Studying the Word of God

Thanking God for the “small” gifts

2010-03-01T04:17:06Z

James 1:17 KJV
(17) Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Note that the apostle doesn’t say, “Every great/large gift…”

We have a tendency to only pay attention to the big gifts that we receive – whether from God or from man – and as a result, we lose many opportunities to recognize God’s ongoing goodness to us.

Part of the awesomeness of knowing God is realizing that He is actually concerned with our small affairs as well as our large ones. He doesn’t only answer prayers for new jobs, new homes, major health concerns or the salvation of our loved ones. He also addresses what many might see as trivial concerns such as lost keys, worries about parking, nervousness before a performance, and a host of tiny issues that might surprise you.

I’ve had my share of very interesting miracles this year, and I continue to give thanks for them, because they keep me connected to my Savior. And they remind me of how much He pays attention to detail.

If He is faithful in the little things, I know I can count on Him for the very big ones…

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When We Get More Than We Bargained For

2010-02-01T06:43:31Z

We don’t always pay attention to what we pray for. Too often, we can get caught up in prayers of repetition (which Jesus warned us about in Matthew 6:7), or we don’t actually think through the implications of what we are asking for in our prayers.

“Lord, please grant me more patience…”

How do you suppose one gets more patience? If you were to pray to God to give you stronger muscles, what do you suppose He would provide? Almost certainly, rather than simply bestowing upon you powerful muscles, He would send you heavier weights, as it is the exercise using those weights that will result in more powerful muscles.

Likewise, when we pray for patience, we should realize that we are giving God the permission to send us some interesting circumstances that will try our patience. It is only by overcoming these circumstances, and relying on God for strength, that our patience will grow. God is only too eager to grant us those requests, as they build our characters and make us fit for His kingdom.

“Lord, please strengthen my faith…”

Again, what do you suppose is the best way to accomplish this? Of course! it is by God allowing circumstances to come upon us that can only be solved by relying on Him – even when the answer to the problem does not appear to make sense to us.

After all, if it makes perfect sense to you, then you really aren’t exercising any faith, are you?

And since it is impossible to please God without the exercise of faith, it is of extreme spiritual significance that our faith muscles be improved daily. The exercise of virtues is the only type of exercise that you can and should pursue each day.

So, given that prayers for increased virtue will likely result in increased difficulties, should we seek to avoid them by keeping such prayer to a minimum? God forbid. Our salvation ultimately hangs on our close connection to God, and such a connection is not possible without attaining more and more of His characteristics such as Love, Mercy, Patience and Faith. Shying away from obtaining and practicing these virtues will result in us having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof. (2 Timothy 3:5)

No, rather than run from these potential trials, we should glory in them, and count ourselves blessed if we are given an opportunity to experience them for the sake of the Gospel.

1 John 5:4-5 KJV
(4) For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.
(5) Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

Revelation 3:5 KJV
(5) He that overcomes, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

Let us be over-comers by the blood of Jesus, recognizing that He allows us not temptation that is too heavy for us to bear, or that greater than the power He gives us to overcome.

This is a new decade of a new century and the end of time is upon us. Let us endeavor to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

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Putting God First

2009-12-31T15:53:49Z

Genesis 39:2-6 KJV
(2) And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.
(3) And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand.
(4) And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.
(5) And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.
(6) And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favored.

The Bible provides many accounts where God granted great blessings unto those who put Him first in all things. We often think only of putting God first in matters of religion, but true service to God consists of putting Him first in all matters, whether secular or religious.

Joseph, King David, Daniel, Abraham and Job are some of the people who put God first and were greatly prospered by doing so – not just materially, but spiritually. Daniel and Joseph were especially challenged, in that they served God in a foreign land, with many pressures to conform to the ways of the people around them. They did not waver in their resolve to serve God first of all, however, and He gave them the strength and wisdom to overcome the many challenges that came their way.

Job’s resolve was so strong, that he continued serving God even when the material things were taken away, and he found himself on the verge of death. We learn that even those who are faithful to God may not escape trials and tribulations, and that there is always room for growth of character.

Abraham and King David were very faithful, but did make some well-noted mistakes at key points, which led to long-term family issues, even though they repented of their sins and their lack of faith in God. What we learn here is that even when God is merciful and forgives us, the full consequences of our mistakes are not necessarily removed.

Daniel and Joseph assure us that we can follow God’s plan for our lives regardless of where we find ourselves, and that by putting God first in all things, we will be victorious over our situations. Victory in this life is good, but more important is eternal victory.

Let us endeavor in this coming year, not to get caught up in being like everyone around us just because they are around us. Where we have the option to do so, we should attempt to surround ourselves with people that will enhance and encourage us in our spiritual walk. Where we do not have the option to do so, we should commit our way unto God, and put Him first in all things, so that He can guide us, and we can be an example to others.

We may be blessed in this life, and we will likely bring blessings to others in this life, but the ultimate goal is to glorify God here, and meet Him when He comes again.

May God richly bless you in 2010 and beyond as you fulfill God’s purpose for your life.

Matthew 6:19-21, 33 KJV
(19) Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
(20) But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
(21) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
(33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

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Lessons from Balaam’s Apostasy

2009-12-01T04:55:02Z

The account of Balaam, the former good prophet, provides us with many lessons.

One key lesson pertains to communication – with both God and man.

Lesson 1 – Don’t Pray for Things You Know Are Wrong

How often do we pray for things that we know are not in God’s will? Why do we presume upon God’s mercy to ask for/about things that God has already made clear to us?

Would we ever pray for a successful bank robbery?

How about a successful bout of adultery?

Then why do we insist on praying for God to bless the choice of a spouse that does not serve Him, contrary to the clear word of scripture? (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)

Or, why do we seek out places of employment that will not be in keeping with our faith? (Obviously, you can’t control it if you are already working and a situation changes, but why look for trouble right from the start?)

When King Balak’s men approached Balaam about cursing Israel, Balaam had the nerve to suggest that He needed to check with God first.

Numbers 22:8 KJV
And he said unto them, Lodge here this night, and I will bring you word again, as the LORD shall speak unto me: and the princes of Moab abode with Balaam.

God was exceedingly merciful unto Balaam, and gave him a very clear answer.

Numbers 22:12 KJV
And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.

Lesson 2 – Deliver the Message the Way You Received It

Please notice the difference in the message that God gave Balaam, with the message that Balaam presented to King Balak’s emissaries.

Numbers 22:13 KJV
(13) And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for the LORD refuseth to give me leave to go with you.

What God said: “You will not go with them, and you absolutely will not curse them”

What Balaam said: “God didn’t give me permission to go with you.”

There is a huge difference between what God said to him, and what he said to the princes of Moab. His response was a lot less final than God’s was.

Lesson 3 – After You Pray, Follow the Instructions Given

Numbers 22:20-21 KJV
(20) And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do.
(21) And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab.

You pray again for the wrong thing, and God says, “Fine. *If* they come to get you, then go with them.”

What we see Balaam doing, however, is running off behind them, because it seems that they didn’t stick around to deal with him in the morning. This put his already tenuous relationship with God in a really bad spot.

Lesson 4 – Avoid Talking Animals

Numbers 22:28-30 KJV
(28) And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
(29) And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
(30) And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay.

Let’s just say that you’re heading down a very dangerous path when you engage in a prolonged discussion with an animal. Any discussion would be bad, but the prolonged ones have been particularly treacherous, from a biblical perspective (Genesis 3).

So, if you see or hear a talking animal, you probably need to stop doing whatever you’re currently doing, and start praying for some immediate guidance.

Lesson 5 – True Repentance is Much More Than Mere Regret

Numbers 22:31 KJV
Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.

You would hope that by now, Balaam had become truly repentant, and was willing for forgo his clear love of money.

You’d be very wrong. Look at the question that he asks of the Lord, as it is clear where his head is.

Numbers 22:34 KJV
And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stood in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again.

*IF* it displease thee? IF?!?

Is it customary for people to show their great pleasure at your actions by coming to meet you with a drawn sword and indicating that were it not for the sense of a donkey, they would have slain you? (Numbers 22:31-33)

This question indicates that Balaam was still intent on going to do what he had originally planned to do, and was only sorry that he had gotten caught. There was no repentance.

He basically said, “Ooops. I’m sorry you found me beating my donkey, as I didn’t see you over there. If you’re not too upset, I’d like to be able continue on to Moab, please…”

Instead of thanking God for sparing his life, and retreating from the scene as quickly as possible, he made a polite attempt to continue on his way toward riches and honor – against God and His people.

Conclusion

God let Balaam go, but only to say what God intended him to say. And, Balaam was so intent on getting riches and honor, that he went back to King Balak a little later and introduced idolatry into the camp of Israel so that God would withdraw His protection and the Israelites would be helpless against the Moabites. (Numbers 25)

Instead, God’s people put away evil from their camp, and Balaam died in battle with the Israelites. (Numbers 31)

He is responsible for one of the most beautiful prophecies concerning the coming Messiah(Numbers 24), but he remained in apostasy and died as an enemy of God’s chosen people. Just another example that salvation is not just an event, but an ongoing connection with Jesus Christ.

Let us endeavor to pray in harmony with the expressed will of God, and let us further make sure that we communicate to others just as clearly as God has communicated to us.

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Why Do We Study The Bible?

2009-11-09T02:44:13Z

For what purpose to we study the Word of God?

The typical answer is: “To show ourselves approved unto God.”

2 Timothy 2:15 MKJV
Study earnestly to present yourself approved to God, a workman that does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.

Okay, but what does that mean, exactly?

We need to study for ourselves, because that is the only way to know what God’s will for us is. It is by doing His will, that we abide with Him.

John 14:15 MKJV
If you love Me, keep My commandments.

James 1:22 MKJV
But become doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Luke 6:46-49 KJV
(46) And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
(47) Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
(48) He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
(49) But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

We need to study because God has cautioned us not to be deceived in these end times.

Matthew 24:4 KJV
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

Matthew 24:42 KJV
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

We cannot wait to be spoon-fed the Word of God. We need to study for ourselves and develop our own personal relationship with God. It is only through God that we have the power to overcome our trials and temptations on a daily basis. And it is only by God’s Word that we find out how to develop a relationship with Him.

This is too critical to be left to intermediaries. Rather than relying solely on what other people think the Word of God is saying, we should be diligently studying the scriptures to see whether or not things are as they say they are.

It is only by studying and praying for ourselves that we will be able to truly know what God’s will is for our lives. It is only by knowing, that we will be able to do what He has called us to do.

We will not have the opportunity to say, “we were taught incorrectly” or “our Pastor never told us that!” God is going to say, “depart from me – I never knew you.” (Matthew 7:23)

There is more access to the Bible than ever before, and yet probably less true study of the scriptures than at any time previous. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to know God’s will for you, so you can do it.

Show yourself approved unto God by knowing what He says – for yourself – and then doing it. Don’t rely on others to provide you with your daily spiritual food. Be sure to verify that what you hear is what God has actually said.

It’s too important to leave up to hearsay…

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My Intercessory Prayer Project

2009-10-28T11:41:52Z

Philippians 4:6-7
(6) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
(7) And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

At the beginning of October, I began a prayer project. For one thing, I need to pray more often, and this helps. For another, it is important that we pray on behalf of others. Intercessory prayer is powerful, and does great good to both the one who prays and the one who is the recipient of such prayer.

Job 42:7-10 KJV
(7) And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.
(8) Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.
(9) So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job.
(10) And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.

My goal is to get a list of people and situations and pray for them. The more details the better, of course, but it’s not my goal to be in anyone’s business, so share what you want or don’t want. I’ll setup an email address where these requests can be sent.

I had originally intended to set this up as a short-term project, but I think I’m going to continue it indefinitely. It helps to keep each prayer focused, and praying about others keeps you cognizant of the needs that other people have, not just what you want. Also, I seem to have less trouble mustering up faith on behalf of the issues of others, relative to my own issues.

Only you will know if your prayer has been answered, but either way, God will be glorified. And your faith will be increased. Just remember to witness when God blesses you, so others can be blessed as well.

If you haven’t thought of starting your own prayer project, please consider it, and see what it does for your own spiritual life…

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The Meaning of Life

2009-10-25T17:37:37Z

What is the meaning of life? Why are we here? What is our purpose?

These questions have been asked for centuries and more, but there is a simple (if not eagerly accepted) answer.

The purpose for all human life, as it is for all of creation throughout the universe, is to bring glory and honor to God, the Creator.

Colossians 1:16-17
(16) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
(17) And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Psalms 24:1-2
(1) A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
(2) For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.

(NOTE: This is why the concept of evolution is so detrimental, in that it undermines the creative and redemptive power of God, and removes the need for accepting His authority.)

All life should find its purpose in God. Every man, woman and child should find his or her purpose and fulfillment in God. God has a plan for every person, and if we follow His plan, we will find serious fulfillment and contentment, and bring glory and honor to His name.

Jeremiah 29:11
(11) For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Psalms 40:8,16
(8) I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.
(16) Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

In both the Old and New Testaments, God has promised that those who serve Him and devote themselves to Him will be rewarded. Ultimately, serving God involves doing good for others, living circumspectly, and leaving a legacy that does not involve shame or scandal. But it’s not simply a life of good deeds, but one of true service and surrender to God. You can never go wrong when you let God direct your path. And you will never be unsatisfied or fail to see and appreciate the true meaning of life.

Matthew 6:33
(33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Isaiah 58:13-14
(13) If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:
(14) Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

Revelation 22:12
(12) And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

Life has a meaning, and it is centered in the God of the universe, not in what we do.

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Guidance and Protection are Already Promised

2009-10-22T10:32:55Z

We have been already promised guidance and protection -- we just need to obey...

Exodus 23:20-22 KJV
(20) Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.
(21) Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him.
(22) But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries.

Matthew 6:6-8 KJV
(6) But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
(7) But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
(8) Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

Be sure to claim your blessings today. All it takes is obedience.

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The Consequences of Failing To Maintain Personal Integrity

2009-10-21T11:12:24Z

There are so many injunctions against personal misconduct, and yet people still allow greed and wickedness to rule in their lives:

Exodus 23:1-2 ESV
(1) "You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.
(2) You shall not fall in with the many to do evil, nor shall you bear witness in a lawsuit, siding with the many, so as to pervert justice,

And, because they lack personal integrity, they go against that which has been commanded, and perform that which has been prophesied. Doesn’t James 5 clearly outline the economic situation that we see across the world today?

James 5:1-4 EMTV
(1) Listen now, you rich, weep and howl at your miseries which are coming upon you!
(2) Your riches have decayed, and your garments have become moth-eaten.
(3) Your gold and silver have become corroded, and their poison will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You stored up treasure in the last days.
(4) Indeed, the wages of the laborers who reaped your fields, which were kept back by you, cry out, and the cries of the reapers have entered into the ears of the Lord of Hosts.

But, even worse than the economic state, is the social and moral state of the planet. Things may appear to be getting better in a few ways, but the underlying social fabric is getting worse and worse:

2 Timothy 3:1-7 ASV
(1) But know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come.
(2) For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
(3) without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good,
(4) traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God;
(5) holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof: from these also turn away.
(6) For of these are they that creep into houses, and take captive silly women laden with sins, led away by divers lusts,
(7) ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

This is directly connected to failing in our personal duty. Society is intertwined, and as individuals through all sense of fairness, ethics and personal responsibility to the wind, the underlying fabric of society is invariably undermined. We have taken a “me first” attitude in business, in politics, in education and even in religion and worship, and now we have all the attendant problems of a community and society that is not focused on God.

In fact, it can hardly be called a community – there is very little in the way of looking out for one another. We are largely a collection of persons, each looking out for his or her own interests above all else.

And all we have to show for it is strife, conflict, poverty and pestilence.

What we need to seek is eternal life. That is where the real, lasting wealth is to be found.

Matthew 6:19-21 EMTV
(19) "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on the earth, where moth and rust corrupt, and where thieves dig through and steal;
(20) but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust corrupts, and where thieves do not dig through and steal.
(21) For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Revelation 22:11-12 EMTV
(11) He who acts unjustly, let him act unjustly still; and the filthy, let him be filthy still; and the righteous, let him do righteousness still; and the holy, let him be sanctified still."
(12) "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to each one according to his work.

Where is YOUR treasure?

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Well, That didn’t take long!

2009-10-19T10:37:50Z

Exodus 20:18-20 KJV
(18) And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off.
(19) And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.
(20) And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not.

Think about it: It only took 6 weeks from the time that God manifested Himself to the children of Israel on Mount Sinai, before they forgot all about who He was, and deliberately violated several of His commandments.

Exodus 20:22-23 KJV
(22) And the LORD said unto Moses, Thus thou shalt say unto the children of Israel, Ye have seen that I have talked with you from heaven.
(23) Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.

In just a month and a half, they decided that it was more important to them to have a god that they could see, than to follow the God of Heaven who had so very miraculously rescued them from bondage, and had provided for their needs in the desert.

And they had help from Aaron, who really should have known better (if you even need to say something like that after the display that everyone witnessed on Mount Sinai!)

Are we better or worse today, given that we have this example set before us?

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Why Do We Argue With God?

2009-10-17T11:04:07Z

Isn’t it silly to argue with someone who knows more than you do? Who knows the future?

Yes, it is a ridiculous situation, and yet how often do we find ourselves doing just that?

Even Moses didn’t get it on occasion:

Exodus 19:20-25 KJV
(20) And the LORD came down upon mount Sinai, on the top of the mount: and the LORD called Moses up to the top of the mount; and Moses went up.
(21) And the LORD said unto Moses, Go down, charge the people, lest they break through unto the LORD to gaze, and many of them perish.
(22) And let the priests also, which come near to the LORD, sanctify themselves, lest the LORD break forth upon them.
(23) And Moses said unto the LORD, The people cannot come up to mount Sinai: for thou chargedst us, saying, Set bounds about the mount, and sanctify it.
(24) And the LORD said unto him, Away, get thee down, and thou shalt come up, thou, and Aaron with thee: but let not the priests and the people break through to come up unto the LORD, lest he break forth upon them.
(25) So Moses went down unto the people, and spake unto them.

God wasn’t asking him – He was telling him that the people *would* violate the clear commandment of God if he (Moses) didn’t run right back down and reiterate the seriousness of not crossing the border of the mountain. It’s not like God simply thought that they might do it. He was sure that they would do it, without one last reminder. And it would be many of them who would perish, not just a few.

We would do well to remember who we are attempting to argue with on occasions such as these…

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Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread

2009-10-15T10:41:40Z

Exodus 16:14-18 KJV
(14) And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground.
(15) And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat.
(16) This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your persons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents.
(17) And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less.
(18) And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating.

Throughout the Bible, God has promised to provide for our daily needs.

This is specifically reiterated by Jesus when He told us the manner in which we should pray (in Matthew 6:9-13). While it might seem more convenient to get everything we need for a month or two right up front, it tends to be very beneficial for us to seek God on a daily basis, and to remember that it is He who provides everything for us.

This is much easier to bear in mind when our needs are met each day, and serves to greatly increase our faith.

Have you asked for your needs today?

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Complaining Instead of Trusting

2009-10-13T10:10:11Z

Does it seem like we spend more time complaining and wanting to return to bad situations with which we are familiar, rather than overcoming the necessary trials that are on our path?

Exodus 14:10-12 KJV
(10) And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the LORD.
(11) And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt?
(12) Is not this the word that we did tell thee in Egypt, saying, Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians? For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness.

Remember, these are the same people that cried out to God when they were under bondage to the Egyptians:

Exodus 2:23-24 KJV
(23) And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.
(24) And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.

We need to commit our way to God each day, and then trust that He has worked out a viable and timely solution for our problems…

Exodus 14:13-14 KJV
(13) And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.
(14) The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

We make no progress – neither physically nor spiritually – when we sit around and complain. We need to move forward in faith.

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Spiritual Retreat 2009

2009-09-01T10:50:10Z

For the past 5 years, my family and I have had the privilege of heading out into the woods for 3 or 4 days of camping. In a tent.

We head out to Stokes State Forest, where we leave behind most (but not quite all) of our technology and other distractions, and spend some quiet time with nature. We did not have as many church members attend as in the past, and there were elements of the weekend that could have been planned better, but those of us who made it out there had a great time.

It rained quite a bit on Friday night, and also on Saturday night, but our tent remained dry, thanks to God’s mercy and the tarp not shown in this photo.

It’s fun to get away, and fall asleep to the sound of the running stream.

It brings to mind the 23rd Psalm:

Psalms 23:1-6 ESV
(1) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
(2) He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
(3) He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
(4) Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
(5) You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
(6) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Now, to carry that mindset into the rest of the year…

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God Still Means What He Says

2009-08-15T17:46:19Z

Yesterday, I read an advice column in Slate where someone asks about whether they should return their tithe or pay their debt.

Unfortunately, the answer given to the poor truth seeker was way off the mark. And the comments that followed were not any more helpful. It is a shame that Debbie did not have a better place to ask questions about spiritual matters. (Just because tithing has an impact on the material aspect of your life doesn’t make it any less spiritual.)

Let’s review the reasons why the response was incorrect.

Returning tithes is separate from giving offerings
Tithing is not abolished in the New Testament
We must put God first in ALL things, not just the convenient things
The requirements of tithe cannot be substituted
God understands, but not necessarily what you think

While Sandy indicated that she wanted to avoid theological and scholarly fights, she went on to present views on theological matters, without any theological basis.

“Returning” tithes is separate from “giving” offerings

For instance, she went on to quote 2 Corinthians 9:7 and suggest that tithing in the New Testament is optional, at least in terms of percentage.

2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.

Sorry, but tithing is separate from offering. Tithe is 10% and it is God’s. The reason it is God’s is that we are all stewards of God’s resources, and He leaves us with 90% for managing His goods. Taking any part of that 10% is embezzlement, pure and simple.

This is why we refer to it as “returning tithe” and not “paying tithe” – the money isn’t ours to begin with.

Of the 90% that God allows us to keep, He asks us to give a willing offering. Whatever percentage you feel appropriate to give in terms of offering, is up to you, but you should consider giving as God has blessed you.

2 Corinthians 9:6
But this I say: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

Proverbs 11:24
Sometimes you can become rich by being generous or poor by being greedy.

God rewards us in proportion to our sacrifices.

Tithing is not abolished in the New Testament

Two of the primary goals of the tithing system were to teach stewardship to God’s people, and to pay for the needs of God’s ministers. The Levites were provided their sustenance only through the tithes and offerings. In the New Testament, this is maintained. The problem was that while everyone understood and accepted the concept of tithe, they were not systematic in the giving of offerings. This is why the Apostle Paul had to give counsel on the giving of offering AND the fact that it should be gathered in advance, rather than in an ad hoc fashion. That is what 2 Corinthians 9 is all about.

As Jesus pointed out in Luke 11:42, tithing was still a valid principle. His gripe against the Pharisees was that they tithed but did not care for their fellow man, when they should be doing both.

Luke 11:42
But a curse is on you, Pharisees! for you make men give a tenth of every sort of plant, and give no thought to right and the love of God; but it is right for you to do these things, and not let the others be undone.

We must put God first in ALL things…

The idea that God only cares about His commandments when times are good, or when there is no inconvenience for us, is extremely unbiblical. Jesus tells us to seek the kingdom of God *first*.

Matthew 6:31-33
(31) Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we put on?'
(32) "For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
(33) But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

The widow gave ALL that she had.

If we claim that we rely on God for everything – for health, strength, clothing, shelter and all other blessings – then how can we think that taking God’s tithe will allow us to pay our debt successfully?

Let’s take a look at Haggai 1:3-15. The people set about to build up their own houses rather than work on the house of God, and instead of reaping a bountiful harvest, they endured drought and loss. It wasn’t until they put God first that things got better for them. That’s not an Old Testament principle – it’s a Bible principle.

The requirements of the Tithe cannot be substituted.

God’s tithe is God’s tithe. We don’t get to substitute it. Not only that, but when we interfere with the tithe, we owe God interest. You didn’t know that? Check out the following passage:

Leviticus 27:30-33
(30) "One-tenth of what comes from the land, whether grain or fruit, is holy and belongs to the LORD.
(31) If you buy back any part of it, you must add one-fifth more to it.
(32) Every tenth head of cattle or sheep that you counted is holy and belongs to the LORD.
(33) You must not look to see if it is good or bad or exchange it. But if you do exchange it, both the first animal and its substitute will be holy. They cannot be bought back."

And, lest you think that this only applies to the Old Testament, look at what happened in the New Testament (Acts 5:1-10) when Ananias and Sapphira altered the amount that *they* had committed to the Lord. Now, if that was their penalty for taking what they themselves had pledged, what do you suppose is the penalty for embezzlement of that which is not ours to begin with?

We cannot substitute what we want for God’s requirements. God has separate requirements for our time, so it’s not even a good substitution. Just as Cain was not successful in substituting an offering of fruit for the sacrifice that was requested of Him (Genesis 4:3-8), so we cannot substitute 7%, 5% or 2% for the 10% God commands, nor can we substitute time for money.

God understands, but not necessarily what you think

What God understands is that He has promised a blessing to those who keep His commands as it relates to His tithe and our offering.

Malachi 3:8-12
(8) Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me. But you say, In what have we robbed You? In the tithe and the offering!
(9) You are cursed with a curse; for you are robbing Me, the nation, all of it.
(10) Bring all the tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. And test Me now with this, says Jehovah of Hosts, to see if I will not open the windows of Heaven for you, and pour out a blessing for you, until there is not enough room.
(11) And I will rebuke your devourer, and he shall not decay the fruit of your ground against you; nor shall your vine miscarry against you in the field, says Jehovah of Hosts.
(12) And all nations shall call you blessed; for you shall be a delightful land, says Jehovah of Hosts.

God understands that those who love Him will keep His commandments, but that many who claim to love Him will do only what is convenient.

Matthew 7:21-23
(21) Not everyone who says to Me, Lord! Lord! shall enter the kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven.
(22) Many will say to Me in that day, Lord! Lord! Did we not prophesy in Your name, and through Your name throw out demons, and through Your name do many wonderful works?
(23) And then I will say to them I never knew you! Depart from Me, those working lawlessness!

The Bible is full of accounts of those who chose to follow God despite the momentary inconvenience, such as Daniel (Daniel 2, 3 and 5) and Peter & John (Acts 5:17-29).

Likewise, there are many accounts of people who took the convenient path, and felt that God would understand, but He didn’t – not in the way that they had hoped, anyway.

Uzzah comes to mind (2 Samuel 6:6,7), and I’ve already mentioned Ananias & Sapphira.

We must render to God what is His. First. Then we should render to our creditors what is theirs. God will help us with the latter, if we respect His will regarding the former. God blesses the 90% He leaves us with so that it can do far more than the 100% of those who do not serve Him. Let us know fool ourselves into thinking that God will ignore willful disobedience on our part, just because we have a nice sounding rationalization.

Your local government is not likely to look kindly on you misappropriating their funds to pay off your debt, so it is unthinkable to believe that God, who is more precise and consistent in His instructions, will be any less opposed to the idea. Plus, it just shows a lack of faith in the One person that can take care of all our needs.

The tithe is the Lord’s. Return it to Him and He will bless you abundantly.

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