tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12891264553042502382024-03-12T22:01:14.742-05:00Reflections<br><br><br><br><br><br><center>Reflections is based on my personal devotional journals from a daily practice of reading through the Bible chapter by chapter.</center>Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.comBlogger1488125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-82599604978393814162016-07-06T06:11:00.001-05:002016-07-06T06:11:57.634-05:00One Prayer Away From Stumbling<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Joshua 9</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
The early chapters in the Old Testament book of Joshua outline
Israel's invasion of Canaan. Under the Lord's direction they entered
Canaan much as they left Egypt with the Lord holding back the waters of
the Jericho River as they crossed on dry land. Then the Lord instructed
Israel concerning her first military encounter against the city of
Jericho and they were given victory over the city without any
opposition. Witnessing God working in our lives in such powerful ways is
exciting. While such experiences encourage us to be even more devout in
following the Lord, they also bring with them a temptation.<br />
<br />
An example of this temptation is given in Joshua chapter 9. The
people of Gibeon had heard of what God was doing through Israel and knew
that as inhabitants of Canaan they were doomed. However, they also knew
that if they portrayed themselves as non-Canaanites they might not be
destroyed. So they "took worn-out sacks on their donkeys and old
wineskins, cracked and mended. They wore old, patched sandals on their
feet and threadbare clothing on their bodies. Their entire provision of
bread was dry and crumbly." (Joshua 9:4-5) All of this to give the
impression that they had traveled a long distance to come to Israel and
worship their God.<br />
<br />
What was Israel's temptation? Their temptation was the presumption
that the amazing victories God had given them were due, at least in
part, to their own amazing prowess. Thus further tempting them to think
they could discern this situation with the Gibeonites without conferring
with the Lord. This is probably the temptation that plagues me more
than any other. Receiving God's blessing and then feeling proud of
myself as if I am responsible for the blessing. Filled with this pride I
take my next step without the Lord's guidance, exposing myself to a
fall. This cylce seems to happen over and over.<br />
<br />
I come to identify with Paul who embraced his weakness saying, "For
when I am weak, then I am strong." How can this be? Because when he
acknowledged his weakness Christ's power could reside in him and he then
operated out of Christ's power and not from his own weakness.<br />
<br />
Israel, and us, was just one prayer away from stumbling, from making
the foolish mistake of engaging in a peace treaty with the Gibeonites
without seeking the Lord's guidance. It didn't matter that the Lord had
given them victory upon victory in their march across Canaan. The point
was that the victories came from the Lord and not their own wisdom. Even
one lapse in relying on their own wisdom made them susceptible to a
very unwise decision. Just one prayer would have made all the
difference.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-73682995530380245532016-07-02T07:34:00.001-05:002016-07-02T07:34:16.026-05:00Motive Is Everything<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 90%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 20</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Motives are so subtle that we often don't even recognize our own
motives. Those who are followers of Christ must be continually
examining their hearts which can only truly be done through the scrutiny
of the Holy Spirit. Unless I am continually spending time with God and
allowing His Spirit to permeate my mind and heart, I will forever be
duped by my own motives.<br />
<br />
Peter listened to Jesus' conversation with a rich young man who was
seeking eternal life. While on the surface this young man appeared to be
devout and honestly seeking God, he was unaware that God was not his
primary pursuit. It became apparent in his conversation with Jesus that
his possessions were more important to him than anything else. Jesus
told him to "sell your belongings and give to the poor, and you will
have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." (Matthew 19:21) But the
man went away sad and Jesus pointed out to His disciples the difficulty
of those who are rich being able to place God first in their lives. This
prompted Peter to ask, "Look, we have left everything and followed You.
So what will there be for us?" (Matt 19:27) This question throws doubt
on whether Peter's motive at this point were pure. Was he following
Jesus merely for the reward?<br />
<br />
This occasion sets the scene for Matthew chapter 20 in which Jesus
tells the parable of the Vineyard Workers. In this parable the land
owner hired men to work in his vineyard at various times throughout the
day. Some were hired early in the morning others at mid-morning, others
at noon, and still others just an hour before quitting time. But the
owner paid all of the workers the same amount for their labor. It is not
surprising that the workers who worked all day were unhappy with this
arrangement. But Jesus concluded the parable with a statement He also
made at the conclusion of the conversation with the rich man, "So the
last will be first, and the first last." (Matt 20:16)<br />
<br />
Jesus was not saying that God arbitrarily reverses the order of
things. That those who show up first will automatically be sent to the
end of the line, so to speak. It was a statement of motive. Notice in
the parable that those who went to work first, started work only after
they had negotiated for their pay. But those who were sent into the
vineyard later in the day were simply told they would be paid whatever
was 'right,' and they accepted. Peter's question suggested he thought
the disciples should have a special reward because they had left
everything to follow Jesus.<br />
<br />
Jesus was emphasizing that this is not the way it works in the
kingdom of heaven. It is not about great reward for great effort. It is
those who serve out of great love and no expectation who are most likely
to have the greatest rewards.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-42174482107705067162016-06-28T06:39:00.001-05:002016-06-28T06:39:11.174-05:00Dealing With Injustice<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 18</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Matthew 18:1 and following records an occasion when Jesus' disciples
asked, "Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Previous to this
occasion, three of the disciples had accompanied Jesus to the top of a
mountain and been witnesses to His transfiguration. Possibly this event
had prompted the question. But this was not the only occasion on which
the question was raised by the disciples.<br />
<br />
We know from the lives of these men that they were good and faithful
servants. Servants unto death, in fact. But they, as with many of us,
had a concern with prestige and recognition. Jesus' teaching had not yet
permeated their thinking to the point it had become a part of their own
mindset. For them, as is no doubt the case with all of us, the concept
of self-denial just did not come naturally. Looking out for one's self
and not letting others run over us is engrained in most of us from an
early age. Partly due to human nature and partly due to the teaching of
society.<br />
<br />
This engrained behavior, along with our own sin nature, is difficult
to break. I find it one of the most difficult characteristics in myself
to break. As a result, I will sometimes find myself almost obsessing
over some perceived wrong by another. I mentally rehearse what I'm going
to say to the one who "wronged" me in order to set the situation right.
It is only after I have spent considerable time in these mental
gymnastics that I realize what I am doing and begin to make it a matter
of prayer. Envariably it is I who is set straight through the prompting
of the Holy Spirit rather than me setting the other person straight. Too
often, though, I have acted on my sense of injustice in such a
situation out of emotions rather than out of prayer and spiritual
guidance. When I have acted out of prayer and been prompted to "back
off," I've never been sorry. Rather I have been thankful I did not act
on my emotions.<br />
<br />
Jesus had much to say about injustice, but His concern was more in
defense of injustice toward others than that aimed at Himself. Is there a
rule of thumb concerning injustice aimed at ourselves upon which we
should take action? Not to my knowledge. Jesus' teachings often leave
unanswered questions. We are not always pleased with this, preferring to
have neat explanations and guildlines for everything. Following Jesus,
however, is not about following a set of rules. Rather it is about a
relationship with Him and functioning out of that relationship to
respond to life as He guides us.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-11122696010720443002016-06-22T07:00:00.001-05:002016-06-22T07:00:08.510-05:00Being Honest With Our Doubt<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 90%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 14</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
When Jesus came walking on the water to His disciples who were
perilously caught in a storm in a small boat, Peter boldly stepped out
of the boat to join Jesus on the water. But then he took his eyes off
Jesus, focusing instead on the enormity of the storm and becoming
overcome with fear and doubt causing him to begin sinking. Jesus said to
him and the other disciples, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"<br />
<br />
Indeed, why do we doubt? Was Jesus admonishing the disciples as we
often assume, or was He raising an important question for them to
ponder? Is doubt bad or can it have a positive affect? Is it a sin or
not?<br />
I lean on the side of doubt having potential beneficial results.
There are times, in fact, when we should doubt. It is not that God
warrants our doubt but that our assumptions concerning God can warrant
it. To pursue that thought further, let's consider Peter's assumptions
when he stepped from the boat. He had witnessed Jesus' power in a number
of instances, witnessing that very day the miraculous feeding of 5,000
people with only five loaves and two fish. He was also witnessing Jesus
at that very moment walking to him on the water. He would be accurate in
his belief that Jesus not only had power to walk on water Himself, but
to also enable Peter to walk on it.<br />
<br />
Was it Jesus' ability to enable him to walk on water that Peter
doubted or did he doubt that Jesus was willing to enable him? Given
Jesus' statement to him and Jesus' demonstration of calming the storm
after He got in the boat, we might conclude that Peter doubted Jesus'
power. But neither should Peter assume or should we assume Jesus'
willingness to exercise His power on our behalf without conferring with
Him. This is where I struggle the most with doubt. Does Jesus want to
exercise His power at my request?<br />
<br />
Either way, whether it is doubt of Jesus' ability or doubt of His
willingness, doubt can be a point of growth if we do not camp out in it,
remaining in doubt indefinitely. We should go to God with our doubt and
allow Him to correct us and teach us and get through the doubt, doing
it right away and hitting it head on. It is important to resolve our
doubt as soon as possible for while in doubt we are also susceptible to
Satan's attack with additional doubts.<br />
<br />
We need to hold to our faith while examining our doubts, keeping our eyes on Jesus rather than the source of our doubt.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-35517575296972816502016-06-20T06:41:00.001-05:002016-06-20T06:41:20.837-05:00Faith: A Choice<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 13</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Matthew chapter 13 marks a shift in Jesus' teaching methodology with
the crowds following Him. His shift was from revealing direct concepts
to the use of parables which hid the truth behind the parable from the
unbelieving mind. Jesus made this shift when it became apparent that the
Jews, as a whole, where rejecting Him. By using parables those whose
minds were open to receive what He taught could continue to learn from
Him, but the truths of His teaching would be hidden from those whose
minds were closed.<br />
<br />
In revealing to His disciples His reason for using parables, Jesus
gave an important principle: "whoever has, to him more will be given,
and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has
will be taken away." (Matthew 13:12) The ability to understand is not
the key to discerning spiritual things. It is faith. If one is open to
receive what is revealed to them, they will be given understanding. An
understanding that is spiritually discerned.<br />
<br />
Something else we learn from Jesus' statement in 13:12 is that faith
is a choice. People make statements such as, "I wish I had faith, but I
just don't," or "I wish I could believe, but I just can't." Such
statements misunderstand the nature of faith seeming to imply that faith
is an ability that one either has or does not have. But Jesus'
statement in Matthew says to us that faith is not an ability, but rather
a choice. Nor does faith come only as a result of full understanding.
It is FIRST a choice. And with that choice to believe understanding will
follow. If one chooses to believe, more and more understanding will be
given. But for those who choose not to believe, understanding is closed
off.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-31013974224006206022016-06-16T06:27:00.001-05:002016-06-16T06:27:34.907-05:00Caught By Our Words<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<br />
<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 90%;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 12</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
We are bombarded with words constantly whether they be verbal or in
print. Everyone wants to be heard, assuming they have something to say
that should be heard. There is a message about ourselves, though, that
is revealed in our words that may say more than we assume to convey by
our words. With our words we reveal the heart of the person behind the
words, for our words serve as a gauge of our lives.<br />
<br />
This is why Jesus said, "I tell you that on the day of judgment
people will have to account for every careless word they speak. For by
your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be
condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37) Yes, it is true people can be deceived by
our words, but if we talk long enough, and we usually do, and people
listen long enough, which the often don't do, the true person comes out.
We will sooner or later become "ensnared by the words of (our) mouth."
(Proverbs 6:2) As Proverbs further says, "When there are many words, sin
is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise." (Proverbs
10:19)<br />
<br />
We are wise to heed the words of James 1:19: "be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger."Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-80669402753545019262016-06-14T06:39:00.001-05:002016-06-14T06:39:05.138-05:00First Things First<center>
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span><table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 8</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
People were drawn to Jesus' works of healing. The more He healed,
the larger the crowds that gathered around Him. One day a couple of
followers proclaimed their interest in being a regular follower of His,
going where He went. Jesus made it clear that following Him was not a
casual decision to be made. If they were to go wherever He went they
needed to count the cost.<br />
<br />
Jesus told the first of these two, "Foxes have dens and birds of the
sky have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head." Who
knows what this man thought were the benefits of following Jesus? But
Jesus disavowed him right away of any great expectations. There would be
no outward benefits or prestige to following Him. A second man also
expressed interest in following Jesus but said that he had an obligation
to fulfill before he could do so. The obligation was to bury his
father. There is much discussion about whether the man's father was
already dead or the man was saying he was obligated to his father until
he was dead and buried. While this may be an interesting discussion it
is insignificant to Jesus' point. The point being, followers of Jesus
place Him first above all else.<br />
<br />
We easily give this man a pass for we are often slack in our own
priorities regarding Christ, thinking there are reasonable excuses for
placing other obligations before Christ. But Jesus taught, "For whoever
wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because
of Me will find it." (Matthew 16:25) Losing our lives to Christ is the
expectation of a follower of Christ. The life He offers is found in
placing Him first above all else. This doesn't mean nothing else,
including this man burying his father, is of any importance. They have
their place, but we cannot give them their proper place until we have
made Christ first.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-65462765557725198322016-06-13T06:30:00.001-05:002016-06-13T06:30:20.809-05:00Two Roads<center>
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 7</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
So much of Jesus' teaching seems counterintuitive to us requiring us
to exercise faith to even accept them or practice them. What is it that
keeps us from accepting His teaching? Is it unbelief? Certainly, but
primarily, it is pride. Pride in our own reasoning over Jesus' teaching.
Jesus says, "Do this and you will have life." But it doesn't make sense
to me so I reject it. Although the Son of God, Creator of all that is,
has said this is the road to life, we trust our own reasoning over His.
That's pride.<br />
<br />
In what is known as the "Sermon On The Mount," found in Matthew
chapters 5-7, chapter 7 records Jesus' teaching about the road to life
being a road of self-denial, saying, "whatever you want others to do for
you, do also the same for them." In other words, telling us that if we
live a lifestyle of doing for others we will find that they will also do
for us. We reason that if we want something we should go for it trying
to get it from others and even demanding it if necessary. But Jesus
tells us that this has only short-term benefits. It eventually turns on
us and brings destruction.<br />
<br />
Instead, Jesus says, if you want something from others, do it for
them first. Though this may not bring an immediate result, in time when
people are convinced we are genuine, they will begin to reciprocate. And
we do have to be genuine in this, not doing for others simply to get
something in return. Compared to the practice of being self-serving,
self-denial is like a narrow gate through which few pass. Not many are
interested in self-denial while the road of self-service is broad and
many take this road.<br />
<br />
The outcome of the two pathways is very different, and opposite to
what we might think. Jesus taught that the broad road of self-service
leads to destruction while the narrow gate of self-denial leads to life. Unfortunately, few discover this truth, convinced that the broad road
of doing what I want and getting what I want is really living.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-26488648749487645802016-06-09T06:36:00.001-05:002016-06-09T06:36:51.165-05:00Putting First Things First<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 6</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Most of us spend a great deal of time and energy worrying about
things over which we have little or no control. Things, for instance,
such as our lives, the food we will eat, or the clothing we will wear.
But Jesus said that we should "seek first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness and all these things will be provided for you."<br />
<br />
Jesus wasn't saying that these things are not important, only that we
should make first things first. And the thing we should make first, He
said, is "the kingdom of God and His righteousness." Neither was Jesus
saying we should do nothing to provide ourselves with food or clothing.
He was simply saying we need to get our priorities straight. The truth
He wants us to learn is that if we will put Him first in our life we
will have everything else we need, when we need them.<br />
<br />
Jesus gave some examples of how nature is taken care of. Birds seek
food when they need it but do not store up extra for fear of what the
future may hold. Wildflowers grow in the field unattended, but even
Solomon in his kingly splendor was not adorned any better. Then Jesus
admonished His listeners saying, "If that's how God clothes the grass of
the field, which is here today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow,
won't He do much more for you--you of little faith?"<br />
<br />
Some might mistake Jesus' instructions to suggest that we don't need
to do anything to provide for our needs. No, He was not encouraging
laziness. He taught against laziness. Rather, He was teaching priorities
in life. The main priority being God - to seek Him above all else. When
we get this priority right other priorities begin to fall into place.
When material concerns are no longer our first priority no longer do we
misuse them or squander them, for they are no longer as important as
before. Nor are we making decisions as we once did.<br />
<br />
Putting God first in our lives means seeking Him and spending time
with Him. It means seeking His guidance for how we use our time and our
money. It means looking to Him for the decisions and choices we make.
And along with these changes comes an inner peace and joy. Life is as it
should be and we are no longer stressed about things that we need not
be stressed about.<br />
<br />
But we must first accept that God has made us His first priority.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-37799682033847601102016-06-01T06:18:00.001-05:002016-06-01T06:18:20.148-05:00Christian Humility<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Matthew 2</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
The Gospel of Matthew gives the account in chapter 2 of the visit of
the wise men from the east to the baby Jesus in Nazareth. These men are
a mysterious group. Who were they? What country in the east were they
from? How did they know of Jesus birth and of the significance of the
star they followed? And how did they know of Jesus' significance? The
list of questions about these men could go on, but these are an example
of the mystery surrounding them.<br />
<br />
All of us who consider ourselves to be faithful followers of Christ
should take caution from these men. Why? Because we are ever in danger
of becoming smug in our understanding of scripture and of God's purposes
as were the religious leaders of Jesus' day. No one was wise as they
were, they supposed. No one merited God's favor as did they, or so they
thought. And yet, here were these non-Jewish and unknown men, from who
knows where, who were wiser than they regarding the birth of God's Son.<br />
<br />
We must ever be cautious about presuming to be the only true
followers of Christ or having greater knowledge or inside information
from God or in general being smug about our relationship with God over
anyone else. Warren Wiersbe comments on these wise men saying, "Their
experience is a good lesson in finding the will of God: (1) they
followed the light God gave them; (2) they confirmed their steps by the
Word of God; and (3) they obeyed God without question and He led them
each step of the way. Note that they went home by “another way”
(Mat_2:12). Anyone who comes to Christ will go home another way and be a
new creature (2Co_5:17)."Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-59060547167800757802016-05-31T06:14:00.001-05:002016-05-31T06:14:09.147-05:00Living in Mature Relationship With God<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 27</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 28</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Chapters 27 and 28 of Deuteronomy form the first half of a set of
blessings and curses Moses gave the Israelites prior to entering Canaan
to take possession of the land. The blessings were theirs if they
worshipped and obeyed the Lord and the curses came if they did not.
These instructions cannot be fully appreciated, however, if viewed
simply with a rules oriented perspective. A tit for tat mentality. This
is the mentality we often default to in our approach to God. A works
oriented mentality in which we think in terms of appeasing an angry god.
If we disobey he will be angry with us and if we obey he will be
pleased with us.<br />
<br />
A full appreciation of obedience to God, however, can only be viewed
within the context of relationship. This was what God was striving for
throughout the whole history of Israel. The establishment of a people
with whom He had a relationship in which He could demonstrate the
blessings of living in relationship with the Creator-God of the
universe. If we view God's instructions for living as simply a set of
rules by which to please God, we distance ourselves from Him much as a
teenager distances himself or herself from the relationship of their
parents when they view their parent's instructions simply as a set of
restrictive rules.<br />
<br />
The blessings that come in obedience to God's instructions are first
and foremost the blessings of living in right relationship with God. He
has made us and designed life itself with full knowledge of how that
life is lived to its fullest. This is the goal of His instructions and
of our relationship with Him - to live the life He has given us to its
fullest. If we live in rebellion to our Creator-God, we not only are
displeasing to Him, we fail to live our lives to the fullest.
Furthermore, by distancing ourselves from God He is not able to bless us
as He would like.<br />
<br />
We have to grow up and quit living like teenagers in relationship
with God if we are to fully enjoy the life we have been given. God's
instructions to us are the instructions of a loving Father, not of an
angry God.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-64004114162911105172016-05-26T06:14:00.001-05:002016-05-26T06:14:51.242-05:00It's Not About Me<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 77</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Psalms 77 depicts a psalmist who went from despair to praise. In the
beginning he was despondent and blaming God for his circumstances and
in the end he was singing God's praises. What made the difference?<br />
<br />
In the beginning the psalmist was focused on his problem and on
himself, refusing to be comforted, as he says in verse 2. The first 10
verses are all about him and God is the cause of his problem. He raised
the question in verse 9, "Has God forgotten to be gracious?"<br />
<br />
But in verse 11 he decided to change his focus from himself to God:
"I will remember the LORD's works; yes, I will remember Your ancient
wonders." And with this change in focus came a change in his attitude.
As he remembered what all God had done for him and his people in the
past he was renewed in spirit.<br />
<br />
He despaired over a moment in time in which he was troubled, and in
his despair that moment seemed like forever. But as he remembered God's
wonders in past history he regained his perspective. God is indeed a
gracious God, and this time of despair will indeed pass!Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-35433817938813278052016-05-18T06:34:00.001-05:002016-05-18T06:34:48.812-05:00Can God Protect What Is His?<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 74</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Psalms 74 provides a picture of God's work in the life of individual
believers through His relationship with Israel. Israel was/is His
covenant people. A covenant which He has promised to remember forever.
But Israel had not been faithful to the covenant, turning from God to
other gods. Finally God acted, bringing judgment on Israel.<br />
<br />
This psalm tells of an enemy, possibly Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon,
invading Israel and destroying the temple. The questions and petitions
of the psalmist to God are not what we might expect. Rather than
questioning why God was doing this to Israel as if it were an affront to
the people, he reminded God that they were His people who He had
"redeemed as the tribe for Your own possession." (74:2) The affront was
to God, said the psalmist, and his questions concerned whether or not
God would allow His name to be mocked as if He could not protect His own
people. He recalled God's might saying, "The day is Yours, also the
night; You established the moon and the sun. You set all the boundaries
of the earth; You made summer and winter." (74:16-17) Was the God who
had established the moon and the sun going to allow this enemy to mock
Him so?<br />
<br />
Then the psalmist called on God to "Arise, God, defend Your cause!
Remember the insults that fools bring against You all day long. Do not
forget the clamor of Your adversaries, the tumult of Your opponents that
goes up constantly." (74:22-23) In the end, the battle was not Israel's
but God's, even though Israel had been unfaithful to the covenant. The
covenant was still in affect, Israel was still God's people and so it
was God's possession that was at stake along with His reputation.<br />
<br />
Under Christ the question is often raised whether a person's
salvation can be lost. This psalm, I believe, helps to provide an answer
to this question, the answer being, "No, a person's salvation cannot be
lost once gained." In Paul's letter to the Corinthian Christians he
reminded them, "You are not your own, for you were bought at a price;
therefore glorify God in your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20) As Israel
was purchased by God, so those who have received Christ have been bought
with His blood. We are His possession which He will not allow to be
lost. It is His cause and His reputation at stake. Can He not keep what
He has purchased?<br />
<br />
The real question is not whether a person's salvation can be lost, but whether it has been gained in the first place?Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-60532402209934670352016-05-17T06:57:00.001-05:002016-05-17T06:57:24.586-05:00Misplaced Fear<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 20</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Chapter 20 of Deuteronomy comes in the midst of godly instruction
for Israel prior to her invasion of Canaan. At this point the
instruction is regarding warfare and verse one of the chapter instructs:
"When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses, chariots,
and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD
your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you." So
Israel was not to fear even superior armies for God would be with them.
As occurred over and over for Israel in their battles, God would fight
their battles for them if they depended on His superior might rather
than their inferior might.<br />
<br />
Fear is frequently used to describe our regard for God. We are to
fear Him, scripture tells us, referring to the awe and reverence we
should have for Him. For Israel to shrink from going up against a
superior army due to fear, they would in effect be in awe of that
superior force rather than in awe of God whose might could defeat that
army. This is instruction we can learn from as well. Not necessarily in
regard to warfare, though that could apply too, but in regard to any
threat that we face, be it a threat to our security to our health or
whatever it might be. Sometimes we are immobilized from doing what we
should, due to fear. It applies here as well.<br />
<br />
Fear in the face of a threat is natural. I do not think this is the
type of fear to which this refers. Instead I believe it is a fear that
places more awe on the threat than on God who can enable us to face the
threat and be victorious. In such a case, not only is our fear misplaced
but we are also making a wrong comparison. The comparison should not be
between our might or ability and that of the threat we face, but of
God's might and ability compared to the threat.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-74318203608325068362016-05-12T06:48:00.001-05:002016-05-12T06:48:09.839-05:00Is God Is Enough?<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 73</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
"What is in it for me?" This question tends to be the spoken or
unspoken question with which we approach most any concern. When
considering how we will relate to God it is a primary concern. "If I
follow God and buy in to His instructions and try to live by them, how
will I benefit?"<br />
<br />
This was the struggle had by the writer of Psalms 73. Though he was a
follower of God, he saw how the wicked lived. They had no concern about
God, living their lives as they wished. Money and power were their
pursuits and they seemed to have everything. People did their bidding
for them and looked up to them. Was this not the life?<br />
<br />
He began to doubt whether or not it was in his best interest to keep
worshipping God. "Did I purify my heart and wash my hands in innocence
for nothing?" (Psalms 73:13) This was the question he began to ask
himself. It seemed to him that all he had were problems while the wicked
had everything. But then he entered God's sanctuary and God opened up
his thinking and life came into perspective for him. He realized he had
been a fool to even think like this, for it lacked understanding.<br />
<br />
While we live this life, what we see is all we think about. But this
is not all there is. There is an eternity to come and by comparison this
life is like a puff of smoke that fades quickly away. As for the
wicked, the psalmist realized in God's presence that their lives placed
them "in slippery places," and they would eventually "fall into ruin."
(73:18) "How suddenly they become a desolation! They come to an end,
swept away by terrors." (73:19) Such was the plight of the wicked. As
for the psalmist, he determined that, "God is the strength of my heart,
my portion forever . . . I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, so I can
tell about all You do." (73:26, 28)<br />
<br />
How easily our thinking is drawn to the thinking with which the
psalmist struggled and we are tempted to throw in the towel and forget
about God. But as the psalmist entered God's sanctuary, we must every
day enter God's presence in prayer and reading of His Word. Otherwise we
lose perspective.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-39397223288156415382016-05-11T06:28:00.001-05:002016-05-11T06:28:55.414-05:00The Result of Losing One's Compass<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Revelation 3</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Another of the churches addressed in the early chapters of
Revelation was the church in Sardis. This church had a reputation for
being alive. But the church was put on notice that in reality it was
dead. In what way was it dead? "I have not found your works complete
before My God." (Verse 2) Whatever works they had been engaged in had
not been completed. Works started but not completed are only activities.
Was this why they had a reputation for being alive? They had started
many works giving the impression of doing much and being alive. Andy
yet, they had not completed what they started and were therefore not
doing anything at all. It was as if there was a lot of excitement in the
church but no substance. But excitement about what? Their reputation?<br />
<br />
Another clue to the problem in this church is found in verse 3,
"Remember therefore what you have received and heard; keep it, and
repent." Instead of saying, "Don't forget," they were told, "Remember."
They had already forgotten the word of truth they had received when they
first came to Christ. Having forgotten, they were not being driven by
the truth they had be given, but by other ideas. They had lost their
compass and were lost.<br />
<br />
There were some in the church, however, who had not left the truth
and "defiled their clothes." Most likely, these people were not well
regarded by the church at large. But this needed to change. And unless
it did, the church was warned that, "I will come like a thief, and you
have no idea at what hour I will come against you."Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-69239736017973481352016-05-10T06:27:00.001-05:002016-05-10T06:27:35.960-05:00Time for Church, But No Time for Christ<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Revelation 2</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Revelation chapter two brings a statement of judgment against seven
churches. The first one, given in verses 1-5, is against the church in
Ephesus. At first it appears to be a statement of commendation, and the
church was being commended for its faithfulness. But the main point was
the judgment which follows the commendation.<br />
<br />
What was the church in Ephesus commended for? It could not tolerate
evil. It tested those who claimed spiritual credentials they did not
possess and did not tolerate them. The church also had shown endurance,
tolerating "many things because of My name, and have not grown weary."<br />
<br />
All of this sounds rather good. So what was the problem? They had
lost their first love - their love and deep devotion for Christ. No
longer was it their love for Christ motivating their actions, but rather
they were motivated out of a sense of obligation. Christ was not
pleased with their sense of obligation. It was the relationship with
them He desired. Nor was it a small matter, for if they didn't repent
and return to their first love He intended to "remove your lampstand
from its place."<br />
<br />
A marriage relationship is always a good analogy for our relationship
with Christ. Especially since Jesus is considered the bridegroom and
the church His bride. What happens in one marriage after another when
the husband spends too much time with work and little with his wife?
Even though the husband may be capable of providing lavishly for his
wife, she is not pleased with his lack of attention for her. Though he
argues, "But I'm doing it for you," she is not impressed. And if he
continues in this and does not change, she threatens to leave him.<br />
<br />
The wife - or at least most wives - is more interested in the
relationship. Being with him and having his attention. The things he
provides are nice but a poor substitute for him. This is the charge
Christ brings against the church in Ephesus. And this is the charge He
could bring against many modern day churches.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-59059249417457692882016-05-09T06:44:00.001-05:002016-05-09T06:44:42.713-05:00Spirit of Generosity<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 15</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Deuteronomy 15:7-11 instructed the Israelites to be generous with
their fellow Israelites. If a brother was in need one was to be generous
toward him, loaning him "enough for whatever need he has." (Deuteronomy
15:8) The year of Jubilee was not to be a concern when making the loan.
In that year, which came every 7 years, all debt was to be cancelled.
So if it was the sixth year and a person was in need, one might not want
to make the loan thinking it would never be repaid because of the debt
cancellation the next year. But Moses said, "Give to him, and don't have
a stingy heart when you give." (15:10)<br />
<br />
There was a promise that came with these instructions: "the LORD your
God will bless you in all your work and in everything you do." It
was/is to be a win-win situation. Those who are need receive the help
they need and those who help are blessed and will not be in need because
of their generousity.<br />
<br />
These principles are clear enough from a reading of the passage.
However, we are then inclined to seek further answers asking such
questions as: "Does this just apply to help for a spiritual brother or
anyone?" Or, "If I help just anyone won't I just be enabling a person in
a bad lifestyle?" Those are just two of a whole list of questions we
might raise. There may well be legitimate questions that must be raised
when a need presents itself. However, there is the risk when we start
asking our questions that we might eliminate our obligation to help in
any situation. In so doing, we also eliminate any blessing we might
receive and eliminate help a person might receive that could make a
significance difference in their life.<br />
<br />
We will find little help from scripture to help answer these
questions for it consistently admonishes us to be generous and to help
those in need never offering guidelines for when we should be generous.
But this is the case for much of what scripture teaches. Guidelines
remove the need for us to seek God's guidance and it is that
relationship of spending time with the Lord and following His leading in
all matters that He encourages rather than to give us a rule for all
situations.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-23224501522371622722016-05-05T06:34:00.001-05:002016-05-05T06:34:59.722-05:00Scoffers Are To Be Expected<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on readings in Jude 1</u></span>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
A Christian may become discouraged because of people who scoff at
their faith in Christ. It becomes increasingly taboo to mention the name
of Jesus in society. To mention God in many settings is not contested
too much since this is a rather generic topic. But to mention Jesus is
over the top for many. What is the Christian to do in such an
environment?<br />
<br />
The writer of Jude addressed this with those to whom he wrote, saying
that they should not be surprised by scoffers for the apostles of
Christ had forewarned that scoffers would appear, saying, "In the end
time there will be scoffers walking according to their own ungodly
desires." (Jude 1:18) As the saying goes, "To be forewarned is to be
forearmed." And how were they to be forearmed? By "building yourselves
up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep
yourselves in the love of God, expecting the mercy of our Lord Jesus
Christ for eternal life." (Jude 1:20-21)<br />
<br />
Jude did not give any offensive advise but rather defensive advise
aimed at keeping themselves safe. Our natural instinct is to go on the
offensive, trying to shut down such people. But by doing so we adapt
their tactics and potentially turn more people from the faith than they
are able to accomplish through their scoffing. Jesus said His followers
would be known by their love. Love serves as a magnet to others, but
hateful and angry actions turn people away and do not appropriately
represent Christ. Jesus cautioned His disciples from such efforts to get
rid of scoffers through the parable of the weeds.<br />
<br />
In this parable, an enemy (Satan) secretly sowed weeds (doubt) in
people's wheat fields (Christians). Then when their wheat grew the weeds
grew up among the wheat. The workers wanted to go in and pull up the
weeds, but the owner of the field cautioned them not to do this since it
would also pull up wheat along with the weeds. Instead, he said, they
should wait until the harvest and gather the weeds first and destroy
them and then gather the wheat which would be stored.<br />
<br />
This parable is a good picture of what Jude was addressing concerning
scoffers. They are Satan's agents to sow "weeds" among the "wheat." In
other words, to plant seeds of doubt among the believers. But Jesus was
discouraging efforts to combat these efforts because it would cause
greater harm to the wheat than would the "weeds." Instead, He was saying
to leave the weeds and their sowers to Him. In the end He would destroy
them and the wheat would be safely gathered unto Himself.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-74382186248925302192016-05-04T06:28:00.001-05:002016-05-04T06:28:20.938-05:00Shaped By Our Thoughts<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 71</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
As I read Psalms 71 this morning, my mind was drawn to the thought
of how we are shaped by what we allow to dominate our thoughts. While
the statement, "We are shaped by our thoughts," might be attributed to a
loose quote of Buddha, the context in which I use it here is quite
different. Buddha's meaning relates to the power man holds within
himself through his mind. The meaning that comes to me from Psalms 71
relates to God's power to overcome in our lives and the space we allow
God to have in our heads.<br />
<br />
The psalmist was overwhelmed by the difficulties he faced. Like any
of us, he was pulled down emotionally and depressed by the threats he
faced. Allowed to take over his mind, these thoughts would bring him
down, providing a greater threat to him than did his enemies. But
instead, the psalmist went to God in prayer and allowed God into his
thoughts. Thoughts of God's deliverance replaced the threats he faced.
He was reminded of how God had helped him since his youth which gave him
renewed confidence of God's help in his present situation. He pleaded
with God to "not be far from me" and was given a sense of His presence
that gave him hope. Then he went from depression to praise.<br />
<br />
Notice, then, verses 14 & 15: "But I will hope continually and
will praise You more and more. My mouth will tell about Your
righteousness and Your salvation all day long." As mentioned, the
psalmist went from depression to praise, but then he took an important
next step which was to tell others of how God had helped him, praising
God's righteousness and salvation. The process of allowing God to take
over our thoughts begins in our alone time with Him, but it is continued
and strengthened when we are with others as we share what God is doing
for us. Not only do we help and encourage others but our faith is
strengthened as well. The more we voice God's praises, the more these
thoughts take over our mind in place of the thoughts that threaten to
defeat us.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-61228162183140256232016-05-03T06:39:00.001-05:002016-05-03T06:39:06.346-05:00Sin that Leads to Death<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">1 John 5</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 12</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Some find it troubling when they come across scripture such as 1
John 5:16 that speaks of sin that leads to death, or a passage such as
Hebrews 6:4 which speaks of sin for which one cannot be renewed to
repentance. Another such passage is Matthew 12:32 which says that anyone
who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. These passages
are troubling to them because they are concerned they might have
committed a sin that is unforgivable or for which they might be punished
with impending death.<br />
<br />
But on the contrary, it is those who are not troubled by such
passages in scripture who should be troubled, rather than those who
actually are troubled. For the desire to be pleasing to God and to avoid
sin is in itself an indication that such a person need not be concerned
about an unforgivable sin. While one cannot speak with certainty of
what specific sins to which these passages might be referring, we can
know that they refer to sin that is blatant and unrepentant.<br />
<br />
The passage in Hebrews 6, for instance, speaks of one who has
acknowledged Christ and gotten a taste of the gift of life He gives and
has become companions with the Holy Spirit. But then they have turned
their back on it all and rejected it. For them to be renewed to
repentance is impossible because it would require Christ to be
recrucified, says Hebrews. This is a blatant turning away from God and
His provision of salvation through Christ. One who turns away from God
as this describes is not concerned about whether or not they have
committed an unforgivable sin.<br />
<br />
We should always be diligent to avoid sin in our lives. Though we
will never completely succeed in this we can be assured that in our
diligence we will avoid any unforgivable sin.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-19790195461904686692016-05-02T07:15:00.001-05:002016-05-02T07:15:44.869-05:00Judging Versus Discerning<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">1 John 4</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 11</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Is there a difference between judging and discerning? Consider
dictionary definitions of the two: judging is said to "form an opinion
or estimation of after careful consideration." while discerning is to
"Exhibit keen insight and good judgment; perceptive." Both involve
forming an opinion or judgment. The main difference between the two may
have to do with the motivation and the outcome. In making a judgment,
one may be more conclusive about it, acting accordingly, while in making
a discernment, one may hold the opinion or judgment in reserve keeping
an open mind.<br />
<br />
The question of judging or discerning comes to mind with the reading
of 1 John 4:20-21: "If anyone says, 'I love God,' yet hates his brother,
he is a liar. For the person who does not love his brother whom he has
seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And we have this command from
Him: the one who loves God must also love his brother." If I observe
one who says he loves God speaking or acting unkindly toward a person do
I not form an opinion or make a discernment concerning this person? I
will naturally do so. But while doing so I will also put myself in check
on two points: First, I will consider my own thoughts and actions. Am I
guilty of similar behavior? and Second, I will consider my actions
toward that person. Am I going to conclude that the opinion I formed
based on their unkindness is conclusive and therefore treat them
accordingly, or will I store away this information and hold my opinion
in reserve? Will I continue to treat the person with kindness and
consideration?<br />
<br />
Jesus taught in Matthew 7:1, "Do not judge, so that you won't be
judged." But in verse 5 He added, "Hypocrite! First take the log out of
your eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your
brother's eye." He was not necessarily saying that judgments should
never be made, but rather that they begin with ourselves. It is
necessary to be discerning so that we are not taken in by false teachers
or taken advantage of by those whose words are not supported by their
actions. If someone speaks of his love for God but I observe his
treatment of others to be unkind and inconsiderate, I will be kind to
that person while also being slow to fully embrace them. If they are
being deceptive about this, in what else might they be deceptive? I will
be careful about committing myself to them, but will also not assume I
have the full picture.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-35444955136282131262016-04-28T06:34:00.001-05:002016-04-28T06:34:10.851-05:00Blaring Actions<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 99%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">1 John 1</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">1 John 2</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">1 John 3</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 9</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 10</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 70</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Proverbs 22</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
1 John testifies to the truth of the saying, "Actions speak louder
than words." A believer that actions show the real person, John points
to four lies we may tells ourselves and others trying to convince
ourselves we are spiritual. With the first lie, a person who is walking
in darkness says, "I have fellowship with God." But John says this is
not possible. One who walks in darkness cannot have fellowship with God
who is in the light. A way that we can know if we are walking in the
light or not is by our relationship with others. If we do not get along
with others well we can know we are not walking in the light.<br />
<br />
A second lie we may tell ourselves is that we do not have a sin
nature. John says, "If we say, 'We have no sin,' we are deceiving
ourselves, and the truth is not in us." Closely related to this is the
third lie in which we may say, "I have not sinned." Not only do we lie
in saying this, we make God a liar who has said, "All have sinned."<br />
<br />
The fourth lie is to claim to be obedient to God when we haven't kept
His commandments. And how do we know if we are keeping His
commandments? We walk as Jesus walked. No, we are not Jesus and will not
walk as He did without stumbling. But our walk as a whole will reflect
His walk.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-67132449272166595582016-04-27T06:59:00.001-05:002016-04-27T06:59:36.039-05:00Wise But Uncomfortable Choices<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">John 21</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Psalms 69</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Contrary to what we might want to think, the wise choice is not
always the easiest or most comfortable choice. So we must decide whether
we want to be wise or be comfortable. More difficult even than choosing
wisdom over comfort is to choose wisdom when others consider you a fool
because of your decision. Not only is the choice uncomfortable, but the
ridicule of others can cause you to doubt your choice.<br />
<br />
Such was the situation expressed by King David in Psalms 69. He chose
to be a devoted follower of God and to devoutly worship Him. But it
brought him ridicule. Not just a little ridicule but he was a derision
in the eyes of many. People sat at the city gate and talked about him
and made up songs ridiculing him. Why? David described it this way:
"because zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the insults of those
who insult You have fallen on me. I mourned and fasted, but it brought
me insults. I wore sackcloth as my clothing, and I was a joke to them."<br />
<br />
His ridicule came not only from the drunkards but also from city
leaders who made up part of the crowd at the city gates. Many of these
were supposedly religious people and devout Jews. There is no doubt that
David was discouraged. In fact his prayer in Psalms 69 was a request
that God would not hide His face from him, but would draw near to him
and comfort him and not let "the floodwaters sweep over me."<br />
<br />
But David did not give in to the ridicule or doubts. He did not
decide the cost too great to stick with the wise choice of going with
God. Instead, he appealed to God for help and chose to praise God.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1289126455304250238.post-91704785026885481222016-04-26T06:28:00.001-05:002016-04-26T06:28:33.984-05:00The Hook in Pride<center>
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td colspan="7"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages</u>:</span>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">John 20</a></td>
<td style="border-width: 0px;" width="14%"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Deuteronomy 8</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</center>
<br />
Pride, once considered by the church to be one of the "Seven Deadly
Sins," is defined as an "excessive view of one's self without regard to
others." Or also defined as "a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction
derived from one's own achievements." We readily see the pitfall in
pride of having a disregard for others. In so doing, we fall short of
the second part of the Great Commandment Jesus spoke of which sums up
all of the commandments given through Moses. That is to "Love the Lord
your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your
strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." (Luke
10:27) The second part of this commandment obviously being a disregard
for our neighbor. But the greatest "hook" in pride has to do with the
first part of this Great Commandment which is to "Love the Lord your God
with all your heart."<br />
<br />
As the Israelites prepared to enter the land God had promised them,
Moses reminded them that they were not to "forget the LORD your God by
failing to keep His commands." Not only did God promise to give them
victory over the nations that lived in the land of promise, enabling
them to take possession of the land, but He promised to prosper them in
their new home. But Moses gave them a caution, "You may say to yourself,
'My power and my own ability have gained this wealth for me.'"<br />
<br />
The greatest risk in pride is that it can cause us to credit
ourselves for what God has done and thereby turning away from God and
forgetting Him, failing to worship and follow Him. Though in our modern
society we may not be inclined to worship idols as was the common
practice among the nations at the time of Moses, pride can also do what
idolatry does which is to give credit elsewhere for what God has done.Digital Chowder Resourceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16053411480363451503noreply@blogger.com0