“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and the sexually immoral." Hebrews 13:4
Since the guy who wrote Hebrews didn’t shy away from the sex talk, neither will we, so here goes. “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and the sexually immoral”(Heb. 13:4).
All of us should value and respect marriage. Why? First, because society starts to unravel when marriages fall apart. The covenant connection of one man and one woman sticking together and staying together “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, keeping their hands and hearts off any others, as long as they both shall live” is the basic building block of a strong and stable culture. This is not meant as a statement of judgment on those who are divorced, for, sadly, sometimes such action is necessary, but those who have felt the pain of a split know that the end of a dream brings tears and not cheers.
Second, and more importantly, marriage is meant to model God’s perfect, pure, and pleasurable connection with His church—His people made His own by the covenant of Christ’s sacrifice. We shouldn’t blur the picture by being impure. “The marriage bed [should be] kept pure,” is a direct but difficult demand, and we have millenniums of messes to prove that hormones and hearts are hard to control. Kingdoms (political, commercial, and religious) have crumbled, and rulers (presidents, principals, and preachers) have tumbled because of adultery.
God’s not trying to spoil our fun; in fact He’s trying to facilitate it. Sex is His grand—and very good—idea. Since He created the game, He gets to set the rules, and when we step out of bounds, we pay the penalty. “God will judge the adulterer and the sexually immoral”(Heb. 13:4). Yes, because Christ’s blood covers our sin, God forgives our failures, but the current consequences of our choices are not removed. Trust is shattered. Hearts are broken. Relationships often crash on the rocks, and we hurt not only others but also ourselves. “All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body”(1 Cor. 6:18). We’re not given details of what this means because it’s hard to explain except by experience. If you don’t get it, good. And if you’ve been there, don’t go there again. “Other than your spouse” sex leaves you with pain, problems, and a past you would like to get past. God’s grace renews us and help us rebuild, but the process is tough and takes time.
Before some get prideful, remember that purity is more than what you do; it’s also what you desire. Jesus clearly stated that an affair can be in attitude as well as actions, and when a look turns to lust, you’ve crossed the line. Dangerous desires, physically or emotionally, with a lover or online, are devastating, destructive, and disobedient.
No matter the state of your relationship (single, dating, engaged, married, or divorced) treat marriage—and the God of marriage—as something precious by being pure.
If you’re not married to somebody, don’t sleep with anybody.
And if vows have been said, stay in bed with the one you wed.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Monday, August 29, 2011
Prison Pals
“Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” Hebrews 3:13
We know little about suffering for Jesus. Yes, friends, family, co-workers, and teachers— antagonistic to the faith—often hurl hurtful remarks and insults. Sadly, we do hear more and more in America about Christians being denied promotions, outspoken believers being hushed, and Godly faculty being reprimanded for attending school prayer vigils. While such incidents make us mad and make us sad, they should also cause us to remember the much more severe persecution faced by our family in Christ around the world. In fact, we shouldn’t require a news flash of an incident close by to rouse our concern for those far away. We should keep them on our minds and in our hearts every day. “Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering”(Heb. 13:3).
Not sure who’s hurting? Here are a few facts taken from two Christian news sites:
One-third of North Korea’s 100,000 believers are in concentration camps.
At the beginning of August, three houses used as churches were burned in Sumatra. A gang threw stones and threatened church members with knives before pouring gasoline around the houses and setting them on fire.
In Malaysia, authorities from the Islamic Religious Department, accompanied by police, recently raided a celebration dinner at the Damansara United Methodist Church and recorded the names of those present.
In Eritrea, 90 Christians, mostly college students, have been arrested since May and are in the notorious Mitire military prison.
In the past week, dozens of priests and believers have been arrested in China, and twenty-four were killed in attacks on Christian villages in Nigeria.
In Pakistan, a fourteen year old Christian girl was taken from her home at gunpoint by a Muslim who intends to “purify her,” convert her to Islam, and make her his mistress. Such violent acts occur often against young Christian girls, but police authorities will not respond or investigate.
In Mexico and other Latin countries, Christians have increasingly become targeted as victims of attacks, kidnappings, and murders by gangs and organized crime.
And three weeks ago, a sixteen-year-old girl in Sudan escaped from a gang of Muslims of who kidnapped her one year ago. She was initially locked in a room and beaten until unconscious. The leader of the group raped her, and she is still suffering pain in her right eye from a blow he recently dealt her in a beating. “Apart from abusing me sexually, he tried to force me to change my faith,” she said. “I cannot forget this bad incident, and whenever I try to pray, I find it difficult to forget. I ask believers to pray for me for inner healing.”
“Remember those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” Millions of our brothers and sisters are hurting, and over 100,000 will die for their faith this year. The key to prison might be held by the enemy, but the key to prayer is in your hands.
Fold them and don’t forget.
We know little about suffering for Jesus. Yes, friends, family, co-workers, and teachers— antagonistic to the faith—often hurl hurtful remarks and insults. Sadly, we do hear more and more in America about Christians being denied promotions, outspoken believers being hushed, and Godly faculty being reprimanded for attending school prayer vigils. While such incidents make us mad and make us sad, they should also cause us to remember the much more severe persecution faced by our family in Christ around the world. In fact, we shouldn’t require a news flash of an incident close by to rouse our concern for those far away. We should keep them on our minds and in our hearts every day. “Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering”(Heb. 13:3).
Not sure who’s hurting? Here are a few facts taken from two Christian news sites:
One-third of North Korea’s 100,000 believers are in concentration camps.
At the beginning of August, three houses used as churches were burned in Sumatra. A gang threw stones and threatened church members with knives before pouring gasoline around the houses and setting them on fire.
In Malaysia, authorities from the Islamic Religious Department, accompanied by police, recently raided a celebration dinner at the Damansara United Methodist Church and recorded the names of those present.
In Eritrea, 90 Christians, mostly college students, have been arrested since May and are in the notorious Mitire military prison.
In the past week, dozens of priests and believers have been arrested in China, and twenty-four were killed in attacks on Christian villages in Nigeria.
In Pakistan, a fourteen year old Christian girl was taken from her home at gunpoint by a Muslim who intends to “purify her,” convert her to Islam, and make her his mistress. Such violent acts occur often against young Christian girls, but police authorities will not respond or investigate.
In Mexico and other Latin countries, Christians have increasingly become targeted as victims of attacks, kidnappings, and murders by gangs and organized crime.
And three weeks ago, a sixteen-year-old girl in Sudan escaped from a gang of Muslims of who kidnapped her one year ago. She was initially locked in a room and beaten until unconscious. The leader of the group raped her, and she is still suffering pain in her right eye from a blow he recently dealt her in a beating. “Apart from abusing me sexually, he tried to force me to change my faith,” she said. “I cannot forget this bad incident, and whenever I try to pray, I find it difficult to forget. I ask believers to pray for me for inner healing.”
“Remember those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” Millions of our brothers and sisters are hurting, and over 100,000 will die for their faith this year. The key to prison might be held by the enemy, but the key to prayer is in your hands.
Fold them and don’t forget.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Love Like Brothers
“Keep on loving each other as brothers.” Hebrews 13:1
My brother loves me. I’m not trying to brag or make those at odds with their siblings feel bad, but the truth is that I am blessed to have a brother who loves me. How do I know this is so? Because he shows me. He talks to me. He listens to me. He prays for me. He cares for me. If he has a concern, he shares it honestly. When I have a goal, he encourages it heartily. He is generous, funny, straightforward, and loyal. He has shown his love by standing up for me, protecting me, and being willing to die for me—literally.
Throughout our early years, we spent countless hours working together and playing together, and though now we live many miles apart, we make the effort to see each other often. In fact, if my brother won a trip for two (and his wife couldn’t go), he would take me or my sister. Actually, my brother would take us both and just pay for the extra one!
My brother is not perfect and I’m well aware of his faults, but I suggest that you don’t point them out, for while personal offenses are easily overlooked and forgiven, I will defend him ferociously. Blood is thicker than water, and when others in my life have walked away, my brother has been there to stay. I love my brother and don’t plan to stop.
“Keep on loving each other as brothers”(Heb. 13:1). God’s household in Hebrews had made loving as brothers a habit, and we should too. Though we all don’t have the same last name, the same saving blood runs through our veins and gives us God’s life. 134 times in the epistles Christians are referred to as “brothers,” so since we are family, and we need to love like one.
By loyal. Be generous. Be gracious. Don’t make perfection a prerequisite for affection, but be hard to offend, quick to forgive, and fast to defend. Hurt when others hurt. Help when they need help. Be the one they can call when no one else cares, and be there to stay when others walk away. “Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers”(1 John 3:16).
Start—and don’t stop—loving each other as brothers.
My brother loves me. I’m not trying to brag or make those at odds with their siblings feel bad, but the truth is that I am blessed to have a brother who loves me. How do I know this is so? Because he shows me. He talks to me. He listens to me. He prays for me. He cares for me. If he has a concern, he shares it honestly. When I have a goal, he encourages it heartily. He is generous, funny, straightforward, and loyal. He has shown his love by standing up for me, protecting me, and being willing to die for me—literally.
Throughout our early years, we spent countless hours working together and playing together, and though now we live many miles apart, we make the effort to see each other often. In fact, if my brother won a trip for two (and his wife couldn’t go), he would take me or my sister. Actually, my brother would take us both and just pay for the extra one!
My brother is not perfect and I’m well aware of his faults, but I suggest that you don’t point them out, for while personal offenses are easily overlooked and forgiven, I will defend him ferociously. Blood is thicker than water, and when others in my life have walked away, my brother has been there to stay. I love my brother and don’t plan to stop.
“Keep on loving each other as brothers”(Heb. 13:1). God’s household in Hebrews had made loving as brothers a habit, and we should too. Though we all don’t have the same last name, the same saving blood runs through our veins and gives us God’s life. 134 times in the epistles Christians are referred to as “brothers,” so since we are family, and we need to love like one.
By loyal. Be generous. Be gracious. Don’t make perfection a prerequisite for affection, but be hard to offend, quick to forgive, and fast to defend. Hurt when others hurt. Help when they need help. Be the one they can call when no one else cares, and be there to stay when others walk away. “Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers”(1 John 3:16).
Start—and don’t stop—loving each other as brothers.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
All Shook Up
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”(Heb. 12:28-29).
We’re not as solid as we seem.
Over the past several years, storms and tsunamis of many kinds have shown that our structures of security are easily shaken. Roofs have been ripped away. Homes and households have fallen apart. The stock market has turned and tumbled. The Twin Towers toppled. And our own souls have quaked and quivered in disappointment and pain.
Unlike Elvis, it’s not love that has us all shook up; it’s life—but it is a life controlled by a sovereign God with a sacred purpose. As He started forming the nation of Israel, God’s voice “shook the earth”(Heb. 12:26a), and He has promised that at the end of time, “Once more will I shake not only the earth but also the heavens”(Heb. 12:26b). God didn’t create earth to last—only eternity, and in this in between He uses tumults and tremors to refine His own and reach those not yet His.
As our domiciles or our dreams lie in ruin, perhaps part of His point is to remind us that troubles are temporary, but He is timeless. As kings and kingdoms falter and fall around us, we can be sure that the One who holds our faith—and our fate—will never fail. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe”(Heb. 12:28-29).
Mouth-gaping gratitude for such a gift should give way to abandoned worship as we honor God for who He is and what He has done. Be astounded that One so mighty cares for one so minute—and such a mess! Be amazed that as you weeble and wobble, His strength supports you, His grace sustains you, and His love never leaves you alone. You are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken!! Don’t just mumble some token line about the good Lord being a big help, but fall to your knees in absolute awe that “the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and His truth endures forever”(Ps. 100:5).
It doesn’t take much to make us quake, but nothing gets God all shook up.
Stand on the Solid Rock.
We’re not as solid as we seem.
Over the past several years, storms and tsunamis of many kinds have shown that our structures of security are easily shaken. Roofs have been ripped away. Homes and households have fallen apart. The stock market has turned and tumbled. The Twin Towers toppled. And our own souls have quaked and quivered in disappointment and pain.
Unlike Elvis, it’s not love that has us all shook up; it’s life—but it is a life controlled by a sovereign God with a sacred purpose. As He started forming the nation of Israel, God’s voice “shook the earth”(Heb. 12:26a), and He has promised that at the end of time, “Once more will I shake not only the earth but also the heavens”(Heb. 12:26b). God didn’t create earth to last—only eternity, and in this in between He uses tumults and tremors to refine His own and reach those not yet His.
As our domiciles or our dreams lie in ruin, perhaps part of His point is to remind us that troubles are temporary, but He is timeless. As kings and kingdoms falter and fall around us, we can be sure that the One who holds our faith—and our fate—will never fail. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe”(Heb. 12:28-29).
Mouth-gaping gratitude for such a gift should give way to abandoned worship as we honor God for who He is and what He has done. Be astounded that One so mighty cares for one so minute—and such a mess! Be amazed that as you weeble and wobble, His strength supports you, His grace sustains you, and His love never leaves you alone. You are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken!! Don’t just mumble some token line about the good Lord being a big help, but fall to your knees in absolute awe that “the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and His truth endures forever”(Ps. 100:5).
It doesn’t take much to make us quake, but nothing gets God all shook up.
Stand on the Solid Rock.
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Mountain Masterpiece
“You have not come to a mountain…that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm. But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God.” Hebrews 12:18,2
I love art. I’m lousy at it (that’s not humility—that’s honesty), but I love it. Displayed in my home are various paintings and prints I’ve collected throughout the years. The works on my walls were not chosen because they are masterpieces or because they match the scheme of the room but because of their meaning. Each picture is special—some because of the artist, some because of the subject. When I see the images, I smile as I think about some one, some place, or some time. Each frame captures a moment I want to remember and never forget.
The writer of Hebrews must have been an art lover too, for in the midst of exhortations and instructions about how we should live a Godly life, he pauses to paint a picture of why we should live a Godly life. For effect, he employs contrast—contrast both stark and soothing. Two mountains. One in the past. One in the present. Two moods. One judgment. One joy. Two motions. Backing away in fear. Running forward in faith. And the one constant on both canvasses—a just God who laid down His law and then laid down His life.
Darkness, smoke, and storm shrouded the scene at Mt. Sinai. From a hovering cloud, God’s holy voice boomed a divine warning: “Don’t cross the line or you won’t live!” “We can’t bear the sound,” the people begged Moses, who himself trembled in fear at the terrifying sight(Heb. 12:21). A litany of commandments then followed—requirements of a righteous God who could not allow His sinful children to come close. Though His demands for sacrifice dripped with grace, that mountain was off-limits and inaccessible.
“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel”(Heb. 12:22-24).
One hill held the threat of death. The other holds the promise of life. And a cross on top of Calvary built a bridge between the two.
Be captivated by the picture, and come on up the mountain.
I love art. I’m lousy at it (that’s not humility—that’s honesty), but I love it. Displayed in my home are various paintings and prints I’ve collected throughout the years. The works on my walls were not chosen because they are masterpieces or because they match the scheme of the room but because of their meaning. Each picture is special—some because of the artist, some because of the subject. When I see the images, I smile as I think about some one, some place, or some time. Each frame captures a moment I want to remember and never forget.
The writer of Hebrews must have been an art lover too, for in the midst of exhortations and instructions about how we should live a Godly life, he pauses to paint a picture of why we should live a Godly life. For effect, he employs contrast—contrast both stark and soothing. Two mountains. One in the past. One in the present. Two moods. One judgment. One joy. Two motions. Backing away in fear. Running forward in faith. And the one constant on both canvasses—a just God who laid down His law and then laid down His life.
Darkness, smoke, and storm shrouded the scene at Mt. Sinai. From a hovering cloud, God’s holy voice boomed a divine warning: “Don’t cross the line or you won’t live!” “We can’t bear the sound,” the people begged Moses, who himself trembled in fear at the terrifying sight(Heb. 12:21). A litany of commandments then followed—requirements of a righteous God who could not allow His sinful children to come close. Though His demands for sacrifice dripped with grace, that mountain was off-limits and inaccessible.
“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel”(Heb. 12:22-24).
One hill held the threat of death. The other holds the promise of life. And a cross on top of Calvary built a bridge between the two.
Be captivated by the picture, and come on up the mountain.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
See To It
“See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Hebrews 12:15
“See to it!” Instructions from my grandmother were often followed by these three short but certain words. No dawdling permitted. No delay allowed. Hasten to the task and don’t halt until it is done. Back in the day, I didn’t realize she was repeating a command from Scripture, but here in Hebrews we find the same directive. “See to it.” See to what? Which issues beg such a strong imperative from God? Bitterness and grace. “See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many”(Heb. 12:15).
Many seeds want to sprout in our hearts. The circumstances and situations of life toss all kinds of attitudes and emotions into the soil of our souls. The ones we allow to take root are the ones which will run (and often ruin) our lives. If we allow bitterness to burrow in, we end up in a big mess because bitterness “grows up to cause trouble and defile many.”
To keep this from happening, we must first see to our soil. Envy, insecurity, and anger create a fertile environment for rapid growth. When don’t get what we want or what we think we’re due, when others we feel are less deserving end up with something we should have—or something they shouldn’t have, or when we’ve been hurt, disappointed, and betrayed, we must make sure the seed doesn’t start to sprout. In the off-limits list of Ephesians we’re told to “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice”(Eph. 4:31). Kindness, compassion, and forgiveness “just as in Christ God forgave you” are offered in the follow-up verse as exterminators to such evils. Bitterness cannot grow in the soil of grace.
But if in our frustration we miss God’s grace and mire ourselves in self-pity or self-righteousness, the bitterness that began below the surface will quickly spring up for all to see—for a bitter root produces bitter fruit. Our words will taste of negativity and criticism. Our attitudes will be sour with irritation and disdain. We will keep a long record of wrongs, be quick to point out the faults of others, and will hesitate to celebrate the successes of those around us. Our bitterness will “cause trouble and defile many” as its roots twist and tangle our hearts in a chokehold of resentment and cynicism.
Don’t let the root of bitterness get grounded and grow. Squash the seed before it sprouts, and pluck the plant while it is small. God’s grace is too great to miss, and being bitter only makes a mess.
Do what my grandmother said—“See to it!”
“See to it!” Instructions from my grandmother were often followed by these three short but certain words. No dawdling permitted. No delay allowed. Hasten to the task and don’t halt until it is done. Back in the day, I didn’t realize she was repeating a command from Scripture, but here in Hebrews we find the same directive. “See to it.” See to what? Which issues beg such a strong imperative from God? Bitterness and grace. “See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many”(Heb. 12:15).
Many seeds want to sprout in our hearts. The circumstances and situations of life toss all kinds of attitudes and emotions into the soil of our souls. The ones we allow to take root are the ones which will run (and often ruin) our lives. If we allow bitterness to burrow in, we end up in a big mess because bitterness “grows up to cause trouble and defile many.”
To keep this from happening, we must first see to our soil. Envy, insecurity, and anger create a fertile environment for rapid growth. When don’t get what we want or what we think we’re due, when others we feel are less deserving end up with something we should have—or something they shouldn’t have, or when we’ve been hurt, disappointed, and betrayed, we must make sure the seed doesn’t start to sprout. In the off-limits list of Ephesians we’re told to “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice”(Eph. 4:31). Kindness, compassion, and forgiveness “just as in Christ God forgave you” are offered in the follow-up verse as exterminators to such evils. Bitterness cannot grow in the soil of grace.
But if in our frustration we miss God’s grace and mire ourselves in self-pity or self-righteousness, the bitterness that began below the surface will quickly spring up for all to see—for a bitter root produces bitter fruit. Our words will taste of negativity and criticism. Our attitudes will be sour with irritation and disdain. We will keep a long record of wrongs, be quick to point out the faults of others, and will hesitate to celebrate the successes of those around us. Our bitterness will “cause trouble and defile many” as its roots twist and tangle our hearts in a chokehold of resentment and cynicism.
Don’t let the root of bitterness get grounded and grow. Squash the seed before it sprouts, and pluck the plant while it is small. God’s grace is too great to miss, and being bitter only makes a mess.
Do what my grandmother said—“See to it!”
Monday, August 15, 2011
SightSeeing
“Make every effort…to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14
Some sights should not be missed.
If you’re close to the Grand Canyon, drop by and drop your jaw. As you travel in Switzerland, gaze up at the Alps. When in Niagara, gape down at the falls. Should you find yourself in Rome, don’t skip the Sistine Chapel. (Hint: try not to show up during the Feast of St. Peter or the doors will be locked!) And as you go through the normal everydays of life, look for the Lord.
Haven’t seen much of Him lately? Perhaps you’re not looking hard enough, or perhaps you’re not living holy enough. Sounds tough, but it’s solid theology. “Make every effort to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord”(Heb. 12:14).
The unsullied character of God is so different from our sinful nature that we would die if in His presence on our own, but since God wanted us near, Christ has become “our righteousness, holiness, and redemption”(1 Cor. 1:30). “He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation”(Col. 1:22). In love and grace, God has made us holy so we can see His face—forever. “Without holiness no one will see the Lord.” In love and grace, our Father also wants us to live holy so we can see Him—now. “Without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Unless we let God’s holiness show up in our actions and attitudes, our purposes and priorities, we will struggle to sense and understand how God is working and what He is doing. We will journey through our day and miss Jesus.
God is alive and active in your commitments, the caller on your cell phone, and the conversation around your supper table. Opportunities and responsibilities are inner-doors into God’s workings, and crossing paths with acquaintances are divine appointments. Seeing God in every venture and at every venue transforms your day from dull to delightful. You start to sense your small part in His big story, and you are thrilled by His grace.
Such sight is brought about by holiness—by keeping the lens of your life clean and clear. To do so requires exertion, concentration, and constant confession. “Make every effort to be holy.” Start by staring at Jesus. Begin with the Gospels and go on from there to devour all of God’s Word. Pray like crazy—talking with God throughout your day about all of your day. And when choosing the what’s and how’s of your words and works, consider how you can best imitate and communicate Christ. When you focus on Jesus as your priority and authority, you’ll find that you find Him everywhere.
You see more of God by looking like Him than by looking for Him.
He’s a sight that should never be missed.
Some sights should not be missed.
If you’re close to the Grand Canyon, drop by and drop your jaw. As you travel in Switzerland, gaze up at the Alps. When in Niagara, gape down at the falls. Should you find yourself in Rome, don’t skip the Sistine Chapel. (Hint: try not to show up during the Feast of St. Peter or the doors will be locked!) And as you go through the normal everydays of life, look for the Lord.
Haven’t seen much of Him lately? Perhaps you’re not looking hard enough, or perhaps you’re not living holy enough. Sounds tough, but it’s solid theology. “Make every effort to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord”(Heb. 12:14).
The unsullied character of God is so different from our sinful nature that we would die if in His presence on our own, but since God wanted us near, Christ has become “our righteousness, holiness, and redemption”(1 Cor. 1:30). “He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation”(Col. 1:22). In love and grace, God has made us holy so we can see His face—forever. “Without holiness no one will see the Lord.” In love and grace, our Father also wants us to live holy so we can see Him—now. “Without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Unless we let God’s holiness show up in our actions and attitudes, our purposes and priorities, we will struggle to sense and understand how God is working and what He is doing. We will journey through our day and miss Jesus.
God is alive and active in your commitments, the caller on your cell phone, and the conversation around your supper table. Opportunities and responsibilities are inner-doors into God’s workings, and crossing paths with acquaintances are divine appointments. Seeing God in every venture and at every venue transforms your day from dull to delightful. You start to sense your small part in His big story, and you are thrilled by His grace.
Such sight is brought about by holiness—by keeping the lens of your life clean and clear. To do so requires exertion, concentration, and constant confession. “Make every effort to be holy.” Start by staring at Jesus. Begin with the Gospels and go on from there to devour all of God’s Word. Pray like crazy—talking with God throughout your day about all of your day. And when choosing the what’s and how’s of your words and works, consider how you can best imitate and communicate Christ. When you focus on Jesus as your priority and authority, you’ll find that you find Him everywhere.
You see more of God by looking like Him than by looking for Him.
He’s a sight that should never be missed.
Friday, August 5, 2011
The Path of Peace
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men.” Hebrews 12:14
No matter how hard you try, it’s hard to get along with everybody, but don’t let difficulty deter your endeavor. Instead, “Make every effort to live in peace with all men”(Heb. 12:14).
This command is an oft-repeated admonition in the New Testament with at least eight passages reminding us of our responsibility. Why the fuss? Because peace is the agenda of Jesus. He came to be our peace(Eph. 2:14) and to bring us peace(Jn. 14:27). How can the world see the peace of God if we aren’t at peace with others? Our desire to show God’s glory should press us to live in peace with all people.
Obviously, this isn’t easy. The word “effort” implies exertion and struggle. The word “every” suggests that success might not come on our first (or second) try. “Make every effort to live in peace with all men.” Sadly, some people will never be willing to restore a relationship and will always be contentious and caustic, but, “if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone”(Rom. 12:18). You can’t control the actions and reactions of others, but you choose your own attitude and your own responses. Don’t let the ones slinging dirt bring you down. Take the high road and offer a hand to help them up.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—the result of God’s Spirit getting His way—go a long way in helping us get along. Pray for the ones who cause you problems and the ones who cause you pain. Ask God for wisdom and look to His Word for guidance. Certain situations require Christ-like confrontation, but most concerns which ruffle our feathers should be quickly smoothed by the grace of forgiveness.
Consider that perhaps the one who rubs you wrong isn’t always wrong, but, instead, maybe God is using him (or her) to sand off sharp edges in your own personality and character.
And remember that nothing disturbs the peace quite like good gossip, so think carefully about what you say and why you say it. Offenses should be dealt with at the source, not discussed with someone else. “Making every effort to live in peace” often means saying little when you want to say a lot. “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise”(Pro. 10:19).
Living in peace is the best and blessed way to live. Love generously. Forgive quickly. Speak wisely. Getting along with others isn’t effortless, but it’s worth the effort.
No matter how hard you try, it’s hard to get along with everybody, but don’t let difficulty deter your endeavor. Instead, “Make every effort to live in peace with all men”(Heb. 12:14).
This command is an oft-repeated admonition in the New Testament with at least eight passages reminding us of our responsibility. Why the fuss? Because peace is the agenda of Jesus. He came to be our peace(Eph. 2:14) and to bring us peace(Jn. 14:27). How can the world see the peace of God if we aren’t at peace with others? Our desire to show God’s glory should press us to live in peace with all people.
Obviously, this isn’t easy. The word “effort” implies exertion and struggle. The word “every” suggests that success might not come on our first (or second) try. “Make every effort to live in peace with all men.” Sadly, some people will never be willing to restore a relationship and will always be contentious and caustic, but, “if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone”(Rom. 12:18). You can’t control the actions and reactions of others, but you choose your own attitude and your own responses. Don’t let the ones slinging dirt bring you down. Take the high road and offer a hand to help them up.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—the result of God’s Spirit getting His way—go a long way in helping us get along. Pray for the ones who cause you problems and the ones who cause you pain. Ask God for wisdom and look to His Word for guidance. Certain situations require Christ-like confrontation, but most concerns which ruffle our feathers should be quickly smoothed by the grace of forgiveness.
Consider that perhaps the one who rubs you wrong isn’t always wrong, but, instead, maybe God is using him (or her) to sand off sharp edges in your own personality and character.
And remember that nothing disturbs the peace quite like good gossip, so think carefully about what you say and why you say it. Offenses should be dealt with at the source, not discussed with someone else. “Making every effort to live in peace” often means saying little when you want to say a lot. “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise”(Pro. 10:19).
Living in peace is the best and blessed way to live. Love generously. Forgive quickly. Speak wisely. Getting along with others isn’t effortless, but it’s worth the effort.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Workouts That Work
“Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” Hebrews 12:12
I wince as I write—yesterday’s yard work a painful reminder that seldom-used muscles quickly get sore. (A shovel, hedger, and set of shears equip one nicely for a total-body workout!) Regular exercise involving such specific motions would have been wise preparation for the extra exertion.
Constant use trains not only ligaments and limbs, but also souls and spirits, for current and upcoming challenges. If they haven’t already arrived, hard times are on the way. The pain can produce purity and peace (Heb. 12:11), but we must endure the rough to enjoy the results. We need stamina and strength to see us through. God will help us and hold us in the storm, but He also tells us to work-out in the sunshine. “Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” We need to be able to do more than breathe. We need to build up and buff up in preparation for the tasks, triumphs, and troubles of each day.
Unlike wiry marathoners of modern times who completely ignore their upper bodies, our arms must be strong so we can pick up the fallen(Gal. 6:1), support the struggling(Rom. 15:1), and carry the burdens of the overwhelmed(Gal. 6:2). Our knees must be sturdy to support the weight of responsibility and opportunity we have as followers of Christ. Our path will not always be flat and smooth, so we must be steady and strong as we charge up hills and avoid obstacles.
Our power comes from a God who has been in the fitness business for quite a while. Way back, God spoke through Job to “strengthen feeble hands, support those who stumbled, and strengthen faltering knees”(Job 4:3-4). Centuries later, Isaiah commanded God’s people to “strengthen the feeble hands, and steady the knees that give way”(Is. 35:3). And here in Hebrews, we’re reminded to “strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” Arms and knees seem to be perpetual problem areas that should be exercised often.
Drop to the floor and lift up your hands.
Strength is built best by prayer and praise.
I wince as I write—yesterday’s yard work a painful reminder that seldom-used muscles quickly get sore. (A shovel, hedger, and set of shears equip one nicely for a total-body workout!) Regular exercise involving such specific motions would have been wise preparation for the extra exertion.
Constant use trains not only ligaments and limbs, but also souls and spirits, for current and upcoming challenges. If they haven’t already arrived, hard times are on the way. The pain can produce purity and peace (Heb. 12:11), but we must endure the rough to enjoy the results. We need stamina and strength to see us through. God will help us and hold us in the storm, but He also tells us to work-out in the sunshine. “Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” We need to be able to do more than breathe. We need to build up and buff up in preparation for the tasks, triumphs, and troubles of each day.
Unlike wiry marathoners of modern times who completely ignore their upper bodies, our arms must be strong so we can pick up the fallen(Gal. 6:1), support the struggling(Rom. 15:1), and carry the burdens of the overwhelmed(Gal. 6:2). Our knees must be sturdy to support the weight of responsibility and opportunity we have as followers of Christ. Our path will not always be flat and smooth, so we must be steady and strong as we charge up hills and avoid obstacles.
Our power comes from a God who has been in the fitness business for quite a while. Way back, God spoke through Job to “strengthen feeble hands, support those who stumbled, and strengthen faltering knees”(Job 4:3-4). Centuries later, Isaiah commanded God’s people to “strengthen the feeble hands, and steady the knees that give way”(Is. 35:3). And here in Hebrews, we’re reminded to “strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” Arms and knees seem to be perpetual problem areas that should be exercised often.
Drop to the floor and lift up your hands.
Strength is built best by prayer and praise.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Counting Days
“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
For the past several weeks, I stepped back. As summer’s schedule brought different responsibilities and opportunities, I shifted time away from something I love—writing—and turned it toward someone (or rather, “someones”) I love—my girls.
The days have been good. In and around youth camp, Vacation Bible School, and family trips near and far, we’ve talked, laughed, played, and watched The Lord of the Rings trilogy more times than I dare confess. I’ve been reminded of how quickly babies grow into ladies, and I’ve realized again that the treasures I hold in my heart mean much more than those I hold in my hands.
As I now resume writing and we ready for the start of school, I earnestly lift up the prayer of Moses. “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom”(Ps. 90:12). “Numbering our days aright” moves far beyond slashes on my calendar to the activities on my agenda. When the day is done, have I done it well? Have I invested my time, energy, thoughts, and talents in ways which show-off Jesus and share His joy? Have I kept the urgent from getting in the way of the important? And have I remembered that God’s greatest desires are for me to love Him and to love others—not to look out for myself?
Assessing each day with eternity in mind aids greatly in “gaining a heart of wisdom.” Honest consideration of what we do, why we do, and how we do helps us learn from yesterday how to live today. These weeks of summer have refreshed my spirit and renewed my commitment to God’s call in my life. It’s time to make sure those closest get my best. It’s time to let abundance replace busyness. It’s time to live out what I write down.
Don’t just count the days.
Make the days count.
For the past several weeks, I stepped back. As summer’s schedule brought different responsibilities and opportunities, I shifted time away from something I love—writing—and turned it toward someone (or rather, “someones”) I love—my girls.
The days have been good. In and around youth camp, Vacation Bible School, and family trips near and far, we’ve talked, laughed, played, and watched The Lord of the Rings trilogy more times than I dare confess. I’ve been reminded of how quickly babies grow into ladies, and I’ve realized again that the treasures I hold in my heart mean much more than those I hold in my hands.
As I now resume writing and we ready for the start of school, I earnestly lift up the prayer of Moses. “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom”(Ps. 90:12). “Numbering our days aright” moves far beyond slashes on my calendar to the activities on my agenda. When the day is done, have I done it well? Have I invested my time, energy, thoughts, and talents in ways which show-off Jesus and share His joy? Have I kept the urgent from getting in the way of the important? And have I remembered that God’s greatest desires are for me to love Him and to love others—not to look out for myself?
Assessing each day with eternity in mind aids greatly in “gaining a heart of wisdom.” Honest consideration of what we do, why we do, and how we do helps us learn from yesterday how to live today. These weeks of summer have refreshed my spirit and renewed my commitment to God’s call in my life. It’s time to make sure those closest get my best. It’s time to let abundance replace busyness. It’s time to live out what I write down.
Don’t just count the days.
Make the days count.
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