrow-minded or preachy. Don't ever minimize the seriousness of sin (our need for repentance). If you truly love them, you'll care about their spiritual well-being/the condition of their soul and you'll do all you can to rescue them.
- If you see a brother or sister in Christ living in sin or believing in false teaching but you don't say anything to him/her or don't try to turn them from the error of their way, that's not love. Pray for them and pray for God's wisdom and guidance to show you how to bring them back. Speak the truth in love and with grace, respect, and gentleness but by all means, speak God's truth! Don't ever sacrifice the truth on the altar of "grace", political correctness, or fear of being labeled "judgmental" or narrow-minded or preachy. Don't ever minimize the seriousness of sin (our need for repentance). If you truly love them, you'll care about their spiritual well-being/the condition of their soul and you'll do all you can to rescue them.
Friday's Fave Five #85
My Fave Five this week:-
1. We watched Letters to God DVD. Love it! Sad but so good. I was in tears. How thankful I am for the hope we have in Jesus Christ!
2. My daughter turned 20 this past Tuesday. We celebrated her birthday earlier with family on Saturday. We had a blast playing a spy game (many rounds) and improv games.
#mangoes #blueberries #lychees #greekyogurt #vanillaicecream #healthyandyummy
4. Walking and worshiping the Lord (while listening to my mp3 player) at the same time during late evening in beautiful breezy weather...
5. My husband took 2 days off from work this week. The kids and I love having him home with us. We also enjoy going to YMCA to exercise (and get out of the heat :)).
Extra: You can enter to win a copy of Adventures in Odyssey 90 Devotions for Kids on my other blog at http://fivesavedbygrace.blogspot.com/2013/07/acts-part-iii-grow-in-your-walk-with.html ! Ends 7/31
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Pray Earnestly (James 5:17-18)
Elijah was a human being just like us with no special power. He's not a superhero .
God is the Almighty One Who has the power to withhold rain and to send
rain (1 Kings 17:1, 1 Kings 18). However, Elijah's earnest prayer is
being used here as an incentive for us to pray. Want to see God's
miracles? Pray!
"Heaven is full of answers to prayer for which no one ever bothered to ask!" ~Billy Graham
"Heaven is full of answers to prayer for which no one ever bothered to ask!" ~Billy Graham
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Confess and Pray (James 5:15-16)
- "Prayer offered in faith" reminds me of James 1:6-7.
- God answers believing prayer but not always the way we want or expect. All prayer, including prayer for healing, is subject to the will of God. We must trust God, His will, His wisdom, and His timing. He knows what's best for us and He loves us!
- Believers are to confess their sins to one another so that they may pray for one another.
- God answers believing prayer but not always the way we want or expect. All prayer, including prayer for healing, is subject to the will of God. We must trust God, His will, His wisdom, and His timing. He knows what's best for us and He loves us!
- Believers are to confess their sins to one another so that they may pray for one another.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Better Uses of the Tongue
"Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.
Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.
Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord." James 5:13-14
- Better uses of the tongue: pray, sing songs of praise, and call the elders to pray over sick people.
- Focus on God whether you're in trouble, or happy, or sick.
- Oil is used perhaps because of its therapeutic value. Lots of essential oils have been recognized for their medical treatment.
Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.
Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord." James 5:13-14
- Better uses of the tongue: pray, sing songs of praise, and call the elders to pray over sick people.
- Focus on God whether you're in trouble, or happy, or sick.
- Oil is used perhaps because of its therapeutic value. Lots of essential oils have been recognized for their medical treatment.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Yes or No (James 5:12)
- "Above all" hints special emphasis and importance...so pay attention!
- Tongue again :)! It's the cause of so much trouble. Swearing is displeasing to God. Do not swear! Don't use the name of Heaven, earth, or anything else to make a promise or to prove what you say. We are to speak the truth on all occasions.
- Have unquestionable integrity at all times! Say what you mean and mean what you say. Honoring our words is what honors God. Whatever we say (yes or no), we must be committed to. We don't have to ever swear to differentiate our normal 'yes' from our 'I really mean it, yes'. Make a simple 'Yes' or 'No' completely binding. It's a matter of honesty/ truthfulness and integrity.
- If others cannot trust your words, how can they trust your Christian beliefs? Just as your tongue can destroy lives and your testimony with gossip and criticism, your tongue can destroy others and ruin your testimony about God by uttering a 'yes' or 'no' that you do not honor.
- Tongue again :)! It's the cause of so much trouble. Swearing is displeasing to God. Do not swear! Don't use the name of Heaven, earth, or anything else to make a promise or to prove what you say. We are to speak the truth on all occasions.
- Have unquestionable integrity at all times! Say what you mean and mean what you say. Honoring our words is what honors God. Whatever we say (yes or no), we must be committed to. We don't have to ever swear to differentiate our normal 'yes' from our 'I really mean it, yes'. Make a simple 'Yes' or 'No' completely binding. It's a matter of honesty/ truthfulness and integrity.
- If others cannot trust your words, how can they trust your Christian beliefs? Just as your tongue can destroy lives and your testimony with gossip and criticism, your tongue can destroy others and ruin your testimony about God by uttering a 'yes' or 'no' that you do not honor.
Friday, July 19, 2013
Example of Patience (James 5:10-11)
-
The prophets suffered a lot (they were often persecuted and were the
target of grumbling and criticism) but they were patient. They were
blessed because they didn't give up. We have their example to remind us
that God will prevail and that there's an end to all sufferings.
- Job was a great example of steadfastness. Patient endurance stems from the conviction that hardships are not meaningless, but God has some purpose in them which He will accomplish. Whenever we're tempted to think about how bad our situation is, the example of Job brings us back to reality :). He lost all his kids, all his possessions, his health, and his reputation.
- We Christians have the unique privilege of knowing the ending. We're on the winning team! This should instill great confidence, comfort, peace, and patience in us. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy!!!
- Job was a great example of steadfastness. Patient endurance stems from the conviction that hardships are not meaningless, but God has some purpose in them which He will accomplish. Whenever we're tempted to think about how bad our situation is, the example of Job brings us back to reality :). He lost all his kids, all his possessions, his health, and his reputation.
- We Christians have the unique privilege of knowing the ending. We're on the winning team! This should instill great confidence, comfort, peace, and patience in us. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy!!!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Wait Patiently (James 5:7-9)
-
James tries to give an encouragement and counseling to the oppressed
poor...that they should bear patiently their social and economic
situation in view of the imminent return of the Lord. Be patient with
other people, even the oppressors of the world because Jesus will return
soon and correct all wrongs!
- One day the Lord will return and all suffering will be over. Let's keep our eyes and our hearts fixed on that glorious day! Christians ought to be patient and stand firm (not give up hope) when facing adversities.
- Be patient like a farmer. The farmer patiently waits because he understands the process and realizes it takes time. His expectations (of the final outcome) and his knowledge cultivate patience. We, too, can be patient because we know how it's all going to end and realize that we must wait until the Lord returns.
- "Stand firm": a firm resolution, an unbreakable conviction, a purposeful effort to endure until the Lord returns...no matter what the world and Satan throw at us.
- While we wait for the Lord's return, we're warned not to be grumbling against fellow Christians. Quit griping one another. We're on the same side/same team. Jesus prays for the unity of the Body of Christ. Let's love one another and edify one another, instead of complaining/grumbling.
- One day the Lord will return and all suffering will be over. Let's keep our eyes and our hearts fixed on that glorious day! Christians ought to be patient and stand firm (not give up hope) when facing adversities.
- Be patient like a farmer. The farmer patiently waits because he understands the process and realizes it takes time. His expectations (of the final outcome) and his knowledge cultivate patience. We, too, can be patient because we know how it's all going to end and realize that we must wait until the Lord returns.
- "Stand firm": a firm resolution, an unbreakable conviction, a purposeful effort to endure until the Lord returns...no matter what the world and Satan throw at us.
- While we wait for the Lord's return, we're warned not to be grumbling against fellow Christians. Quit griping one another. We're on the same side/same team. Jesus prays for the unity of the Body of Christ. Let's love one another and edify one another, instead of complaining/grumbling.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
What to Do with Wealth (James 5:1-6)
- This is a grave warning to the rich who oppress field workers for personal gain.
- There are many negative effects that wealth can have on people's lives. The culprit is not the wealth or the money itself. It's the love and lust for money and the failure in stewardship. "Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:9-10
- All riches in this life not invested in Heavenly treasure are doomed to destruction. All the earthly possessions/wealth will rot, decay, be gone. We cannot take any of it with us when we die. How foolish it is for us to spend our whole life hoarding wealth! There are many stories/examples about wealthy people who end up miserable and lost at the end of their lives.
- Wealth is meant to be used for good purposes...for the good of mankind. We're blessed to be a blessing to others/to share with others (especially those in need), not to hoard for ourselves. We should use our resources for God's glory and God's kingdom, not ours.
- Though the rich oppressors didn't realize it, wealth was destroying them and their last days were already present and misery/judgment was coming on them.
- Their first sin was hoarding wealth (failing in their stewardship of God's resources). Their second sin was the cruel defrauding/cheating they did to the poor farm laborers. The Lord Almighty (whose Name suggests His sovereign omnipotence) is not oblivious to the injustice. "The Lord is a Refuge for the oppressed, a Stronghold in times of trouble." (Psalm 9:9)
- Their third sin was their luxurious/extravagant living and self-indulgence (pleasing themselves with everything they wanted and going to any length to get more). It's all about worldly pleasures and self.
- Poor people are dragged into court (James 2:6) and cannot defend themselves. They're completely at the mercy of the unscrupulous rich men. These rich men used the courts to "condemn" and "murder" the innocent/the just. The rich lifestyle can be addicting and become a consuming sin that leads to other sins. The thought and pursuit of it becomes the primary focus in life (we even see this in some Christians---ex: Prosperity Gospel).
- What God is condemning: cheating, taking advantage of people, dishonorable ways of obtaining and using wealth, hoarding, flaunting of wealth with luxurious living and self-indulgence. By doing these things, they were dishonoring God Who was the One Who blessed them in the first place.
- We must examine ourselves. I'm pretty sure all of us here are "rich" :) (according to the Bible, being "rich" is having more than what we need to survive today). Are we generous? It may not involve cheating people out of pay but simply an attitude of being as stingy as possible to keep more money for ourselves. It's a mindset that is self-focused and is not being considerate about others. Remember that God loves a cheerful giver and it is more blessed to give than to receive :)!
- There are many negative effects that wealth can have on people's lives. The culprit is not the wealth or the money itself. It's the love and lust for money and the failure in stewardship. "Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:9-10
- All riches in this life not invested in Heavenly treasure are doomed to destruction. All the earthly possessions/wealth will rot, decay, be gone. We cannot take any of it with us when we die. How foolish it is for us to spend our whole life hoarding wealth! There are many stories/examples about wealthy people who end up miserable and lost at the end of their lives.
- Wealth is meant to be used for good purposes...for the good of mankind. We're blessed to be a blessing to others/to share with others (especially those in need), not to hoard for ourselves. We should use our resources for God's glory and God's kingdom, not ours.
- Though the rich oppressors didn't realize it, wealth was destroying them and their last days were already present and misery/judgment was coming on them.
- Their first sin was hoarding wealth (failing in their stewardship of God's resources). Their second sin was the cruel defrauding/cheating they did to the poor farm laborers. The Lord Almighty (whose Name suggests His sovereign omnipotence) is not oblivious to the injustice. "The Lord is a Refuge for the oppressed, a Stronghold in times of trouble." (Psalm 9:9)
- Their third sin was their luxurious/extravagant living and self-indulgence (pleasing themselves with everything they wanted and going to any length to get more). It's all about worldly pleasures and self.
- Poor people are dragged into court (James 2:6) and cannot defend themselves. They're completely at the mercy of the unscrupulous rich men. These rich men used the courts to "condemn" and "murder" the innocent/the just. The rich lifestyle can be addicting and become a consuming sin that leads to other sins. The thought and pursuit of it becomes the primary focus in life (we even see this in some Christians---ex: Prosperity Gospel).
- What God is condemning: cheating, taking advantage of people, dishonorable ways of obtaining and using wealth, hoarding, flaunting of wealth with luxurious living and self-indulgence. By doing these things, they were dishonoring God Who was the One Who blessed them in the first place.
- We must examine ourselves. I'm pretty sure all of us here are "rich" :) (according to the Bible, being "rich" is having more than what we need to survive today). Are we generous? It may not involve cheating people out of pay but simply an attitude of being as stingy as possible to keep more money for ourselves. It's a mindset that is self-focused and is not being considerate about others. Remember that God loves a cheerful giver and it is more blessed to give than to receive :)!
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Sin of Omission (James 4:17)
- What a great concluding statement !
James is warning his readers who are Christians. They know that
humility and dependence upon God are essential in Christian living but
if they refuse to do it, they choose to sin. No excuses!
- It comes back to putting your faith in action again. Do what is right (in God's eyes/according to God's Word)! If we know the right thing/the good deeds we ought to do but we don't do it, we sin (commit sin of omission). Sometimes sin of omission can be trickier to pinpoint than sin of commission (doing what we shouldn't do). We're more aware of the things we shouldn't do because we would be ashamed of them. But how about the things we should be doing but we don't do? Satan loves it when Christians become complacent, inactive, divisive, self-reliant, worldly, lazy,...pretty much ineffective and useless for the Kingdom of God.
- Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we love You and desire to obey, please, and honor You in all we do and say. Please give us eyes to see where and how we may be a blessing to others. Please give us Your love for those around us. Please forgive us for times when we should have done something but we didn't. Please empower us to do all that you call us to do. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
- The song "Give Me Your Eyes" by Brandon Heath came to mind. I'd like to share this video (with the song) my daughter made 2 years ago (a slideshow of her short term mission trip onboard the Logos Hope).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFoYAsvXTF0
- It comes back to putting your faith in action again. Do what is right (in God's eyes/according to God's Word)! If we know the right thing/the good deeds we ought to do but we don't do it, we sin (commit sin of omission). Sometimes sin of omission can be trickier to pinpoint than sin of commission (doing what we shouldn't do). We're more aware of the things we shouldn't do because we would be ashamed of them. But how about the things we should be doing but we don't do? Satan loves it when Christians become complacent, inactive, divisive, self-reliant, worldly, lazy,...pretty much ineffective and useless for the Kingdom of God.
- Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we love You and desire to obey, please, and honor You in all we do and say. Please give us eyes to see where and how we may be a blessing to others. Please give us Your love for those around us. Please forgive us for times when we should have done something but we didn't. Please empower us to do all that you call us to do. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
- The song "Give Me Your Eyes" by Brandon Heath came to mind. I'd like to share this video (with the song) my daughter made 2 years ago (a slideshow of her short term mission trip onboard the Logos Hope).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFoYAsvXTF0
Monday, July 15, 2013
Mere Mist (James 4:13-16)
-
It's about the attitude here. There's nothing wrong with planning in
itself. However, according to these verses, the planners or merchants
here ignored 2 considerations: 1. the finite/limited knowledge of human
beings and 2. the uncertainty of life (our life is just a
mist/vapor/puff of smoke).
- James denounces the bragging/boasting (arrogance) as evil/sinful.
- God wants us to trust Him about the future. You know that common saying, "We don't know what the future holds but we know Who holds the future." Our future is in God's hands.
- Two opposing attitudes: 1. I'm the lord of my life; I'm in charge/in control. I'm going to make this happen and that happen. With no regard for God's plan for my life, I'll determine what I'm going to do when, where, and how. 2. God is the Lord of my life and He is in control. I submit everything I plan and hope for to His will. I surrender all. I only want His will...nothing more...nothing less...nothing else!
- We are not promised tomorrow. We must keep in mind our temporal nature and God's will when we make plans. This is another warning against pride and arrogance and worldliness. Our confidence, hope, and dependence should be in and upon God, not self and not the world.
Deo volente! God willing!
Dei gratia! By the grace of God...
#theuncertaintyoflife #lifeisshort #livinginthelightofeternity
- James denounces the bragging/boasting (arrogance) as evil/sinful.
- God wants us to trust Him about the future. You know that common saying, "We don't know what the future holds but we know Who holds the future." Our future is in God's hands.
- Two opposing attitudes: 1. I'm the lord of my life; I'm in charge/in control. I'm going to make this happen and that happen. With no regard for God's plan for my life, I'll determine what I'm going to do when, where, and how. 2. God is the Lord of my life and He is in control. I submit everything I plan and hope for to His will. I surrender all. I only want His will...nothing more...nothing less...nothing else!
- We are not promised tomorrow. We must keep in mind our temporal nature and God's will when we make plans. This is another warning against pride and arrogance and worldliness. Our confidence, hope, and dependence should be in and upon God, not self and not the world.
Deo volente! God willing!
Dei gratia! By the grace of God...
#theuncertaintyoflife #lifeisshort #livinginthelightofeternity
Sunday, July 14, 2013
God First and God Alone
What's the second most important decision you've ever made or will make in your life (after the decision to follow Jesus)? I believe most people would say "choosing their spouse." This decision will affect you for the rest of your lives...for better or for worse. It's not like choosing a house, choosing a career, choosing a pet, etc. which you can change if it doesn't work out as planned. Marriage is a life-time covenant/commitment between a man and a woman before God. I've always said that God-arranged and Christ-centered marriages are the best :)! Here's some advice I've given to my 20 year old daughter:-
- Pray for God's will...for your future spouse (if it's God's will for you to be married someday).
- Wait for God's best; don't just settle for anyone.
- Take time to know "that special someone" for at least a year (all four seasons), preferably longer.
- Never agree to marry someone out of sympathy, desperation, loneliness, fear, or desire to escape from a bad situation.
- Keep yourself sexually pure; save yourself (sexually and emotionally) for your future spouse and expect the same from him.
- Make sure he loves God more than you. How is his relationship with Christ? Is he a man after God's own heart (passionate for God and for living for God)?
- Does he encourage and edify you in your walk with Christ? Does your relationship with him help you grow stronger and deeper in your relationship with your Lord and Savior? Or does it distract you and cause the opposite effect?
- Do you see Christ and Christlikeness in him? Nobody is perfect but is he humble before God and you to admit when he's wrong and to repent and ask for forgiveness?
- Watch how he treats his own parents and siblings, your parents and siblings, friends, the Body of Christ, and even enemies (if there are any).
- How does he react to frustrations, failures, disappointments, obstacles, adversities, and trials? How well does he control his temper? Does he respect you and your opinions?
- Make sure he shares the same vision and values as you do. You both need to move forward in the same direction.
- Love unconditionally, unselfishly, and sacrificially. Give, forgive, and serve freely and faithfully. Put others above yourself; look for ways to meet their needs (instead of demanding that they meet your needs). You'll have to choose to love like Jesus and put these things into action over and over again. If you're not willing or not ready to live this way intentionally (it's a choice you make, not based on feelings) on a daily basis, don't get married yet. One main cause for divorces and unhappy marriages is selfishness/self-centeredness.
- Is it a joy/a pleasure to respect and submit to him? Does he make it easy for you or difficult for you?
- Can you trust him with your life? Without absolute trust in each other, the relationship will falter.
- Imagine what it would be like to spend your every day with "this person" for the rest of your life. A "way out" (divorce) is not an option.
- Discuss your dreams, your weaknesses, your strengths, your passions, your future expectations, your needs/your wants, the way you handle money, how many kids you hope to have, parenting styles, where you will live, how you handle disagreement/conflicts, ministries you support, ways you want to serve God, your likes/dislikes, your hobbies, your quirks, etc.
Advice I often give is this: "While you're still single (and when you're married), be completely satisfied, fulfilled, and content in Christ alone!" Some people say that their spouse completes them or some singles are looking for someone to complete them. That's a myth and a setup for disappointment! No one can complete you except God, your Creator. “Thou hast made us for Thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.” (St. Augustine) Don't expect your future spouse to do God's job; it will never happen! My friend sent me this poem below and it pretty much says what I believe is the first requirement for any successful marriage. God first and God alone!
Everyone longs to give themselves completely to someone
To have a deep soul relationship with another
To be loved thoroughly and exclusively
But God to a Christian says,
No, not until you are satisfied, fulfilled and content
With being loved by Me alone
With giving yourself totally and unreservedly to Me
With having an intensely personal and unique relationship with Me alone
Discovering that only in Me is your satisfaction to be found
Will you then be capable of the perfect human relationship that I have planned for you.
You will never be united with another until you are united with Me
Exclusive of anyone or anything else
I want you to stop planning
Stop wishing
And allow Me to give the most thrilling plan existing
One that you cannot imagine
I want you to have the best
Please allow Me to bring it to you
You just keep watching expecting the greatest things
Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I am
Keep listening and learning the things I tell you
You just wait
That's all
Don't be anxious
Don't worry
Don't look around at the things others have gotten
Or that I have given them.
~Author Unknown
What advice do you give to unmarried people? What advice do you wish you received before you got married? Please share. Thanks!
This post is linked up with Faith-filled Friday @Beholding Glory, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.
- Pray for God's will...for your future spouse (if it's God's will for you to be married someday).
- Wait for God's best; don't just settle for anyone.
- Take time to know "that special someone" for at least a year (all four seasons), preferably longer.
- Never agree to marry someone out of sympathy, desperation, loneliness, fear, or desire to escape from a bad situation.
- Keep yourself sexually pure; save yourself (sexually and emotionally) for your future spouse and expect the same from him.
- Make sure he loves God more than you. How is his relationship with Christ? Is he a man after God's own heart (passionate for God and for living for God)?
- Does he encourage and edify you in your walk with Christ? Does your relationship with him help you grow stronger and deeper in your relationship with your Lord and Savior? Or does it distract you and cause the opposite effect?
- Do you see Christ and Christlikeness in him? Nobody is perfect but is he humble before God and you to admit when he's wrong and to repent and ask for forgiveness?
- Watch how he treats his own parents and siblings, your parents and siblings, friends, the Body of Christ, and even enemies (if there are any).
- How does he react to frustrations, failures, disappointments, obstacles, adversities, and trials? How well does he control his temper? Does he respect you and your opinions?
- Make sure he shares the same vision and values as you do. You both need to move forward in the same direction.
- Love unconditionally, unselfishly, and sacrificially. Give, forgive, and serve freely and faithfully. Put others above yourself; look for ways to meet their needs (instead of demanding that they meet your needs). You'll have to choose to love like Jesus and put these things into action over and over again. If you're not willing or not ready to live this way intentionally (it's a choice you make, not based on feelings) on a daily basis, don't get married yet. One main cause for divorces and unhappy marriages is selfishness/self-centeredness.
- Is it a joy/a pleasure to respect and submit to him? Does he make it easy for you or difficult for you?
- Can you trust him with your life? Without absolute trust in each other, the relationship will falter.
- Imagine what it would be like to spend your every day with "this person" for the rest of your life. A "way out" (divorce) is not an option.
- Discuss your dreams, your weaknesses, your strengths, your passions, your future expectations, your needs/your wants, the way you handle money, how many kids you hope to have, parenting styles, where you will live, how you handle disagreement/conflicts, ministries you support, ways you want to serve God, your likes/dislikes, your hobbies, your quirks, etc.
Advice I often give is this: "While you're still single (and when you're married), be completely satisfied, fulfilled, and content in Christ alone!" Some people say that their spouse completes them or some singles are looking for someone to complete them. That's a myth and a setup for disappointment! No one can complete you except God, your Creator. “Thou hast made us for Thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.” (St. Augustine) Don't expect your future spouse to do God's job; it will never happen! My friend sent me this poem below and it pretty much says what I believe is the first requirement for any successful marriage. God first and God alone!
Everyone longs to give themselves completely to someone
To have a deep soul relationship with another
To be loved thoroughly and exclusively
But God to a Christian says,
No, not until you are satisfied, fulfilled and content
With being loved by Me alone
With giving yourself totally and unreservedly to Me
With having an intensely personal and unique relationship with Me alone
Discovering that only in Me is your satisfaction to be found
Will you then be capable of the perfect human relationship that I have planned for you.
You will never be united with another until you are united with Me
Exclusive of anyone or anything else
I want you to stop planning
Stop wishing
And allow Me to give the most thrilling plan existing
One that you cannot imagine
I want you to have the best
Please allow Me to bring it to you
You just keep watching expecting the greatest things
Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I am
Keep listening and learning the things I tell you
You just wait
That's all
Don't be anxious
Don't worry
Don't look around at the things others have gotten
Or that I have given them.
~Author Unknown
What advice do you give to unmarried people? What advice do you wish you received before you got married? Please share. Thanks!
This post is linked up with Faith-filled Friday @Beholding Glory, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Pride and Self-Righteousness (James 4:11-12)
- These verses talk about the sin of pride & self-righteousness (which leads to judgment), and tongue trouble (slander).
- "Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another." Do not speak evil of one another (that means no badmouthing, no unfairly criticizing, no being derogatory, no uttering malicious reports).
- When we judge our brothers and sisters in Christ and speak against them, we're putting ourselves in God's place, setting ourselves up as the Judge of God's children. In the meantime, we're insulting and speaking against the Law, not keeping it. We're judging the Law to be inferior to our own personal law which apparently approves slandering.
- God is the only Lawgiver and Judge! He alone can forgive and show mercy to those who have broken His Law or punish those who do not repent. Don't try to take God's job. Who are we to judge, condemn, and punish other Christians (by hurting their feelings and their reputation with our words) based on our own version of justice and law?
- "Do not judge" is probably one of the most misunderstood phrases in the Bible . You can read more about this issue on my blog at http://bornagainandblessed.blogspot.com/.../do-not... . We're commanded to confront, rebuke, correct, and lovingly redirect those who violate God's law (Matthew 18:15-17; Acts 20:31; Titus 1:10-16). However, the rebukes should never consist of badmouthing/ slandering but should be done with love, grace, gentleness and motives meant to restore that person.
- "Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another." Do not speak evil of one another (that means no badmouthing, no unfairly criticizing, no being derogatory, no uttering malicious reports).
- When we judge our brothers and sisters in Christ and speak against them, we're putting ourselves in God's place, setting ourselves up as the Judge of God's children. In the meantime, we're insulting and speaking against the Law, not keeping it. We're judging the Law to be inferior to our own personal law which apparently approves slandering.
- God is the only Lawgiver and Judge! He alone can forgive and show mercy to those who have broken His Law or punish those who do not repent. Don't try to take God's job. Who are we to judge, condemn, and punish other Christians (by hurting their feelings and their reputation with our words) based on our own version of justice and law?
- "Do not judge" is probably one of the most misunderstood phrases in the Bible . You can read more about this issue on my blog at http://bornagainandblessed.blogspot.com/.../do-not... . We're commanded to confront, rebuke, correct, and lovingly redirect those who violate God's law (Matthew 18:15-17; Acts 20:31; Titus 1:10-16). However, the rebukes should never consist of badmouthing/ slandering but should be done with love, grace, gentleness and motives meant to restore that person.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Cure for Worldliness and Pride (James 4:7-10)
- Want a cure for worldliness and pride? Let's pay attention to the following 8 imperatives.
- 1. "Submit yourselves, then, to God." We must give ourselves completely to God, surrendering our desires, our will, and all to Him. Submission involves humility and obedience.
- 2. "Resist the devil." Satan loves pride and hates humility (he's the opposite of God). He'll do all he can to inflame our pride (arrogance & selfish ambition), spark envy/covetousness in our hearts, and/or lure us to fall in love with worldly things. How do we resist the devil? Follow Jesus' example by answering Satan's temptations and accusations with the Scriptures. That means we have to know what the Bible says. We need to read it, study it, memorize it, and apply/live it. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Satan will flee from us because he cannot compete with or defeat the power of God's Word.
- 3. "Come near to God." Close communion with God assures His presence and intimacy ("And He will come near to you") and turns us away from loving the world. The more we know God and the longer we taste His goodness, the less worldly things can entice us. We must spend plenty of time with God in prayer and in His Word.
- 4. "Wash your hands, you sinners." We must clean up our conduct/our lives ("go and sin no more").
- 5. "And purify your hearts, you double-minded." You double-minded (you who are trying to follow God and the world at the same time), make sure your inner motives are pure. We must choose one or the other. God demands our undivided allegiance.
- 6. "Grieve, mourn and wail." This is a call to repentance! We should have Paul's attitude, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?" (Romans 7:24) We should grieve, mourn and wail because we've sinned against God.
- 7. "Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom." James wants us to express true remorse for our sin, recognize its destruction, and realize how offensive sin is to God. We must take it seriously. May we never forget the ugliness of our sin and the beauty of God's grace!
- 8. "Humble yourselves before the Lord." Remember that humility is the key! Don't be prideful and think, "I'm not that bad or I'm not as bad as so and so...". God hates pride! When we humbly acknowledge that we desperately need God's help, He lifts us up. To be lifted up by God is to be rescued, comforted, strengthened, refreshed, empowered, and embraced by our Heavenly Father Who cares deeply for us and gives us eternal worth and glorious riches in Christ. "He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." Psalm 40:2
- 1. "Submit yourselves, then, to God." We must give ourselves completely to God, surrendering our desires, our will, and all to Him. Submission involves humility and obedience.
- 2. "Resist the devil." Satan loves pride and hates humility (he's the opposite of God). He'll do all he can to inflame our pride (arrogance & selfish ambition), spark envy/covetousness in our hearts, and/or lure us to fall in love with worldly things. How do we resist the devil? Follow Jesus' example by answering Satan's temptations and accusations with the Scriptures. That means we have to know what the Bible says. We need to read it, study it, memorize it, and apply/live it. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Satan will flee from us because he cannot compete with or defeat the power of God's Word.
- 3. "Come near to God." Close communion with God assures His presence and intimacy ("And He will come near to you") and turns us away from loving the world. The more we know God and the longer we taste His goodness, the less worldly things can entice us. We must spend plenty of time with God in prayer and in His Word.
- 4. "Wash your hands, you sinners." We must clean up our conduct/our lives ("go and sin no more").
- 5. "And purify your hearts, you double-minded." You double-minded (you who are trying to follow God and the world at the same time), make sure your inner motives are pure. We must choose one or the other. God demands our undivided allegiance.
- 6. "Grieve, mourn and wail." This is a call to repentance! We should have Paul's attitude, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?" (Romans 7:24) We should grieve, mourn and wail because we've sinned against God.
- 7. "Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom." James wants us to express true remorse for our sin, recognize its destruction, and realize how offensive sin is to God. We must take it seriously. May we never forget the ugliness of our sin and the beauty of God's grace!
- 8. "Humble yourselves before the Lord." Remember that humility is the key! Don't be prideful and think, "I'm not that bad or I'm not as bad as so and so...". God hates pride! When we humbly acknowledge that we desperately need God's help, He lifts us up. To be lifted up by God is to be rescued, comforted, strengthened, refreshed, empowered, and embraced by our Heavenly Father Who cares deeply for us and gives us eternal worth and glorious riches in Christ. "He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." Psalm 40:2
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