Don't talk back, LOVE back

Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake. (1 John 2:9, 10, 12 ESV)

This week has been a rough week.  I made the "mistake" of sharing somethings with my 5 year old daughter while in the car.  I told her that I had been yelled at all day long at work, and that no one was greatful for the hard work that I put in.  While putting her to bed, after reading her the Bible and praying with her, she asked me "why did you get yelled at?"  I explained that sometimes people are frustrated and even if you have done nothing wrong, their frustration may lead to them yelling at the people closest to them because they don't know what else to do.  This was a difficult thing for me to try to verbalize and explain...then it happened, God spoke to me through my 5 year old little girl when she said "Don't talk back...LOVE back!".  I'm amazed that at 5 years old, she understands that loving people is more important than the words, reasons, or actions by which we tend to justify our actions...and I heard God's voice.  Tonight's passage from 1 John echoes this sentiment.  Praising God tonight for such a gentle, humble, and perfect reminder to....simply "Don't talk back, LOVE back!".

SOAP January 31, 2014

Scripture: "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."(Proverbs 31:26 ESV)

Observation: Kindness is one thing that my brain does not come by naturally, yet my wife excels at it.

Application: Often times praise from my wife, whether it be to my daughter, a friend, or myself, comes by recognizing simple actions.  These are the sort of thing that I would take forgranted, yet by her example, I am learning to give thanks and show kindness to others.

Prayer: Daddy, please help me to be more kind to others, to be mindful of their needs, and be sensitive and obedient to glorify You in every situation.

God is the strength of my heart and portion forever

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (Psalm 73:26 ESV)

Tonight I went to worship team practice.  When we got to the part of the evening where we shared what was going on in life and how we needed prayer, I overflowed like a pitcher with too much water. Life has had some pretty big challenges lately, and it turns out (surprisingly NOT!) that I am not alone.  We are engaged in a very real spiritual battle in which the heart, mind, body, and soul are tempted daily to seek glorification of the self, satisfaction of the flesh, anger, dishonor, discord, complacency, and the list goes on and on.  I had some dear friends give me words of encouragement tonight, letting me know they are there for me and my family always.  Some offered words of encouragement that spoke directly to my vey soul.   I shared a lot, tonight, none of it pretty, some of it pretty raw.  I had one friend tell me of a painting of Jesus holding a man who was limp and needed carrying called "forgiven".  I came home and looked up the image, and I must say that this was very insightful of my friend to interpret my feelings so accurately.  In reading in Psalms tonight (something I do often when feeling so torn apart mentally, physically, and emotionally) I came across tonight's passage in Psalms 73 and felt most encouraged.   It doesn't matter that my flesh fails, or that my heart fails, for GOD is my strength and portion forever.  He is more than enough.

Thank you friends for everything.  Your prayers, companionship, encouragement, and accountability, is more appreciated than you will ever know.  Thank you for your amazing heart's for God and for helping me stand when times are hard…even when times for you are also even harder.  I praise God for each of you!

SOAP January 30, 2014

Scripture: "The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle. The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out."(Proverbs 30:1 ESV)

Observation: it is ok to be weary and worn out, we need not hide these things from anyone, not that they can even be hidden from God.

Application: Let us be honest, cast our burdens on The Lord, and seek His provision for our life.

Prayer: Daddy, things are hard for me right now and I am tired!  I need Your love and strength to see me through.  You above all are faithful and I will praise You all of my days!  Thank You Lord for all that You are, Amen.

Abba! Father!

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. (Romans 8:14-17 ESV)

We are called children of God...let that sink in for a minute.  we are children who cry out "Abba! Father!", a term of endearment, like "Daddy".  He is everything good, just, and right, and even more than we can fathom...AND while being all of that, He wants to love on us, His children.  Yes, we will suffer for Christ, but we are heirs of God...and He is all that we have ever had or wanted in a "Daddy".  That's amazing!

SOAP January 29, 2014

Scripture: "If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked."  (Proverbs 29:12 ESV)

Observation: When lies and deception are at the center of power, the worst of the worst are attracted to it like a moth to a flame.

Application: Speak truthfully and honestly to those in positions of power, do not say what others wish you to say or what you think they want to hear.  Speak truth, and that is all.

Prayer: Dad in Heaven, give me boldness to speak, patience to act, humility in all things, and opportunity to speak Your truth.  

I love my peeps!

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-8 ESV)

I have a wonderful group of brothers and sisters in Christ that I feel the same sentiments as Paul did.  We aren't just friends, we are partners in the gospel, praying for one another, caring for one another's needs as if they were their own, and standing fast that the gates of Hell will never prevail.  It is so amazing watching God work not only in other's lives, but watching the intertwining of what He is bringing to fruition through the Holy Spirit.  Paul says it so eloquently "I hold you in my heart., for you are all partakers...".  Let God continue this Agape love amongst believers, in small groups and gatherings, knowing that wherever 2 or 3 are gathered in His name, He is there also.  

A special thanks to my worship team peeps, and close friends who have been there for me over the years.  It's been hard at times, even seeming impossible, yet His grace is always sufficient and His love never fails.  Love you all!

SOAP January 28, 2014

Scripture:"Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered."(Proverbs 28:26 ESV)

Observation: There are times when following after Christ defies the logic of the mind.  The mind tells us that things aren't possible, or that the world doesn't work that way, yet with God all things are possible.  

Application: Seek The Lord in all matters, leaning not on my own understanding.

Prayer: Dad in Heaven, thank you that you are more than I will ever need.  Teach me to know your ways, make my paths straight, and to fully trust in you, that I might glimpse Your glory.

I have SO much to tell you...

I had much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. (3 John 1:13, 14 ESV)

While there may be nothing deeply spiritual about my thoughts on tonight's passage, it did indeed strike me as quite "human".  It is so easy to read scripture and forget that these are real people, living real lives, with real emotions, needs, etc.  have you ever thought to yourself while typing an email or text message "this is going to take forever...I'll just call them!" Or maybe this sounds familiar "I have so much to tell you and I'd rather not do it over the phone, let's meet for coffee!"  I enjoy seeing these glimpses of humanity in scripture because it reminds me of how well God knows us.  He even knew that 2000 years later, amongst all the technology and communication methods of the day, there would still be a need, a desire, to sit down face to face with friends and truly express ourselves in a way that we often can't do in a text, an email, a phone call, or a letter.  God's so smart!

SOAP January 27, 2014

Scripture: "Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel." (Proverbs 27:9 ESV)

Observation: Friends who tell things honestly, who look out for your best interest, will stand firmly and tell you when the decisions you are making are poor, they are to be most treasured.  They speak truth, their praise is heart felt as is their rebuke.

Application: Build friendships that are centered around Christ and providing Godly counsel and be that friend to others.

Prayer: Dad in Heaven, thank you for the friends you have placed in my life who point me to You on a regular basis.  Help me to be such a friend in return and to others, that You would be glorified, for it is not I, but Christ.  Amen.

SOAP January 26, 2014

Scripture:"The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly." (Proverbs 26:16 ESV)

Observation: Be careful about whose advise to take.

Application: Beware of those who always have something to say, even when they are not asked.

Prayer: Lord, help me to not be a sluggard and help me to always seek wise counsel.

Praise Him

Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by night in the house of the Lord ! Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the Lord ! May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth! (Psalm 134:1-3 ESV)

No matter the troubles of the day, it is so amazing to know that our God is with us.  May we sing His praises forevermore!

SOAP January 25, 2014

Scripture: "A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls." (Proverbs 25:28 ESV)

Observation: All that is precious and good is plundered by all who see us when we don't exercise self control. When they are finished picking through our lives, all that is left is an empty shell,about as valuable as an empty wallet.

Application: beseech God to grant me self control, that I may not fall prey to the plundering of many and be left desolate and without protection.

Prayer: Dad in Heaven, my iniquities are great and for that I am sorry.  Teach me to be in control at all times and to seek you day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, and second by second.  

Child like

But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” (Mark 10:14, 15 ESV)

Child like acceptance, child like joy, child like inquisitiveness, these are just a few of the things that come to mind about tonight's passage.  The more time I spend around my young daughter, the more I understand how God wants to view Him....it is an AWE that knows no bounds!  Let us seek Christ as children seek candy!  Praying tonight to be more child like in so many areas of my faith.

SOAP January 24, 2014

Scripture: "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles,"(Proverbs 24:17 ESV)

Observation: God sees and knows our heart, we can not hide it from Him...but He can change our heart to be more like Him.

Application: See and treat others as I would want to be treated, if the tables were turned.

Prayer: Dear Dad in Heaven, help me to see others as you see them, and give me a heart of compassion and love, for my enemies.  

He is our anchor, we will not be moved

For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever. He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord. (Psalm 112:6, 7 ESV)

First, let me say that it has been 1 year of almost daily blog entries and it has been a tremendous blessing to me and hopefully to many readers also.  Today is the 354th post, which just so happens to fall on my birthday.  Today was a challenging day, full of unsuspected dilemmas and uncertain circumstance. Days like today remind me so much of the hopelessness of the world apart from Christ. Where does one turn to in times of calamity without Christ?  What hope do people hold to without Christ?  I can't begin to imagine facing the storms of life without Christ as my anchor, my rock, my hope, and my salvation.  To those who have yet to accept Him, let me simply say, I am not perfect, but He is...and because He is, He is who I put my trust in, for He holds me firm, I will "never be moved", He loves me unconditionally, and renews my strength daily.  Thank you Lord, Amen!

SOAP January 23, 2014

Scripture:"Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off." (Proverbs 23:18 ESV)

Observation: our future is eternal, our hope is never ending because of Christ.

Application: never give up, never lose hope, have faith that God is in charge and even if we perish, we go to be with Him.

Prayer: Dear Dad in Heaven, thank you for the hope I have in Jesus, thank You, thank You, thank You!

Auto-pilot

praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:18-20 ESV)

Do you ever find yourself on "auto-pilot"?  I can accomplish many tasks in my day, with extreme precision, and in many cases, not even give it much thought.  Drive a car, make coffee, cook, chop vegetables, etc.  This can be true on the spiritual side also, pray, sing worship songs, read the Bible, and all on "auto-pilot".  Tonight's passage speaks directly to this, we are to "keep alert with perseverance".  This passage is directly following the explanation of the full armor of God and spiritual warfare.  We must be alert, aware of our surroundings at all times.  We must avoid distractions and tuning out, going through the motions, or "auto-pilot".  When we are not tuned in, we miss out on so much of what God is doing, we make the enemy's job easy, and we miss out on ministering to our brothers and sisters in Christ.  Let us pray for one another, that we would be alert, and that in doing so, we would grow and thrive in our relationship with Christ.

SOAP January 22, 2014

Scripture: "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it."(Proverbs 22:3 ESV)

Observation: In life this is so true.  If a person does not pay attention to their surroundings, they will find themselves in a multitude of situations that are difficult at best.

Application: God wants us to pay attention to what is happening around us, physically and spiritually.  By seeing the "whole picture" we are not only able to avoid suffering for ourselves, but warn those around us. 

Prayer: Dear Dad in Heaven, teach me to see danger, both physical and spiritual, and hide myself in You.  Amen.

Use your gifts to serve others

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:10, 11 ESV)

God has gifted each of us differently.  The gifts He has given to us are to be used to serve one another.   We glorify God by using our gifts in this way.  Food for thought tonight:

How has God gifted you?

How can you use that gift to serve others?

Are you doing that today?  If not, what obstacles need to be overcome?

I'm praying that as you read this, God would show you how he wants to use you and your gifts.

SOAP January 21, 2014

Scripture: "All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back."(Proverbs 21:26 ESV)

Observation: the mindset of the righteous is set on giving without holding back.  The righteous are not driven by their cravings.

Application: The world will tempt us with many things.  When cravings or desires drive actions, instead of giving and generosity, it is time to do a heart check.

Prayer: My Dad in Heaven, let me not be driven by cravings of this world, let me be a motivated giver in all things, one who does not hold back.  Teach me to give without expectation of receiving and to take joy in it.  Amen.

Praying to "Daddy"

Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! (Psalm 141:2 ESV)

One of the great joys of being the parent of a young child, is to watch the enthusiasm that they have in doing/making things for you.  Whether it be a drawing, a craft, a play dough sculpture, taking dishes to the kitchen, sweeping the floor, helping clean up, etc.  they delight in pleasing us.  I invision God taking this same delight in our prayers.  It doesn't have to be perfect, gallery worthy, or even beyond ordinary...it just needs to be sincere.  Just as my daughter does things to bring a smile to my face, so should we pray to God.  Tell Him what's going on in your life, be candid, be excited, be real.  Share with Him your happiness and your joy.  On the other side of the coin, when my daughter is angry, upset, or scared, she looks to me to correct her, comfort her, show her the way, and show her that everything will be alright.  Many times, that means a hug, sleeping in our bed, laying on her floor, praying with her, talking it out, or simply holding her until she feels better.  Again, God is the same way. He wants to hold us, comfort us, hug us, talk to us, and let us know that everything is going to be ok.  Our prayers are lke incense to Him, and they draw us close together.  If you want to inhance the nature of your relationship with God, start by resolving to pray more and to do so in a less formal and intimate way.  Tell Him everything, don't worry about the format, and lastly, use terms of endearment when praying.  Call God "daddy", or "dad", you will be surprised how a less formal approach can improve the intimacy of your prayer life and your overall relationship with God.

SOAP January 20, 2014

Scripture: "Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you." (Proverbs 20:22 ESV)

Observation: God is looking out for us, he sees the injustices and iniquities committed against us.  God is busy about delivering us.

Application: We need not concern ourselves with vengeance.  God is in control and doesn't wish us to stumble over the evil that is done to us.  God will deliver us from the temptation to harm those who provoke us.  He will give us the strength to love our enemy.  He will fight for us, all we need do is trust in Him and wait.  

Prayer: Dear Lord, let me grant grace to others, as You have granted grace to me.  Let me pray for those who persecute me, and turn them over to Your righteous hand, Amen.

Bring me my cloak

When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:13-18 ESV)

Tonight's passage struck me as so "human" of Paul, yet also so demonstrative of God's power.  Paul asks Timothy to bring him his cloak, (winter was near) books, and parchments, and warns him of Alexander.  He tells of how no one stood with him in his defense (remember he is in prison at this point) yet God stood by him and used it as an opportunity for him to share the gospel in front of all.  Imagine Paul being in court, on trial, standing before a Roman court, no one to stand in his defense or by his side, yet he uses this as an opportunity to boldly proclaim the gospel.  He was not executed, and He knew that The Lord was with him and he was strengthened by Him.  

What a powerful glimpse at the faith of Paul and the realness of his relationship with Christ.  That is what relying on God looks like and a beautiful example of friendship (Paul and Timothy).

SOAP January 19, 2013

Scripture: "When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the Lord." (Proverbs 19:3 ESV)

Observation: When God's path is not followed, one of two outcomes occur. If the path leads to success, pride runs rampant and the ego shouts from the roof tops, so all will hear "look at what I have done!"  If the path ends in ruin, none of the responsibility is shouldered, rather the wounded, bitter, hardened heart, tells a story to all who will listen.  A story about how God is unjust, He is not good, or any other multitude of angry words that point the finger at God.

Application: God does not promise us that our lives will be easy, that our lives will be free from pain, or sorrow, or failure, or complete ruin, etc.  What God does promise us, is that He will never leave us, He will never forsake us, and that He will never stop loving us!  We must be careful not to confuse the feelings of euphoria that come with good outcomes in life, with being "OK with God", or with His love.  We also, must not confuse the feelings of sorrow, loss, and defeat, that come with bad outcomes with being "OK with God", or with His love.  God's love for us is unconditional, there is nothing we can do to earn it and there is no situation that he can not use for good, for His glory. The short version of the application of tonight's verse: stop blaming God for poor circumstances and taking credit for good ones, all things can be used to glorify Him.

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for loving me unconditionally.  Thank you that you are more than a feeling, that You are more than I will ever need.  You are always there, and You will always love me and never leave me.  Help me to remember Your great love always and be a vessel to show Your love to others.  Amen!

Fulfill your ministry

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:3-5 ESV)

There are numerous untruths propetiated in the church today.  People alter definitions, connotations, and context to accommodate their sin, rather than change a rebellious heart into a repentant heart.  Paul is telling Timothy of this very thing and instructs him to be true to his calling.  He reminds him to fulfill his ministry, which was preaching the gospel.  Let us also, be sober-minded, staying true to the gospel, sharing the good news of Christ, making disciples, raising up others who will in turn share the light of Christ with the next generation and generations to come.

SOAP January 18, 2014

Scripture: "A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his imagination."(Proverbs 18:11 ESV)

Observation: Self reliance is like a noose that slowly tightens itself around the neck.  When trouble comes, instead of crying out to God for help, the hand reaches for the wallet.  The false sense of security that self reliance bequeaths to its benefactor is intoxicating, until the chair is violently kicked from underneath and the noose chokes away all life...in that moment of desperate realization, a muffled prayer is whispered from the lips.

Application: There is NOTHING that The Lord can not give or take away.  All that we have is because He has given it to us and it is His to take away also.  Do not rely on anything other than God.  He is the only firm foundation, the only hope, and the only one who will never fail us.

Prayer: Lord, let me be most satisfied in you.  Let the things of this world grow strangely dim and may You ever be my strong tower, my deliverer, my protector, my God.

Avoid entanglement

Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. (2 Timothy 2:3, 4 ESV)

It is a misalignment of passion if we lose sight of God's work and instead become partial to the world.  We must live in the world without becoming affected by it's sinful embrace.  Let us serve in obedience, without compromise, and avoid entanglement in the sins of this present life.  

SOAP January 17, 2014

Scripture:  Let a man meet a she-bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly. (Proverbs 17:12 ESV)

Observation: A mother bear defending her cubs has no regard for her own safety.  She puts everything on the line for even a chance to keep her cubs safe.  A fool will defend his/ her position similarly, casting all caution to the wind, and often times harming those around them.

Application: Seek and keep Godly friends and council.  Have many trusted advisors and avoid the council of fools.

Prayer: Dear God, please surround me with Godly men, who will boldly speak your truth into my life.  Keep me far from foolishness and teach me to make my paths straight in your sight.  Amen.

Prisoner

Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, (2 Timothy 1:8, 9 ESV)

When you think of someone in prison, what comes to mind? What characteristics do you think of about when thinking of the prisoner?  Would you trust a prisoner with your money, your house, your family?  Would you trust them with your life?  I never really thought of Paul in that light, though I know he was in prison.  Imagine how it must have been perceived when people were turning to Christ as a result of Paul's preaching.  I am confident that many scoffed and thought the new converts mad to believe the words of a prisoner.  Paul's boldness did not diminish, and he urged Timothy to not be ashamed of either the Gospel of Christ or of himself.  Today, Let us be busy about His holy calling to share the good news, to fulfill His purpose for our lives by grace.  We have it so much easier, we are not in prison, yet our boldness seems elementary.  Let us be prepared to be bold, and share in the suffering for the gospel by the power of God.

SOAP January 16, 2014

Scripture: A worthless man plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. (Proverbs 16:27 ESV)

Observation: "worthless", that is a hard word to hear someone call you.  That is how God views a man that plots evil and spews words of fire from his lips.  I know I am guilty of thinking vengeful thoughts about people who wronged me.  This is unacceptable in God's sight.

Application: don't plot revenge, or wish ill upon others.  Use words with the utmost caution.  Pray for God to fill my heart with love for my enemy and fill my mouth with blessing words.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I don't want to be a worthless man, I want to be filled with Your love and bless others with my words.  Help me share Your love with others by filling my heart with Your love for them.  Help me to love them as You love me.

Keep your eye on the ball

Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. (1 Timothy 4:16 ESV)

In tonight's passage, Paul admonishes Timothy to stay true, to keep a close watch on himself and His teachings.  We too must keep a close watch on ourselves, seeking God in all things.  One of the most important things we can do is take stock of ourselves, know where we struggle, and ask God for help. We in turn can share our struggles and victories with one another, rejoicing in the work of The Lord and praying for one another.  What better teaching is there than doing?  What a powerful testimony for people to see the church evaluate ourselves, give our struggles to God, and praise Him for victories; not being proud, but proclaiming boldly the power of Christ to break EVERY chain.

SOAP January 15, 2015

Scripture:  The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3 ESV)

Observation: I love "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.  Tonight's SOAP passage reminds me of the "great eye" of Sauron and how it is constantly looking for the one ring.  Sometimes it can feel like when we sin, that God's eye is immediately drawn to us, just like when someone puts on "the one ring".  The truth is that as believers that is the conviction of the Holy Spirit in us.  God sees everything, every action and interaction.  He knows both sides of every story, nothing is hidden from His sight.

Application: Live life as if the things we do in secret were on display for all to see and the things we do in public as if no one would ever see.  God sees all and that should be all that matters to us.

Prayer: Dear God, let me seek to always do what is pleasing in your sight, give me strength to resist temptation, and to always choose what is good.  Thank you for the Holy Spirit and it's guidance, I pray that you would continually teach my heart to yield to the Holy Spirit's leading.  

Let's be the blessing...

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV)

I have deep rooted philosophical, theological, constitutional, ethical, morale, and many other issues with the United States government...BUT...God's word says I am to pray for them, be in intercession for them, and be in thanksgiving for them.  This is pleasing to God.  Sometimes, I lose sight of the fact that "Government" is made up of people, real flesh and blood people, with hearts, minds, and immortal souls...and God desires that all of them be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.  God wants us to be His messenger, and to deleiver His message in a "godly and dignified way".  Think of it this way, if I walked up to that politician, handed him a cup of coffee, and a newspaper, and said "You have a difficult job, and I want you to know that God has called His people to pray for you.  Thank you."  What do you think the chances of him listening to anything I have to say is?  I guarantee that this approach, is more likely to lead to a chance at presenting the gospel than snapping, sneering, gesturing, or many other forms of rude behavior we all have seen.  Next time you have the opportunity, be the one being the blessing in the eyes of God...and don't forget to be praying for these folks and giving thanks for them...I know it's hard, but we too, in order to be aligned with God's will, must desire to see all men saved and come to the knowledge of truth!

SOAP January 14, 2014

My Church (2Rivers Church, check us out at www.2Riverschurch.com) is doing a reading plan again this year to encourage people to make a habit of being in God's word daily. The plan for January is to read 1 chapter of proverbs each day, then in February, 1 chapter of Acts per day, and, well, more to come.  Since we had a major snow storm hit on the first Sunday of 2014, we had to cancel services, henc why the late start.  That being said, along with the reading of each of these chapters (I am using these chapters for our family devotionals this year too of which we did the first one tonight) I will post a "SOAP" entry about it here.  SOAP is an acronym for Scripture Observation Application & Prayer.  Rather than start a whole separate blog for these posts, I will simply be labeling them with "SOAP" and the date.  Feel free to join in and follow along.  Don't worry, I am planning on continuing my regular daily posts as well.  

Here we go, SOAP entry January 14, 2014:

Scripture: "Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance. (Proverbs 14:9 ESV)"

Observation: when we or someone we know says, acts, or believes that they have no need of salvation from their sin and can "earn" their way into Heaven on their own by works, they are as fools.  It is those who acknowledge their sinfulness and their need for forgiveness that receive Christ.

Application: Christ was the offering for our sin, we must accept Him in order to be accepted by God the Father.  Let us be quick to tell others, especially those who are seeking, about the acceptance that comes from salvation through faith in Christ.

Prayer: Lord let me never mock your sacrifice and boldly proclaim your acceptance and salvation available to all through Christ.  Amen!

Never forget that the gospel centers around love

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Certain persons, by swerving from these, have wandered away into vain discussion, desiring to be teachers of the law, without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make confident assertions. (1 Timothy 1:5-7 ESV)

The central nature of the gospel is love.  Without love, there is no advancement of the gospel, there is no conviction for the sinful heart, and there is no embracing of the love of Christ that was demonstrated so violently on the cross.

Righteous guide or wicked leading others astray.

One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. (Proverbs 12:26 ESV)

Let us ever be careful and dedicated to being the guide and not the one leading astray.

A needed reminder

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1 ESV)

Sometimes, I need this reminder.  "In the beginning, God..."  It doesn't matter what the day's troubles are, or what the distress of tomorrow brings, it does not change that "in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."  I am reminded of the sentiment, "who is the clay to tell the potter what to mold?"  God is the author and perfector of our lives and our salvation, may we ever seek His glory, amen!

The same for everyone

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. (Romans 12:3 ESV)

The beauty of the gospel is that it is the same for everyone, no one is more or less deserving, for we are all sinners and therefore, Christ died for us.  

What God says about Himself

Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: “I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god. (Isaiah 44:6 ESV)

I love what God has to say about Himself in this verse.  This statement is so simple, and yet the depth of truth expressed in it is difficult to fully grasp.  First means none before and last means none after.  I can't fathom this with my finite brain.  What about beginning and end?  God is eternal and He envelopes it all and besides Him, there is no god.  When we realize, trust, and believe this, nothing becomes too big for us to give over to God.  Whatever we are holding onto, things that we think we can handle on our own, or that seem too big for anyone to help us with...THAT God, the only God, the first and the last, HE can handle it!  He is so much bigger than we can even begin to fathom, He loves us, and there is nothing that is impossible with Him!

God is the apple of our eye

My son, keep my words and treasure up my commandments with you; keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye; bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. (Proverbs 7:1-3 ESV)

If we train ourselves to know God's word and obey it, it becomes the apple of our eye, the thing that we seek after.  When we live out His word, it becomes part of us, written on our hearts.  God wants to be the apple of our eye, so let us be ever mindful to keep Him and His word in the center of our lives, not allowing sin or worldliness to take hold.  Sin is the enemy of God and must be our enemy as well.  Christ paid the price for our sin on the cross once and for all and we must never become accepting of it.  

Let us put off arrogance

Therefore say to them, Thus declares the Lord of hosts: Return to me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. Do not be like your fathers, to whom the former prophets cried out, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, Return from your evil ways and from your evil deeds.’ But they did not hear or pay attention to me, declares the Lord. Your fathers, where are they? And the prophets, do they live forever? But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not overtake your fathers? So they repented and said, ‘As the Lord of hosts purposed to deal with us for our ways and deeds, so has he dealt with us.’” (Zechariah 1:3-6 ESV)

We as humans are a proud and arrogant group.  God is not interested in anything except our submission and praise.  Let us put off the arrogance of our forefathers and wrap ourselves in obedience.   

Discipline

Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:9-11 ESV)

When the grind of life seems unrelenting and tedious, I am reminded that discipline and obedience yield righteousness.  I have not attained it, but like all, I am a work in progress.  Grateful for a loving Father in Heaven who disciplines us for our good, sharing in His holiness, and bringing about righteousness!

Give me life in Your ways

Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. (Psalm 119:36, 37 ESV)

The last few days, I have been reading/ studying in the book of Ezra.  I came across a suggestion that Ezra may have authored Psalm 119 also (no definitive proof exists).  That being said, I was reading Psalm 119 tonight and was moved by the heart of the Psalmist.  What perfect words to describe the longing of our hearts to turn to God and for our gaze to be fixed upon Him.  Praying this scripture tonight!

Blessings come from God

Blessed be the Lord, the God of our fathers, who put such a thing as this into the heart of the king, to beautify the house of the Lord that is in Jerusalem, and who extended to me his steadfast love before the king and his counselors, and before all the king’s mighty officers. I took courage, for the hand of the Lord my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me. (Ezra 7:27, 28 ESV)

I love that in the midst of great blessing, Ezra acknowledges God's hand in it all.  He clearly recognizes God's influence on the heart of the King and his counselors and officers.  This is a great lesson to always acknowledge that blessings come not from the work of our own hands, but rather from God.  He chooses to bless us, and that is amazing in its own right.

Rebuild, restore, tear down, & build

And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments came forward with trumpets, and the Levites, the sons of Asaph, with cymbals, to praise the Lord, according to the directions of David king of Israel. And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the Lord, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.” And all the people shouted with a great shout when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. But many of the priests and Levites and heads of fathers’ houses, old men who had seen the first house, wept with a loud voice when they saw the foundation of this house being laid, though many shouted aloud for joy, so that the people could not distinguish the sound of the joyful shout from the sound of the people’s weeping, for the people shouted with a great shout, and the sound was heard far away. (Ezra 3:10-13 ESV)

The books of Ezra & Nehemiah are all about restoration.  The restoration of a people to their God & the rebuilding of the Temple.  This passage out of Ezra struck me as perfect for New Years Day.  The year is new before us and there is much that we want to build, restore, tear down etc.  Tonight's passage shows this same emotion, the people of Israel have been gathered from the diaspora and are rebuilding the Temple.  When the foundation is laid, there were shouts of joy, they sang, they praised The Lord.  While this was happening, some who had seen the original temple and it's splendor wept.  I can relate to that, there are many reasons to have wept, perhaps weeping for all that was lost from days of old until now...primarily time, experiences, etc. This same sentiment is what I often feel as a new year begins.  I take stock of life and all that has transpired.  I see the promise and hope of God moving in my life, and sometimes that means rebuilding things, restoration, etc.  What things is God restoring in your life this year?  What things is He tearing down and what is He building?  Let us look to Him and remember that it is us who follows Him and not the other way around.