July 31st, Isaiah 13-17
For the most part this is another of those passages that is a shopping list of wrong committed against the Lord. Israel is in this bad place for a reason, innocence is long gone...but...
The great witness comes from the start of chapter 14. "For the lord will have compassion on Jacob and again will choose Israel, and will set them in their own land, and sojourners will join them and will attach themselves to the house of Jacob."
In four days(counting today) I am going to be speaking about committed love at my sons wedding! Love promised is different than love promised "IF." In dating relationships the "if" can be unsettling, sometimes downright manipulative. God invites us into a promised love. Despite Israel efforts to be rejected, God chooses them again. It sometimes makes you ask why?
This verse has a very "building" quality about it. God has built up this nation over the generations and is adding sojourners alongside this house of Jacob. Some of the promises we live in are from long ago..."Through you, all the nations will be blessed."
I pray for all of us that someday we would learn to accept acceptance. The rejection of ourselves would cease to be self-fulfilling prophecies spoken over us and that we would learn what is meant by God's banner, hung over our heads. Living into what is, rather than what was. We've been redeemed, adopted, sanctified, grafted in. Given a new heart and the Holy Spirit is given a home inside of us. So let us spruce the place up a bit and when faced with the list, know that chapter 14 is on the horizon. Attached to the Great House of God.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Isaiah 9-12 Remember, See the Future, Rejoice
July 30th, Isaiah 9-12
This is an up and down passage that really starts in chapter 8. Isaiah is living in the tension of honoring the Lord and people. People propose to him that he should inquire of mediums and necromancers and the response is as it should be..."should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?" Good question...now for the ride...
Chapter 9, inquiring of the Lord brings hope. This is the famous passage about those walking in darkness have seen a great light...unto us a child is born, to us a son is given...he shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His Kingdom will be rooted in justice and righteousness. Inquiring of the Lord brings hope.
Hope is needed where there is no hope. Chapter 10 builds the case for the problem at hand. It burdens me how our happy "good news only about our personal world" can't stand to hear honest evaluations about ourselves. I think we also live in a world where we are hyper-critical about others and don't mind those evaluations at all (about others). But somehow when it comes to our own shortcomings we live in some fight or flight world that keeps us from walking the new way that would be better. This chapter is a reminder of why we've fallen from grace. To take this chapter out makes the rest of the story lack any sense, it's true in our life as well.
But there is hope, and hope doesn't disappoint. Chapter 11-12 lets us know that even with only a stump of a tree left, there is a shoot that will spring forth and bear fruit. We will have a ruler who gets it right. Wolves and lambs, calves and lions led by little children. There is a future because God is good.
Chapter 12 leaves us on a high note. 6 verses, go check it out, it starts off with..."In that day I will give thanks to you, O Lord..."
This is an up and down passage that really starts in chapter 8. Isaiah is living in the tension of honoring the Lord and people. People propose to him that he should inquire of mediums and necromancers and the response is as it should be..."should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?" Good question...now for the ride...
Chapter 9, inquiring of the Lord brings hope. This is the famous passage about those walking in darkness have seen a great light...unto us a child is born, to us a son is given...he shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His Kingdom will be rooted in justice and righteousness. Inquiring of the Lord brings hope.
Hope is needed where there is no hope. Chapter 10 builds the case for the problem at hand. It burdens me how our happy "good news only about our personal world" can't stand to hear honest evaluations about ourselves. I think we also live in a world where we are hyper-critical about others and don't mind those evaluations at all (about others). But somehow when it comes to our own shortcomings we live in some fight or flight world that keeps us from walking the new way that would be better. This chapter is a reminder of why we've fallen from grace. To take this chapter out makes the rest of the story lack any sense, it's true in our life as well.
But there is hope, and hope doesn't disappoint. Chapter 11-12 lets us know that even with only a stump of a tree left, there is a shoot that will spring forth and bear fruit. We will have a ruler who gets it right. Wolves and lambs, calves and lions led by little children. There is a future because God is good.
Chapter 12 leaves us on a high note. 6 verses, go check it out, it starts off with..."In that day I will give thanks to you, O Lord..."
Monday, July 29, 2013
Isaiah 1-8 A call TO something grand!!
July 29th. Isaiah 1-8
One of the most unenviable jobs in the world is to tell people the truth. It's why we hesitate to do it. Isaiah is stuck in a hard spot, a realization of the where people are and where they should be. Two different points on the map. The greater distance between those tow points the more irritating a prophet can be.
From American politics here's a little truth telling that will bother both sides. The truth is we are so far in debt we need to tax more AND spend less. For generations we've argued either/or. We no longer have that luxury and the truth can be painful to hear and more painful to put into practice.
One thing I took hold of early on in our time with the prophets. Isaiah is not just proclaiming doom, we need to hone in on this. The prophet also proclaims a vision for the future. Proclaiming what you're against is a "chicken position." Anyone can rail against something they don't like. It's a whole different thing to proclaim "Here's where we're headed." It is a two-fold message. You and I need to here both messages.
"What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices? says the Lord....who has required this of you, this trampling of my courts?"... "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness."
"Come now let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow."... "In that day the branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious and the fruit of the land shall be the pride and honor of the survivors of Israel."
To me, the gift of a prophet is the capacity to see what OUGHT to be which is a great joy. But it's also the cause of great heartache as you begin to notice how far away you are from the ideal. It's in those moments we are to remember that God can make an army out of a valley of very dry bones. A reminder to pray, a reminder to ask God for humanly impossible things, a chance to ask for the things God wants to bring.
Be attentive to the vision the prophets have for the future, not just the discouragement for the present, maybe you'll see something quite different in this round of reading the prophets.
One of the most unenviable jobs in the world is to tell people the truth. It's why we hesitate to do it. Isaiah is stuck in a hard spot, a realization of the where people are and where they should be. Two different points on the map. The greater distance between those tow points the more irritating a prophet can be.
From American politics here's a little truth telling that will bother both sides. The truth is we are so far in debt we need to tax more AND spend less. For generations we've argued either/or. We no longer have that luxury and the truth can be painful to hear and more painful to put into practice.
One thing I took hold of early on in our time with the prophets. Isaiah is not just proclaiming doom, we need to hone in on this. The prophet also proclaims a vision for the future. Proclaiming what you're against is a "chicken position." Anyone can rail against something they don't like. It's a whole different thing to proclaim "Here's where we're headed." It is a two-fold message. You and I need to here both messages.
"What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices? says the Lord....who has required this of you, this trampling of my courts?"... "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness."
"Come now let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow."... "In that day the branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious and the fruit of the land shall be the pride and honor of the survivors of Israel."
To me, the gift of a prophet is the capacity to see what OUGHT to be which is a great joy. But it's also the cause of great heartache as you begin to notice how far away you are from the ideal. It's in those moments we are to remember that God can make an army out of a valley of very dry bones. A reminder to pray, a reminder to ask God for humanly impossible things, a chance to ask for the things God wants to bring.
Be attentive to the vision the prophets have for the future, not just the discouragement for the present, maybe you'll see something quite different in this round of reading the prophets.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Song Of Songs, The Delight of Love
July 27th, Song of Songs
There is a beauty in a longing type of love between two people. A love that desires to be with another. A young bride who sees in her beloved a giver, gazelle, one for whom she delights in gazing upon through the window or the lattice. "My beloved is mine and I am his!"
A young man who admires the wonder of his brides beauty, describes it in detail, says her neck looks like a tower (that one I don't get). I 'm certainly glad each tooth has it's twin!!
A couple of times in the book the bride goes out to seek her love. Once in the city, once at the latch to her door. Excitement overwhelms at the chance to be with her beloved, but when she goes to the door he is gone and she searches for him. A longing to be with the one I love.
We've messed up this sex thing so bad that we read into this story more than we need to. It's a story about longings, a story about intimacy between people, an intimacy between us and God. A story about praising that which we love, a story about being with that which we love. This is a sensual story and certainly the cause for us just ignoring this book...
But God created us and this is part of who we are. For those of you married people, how's your loving, intimate desire to be close to one another going for you. For those of you not married, maybe this book isn't the best study for you, but maybe there are some real issues of intimacy with your God that can be sorted through. Are you in love with your God, do you want to be with him, do you sneak a peak through a window or trellis to watch him in action, do you notice his hand at your door, can you describe him well because you've thought about him so much?
Love; exciting and new. Come aboard, we're expecting you!! The Love Boat wasn't all wrong. All of this should be taken with the totality of understanding all of scripture...but... like it or not Song of Songs is in our Bible and has much for us!!
There is a beauty in a longing type of love between two people. A love that desires to be with another. A young bride who sees in her beloved a giver, gazelle, one for whom she delights in gazing upon through the window or the lattice. "My beloved is mine and I am his!"
A young man who admires the wonder of his brides beauty, describes it in detail, says her neck looks like a tower (that one I don't get). I 'm certainly glad each tooth has it's twin!!
A couple of times in the book the bride goes out to seek her love. Once in the city, once at the latch to her door. Excitement overwhelms at the chance to be with her beloved, but when she goes to the door he is gone and she searches for him. A longing to be with the one I love.
We've messed up this sex thing so bad that we read into this story more than we need to. It's a story about longings, a story about intimacy between people, an intimacy between us and God. A story about praising that which we love, a story about being with that which we love. This is a sensual story and certainly the cause for us just ignoring this book...
But God created us and this is part of who we are. For those of you married people, how's your loving, intimate desire to be close to one another going for you. For those of you not married, maybe this book isn't the best study for you, but maybe there are some real issues of intimacy with your God that can be sorted through. Are you in love with your God, do you want to be with him, do you sneak a peak through a window or trellis to watch him in action, do you notice his hand at your door, can you describe him well because you've thought about him so much?
Love; exciting and new. Come aboard, we're expecting you!! The Love Boat wasn't all wrong. All of this should be taken with the totality of understanding all of scripture...but... like it or not Song of Songs is in our Bible and has much for us!!
Friday, July 26, 2013
Eccles 9-12 - A Wild Ride
July 26th, Ecclesiastes 9-12
Guest Blogger Cheri Hudspith - sister to Terry
Reading Ecclesiastes feels like a wild ride. I'm never sure where it's headed next. I'm not always clear how I got where I am. I'm certain that I'm not going to stay long in any place. Life feels like that sometimes too.
When I arrived at 12:13, I was pretty relieved.
"The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."
The patterns of this world don't always make sense. The will of God does not always make sense.
It might even be a waist of time, at points, to try to figure the world and God out. So I will focus on being in awe of God. I will desire to care about his instructions for wise and good living. I am reminded to hold onto the perspective that says that I can't really control anything. But, I can pay attention to the things named in this verse.
Fasten your seat belts. Raise your arms. Here we go!
www.beloved-daughter.blogspot.com
Guest Blogger Cheri Hudspith - sister to Terry
Reading Ecclesiastes feels like a wild ride. I'm never sure where it's headed next. I'm not always clear how I got where I am. I'm certain that I'm not going to stay long in any place. Life feels like that sometimes too.
When I arrived at 12:13, I was pretty relieved.
"The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."
The patterns of this world don't always make sense. The will of God does not always make sense.
It might even be a waist of time, at points, to try to figure the world and God out. So I will focus on being in awe of God. I will desire to care about his instructions for wise and good living. I am reminded to hold onto the perspective that says that I can't really control anything. But, I can pay attention to the things named in this verse.
Fasten your seat belts. Raise your arms. Here we go!
www.beloved-daughter.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Eccles 5-8 Taking Good Steps
July 25th, Ecclesiastes 5-8
When we spend time in God's word we tend to identify with characters in the story. We also tend to identify with the character that is similar to our perception of our self. If we see ourselves as heroes, we are probably the Good Samaritan. If we see ourselves as victims, we associate with the one who has fallen to robbers that have beaten us one more time. From those starting points we look at the story. It's a good thing to see the story from different angles and helpful for the full counsel of God to step in offer a more complete look.
Todays's beginning in Chapter 5 is a good example. "Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools." The phrase "sacrifice of fools" always catches my attention. See the problem is that if a fool brings a foolish sacrifice, they will never know it. That is the essence of being a fool. If you intentionally bring a fools sacrifice that is a whole different matter.
Since a fool doesn't know that what he is doing is foolish, I have to wonder...is that me? Do I bring a sacrifice of fools? I perceive that my sacrifice is genuine...but so does the fool. I don't want to be a fool. I don't want to think I'm the hero in this story if I am not. So the first part speaks well to us..."Guard your steps when you go to the house of God."
It's not a nervous, fearful approach to Sunday Meeting, but learning to live in an honest appraisal of having the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart being pleasing in the sight of my God. Guarding my steps sounds very intentional. I imagine sneaking through the woods not stepping on branches or dry leaves...quiet steps. So should it be with our steps of life, watchful, intentional with a consistent desire to bring honor to our Lord. Being mindful of our steps...
When we spend time in God's word we tend to identify with characters in the story. We also tend to identify with the character that is similar to our perception of our self. If we see ourselves as heroes, we are probably the Good Samaritan. If we see ourselves as victims, we associate with the one who has fallen to robbers that have beaten us one more time. From those starting points we look at the story. It's a good thing to see the story from different angles and helpful for the full counsel of God to step in offer a more complete look.
Todays's beginning in Chapter 5 is a good example. "Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools." The phrase "sacrifice of fools" always catches my attention. See the problem is that if a fool brings a foolish sacrifice, they will never know it. That is the essence of being a fool. If you intentionally bring a fools sacrifice that is a whole different matter.
Since a fool doesn't know that what he is doing is foolish, I have to wonder...is that me? Do I bring a sacrifice of fools? I perceive that my sacrifice is genuine...but so does the fool. I don't want to be a fool. I don't want to think I'm the hero in this story if I am not. So the first part speaks well to us..."Guard your steps when you go to the house of God."
It's not a nervous, fearful approach to Sunday Meeting, but learning to live in an honest appraisal of having the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart being pleasing in the sight of my God. Guarding my steps sounds very intentional. I imagine sneaking through the woods not stepping on branches or dry leaves...quiet steps. So should it be with our steps of life, watchful, intentional with a consistent desire to bring honor to our Lord. Being mindful of our steps...
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Eccles 1-4 Reflection is a must for wise living
July 24th, Ecclesiastes 1-4
Not sure how you take a book like Ecclesiastes. If your the kind of person who likes to ask the hard questions of life for the purpose of refinement, you'll really love this book. If your always trying to spin the positive your reaction might not be so pleasant.
To me it speaks to the routine of life and is a call to remember what matters most. The sun sets and then rises and then sets again, the rivers run into the sea and yet the sea is never full. When it comes to the end of our life, we want to be remembered but in the end we won't. Our grandchildren will remember us, our great grandchildren might recognize us, but the next generation will not know anything of us. The place where the flower has bloomed will be remembered no more. The cycles of life move on and on, with or without us.
It's great to have that kind of clarity. If we would let it, it would bring a sense of freedom that we could enjoy. There are more grand things in life than us and the name that should be remembered isn't ours.
Ecclesiastes speaks of the pursuits of mankind. Wisdom is better than folly, but the same fate overtakes them both, better to be wise. Self-indulgence has a pleasure for a season, but the long-term view will leave you wanting. Remember what matters. Being a craftsman can bring joy for a season, but when you die you might leave your work to a fool and what would be the point. Enjoying the moments of life in the midst of our toil would be better.
Chapter three is the famous passage regarding there being a time for everything. In our polarized world where everything is seen by people as "this or that," it is a wise reminder that everything has it's time. The disruption comes when you sense it's time to gather stones and your friend feels it's time to scatter stones...."What are you doing!!!!!" There is a time for everything even though we don't always agree on the timing!
A "nutshell" set of verses, 3:11-13 "He has made everything beautiful in it's time. Also he has put eternity in man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. I perceive that there is nothing better than to be joyful and do good as long as they live; also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil. This is God's gift to man."
Drop the need for importance or for a legacy and simply enjoy the work set before us. Lift high the name that is above every name, that's what matters most anyway.
Not sure how you take a book like Ecclesiastes. If your the kind of person who likes to ask the hard questions of life for the purpose of refinement, you'll really love this book. If your always trying to spin the positive your reaction might not be so pleasant.
To me it speaks to the routine of life and is a call to remember what matters most. The sun sets and then rises and then sets again, the rivers run into the sea and yet the sea is never full. When it comes to the end of our life, we want to be remembered but in the end we won't. Our grandchildren will remember us, our great grandchildren might recognize us, but the next generation will not know anything of us. The place where the flower has bloomed will be remembered no more. The cycles of life move on and on, with or without us.
It's great to have that kind of clarity. If we would let it, it would bring a sense of freedom that we could enjoy. There are more grand things in life than us and the name that should be remembered isn't ours.
Ecclesiastes speaks of the pursuits of mankind. Wisdom is better than folly, but the same fate overtakes them both, better to be wise. Self-indulgence has a pleasure for a season, but the long-term view will leave you wanting. Remember what matters. Being a craftsman can bring joy for a season, but when you die you might leave your work to a fool and what would be the point. Enjoying the moments of life in the midst of our toil would be better.
Chapter three is the famous passage regarding there being a time for everything. In our polarized world where everything is seen by people as "this or that," it is a wise reminder that everything has it's time. The disruption comes when you sense it's time to gather stones and your friend feels it's time to scatter stones...."What are you doing!!!!!" There is a time for everything even though we don't always agree on the timing!
A "nutshell" set of verses, 3:11-13 "He has made everything beautiful in it's time. Also he has put eternity in man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. I perceive that there is nothing better than to be joyful and do good as long as they live; also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil. This is God's gift to man."
Drop the need for importance or for a legacy and simply enjoy the work set before us. Lift high the name that is above every name, that's what matters most anyway.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Proverbs 30-31 The Look of Wisdom
July 23rd, Proverbs 30-31
Like Psalms, proverbs has a grand finale as well. It looks a bit different however. The grand finale of Psalms was a bursting forth of praise concerning the character and nature of God and our call to praise him. Proverbs is a bit different. Proverbs is about wisdom, wisdom personified in the image of a woman. In some ways it feels impossible to measure up to the woman portrayed, but if our lives were lived well, here's what wisdom would look like...
Trusted by family
Supportive of others
Willing worker
Sees beyond immediate surrounding for ways to bless family
Gets up early to take care of responsibilities
Does business to advance her family
Runs business with the extra of what she has already done
Takes care of self and lives in strength, not weakness
Produces a product that is useful
Looks after the poor
No fear of trouble because of preparedness
Family is well known and respected because of the one who is wise
Strength and dignity envelope her
Wisdom is deeply rooted inside so when she speaks people want to listen
Not idle
Family is quick to praise her
Charm and beauty are not relied upon to receive praise as they don't really help much in living the kind of solid life exhibited by wisdom. The results of her life prove who she is, not some vain proof we tend to look for. Of all the plastic surgeries older people seek out, the best surgery would have taken place during every choice between wisdom and folly. As the proverbs say, do everything you can to get wisdom!! Wisdom has a look to it
Like Psalms, proverbs has a grand finale as well. It looks a bit different however. The grand finale of Psalms was a bursting forth of praise concerning the character and nature of God and our call to praise him. Proverbs is a bit different. Proverbs is about wisdom, wisdom personified in the image of a woman. In some ways it feels impossible to measure up to the woman portrayed, but if our lives were lived well, here's what wisdom would look like...
Trusted by family
Supportive of others
Willing worker
Sees beyond immediate surrounding for ways to bless family
Gets up early to take care of responsibilities
Does business to advance her family
Runs business with the extra of what she has already done
Takes care of self and lives in strength, not weakness
Produces a product that is useful
Looks after the poor
No fear of trouble because of preparedness
Family is well known and respected because of the one who is wise
Strength and dignity envelope her
Wisdom is deeply rooted inside so when she speaks people want to listen
Not idle
Family is quick to praise her
Charm and beauty are not relied upon to receive praise as they don't really help much in living the kind of solid life exhibited by wisdom. The results of her life prove who she is, not some vain proof we tend to look for. Of all the plastic surgeries older people seek out, the best surgery would have taken place during every choice between wisdom and folly. As the proverbs say, do everything you can to get wisdom!! Wisdom has a look to it
Monday, July 22, 2013
Proverbs 27-29 Dr Phil has nothing on God's wisdom!
July 22nd, Proverbs 27-29
I love how proverbs addresses issues related to those who are morning people and those who are night owls...If you bless your neighbor with a loud voice in the early morning it will be taken as a curse!!. I'm sure my children have seen me as a curse over the years, someone had to get them up before 11 AM!
Being in ministry I have claimed the verse... better a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away. Our society has spread out and lost the advantages of family close by. Thank the Lord for the church that can be a surrogate for what used to fall into the hands of kin. I still love my family, but we've been blessed by great friends who have dropped everything to help us out in a pinch. Thanks!
Proverbs asks us to sharpen one another. A different task than making each other dull. Some pondering of the difference would be highly valuable!
When you discipline a fool nothing will change. It's easy to imagine the people for whom I know this is true. More difficult to make sure it is not me.
We tend to argue people into the hand of God, there 's something more profound that needs to happen. Arguing with people who don't get it is tough on you and the one who rages and laughs at you. The battle belongs to the Lord; argue less, pray more.
Flattery is an empty expression, people see it for what it is. Encouragement toward a common value has it's use in leadership. Don't tell your kids how great they are, tell them how much you enjoyed witnessing them do...........
So many good thoughts set before us. A proverb a day for the rest of your life is not a bad idea. 31 proverbs, 31 days in the longest months. Find the date, take your medicine!! Become wise and a light set on a hill!
Thanks for the time you have spent investing in wisdom!
I love how proverbs addresses issues related to those who are morning people and those who are night owls...If you bless your neighbor with a loud voice in the early morning it will be taken as a curse!!. I'm sure my children have seen me as a curse over the years, someone had to get them up before 11 AM!
Being in ministry I have claimed the verse... better a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away. Our society has spread out and lost the advantages of family close by. Thank the Lord for the church that can be a surrogate for what used to fall into the hands of kin. I still love my family, but we've been blessed by great friends who have dropped everything to help us out in a pinch. Thanks!
Proverbs asks us to sharpen one another. A different task than making each other dull. Some pondering of the difference would be highly valuable!
When you discipline a fool nothing will change. It's easy to imagine the people for whom I know this is true. More difficult to make sure it is not me.
We tend to argue people into the hand of God, there 's something more profound that needs to happen. Arguing with people who don't get it is tough on you and the one who rages and laughs at you. The battle belongs to the Lord; argue less, pray more.
Flattery is an empty expression, people see it for what it is. Encouragement toward a common value has it's use in leadership. Don't tell your kids how great they are, tell them how much you enjoyed witnessing them do...........
So many good thoughts set before us. A proverb a day for the rest of your life is not a bad idea. 31 proverbs, 31 days in the longest months. Find the date, take your medicine!! Become wise and a light set on a hill!
Thanks for the time you have spent investing in wisdom!
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Proverbs 24-26 No way, it says that!!
July 21st, Proverbs 24-26
This is going to be the same format as the last couple of days. The difference being I want people to go read the Bible more than my blog, so everything will be in cliffhanger format...
A wise man has a house filled with......
Wisdom is too...........for a fool.
Here's what you should do if your enemy falls........and a guaranteed way to keep God from correcting
them.
God has this expectations about partiality........
Take care of EVERYTHING that has to do with your ......... then build your................
I walked past the field or vineyard of someone who lacked sense; here's what I saw......
Gods loves to ..........things, man loves to ........... things!
Go into you neighbors house.......... more than that and they will have their....... of you and ....... you!
Should I answer a fool according to his folly or not?
A proverb in the mouth of a fool is exactly like............(great illustration)
Do you see a person wise in their own eyes...here's what they can expect.
The lazy person is soooo lazy? How lazy is he? so lazy he can't even........
God's word brings life. I'm looking forward to the life he brings you today!!
This is going to be the same format as the last couple of days. The difference being I want people to go read the Bible more than my blog, so everything will be in cliffhanger format...
A wise man has a house filled with......
Wisdom is too...........for a fool.
Here's what you should do if your enemy falls........and a guaranteed way to keep God from correcting
them.
God has this expectations about partiality........
Take care of EVERYTHING that has to do with your ......... then build your................
I walked past the field or vineyard of someone who lacked sense; here's what I saw......
Gods loves to ..........things, man loves to ........... things!
Go into you neighbors house.......... more than that and they will have their....... of you and ....... you!
Should I answer a fool according to his folly or not?
A proverb in the mouth of a fool is exactly like............(great illustration)
Do you see a person wise in their own eyes...here's what they can expect.
The lazy person is soooo lazy? How lazy is he? so lazy he can't even........
God's word brings life. I'm looking forward to the life he brings you today!!
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Proverbs 22-23 Don't lock your keys in your car and other good advice!!
July 20th, Proverbs 22-23
These chapters continue on with so much random advice it's hard to hone in on a single devotional thought. Like yesterday I'm gonna hit my paraphrased highlights.
Your name and it's reputation means more than your riches.
Give leadership to your children and they will follow.
If you've borrowed money you are a slave.
Have the nerve to drive out a troubling person and abuse will cease.
A lazy person says there is a lion in the streets, I'll stay inside.(That one is pretty funny).
Children LOOOOOOOOOVE folly, discipline will drive it far from him!!
A skillful person works for kings, not obscure men.
Don't talk within earshot of a fool, he will despise your good sense.
Don't envy sinners.
Go to great lengths to buy truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding.
Looking to be robbed and thrown into a well, consider a prostitute.
Finally the cycle many find themselves, expressed in Proverbs 23:29-35. I highly recommend you consider avoiding that one!
Last piece of advice; don't lock your keys in your car!!!
Friday, July 19, 2013
Proverbs 19-21 Good Advice
July 19th, Proverbs 19-21
I'm feeling a little like doing my own thing here this morning so here is my version of several bits of wisdom from the Lord found in the chapters above...
Better to be poor and honest than a crooked fool.
When someone does dumb things and ruins his own life, he likes to blame God.
Everyone loves people who pass out money and gifts.
Whoever seeks out common sense loves their soul.
A foolish son breaks the heart of a father and a quarreling wife is like water torture.
Great inheritance comes from our family, but a good wife is a gift from God.(Thanks Leah)
When you give to the poor it is a loan to God. A loan that will be repaid with great interest!
Anyone can buy gold, lips of knowledge are priceless.
It's best to engage in strategy with wise people.
You might be able to excuse yourself, but God knows your heart.
If you ignore poor people, your call will not be answered either.
If pleasure is your goal you will be poor.
If you can watch your mouth, you'll stay out of trouble.
No wisdom, understanding or counsel will ever be better than the Lord's
Finally...
21:19 "The horse is made ready for battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord."
Tip of the iceberg here, read it for yourself and discover more!!
I'm feeling a little like doing my own thing here this morning so here is my version of several bits of wisdom from the Lord found in the chapters above...
Better to be poor and honest than a crooked fool.
When someone does dumb things and ruins his own life, he likes to blame God.
Everyone loves people who pass out money and gifts.
Whoever seeks out common sense loves their soul.
A foolish son breaks the heart of a father and a quarreling wife is like water torture.
Great inheritance comes from our family, but a good wife is a gift from God.(Thanks Leah)
When you give to the poor it is a loan to God. A loan that will be repaid with great interest!
Anyone can buy gold, lips of knowledge are priceless.
It's best to engage in strategy with wise people.
You might be able to excuse yourself, but God knows your heart.
If you ignore poor people, your call will not be answered either.
If pleasure is your goal you will be poor.
If you can watch your mouth, you'll stay out of trouble.
No wisdom, understanding or counsel will ever be better than the Lord's
Finally...
21:19 "The horse is made ready for battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord."
Tip of the iceberg here, read it for yourself and discover more!!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Proverbs 16-18 Scales that bring life
July 18th, Proverbs 16-18
Today's devotion is brought to you in memory of my Granddad who invested his life in the pursuit of honest scales. "A just balance and scales are the Lords; all the weights in the bag are his work." My Granddad was tasked with helping to form the Kansas Department of Weights and Measures in his day. One of the noble pursuits of government all throughout history is to make sure people are using honest weights. For those trying to cheat people, you could have one set of weights for buying and another set of weights for selling and make some extra for yourself. Old historical weights are to have the King's stamp on them to prove they are accurate.
Think about how many times today an accurate measure will mean something to you. Do you get a full gallon of gas, does the food package have the 12, 16 oz it says. When you buy a pound of meat does that include the packaging and over the course of a year how many plastic bags are we all paying for (the ones we fill with fruit and vegetables) ?
Scales are at the heart of society, they are at the heart of justice and thus the symbol for our justice system. When there is no justice, when no scale is accurate, dishonest people can take advantage of others. It would be nice to just trust others, but some accountability, a department that checks the accuracy of weights and measures is an excellent use of government resources. Doing what's right has to be encouraged because that's not our nature.
I invite all of us to investigate our scales. James speaks of a rich man getting a seat of honor and the poor told to be somewhere else. That's a bad scale. Love your enemy, pray for those who hurt you is a sign that our weights are true and the scale sits balanced. The integrity, righteousness, and honesty that God calls us to is a blessing to all who walk with us. May the weights in our bag be determined by the Lord and and not us.
Today's devotion is brought to you in memory of my Granddad who invested his life in the pursuit of honest scales. "A just balance and scales are the Lords; all the weights in the bag are his work." My Granddad was tasked with helping to form the Kansas Department of Weights and Measures in his day. One of the noble pursuits of government all throughout history is to make sure people are using honest weights. For those trying to cheat people, you could have one set of weights for buying and another set of weights for selling and make some extra for yourself. Old historical weights are to have the King's stamp on them to prove they are accurate.
Think about how many times today an accurate measure will mean something to you. Do you get a full gallon of gas, does the food package have the 12, 16 oz it says. When you buy a pound of meat does that include the packaging and over the course of a year how many plastic bags are we all paying for (the ones we fill with fruit and vegetables) ?
Scales are at the heart of society, they are at the heart of justice and thus the symbol for our justice system. When there is no justice, when no scale is accurate, dishonest people can take advantage of others. It would be nice to just trust others, but some accountability, a department that checks the accuracy of weights and measures is an excellent use of government resources. Doing what's right has to be encouraged because that's not our nature.
I invite all of us to investigate our scales. James speaks of a rich man getting a seat of honor and the poor told to be somewhere else. That's a bad scale. Love your enemy, pray for those who hurt you is a sign that our weights are true and the scale sits balanced. The integrity, righteousness, and honesty that God calls us to is a blessing to all who walk with us. May the weights in our bag be determined by the Lord and and not us.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Proverbs 13-15 Fools Love Their Folly
July 17th, Proverbs 13-15
These are chapters that should all be read...over and over again. The verses that strike me might not be the verses that strike you. I hate the idea that you might read this blog and then not read God's word. There is so much compacted into such a small space. Different verses might stir the Holy Spirit to take you to another truth today, but for me...
A theme that I am on track with is the whole idea of listening to instruction. "Poverty and disgrace comes to him who ignores instruction, whoever heeds reproof is honored." Why do we have such a hard time with choosing a new way as a result of the wisdom of others?
"Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm." Years of observation says this... we have a tendency to choose people like us to hang out with and identify with. Emotionally, spiritually unhealthy people are uncomfortable around emotionally, spiritually healthy people. At some point we have to move out of our comfort level, hang out with people who could help us move to a new place. Spend time with a perfectly healthy God who could bring us to a new place.
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end is the way of death." We can round up a whole crew of people who are fools with us and people do all the time. How can you and I surround ourselves with good counsel AND follow it. Walk a new way that is better than one of our old ways.
"Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense, but a man of understanding walks straight ahead. Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." "Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom..."
In a day when people should be doing a better job of sorting out the trash from the treasure in regards to their belongings, it also is a priority to do some sorting between wisdom and folly. Fools have a great joy in their lack of sense!! Funny, true, unfortunate thought for the morning. Let's chose the wise way.
These are chapters that should all be read...over and over again. The verses that strike me might not be the verses that strike you. I hate the idea that you might read this blog and then not read God's word. There is so much compacted into such a small space. Different verses might stir the Holy Spirit to take you to another truth today, but for me...
A theme that I am on track with is the whole idea of listening to instruction. "Poverty and disgrace comes to him who ignores instruction, whoever heeds reproof is honored." Why do we have such a hard time with choosing a new way as a result of the wisdom of others?
"Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm." Years of observation says this... we have a tendency to choose people like us to hang out with and identify with. Emotionally, spiritually unhealthy people are uncomfortable around emotionally, spiritually healthy people. At some point we have to move out of our comfort level, hang out with people who could help us move to a new place. Spend time with a perfectly healthy God who could bring us to a new place.
"There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end is the way of death." We can round up a whole crew of people who are fools with us and people do all the time. How can you and I surround ourselves with good counsel AND follow it. Walk a new way that is better than one of our old ways.
"Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense, but a man of understanding walks straight ahead. Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." "Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom..."
In a day when people should be doing a better job of sorting out the trash from the treasure in regards to their belongings, it also is a priority to do some sorting between wisdom and folly. Fools have a great joy in their lack of sense!! Funny, true, unfortunate thought for the morning. Let's chose the wise way.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Proverbs 10-12 Taking Good Instruction; A lifelong Endeavor
July 16th Proverbs 10-12
Yesterday we established that we need wisdom counsel and direction, in today's verses we get it.
If you walk in integrity you walk securely.
If you make your ways crooked, you will be found out.
Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life.
When words are many sin is not far behind.
The lips of the righteous feed many, fools die for lack of sense.
A false balance is horrible, but a just weight brings God delight.
With his mouth a godless man will destroy his neighbor.
When it goes well with the righteous the city rejoices.
Where there is no guidance a people falls. But with an abundance of counselors there is safety.
A gold ring in a pig's snout is like a woman without discretion.
One gives freely, yet grows richer; another keeps for themselves and always suffers want.
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, whoever waters will be watered.
Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it.
Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and a fool will be a servant to the wise.
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of like, whoever captures souls is wise.
It's easy to find yourself in these verses. Things you see in yourself, knowing you're on the right path. Things you see in yourself knowing you need to make a correction. The Bible is a mirror, let us gaze into it and see what we look like and know the strength of God who can, will, wants to propel us into the way of the wise, the way of God!!
Taking instruction, becoming wise!!!
Yesterday we established that we need wisdom counsel and direction, in today's verses we get it.
If you walk in integrity you walk securely.
If you make your ways crooked, you will be found out.
Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life.
When words are many sin is not far behind.
The lips of the righteous feed many, fools die for lack of sense.
A false balance is horrible, but a just weight brings God delight.
With his mouth a godless man will destroy his neighbor.
When it goes well with the righteous the city rejoices.
Where there is no guidance a people falls. But with an abundance of counselors there is safety.
A gold ring in a pig's snout is like a woman without discretion.
One gives freely, yet grows richer; another keeps for themselves and always suffers want.
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, whoever waters will be watered.
Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor, but evil comes to him who searches for it.
Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and a fool will be a servant to the wise.
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of like, whoever captures souls is wise.
It's easy to find yourself in these verses. Things you see in yourself, knowing you're on the right path. Things you see in yourself knowing you need to make a correction. The Bible is a mirror, let us gaze into it and see what we look like and know the strength of God who can, will, wants to propel us into the way of the wise, the way of God!!
Taking instruction, becoming wise!!!
Monday, July 15, 2013
Proverbs 7-9 Best of friends!!
July 15th, Proverbs 7-9
I find it interesting that proverbs is written with wisdom being personified. "Say to wisdom, you are my sister, and call insight your intimate friend." Wisdom is not simply an idea, it's a person with whom you and I should be best of friends.
Wisdom is personified as a woman. "Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?" Then women are portrayed in two ways in proverbs. An adulteress who represents the fool's way. Then the grand finale of proverbs is the virtuous woman. The woman who is the personification of one who is wise.
Just a side note, in a society ruled by men, this is a rather profound expression of the value of women. All the she, her, sister's could have been written he, his, brother's...but they weren't. The failure and the role model in Proverbs is personified in a woman.
"Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her." All I can think about is how hard it is to get people to surrender their will to a teacher in our day. The one place I see it is in music. Can you imagine the train wreck if a music group didn't submit to the conductor? My will surrendered to wisdom for the greater good of the whole.
Whoever finds wisdom and walks in her way, whoever delights in insight would have great capacity to be the one in Proverbs 31, and whoever would seek out instruction, guidance, counsel would find themselves in a very different place in 1,5,10 years.
"Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself."
I find it interesting that proverbs is written with wisdom being personified. "Say to wisdom, you are my sister, and call insight your intimate friend." Wisdom is not simply an idea, it's a person with whom you and I should be best of friends.
Wisdom is personified as a woman. "Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?" Then women are portrayed in two ways in proverbs. An adulteress who represents the fool's way. Then the grand finale of proverbs is the virtuous woman. The woman who is the personification of one who is wise.
Just a side note, in a society ruled by men, this is a rather profound expression of the value of women. All the she, her, sister's could have been written he, his, brother's...but they weren't. The failure and the role model in Proverbs is personified in a woman.
"Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her." All I can think about is how hard it is to get people to surrender their will to a teacher in our day. The one place I see it is in music. Can you imagine the train wreck if a music group didn't submit to the conductor? My will surrendered to wisdom for the greater good of the whole.
Whoever finds wisdom and walks in her way, whoever delights in insight would have great capacity to be the one in Proverbs 31, and whoever would seek out instruction, guidance, counsel would find themselves in a very different place in 1,5,10 years.
"Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself."
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Proverbs 4-6 Let's get practical
July 14th, Proverbs 4-6
"Get wisdom, whatever you do, get insight." To me wisdom is the capacity to see down the road. If I choose this today, tomorrow will be this, next month will be something else, 20 years from now will create... "prize her highly." This is a cornerstone for life.
Listen to God, keep your heart with vigilance, from it flows the springs of your life. Put away that which is crooked, gaze forward and think about the path you want to walk. There is so much intent here. Choice, choosing which way I will walk. What would be the wise choice in the matters before me, what would honor the Lord...different from what I can justify doing. That leads to strangers stealing my strength...unwise!
Seven practical things to avoid... What God Wants
Haughty(arrogant) eyes Eyes that see what God sees
Lying tongue Truth
Hands that shed innocent blood Hands that serve the weak
Heart that devises wicked plans Heart that advances God's Kingdom
Feet that run to evil Quick to do the right
False witness Truth again...seems important
One who creates ill will between people People who bring life to others...kinda like what God does
Proverbs: an adventure into the practice of faith.
"Get wisdom, whatever you do, get insight." To me wisdom is the capacity to see down the road. If I choose this today, tomorrow will be this, next month will be something else, 20 years from now will create... "prize her highly." This is a cornerstone for life.
Listen to God, keep your heart with vigilance, from it flows the springs of your life. Put away that which is crooked, gaze forward and think about the path you want to walk. There is so much intent here. Choice, choosing which way I will walk. What would be the wise choice in the matters before me, what would honor the Lord...different from what I can justify doing. That leads to strangers stealing my strength...unwise!
Seven practical things to avoid... What God Wants
Haughty(arrogant) eyes Eyes that see what God sees
Lying tongue Truth
Hands that shed innocent blood Hands that serve the weak
Heart that devises wicked plans Heart that advances God's Kingdom
Feet that run to evil Quick to do the right
False witness Truth again...seems important
One who creates ill will between people People who bring life to others...kinda like what God does
Proverbs: an adventure into the practice of faith.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Proverbs 1-3 Wisdom has a better profit than gold
July 13th, Proverbs 1-3
What can I say, I love Proverbs. The intent; to give instruction so that you and I can be wise and not fools. The very begining of chapter 1 sets us on our course...
Proverbs 1:2-6
"for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
for giving prudence to those who are simple,[a]
knowledge and discretion to the young—
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise"
for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
for giving prudence to those who are simple,[a]
knowledge and discretion to the young—
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise"
The end of chapter one sums it up... People don't choose the counsel of God and from that they will eat the fruit of their way and have their fill of their own devices. When life's not working for you and your not doing things God's way...it's time to ask a root question and not a symptom question.
Let the wise listen and add to their learning, let the discerning get guidance. Sound advice is out there. It's found in God's word and in the people who make a conscious choice to live in that consistently(no one does it perfectly). Let us venture into wisdom and the straight paths God has promised us in our following him!!
Friday, July 12, 2013
Psalms 146-150 The Grand Finale
July 12th Psalms 146-150
These chapters remind me of the end of the fireworks show. The brightest, the best, coming at you fast and furious. You know it's about to end and just when you think it can't get any better, another flury of praise flows forth.
"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob" What a great line. Can you think of anyone else you'd want on your team for a group project??
"He strengthens the bars of your gates" Great imagery to advance the idea of God in every detail of my life. When I look out my windows and see those bars, I remember God.
"He gives snow like wool" Praise God for the 51 inches of wool we got last April!! Right?!
Numerous times it says "The Lord takes PLEASURE in his people: he adorns the humble with salvation"
"Let the godly...sing for joy on their beds"
As a drummer you gotta love "Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud crashing cymbals." CAN I GET AN AMEN!!
"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." What a good ending...so it shall be...
LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH PRAISE THE LORD!!
These chapters remind me of the end of the fireworks show. The brightest, the best, coming at you fast and furious. You know it's about to end and just when you think it can't get any better, another flury of praise flows forth.
"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob" What a great line. Can you think of anyone else you'd want on your team for a group project??
"He strengthens the bars of your gates" Great imagery to advance the idea of God in every detail of my life. When I look out my windows and see those bars, I remember God.
"He gives snow like wool" Praise God for the 51 inches of wool we got last April!! Right?!
Numerous times it says "The Lord takes PLEASURE in his people: he adorns the humble with salvation"
"Let the godly...sing for joy on their beds"
As a drummer you gotta love "Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud crashing cymbals." CAN I GET AN AMEN!!
"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." What a good ending...so it shall be...
LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH PRAISE THE LORD!!
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Psalms 140-145 We say we don't, but WE LOVE DRAMA!!
July 11th, Psalms 140-145
Let the whole world know this...WE LOVE DRAMA. We say we don't love drama, but deep down inside WE LOVE DRAMA. The evidence is in the movies we watch the TV shows produced. Let's face it, no one's life is as interesting as anyone on TV. The TV show "Cops" requires film crews shooting in a city evening and night shifts for a month to get 5 half hour episodes. The drama is boiled down to 100 minutes of episode filmed in a month.
I love sports. It's the human drama of pressure and results. Tabloids and news agencies present drama because they know people will eat it up. "Did you hear about Aaron Hernandez?" "What's the Latest?" People seek out drama. I witness the posts of dramatic people all over facebook. Have you noticed anything about people who seem to always have the chaos swirling about. Drama is like a drug for many people...give me another hit or life is boring...did I tell you about...
The problem with drama is that we love everyone else's, but rarely do much about our own. My sensitivity to this subject is rooted in the place I am that requires me to press into the real drama of life. Pressing into the real trials, troubles, fears and anxiety of real people doesn't leave room for fake drama. You know, the kind that comes from a video game, movie, or someone dragging me into gossip that is none of my business or theirs for that matter.
Life is drama, life is a stage. God has equipped us to deal with it, but we look for it in the wrong place. In a world of case studies I invite you into life. It's not a case study at all but real time issues that need real time answers that are rooted in a real time God. May we learn to bring God into all of our matters of drama. If God can't be there, we shouldn't either.
The verse that started all of this? Psalm 140: 9 "As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them." You and I are equipped to handle drama. God blessed us with that. Sometimes it's just mischief and the wisdom to know the difference is vital to our emotional, spiritual health
Let the whole world know this...WE LOVE DRAMA. We say we don't love drama, but deep down inside WE LOVE DRAMA. The evidence is in the movies we watch the TV shows produced. Let's face it, no one's life is as interesting as anyone on TV. The TV show "Cops" requires film crews shooting in a city evening and night shifts for a month to get 5 half hour episodes. The drama is boiled down to 100 minutes of episode filmed in a month.
I love sports. It's the human drama of pressure and results. Tabloids and news agencies present drama because they know people will eat it up. "Did you hear about Aaron Hernandez?" "What's the Latest?" People seek out drama. I witness the posts of dramatic people all over facebook. Have you noticed anything about people who seem to always have the chaos swirling about. Drama is like a drug for many people...give me another hit or life is boring...did I tell you about...
The problem with drama is that we love everyone else's, but rarely do much about our own. My sensitivity to this subject is rooted in the place I am that requires me to press into the real drama of life. Pressing into the real trials, troubles, fears and anxiety of real people doesn't leave room for fake drama. You know, the kind that comes from a video game, movie, or someone dragging me into gossip that is none of my business or theirs for that matter.
Life is drama, life is a stage. God has equipped us to deal with it, but we look for it in the wrong place. In a world of case studies I invite you into life. It's not a case study at all but real time issues that need real time answers that are rooted in a real time God. May we learn to bring God into all of our matters of drama. If God can't be there, we shouldn't either.
The verse that started all of this? Psalm 140: 9 "As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them." You and I are equipped to handle drama. God blessed us with that. Sometimes it's just mischief and the wisdom to know the difference is vital to our emotional, spiritual health
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Psalms 133-139; 139 Wrestled into our understanding
July 10th, Psalms 133-139
Psalm 139
Let me get this straight; God knows everything about me...when I sit, rise, what I think. He knows my path, when I lie down and all my ways. While words are forming in my head he knows them before I speak. There is no place I could be that he isn't there. Even if I tried to hide in the darkest of places, the night is as bright as day to him. It's hard to believe that people have fallen into a trap of believing this idea of self-esteem. I think if Jesus could interact with us he would tell us that the day you forgot yourself would be better than the day you found yourself.
As a witness of God's creation I see that God has put things together and they are very, very good. So God has knit me together and I am a result of the workmanship of God. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. God's works are wonderful. I was created for the days that were formed for me even when there were no days.
God's thoughts about me have an incalculable number, and to think that we spend any amount of time running from this. As much as we evaluate our lives and come to the honest appraisal that we fall short there is a startling witness that "He who knew no sin, became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."
Thank you Lord for knowing me, and loving me. Offering a gift that is not rooted in any of my qualities, but solely rooted in a love I can't even pretend to understand. Lord continue this work of allowing me to let go of my need to validate myself in my own eyes, but rather let me become less so you can become more. "Search me O God and know my heart. Try me and know my thoughts! See if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way ever lasting."
Psalm 139
Let me get this straight; God knows everything about me...when I sit, rise, what I think. He knows my path, when I lie down and all my ways. While words are forming in my head he knows them before I speak. There is no place I could be that he isn't there. Even if I tried to hide in the darkest of places, the night is as bright as day to him. It's hard to believe that people have fallen into a trap of believing this idea of self-esteem. I think if Jesus could interact with us he would tell us that the day you forgot yourself would be better than the day you found yourself.
As a witness of God's creation I see that God has put things together and they are very, very good. So God has knit me together and I am a result of the workmanship of God. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. God's works are wonderful. I was created for the days that were formed for me even when there were no days.
God's thoughts about me have an incalculable number, and to think that we spend any amount of time running from this. As much as we evaluate our lives and come to the honest appraisal that we fall short there is a startling witness that "He who knew no sin, became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."
Thank you Lord for knowing me, and loving me. Offering a gift that is not rooted in any of my qualities, but solely rooted in a love I can't even pretend to understand. Lord continue this work of allowing me to let go of my need to validate myself in my own eyes, but rather let me become less so you can become more. "Search me O God and know my heart. Try me and know my thoughts! See if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way ever lasting."
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Psalms 120-132 When God's on the Workforce!!
July 9th, Psalms 120-132
It's a great joy to read through the Psalms as more and more of them become a familiar staple in my life. Songs we sing, special meanings as we walk this road of life, familiar psalms we seem to read over and over and psalms that seem fresh and new.
Psalm 127:1 is that familiar but new call for me this morning. The first half is embedded in my brain..."Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." the second half doesn't seem to get as much air time... "Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."
The second phrase feels like a verse claimed doing All-Nighters in youth ministry. Staying up all-night for! what?!?!?! exactly!! The fact that the psalmist throws both of those back to back, the building and the watching, does have a stronger impact. The imagery of the watchman has a bigger impact in my head. I can stay up late and watch over a city, but the best I can do is wake people to tell them our enemy has arrived. When God watches over the city I can imagine a whole different set of scenarios. All of them are amazing.
How much of my activity in my day is really done in vain, done without God. What places in my life are being built by me and what places are built by God. To me this is all about getting better at inviting the presence of God into our life, Watching, Building
I still have my work to do, the people are to build with God. The watchman is not told he can sleep on his watch, but to live in an awareness of need that God's watchful eye is more important than his own. All of our tasks this day are most productive with Christ alongside us. Thank you Lord for labor not done in vain!!
It's a great joy to read through the Psalms as more and more of them become a familiar staple in my life. Songs we sing, special meanings as we walk this road of life, familiar psalms we seem to read over and over and psalms that seem fresh and new.
Psalm 127:1 is that familiar but new call for me this morning. The first half is embedded in my brain..."Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." the second half doesn't seem to get as much air time... "Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."
The second phrase feels like a verse claimed doing All-Nighters in youth ministry. Staying up all-night for! what?!?!?! exactly!! The fact that the psalmist throws both of those back to back, the building and the watching, does have a stronger impact. The imagery of the watchman has a bigger impact in my head. I can stay up late and watch over a city, but the best I can do is wake people to tell them our enemy has arrived. When God watches over the city I can imagine a whole different set of scenarios. All of them are amazing.
How much of my activity in my day is really done in vain, done without God. What places in my life are being built by me and what places are built by God. To me this is all about getting better at inviting the presence of God into our life, Watching, Building
I still have my work to do, the people are to build with God. The watchman is not told he can sleep on his watch, but to live in an awareness of need that God's watchful eye is more important than his own. All of our tasks this day are most productive with Christ alongside us. Thank you Lord for labor not done in vain!!
Monday, July 8, 2013
Psalm 119 What God wants from Aleph to Taw
July 8th, Psalm 119
Welcome to the longest book in the bible. A couple of things about it that might/might not be worthy of our attention. First of all the book as a whole is an acrostic. Your bible maybe has a letter of the alphabet as a subtitle between every 8 verses. In Hebrew, each line in the section would start with that letter.
Almost without fail each section includes a reference to God's law, precepts, commandments, statutes, ordinances, rules, God's ways. If your a free spirit with an independent streak, this chapter will rub you the wrong way to no end.
Here's a couple of great takeaways based on the above. God's order is in everything from A to Z or in this case "Aleph to Taw."
Secondly, God has a law, God has a way that he expects people to follow. Our society proclaims that love is letting people do anything, "whatever makes you happy" is proclaimed as though it were common sense. God says differently, he says there is one way and it's my way and it is the way of life. If you want to find it you have to choose the correct way.
It's why David speaks so glowingly of it. I love your law, I meditate on it day and night, I don't want to deviate from it, your commandments are my delight, teach me your statutes. I consider all your precepts to be right, I hate every false way. False ways lead to destruction, why would I want that??
It's easy to want what we want, the invitation is to want what God wants from A to Z!!
Focusing on What God Wants,
Terry
Welcome to the longest book in the bible. A couple of things about it that might/might not be worthy of our attention. First of all the book as a whole is an acrostic. Your bible maybe has a letter of the alphabet as a subtitle between every 8 verses. In Hebrew, each line in the section would start with that letter.
Almost without fail each section includes a reference to God's law, precepts, commandments, statutes, ordinances, rules, God's ways. If your a free spirit with an independent streak, this chapter will rub you the wrong way to no end.
Here's a couple of great takeaways based on the above. God's order is in everything from A to Z or in this case "Aleph to Taw."
Secondly, God has a law, God has a way that he expects people to follow. Our society proclaims that love is letting people do anything, "whatever makes you happy" is proclaimed as though it were common sense. God says differently, he says there is one way and it's my way and it is the way of life. If you want to find it you have to choose the correct way.
It's why David speaks so glowingly of it. I love your law, I meditate on it day and night, I don't want to deviate from it, your commandments are my delight, teach me your statutes. I consider all your precepts to be right, I hate every false way. False ways lead to destruction, why would I want that??
It's easy to want what we want, the invitation is to want what God wants from A to Z!!
Focusing on What God Wants,
Terry
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Psalms 115-118 "Hey Dude"
July 6th, Psalms 115-118
I went to a large High School. Lots of students and really easy to forget people's names. Easy solution..."dude". Hey dude, what's up dude, etc. Dude became the default name replacement. People like it better when you remember their name, it's more personal it demonstrates that you care enough to remember something personal. I wish I was better at it. If I see someone less than one time a week, my ability to recall declines drastically.
I think it's easy to see why remembering names is a good thing, which is why today's topic seems odd to me. Translators of the bible have decided to replace God's name Yahweh, with LORD. In today's passage wherever you see lord as LORD it's because what really belongs there is Gods name...Yahweh!! A replacement of a name with a title. Like calling you Mr, Mrs,Ms or Miss...or dude. Not very personal.
God has a name, the bible even says it is a name above every name. We already have a difficult time having God be personal. If we were at a seminar God would have a name tag, and it wouldn't say dude or be a title(even if they apply). It would say Yahweh and he is the creator and lover of your soul!!
Lets boldly enter in to a greater depth of the rich meaning of relationship and let God have a name, just like you do...dude!! I mean everybody!!!
I went to a large High School. Lots of students and really easy to forget people's names. Easy solution..."dude". Hey dude, what's up dude, etc. Dude became the default name replacement. People like it better when you remember their name, it's more personal it demonstrates that you care enough to remember something personal. I wish I was better at it. If I see someone less than one time a week, my ability to recall declines drastically.
I think it's easy to see why remembering names is a good thing, which is why today's topic seems odd to me. Translators of the bible have decided to replace God's name Yahweh, with LORD. In today's passage wherever you see lord as LORD it's because what really belongs there is Gods name...Yahweh!! A replacement of a name with a title. Like calling you Mr, Mrs,Ms or Miss...or dude. Not very personal.
God has a name, the bible even says it is a name above every name. We already have a difficult time having God be personal. If we were at a seminar God would have a name tag, and it wouldn't say dude or be a title(even if they apply). It would say Yahweh and he is the creator and lover of your soul!!
Lets boldly enter in to a greater depth of the rich meaning of relationship and let God have a name, just like you do...dude!! I mean everybody!!!
Friday, July 5, 2013
Psalms 111-114: Praise the Lord!
While only Psalms 111-113 start out with the famous exclamation, "Praise the Lord!" The theme on all four psalms is quite clearly praise. Each one takes to a different view, a new angle for which we should praise God. It feels much like looking into a journal, and seeing someone recording their thoughts of devotions about why do we praise God.
The writer in Psalm 111 praises God for His mighty works, for being righteous and just. Verse 7 says, "The works of His hands are truth and justice;all His precepts are sure." (NASB) This psalm begins a praise of God's justice that continues into the next.
Psalm 112, praises God for His grace, and how He gives it with compassion. Verse 9 says, "He has given freely to the poor, His righteousness endures forever; His horn will b exalted in honor." (NASB).
Psalm 113 praises God for His greatness, that is, how much more grand and wonderful He is compared to creation. He is above all things and He gives joy to the downcast.
Psalm 114 recalls the Exodus, how God led them out through miracles in nature.
Why do you praise God? What about Him makes your heart leap for joy? The writer in these psalms took his time to contemplate God and wrote out, as best He could, the reasons for his adoration and the feelings of his worship.
Take time yourself, to think about God, write it down in a list. What amazes you about God? Why do you praise Him, why should you praise Him more?
Pray on everyone
PQ
The writer in Psalm 111 praises God for His mighty works, for being righteous and just. Verse 7 says, "The works of His hands are truth and justice;all His precepts are sure." (NASB) This psalm begins a praise of God's justice that continues into the next.
Psalm 112, praises God for His grace, and how He gives it with compassion. Verse 9 says, "He has given freely to the poor, His righteousness endures forever; His horn will b exalted in honor." (NASB).
Psalm 113 praises God for His greatness, that is, how much more grand and wonderful He is compared to creation. He is above all things and He gives joy to the downcast.
Psalm 114 recalls the Exodus, how God led them out through miracles in nature.
Why do you praise God? What about Him makes your heart leap for joy? The writer in these psalms took his time to contemplate God and wrote out, as best He could, the reasons for his adoration and the feelings of his worship.
Take time yourself, to think about God, write it down in a list. What amazes you about God? Why do you praise Him, why should you praise Him more?
Pray on everyone
PQ
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Psalms 106-107 Worst Trades in History
July 4th, Psalms 106-107
Worst Trades in History
#6 Hershel Walker for 5 Dallas Cowboys. Old Running backs aren't worth that. Combine that with
how the Vikings used him makes for double folly.
#5 Brett Farve to Green Bay for a first round pick. Hindsight is 20/20. Atlanta wants a do over.
#4 On Draft day Kobe Bryant was picked in exchange for Vlade Divac. Didn't remember that, bad
exchange!
#3 Bill Russell for two no names. Bill went on to 11 titles and one of the best centers to play.
#2 Babe Ruth was traded for $100,000 and a loan to start the Musical "No, No, Nanette."
and the number one worst trade of all time...Drum roll..................................
#1 Psalm 106:20 "They exchanged the Glory of God, for the image of an ox who eats grass."
Be on the good side of the trade!! God Bless and Happy Fourth of July. Thanks you Lord for the Freedom that comes through your son Jesus Christ!!
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Psalms 103-105 Proclamation
July 3rd, Psalms 103-105
What an intro...ever been part or witnessed a great inspiring start...And They're Off!!!
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your sins, who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies youth with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
After the last two days of these Psalms, I am reminded of something I know about myself that I have to keep in check. Here me say this in the monotone AA meeting kind of voice...
Hello My name is Terry White and I'm a cynic!! (Hello Terry)
CA: Not California but Cynics Anonymous. Some of you are in the Optimist club. Your a blessing to me(some days: some days I wonder if you don't need a reality check about how "great" everything is!!). But for those of us in the CA, I warn you as I warn myself...cynicism is not one of the fruits of the Spirit. Joy,peace, patience are and a psalm like this remind me of one of my tasks in life; Bless the Lord O My soul, ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME, bless his holy name.
I encourage you to read Psalm 103 out loud today. Warn your family or roomates, but proclaim it with your audible voice. Proclaim it like you mean it, say it like a presentation to an audience in a football stadium. "May the words of my lips and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight."
There is something powerful in the act of proclamation when our words express what's going on in our heart...may it be so and may your day be different because of Christ alive in you!!
What an intro...ever been part or witnessed a great inspiring start...And They're Off!!!
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your sins, who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies youth with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
After the last two days of these Psalms, I am reminded of something I know about myself that I have to keep in check. Here me say this in the monotone AA meeting kind of voice...
Hello My name is Terry White and I'm a cynic!! (Hello Terry)
CA: Not California but Cynics Anonymous. Some of you are in the Optimist club. Your a blessing to me(some days: some days I wonder if you don't need a reality check about how "great" everything is!!). But for those of us in the CA, I warn you as I warn myself...cynicism is not one of the fruits of the Spirit. Joy,peace, patience are and a psalm like this remind me of one of my tasks in life; Bless the Lord O My soul, ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME, bless his holy name.
I encourage you to read Psalm 103 out loud today. Warn your family or roomates, but proclaim it with your audible voice. Proclaim it like you mean it, say it like a presentation to an audience in a football stadium. "May the words of my lips and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight."
There is something powerful in the act of proclamation when our words express what's going on in our heart...may it be so and may your day be different because of Christ alive in you!!
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Psalms 96-102 SING
July 2nd, Psalms 96-102
There is a powerfully consistent theme in these chapters this morning. It seems pointless to write about it, because the invitation isn't to write or read but to sing. So here's the song that came to my mind almost instantly this morning after reading these chapters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEzEbtA9ba8
"Oh Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord all the earth"
"The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice, let the many coastlands be glad."
"Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things."
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth, break forth in joyous songs and sing praises."
"Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it."
"Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the Lord our God is holy."
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing."
"I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O Lord, I will make my music. I will ponder the way that is blameless!"
There is a powerfully consistent theme in these chapters this morning. It seems pointless to write about it, because the invitation isn't to write or read but to sing. So here's the song that came to my mind almost instantly this morning after reading these chapters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEzEbtA9ba8
"Oh Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord all the earth"
"The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice, let the many coastlands be glad."
"Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things."
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth, break forth in joyous songs and sing praises."
"Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it."
"Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the Lord our God is holy."
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing."
"I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O Lord, I will make my music. I will ponder the way that is blameless!"
Monday, July 1, 2013
Psalms 90-95 Happy Dependence Day; God is my Refuge
July 1st, Psalms 90-95
Psalm 91:1-2 Some familiar words...."He who dwells in the shelter of the most high will abide in the shelter of the almighty. I will say to the Lord, my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
God is my refuge. I totally get it, the safe place to which one has fled. The part I don't get is the circumstances whereby one is in need of a refuge. It makes me think of a refugee camp. A war or natural disaster that has stripped you of everything you own, maybe everyone you know. You have escaped with nothing but the clothes on your back and the entrance into a refuge camp has you at a point of despair.
I think of the Lost Boys of Sudan. Willing to walk across hundreds of miles of desert to flee the atrocity of war, just trying to stay alive. No food, no water, no shelter, just hope that something...out there...is better than what I know here.
Needing a refuge means I am a refugee. It's more true than my American mind is willing to allow. We are in desperate shape and compared to heaven living here is a refugee camp. Maybe the desperation is the crucible of refining moments needed by us for God to create something better. Desperation, refuge, being a refugee are not high on our list of values, in fact we'd do anything to not be there. When was the last time you or I really found ourselves desperate for the hand of God to change something besides our health concerns? Realizing my dependence is difficult in a nation that spends so much time proclaiming independence.
Maybe desperation is a value missed by us with the competing values of safety and luxury? Maybe God's refining work in us is unable to be done in comfort?!! Maybe valuable work is accomplished in something we consider...of no value? Maybe we should all live in a refugee camp, even if for a short time.
Psalm 91:1-2 Some familiar words...."He who dwells in the shelter of the most high will abide in the shelter of the almighty. I will say to the Lord, my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
God is my refuge. I totally get it, the safe place to which one has fled. The part I don't get is the circumstances whereby one is in need of a refuge. It makes me think of a refugee camp. A war or natural disaster that has stripped you of everything you own, maybe everyone you know. You have escaped with nothing but the clothes on your back and the entrance into a refuge camp has you at a point of despair.
I think of the Lost Boys of Sudan. Willing to walk across hundreds of miles of desert to flee the atrocity of war, just trying to stay alive. No food, no water, no shelter, just hope that something...out there...is better than what I know here.
Needing a refuge means I am a refugee. It's more true than my American mind is willing to allow. We are in desperate shape and compared to heaven living here is a refugee camp. Maybe the desperation is the crucible of refining moments needed by us for God to create something better. Desperation, refuge, being a refugee are not high on our list of values, in fact we'd do anything to not be there. When was the last time you or I really found ourselves desperate for the hand of God to change something besides our health concerns? Realizing my dependence is difficult in a nation that spends so much time proclaiming independence.
Maybe desperation is a value missed by us with the competing values of safety and luxury? Maybe God's refining work in us is unable to be done in comfort?!! Maybe valuable work is accomplished in something we consider...of no value? Maybe we should all live in a refugee camp, even if for a short time.
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