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Isaiah 55:1-9 Draw Near to God and Be Saved

During World War II, a fleet of American ships was patrolling the waters in the North Atlantic in search of German U-boats. One night, some American pilots took off from an aircraft carrier and were ordered to return by a certain hour. The pilots thought that with a little more time they could find the enemy and score an impressive hit, so they stayed out a bit longer. As the sun set, German ships entered the area.

What the pilots didn’t know was that the Americans had ordered radio silence between the ships and the aircraft so the enemy wouldn’t find them. The pilots who hadn’t returned on time were running out of fuel. They were desperately trying to find the aircraft carrier, but all the ships had gone dark.

The Americans had to make a decision. They could either save the lives of several American pilots or lose hundreds, maybe thousands, of American sailors. So, to the shock and horror of those onboard the ships, the pilots crashed into the icy waters of the North Atlantic.

In the same way, there are people who repeatedly reject God’s call. They keep resisting the urging of the Holy Spirit, but one day, God will order radio silence, so to speak. God said in Genesis 6:3, “My Spirit will not put up with humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh.” God also spoke through the prophet Isaiah when He said in Isaiah 55:6, “Seek the Lord while you can find Him. Call on Him now while He is near.”

In Isaiah 55:1-9, the Lord contrasts His thoughts and ways with sinful Israel’s. Human plans inevitably fail and falter, but the Lord’s plans are different. When He promises forgiveness and restored blessing to His people, He will be true to His word. Just as the rain and snow fall to the ground and fulfill their God-given purpose unhindered, God’s promises and purposes will be realized.

The context of Isaiah 55 is important. The long exile in Babylon is over. Most of the exiles have been born in Babylon and have only heard about the old land of promise and its capital, Jerusalem. Isaiah brings a word of hope. Isaiah has appeared among them to tell them that God’s anger has cooled against them and that He has a job for them to do.

God told the Israelites that they were to be “light to the Gentiles” and “to the ends of the earth.” For the Israelites, it would not be easy to invite foreigners or Gentiles to join them in God’s kingdom. As God’s chosen people, they had developed a distinctive identity that tied their ethnicity with their faith. To be a Jew referred both to race and religion. Throughout their history God had commanded them to keep their ethnic origins and their religious worship pure. Intermarriage and idolatry were contaminants to be avoided at all costs. The purpose for these commandments went beyond ethnic and religious purity as an end in itself. God wanted to keep His people pure so that they could fulfill their chosen servant role of being the light to the Gentiles and bring the message of redemption to all nations.

During Isaiah’s time the Israelites rebelled against God, intermarried with heathen, and mixed idolatry into their religious worship. Later, in Jesus’ time, Israel sinned by assuming that they were exclusively chosen by God for salvation and created a religious system based upon regulations rather than faith. Unfortunately, they are not alone. The church also is tempted to sin on one side or the other. Contamination by the world and isolation from the world are like magnetic poles that have power of attraction in every generation.

God’s purpose is to build a kingdom of righteousness that is inclusive of Jews and Gentiles, chosen children and foreigners, neighbours and strangers. All other plans for affirmative action pale before His ultimate purpose to bring all races, ages, genders, and ethnic origins from all corners of the earth together in a spiritual body created exclusively by trust in God and faith in Christ. The phrase “everyone who thirsts” is God’s call to participate in the blessings of salvation.

The phrase “to seek the Lord” means to approach Him through prayer and repentance. This carries with it the idea of discerning and emulating God’s way of life and His character. The phrase “while He may be found” means that the opportunity for response is urgent. The language of these verses echoes other passages that look forward to a time when the Lord will restore His repentant people.

The thought that salvation is free can be mind-boggling. The analogy of spiritually thirsty people is advanced to the truth that salvation is something that money can’t buy. Isaiah invites us to “come to the waters”, even if we don’t have any money. Isaiah could see that the price of salvation would be paid by the Suffering Servant, and faith in Him is all that we need to receive the living water of salvation. God tells everyone who is thirsty and trusts in Him that they will receive His mercy, and they will be a witness to the people.

Humans do have to play a necessary role in the plan of salvation. There is a sense of urgency in the imperative to “seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” Although everyone who hungers and thirsts for righteousness receives the invitation to salvation, God expects them to answer the invitation. Repentance is required before we can receive salvation. We must stop committing sins and being sinful in our thoughts.

There is a distinct difference between the thoughts and ways of God and those of human beings. He thinks as we can’t think, and He acts in ways that we can’t act. When He touches down on earth with actions that are His way, there has been a breakthrough from the supernatural to the natural. Conversely, when His ways are done on earth, they reflect His thoughts, which our finite minds can’t understand.

For example, consider Joshua’s dilemma when God asked the Israelites to attack Jericho. God gave him the battle plan, but it wasn’t what Joshua was expecting. To him, it was an irrational, unorthodox way to handle the problem. God wanted Joshua and his army to march around Jericho for six days without saying a word. On the seventh day they were to march around Jericho seven times, listen for a trumpet blast, and then yell. Does that sound like common sense?

The Book of Joshua records that the Israelites followed God’s instruction to the letter. In spite of the risks and ridiculous odds, they simply did as God said. The result was one of the most dazzling victories in Israel’s long history.

Do we let God be God? We might have been baptized and confirmed. We might serve others and give generously to God’s work, but do we let God be the Lord over our lives? It’s easy to get frustrated with God when He doesn’t do what we want, when we want, and the way we want, but Scripture says that God knows what is best. He has proven on many occasions that His thoughts and ways are better and higher than any human thoughts and ways.

It might be years before we can look back and see God’s influence in certain situations. We rarely have the whole picture all at once. We’re holding a piece of a jigsaw puzzle and God is holding all of the other pieces that we don’t even know exist yet. We can’t see all that He is doing, but just because we can’t see the entire picture doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t trust God. Right now, as we continue to reach out to the world in His name, we can remember that God is always at work.

 Why would God, through Isaiah, need to urge us to join Him? Don’t we want to be near God? Most of the time, the answer is “No.” Being near to God would be both inconvenient and scary. We want God around, but only when we want Him to be around, like a genie that we summon, control, and dismiss when no longer needed. That is not God’s way. We know all too well how much our lives don’t measure up to the lives that God wants for us. We really don’t want to change, even though the life God offers us is so much better-if we would only trust Him and draw near to Him.

(An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/isaiah-55-verses-1-9-draw-near-to-god-and-be-saved–65021909)

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 945)
  2. McKenna, D. & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 18: Isaiah 40-66 (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1994; pp. 172-178)
  3. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F. Jr. The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5.  John Holbert, “The Gospel According to Isaiah: Reflections on Isaiah 55:1-9).” Retrieved from https://www.patheos.com/about-patheos/john-c-holbert
  6. Jennifer Benson Schuldt, “Our Plans and God’s Plans.” Retrieved from noreply@ourdailybread.ca
  7. Pastor Allen Jackson, “Allowing God to be God.” Retrieved from emails@allenjackson.com
  8. Christine Caine, “When We Can’t See.” Retrieved from no-reply@christinecaine.com
  9. Joni Eareckson Tada, “Ignoring the Odds.” Retrieved from response@joniandfriends.org
  10. Deacon Timothy Siburg, “Return to the Lord and Find God’s Abundance.” Retrieved from www.stewardshipoflife.org
  11. Mark Granquist, “God Pause for Monday, March 17, 2025.” Retrieved from communic@luthersem.edu.
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Genesis 45:3-11,15 Forgiveness

On January 27, 2025, the world observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The world also observed the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, where the Nazis murdered 1.1 million people-mostly Jews but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, gay people, blacks, Jehovah Witnesses, Freemasons, disabled people, and other “enemies of the state.” Should we forgive such unspeakable evil? Could we, even if we tried? These complicated questions are raised by the story of Joseph, especially in Genesis 45:3-11 and 15.

Confession is hard. We wonder if the person we are confessing to will be angry, hate us, or think badly of us after he/she finds out the truth. These thoughts were running through the minds of Joseph’s brothers after Joseph revealed his true identity to them. So much depends on the person we are confessing to. For example, the God we know is far more patient, loving, gentle, and merciful than any human being.

Joseph held his brothers’ fate in his hands. His brothers were completely at his mercy, and fortunately for them mercy is what he extended. Joseph believed that God had a plan in the wrongs that he had suffered. That purpose was to preserve a remnant that would fulfill the promise to Abraham. Joseph’s attitude was remarkable in that he refused to blame them but wanted to impress upon them that the hand of God was evident in his life.

Silence followed the words, “I am Joseph.” Previously, Joseph spoke only in Egyptian through an interpreter, but now he spoke in Hebrew to his brothers. The object of their hatred and the evidence of their sin stood before them, and they were dismayed and terrified in his presence. Joseph’s statement that “God sent me before you…to save your lives” showed his ability to see God at work, turning the tragedies of life into triumphs. God never asks any of us to sit down and wait for Him to vault us into success. He asks us to trust and obey Him day by day and to learn the lessons He sets before us.

If the brothers had any difficulty understanding this disclosure it would be understandable. Not only had their long lost brother suddenly reappeared and their long hidden secret been exposed, but Joseph promptly offered forgiveness to them, going to great lengths to encourage them not to grieve or be angry with themselves. Joseph kissed all of his brothers to demonstrate forgiveness: Reuben, unstable as water; Simeon and Levi, who brought trouble; and Judah, who saved Joseph’s life by suggesting that he be sold. Reconciliation brings peace, protection, provision, and nearness.

The balance of truth which insists on an Almighty One working out His purposes and at the same time teaches that the people through whom He works are free agents has taxed God’s people throughout history. Joseph used two phrases which kept both sides of the truth before his brothers and also before us. On the one hand, he told them “you sold me,” but at the same time he remined them, “God sent me.” In no way was their responsibility diminished, but equally in no way had God ever lost control of the situation.

Perhaps we should be like Joseph and others whose practical approach to a problem allowed them to continue in deep reverence and dependence while at the same time accomplishing much of significance through hard work and the proper use of divine gifts. General William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, is a great example. He did not allow himself to be sidetracked in theological debate when he became aware of London’s desperate and destitute masses. He said, “Work as if everything depended on your work, and pray as if everything depended on your prayer.”

When Joseph said that God sent him to preserve a remnant, he was referring to the famine from which they were being delivered, but he may have been saying more than he knew, because in God’s plan there would be an even greater deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt which could not take place without God first sending Joseph to the land of the Pharaohs. His brothers were being invited to explore the wonderful workings of God and see how an understanding of the Lord can deal with bitterness and put sweetness in its place.

The story of Joseph and his brothers teaches us two lessons. First, God truly is in control and that He will ultimately prevail with or without the cooperation of his erring children. Second, when someone comes into contact with the immensity of God the result is a heart that beats with something of His love to such an extent that extraordinary depths of love and forgiveness flow from a grateful heart. God calls us to have a forgiving spirit. Knowing that God is in control of all that happens to us releases us to forgive others.

What person seems impossible for you to forgive? What keeps you from fully forgiving the one who hurt you? God’s love outweighs any harmful experience. Will you obey God and forgive? Forgiveness is a three-step process:

  1. A clear view of the big picture. As far as Joseph was concerned, the pain his brothers caused him only served God’s ultimate will. It was still a rotten thing for them to do, but God’s purpose for the salvation of His remnant people far outshone his brothers’  evil deed. God’s ultimate intentions for our salvation can reduce the power of the hurt.
  2. Repentance. Joseph does seem to rub it in a bit with his statement that “you sold me into Egypt,” but this does serve to make them face their past actions. There can be no reconciliation unless we face the wrong we have done, admit it, and turn from it.
  3. Forgiveness, the putting away of past hurts. The pathway to forgiveness lies in recognizing God’s forgiveness of our sins, a forgiveness that covers past, present, and future sins.  It is when we see the mercy that has flowed to us from the cross that we are able to apply a bit of mercy ourselves.

(An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/genesis-45-verses-3-11-15-forgiveness–64499657)

Bibliography

1.  Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 63)

2. Dan Clendenin, Ph.D., “Fret Not Yourself.” Retrieved from www.jouorneywithJesus.net

3. Briscoe, D.S., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 1: Genesis (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1987; pp. 352-254)

4. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)

5. Lucado, M.: The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson; 2010; pp. 63-66)

6. Dr. Kari Vo, “Confession.” Retrieved from www.lhm.org

7. Meg Jenista, “Genesis 45:3-11,15 Commentary.” Retrieved from https://cepreaching.org/authors/meg-jenista

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Psalm 19 Listen to God and His Creation

When you were young, were you ever told to mind your manners? In that respect, “minding” is more like “remember” or “pay attention to.” It’s a matter of “keeping it in mind.” That is the type of minding we read in Psalm 19.

Psalm 19 reveals the God who is continually communicating with us through His works and through His Word. The psalm begins with a meditation on the works of God: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.” As we “listen” to the heavens we hear God’s glory. They “continually declare” as they both worship the Creator with their praise and witness his glory to us. If you want proof, go outside on a clear night and just stare up into the sky for several minutes. Soak up the grandeur, majesty and vastness of the starry host-and then think: My God made all this. Nature is only a name for an effect, and the cause is God. The touch is his.

We are not to listen for literal speech, but there is real communication. Thus Paul sees all of us accountable to God because of creation. He writes in Romans 1:20 that “since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so they are without excuse.” God is not limited to words in His communication with us. He uses angels, visions, dreams, even impressions and mental pictures.

This psalm points out the two areas where God has chosen to reveal Himself: “the heaven” refers to what appears in the sky above; “the firmament” means the expanse of God’s creation. The entire universe testifies of the Creator and brilliantly displays the glory of God.

God has placed the sun (an object of worship among the pagans) in the heavens and is therefore supreme over it. The figures of the bridegroom and the runner picture the sun’s glory and power as it moves across the sky. Since it is so glorious, how much more glorious must the Creator be?

The words “testimonies,” “statutes,” “commandment,” and “judgments” are all synonyms for God’s law-the Bible. The connection between creation and God’s Word here is that as the sun is the centerpiece of creation, so must God’s Word be the centerpiece of believers’ lives.

The opening of Psalm 19 reveals the God who communicates His glory to us through His creation.  His continual communication is a witness to His desire to always be known and worshipped by us. He is also the universal God claiming all people for Himself. There is a problem. Sin has darkened our perception of Him. We have “erorrs, secret faults, and presumptuous sins.” We need more than the witness of creation. We need the Word of God so we can understand the works of God.

Psalm 19:7 tells us that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” The function of the law is to convert us. Through it we are restored or returned to our Creator. The legislation in the Old Testament law reveals God’s holiness and our sin. It drives us to despair so that we may be driven to Christ.

God’s law helps us avoid sin and enjoy fellowship with Him. The law does not prevent enjoyment but encourages it. Above all, His laws show us great love, and His wonderful creation proves His existence.

Psalm 19 also talks about the testimony of the Lord. When God testifies about Himself, He tells the truth. We can throw our weight on God’s testimony, and it will hold us up. His testimony is ritually clean and morally right because it is given by the holy God.

The psalmist also tells us that “the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever.” In this case, fear does not mean being afraid of God. Instead, it means that we are to respect and obey God. Scripture is the essential guide and authority for determining Christian moral and ethical conduct. When God reveals His will, it is awesome. The law came from Mount Sinai with thunder, smoke, and fire. Also, God’s will is fearsome because of our sin. When God reveals Himself in His holiness, we cry out “Woe is me.” It is through God’s law that God establishes His justice and His judgment. God reveals what is true and right. We are accountable to that revelation on the Day of Judgment. To hear His Word and to do it is to build our house upon the rock. To see, to study, and to obey God’s Word is to labour with that which lasts.

God’s law is like a mirror that reveals our spiritual posture. There are corrections we can make once we are warned, but that only gets us so far. That’s why we need a Rock and Redeemer to revive our spiritual hearts.

In the Psalms, “keeping” the commandments resembles the way the whole of creation obeys God’s will. It’s simply a matter of doing what we’re meant to do by instinct. In the same way, God’s law teaches us the way to live in harmony with God’s will-with God’s justice, mercy, and love.

Verse 11 mentions that there is a great reward in obeying God’s law. The reward is threefold. First, there is the reward of doing God’s will. Second, it is the reward of living a fulfilled life-converted, wise, rejoicing, enlightened, enduring, true and righteous. The third reward is the assurance of being ready to stand before Christ’s judgment seat.

All of revelation, general and special, all of God’s streams of communication to us, have only one goal. God wants us to know Him, to worship Him, to love Him, to obey Him. All of the heavenly “mass media” and all of the biblical “special programming” are for us. By faith we must switch on the receiver. The God who made us by His almighty power offers to exercise that same power on our behalf to help us speak and think in a way that honours Him.

The way we can know God, worship God, love God and obey God is to meditate on God’s Word. Meditating on God’s Word is like the tune that lingers in your head all day. You whistle, sing and strum until your life is consumed with the song. Meditating is to have God’s Word of the day echo in every moment. Meditation is also like a cow chewing its cud. The beast munches, swallows, then brings it up for another chew, just to make sure it gets out all the nourishment.

The lesson from Psalm 19 is to be wise, fear God, turn away and spare ourselves the inevitable chastisement that will follow when we sin and do not repent. God’s grace in Christ Jesus is unconditional, eternal, and greater than sin, but when temptation strikes, look at the cross! Count the cost and ask, “How can I sin and presume that I will receive God’s grace in the face of such love? Who do I think I am? How can I deliberately sin and presume that God will forgive me later?” This psalm reminds us that when we fail to obey God’s laws, we must ask for forgiveness and seek to change our ways. The earth can only be healed when we turn from our selfish disregard of God’s glorious creation.

(An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/psalm-19-listen-to-god-and-his-creation–63894263)

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 718)
  2. Williams, D., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 13: Psalms 1-72 (Nashville, TN: Inc., Thomas Nelson Inc.,; 1986; pp. 157-165)
  3. Stanley, C.F..: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles, 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F. Jr.: The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5. Lucado, M.: The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson; 2010; pp. 710-712)
  6. Joni Eareckson Tada, “Touches of Home.” Retrieved from commuinic@joniandfriends.org
  7. Dr. Ed Young, “The Meditating Heart.” Retrieved from ministry@winningwalk.org
  8. Matthew Stith, “Commentary of Psalm 19.” Retrieved from www.workingpreacher.org
  9. Dr. Mark Schreiber, “Who Do We Think We Are?” Retrieved from www.lhm.org
  10. Karen L. Leedahl, “God Pause for Tuesday, January 21, 2025.” Retrieved from communic@info.luthersem.ed
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Colossians 3:12-17 The Clothing Christ Gives Us

As Pastor Dodd began his sermon, Debbie yawned and began scribbling a note on her bulletin. “Dear Carol,” she wrote. “Sorry I can’t study at your house tomorrow night. My mom and I signed up for an exercise class. I think it will be fun!” Then she added, “Much more fun than sitting here for an hour. What a drag!” Debbie folded the note and turned around to pass it, but when she noticed her mother frowning at her, she stuffed it into her Bible and read her Sunday school paper instead.

The next night, Debbie excitedly went with her mother to the big gym. She was impressed with all the exercise equipment available to them, and she had a great time trying it out during the class. “That sure was cool, Mom,” she said happily as they drove home. “I like using all that stuff. Maybe we can try out the pool next time.”

Mom yawned. “It sure made me tired,” she said.

“I’m tired, too,” agreed Debbie, “but it was fun. My muscles are a little sore, but

I feel good. I know that working out makes me stronger.”

Mom smiled. “I know what you mean,” she said with a nod. “I felt something like that after my workout yesterday.”

“Yesterday?” Debbie frowned. “You didn’t exercise yesterday, Mom. It was Sunday. We just went to church.”

“I got a spiritual workout yesterday,” said Mom. “You missed it, though.”

“But, Mom! It was just a church service, and to tell the truth, I think sermons

are usually boring,” grumbled Debbie.

“They’d seem boring to me, too, if I just sat there and really paid no attention

to what was being said,” replied Mom. “I know it’s hard for little kids to sit still

and listen, but you’re old enough now to follow along and even take few notes.

If you do that, you’ll get more out of the message.”

Debbie shrugged. “Do you think so?” she asked.

“I know so,” said Mom. “You need to exercise your mind, just like your body.

You need the spiritual exercise that you can get by thinking about what God wants

to teach you through Pastor Dodd.”

How many of you received clothing for a Christmas gift this year? Did you know that when Jesus was born He gave us a gift that is similar to clothing? The apostle Paul talks about this in Colossians 3:12-17. We are to put on the garments of Christian grace.

The first garment of Christian grace that we are to put on is tender mercies. Tender mercy suggests the deep feeling of love that has to express itself in action. That action involves compassion. Compassion begins with pity, but it is more. Compassion is that deep remorse we have when we do something about our feelings of pity. We can feel sorry for other people and do nothing about it. Feeling sorry for others may result in our pitying them, but to be moved by others’ pain, to feel their situation so deeply that we seek to act on their behalf, is compassion.

The next garment of Christian grace that we are to put on is kindness. Kindness is tender goodness, goodness that is for the well-being of others. It is defined in Scripture as the virtue of the person whose neighbor’s good is as dear as his own. It can be hard work, and occasionally this may mean that we have to face difficult situations that drain us emotionally and physically, but kindness can’t grow without conflict and strife.

Another garment we are to put on is the garment of humility or lowliness. Humility has nothing to do with self-deprecation, or cowering back, nothing to do with self-disgust at our shabby lives; nor is it a downcast, brow-beaten stance. The humble know who they are in relation to God and other people. They soundly estimate their strengths and weaknesses. They do not flaunt them but take their place in God’s kingdom without fanfare.

We are also to put on the garment of meekness. Society has forgotten the meaning of meekness today. We don’t always admire meek people, but Jesus said that the meek will inherit the earth. The Greek philosopher Aristotle defined meekness as the happy medium between too much anger and too little anger. A meek person is self-controlled because he/she is God-controlled. A meek person knows himself/herself and operates out of the realization of God’s control of his/her life.

We must also put on the garments of forbearing and forgiving. To forbear has the negative meaning of “to refrain or abstain,” or “to control oneself.” It also has the positive meaning of “bearing one,” or carrying. Forbearing and forgiving go together according to Paul. Forgiveness is at the heart of the gospel. At the core of our Christian experience of salvation is our acceptance of God’s forgiveness extravagantly provided through Jesus. Forgiven people must always be forgiving. As God forgave us, we must forgive others. Only forgiving people can be forgiven.

Choosing to forgive does not condone sin, excuse the wrongs done to us, or minimize our hurts. Offering forgiveness simply frees us to enjoy God’s undeserved gift of mercy, as we invite Him to accomplish beautiful works of peace-restoring grace in our lives and our relationships. Part of forgiveness is releasing the person from the debt we think they owe us. Refusing to let go of the hurt and pain someone has caused in our lives will always rob us of our joy,

The final garment we are to put on is the garment of love. Paul puts love at the top of the list of the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22. Love is the fruit of the Spirit, and each fruit of the Spirit which follows in the list is another expression of love.

Putting on something such as love has to do with a deep and transforming inner experience which reflects itself outwardly. God’s chosen ones will not simply set aside the old life and its ways. They will display eight new characteristics, culminating in love-the bond of perfection that has the power to change the world. While humility is a grace that grows within a Christian’s heart, it is also a choice that believers make each day.

All of these garments knit us together in a legion of passion and love, of fear and hope, of jealousy and trust, of cynicism and goodwill, of indifference and concern, of distrust and awareness. How are all of these feelings to be arbitrated, to be harmonized? What feelings are to be given reign? What or where or who is the umpire to settle the clashes? The answer is to let Christ be the umpire. In Him, we have the key factor for our getting along together-the peace of Christ. To know about the garments of grace is one thing, to wear them gracefully is another.

Anyone who is joined to Christ is joined to all others who have a share in the new community. This does not mean that uniqueness and distinctiveness are obliterated; the church is not to be a nameless, faceless fellowship. The Spirit makes us one and in Christ we are of equal worth. We can’t grow into maturity in Christ Jesus without the encouragement, help, and even the needs of others.

In all things we are to be thankful. Being thankful is one sign of becoming like Christ. Paul shared four steps to becoming Christ-like:

  1. Let the peace of Christ have the final say in our lives.
  2. Make God’s Word part of our lives.
  3. Be ministry-focused instead of self-focused.
  4. Regularly express gratitude to God.

In view of what God has done through Jesus Christ for the believer, Paul described the behaviour and attitude God expects in response. The antidote to sin is to do all things in the name of the Lord Jesus and to thank God in every word and deed. Praise and thanksgiving are barometers of spiritual health. Peace is Christ’s gift to His followers today and forever.

Christ doesn’t love us because of our merits. He knows we are sinners. He loves us just because He loves us. He gave Himself for us, unworthy as we are. In the same way, the love of Christ within us seeks to serve, not to be served.

Do you think church is boring–that it’s a waste of time because you don’t get anything out of it? Church is not a place to sit and daydream. It’s a place where true believers in Jesus meet to worship and serve God and to learn how to live for Him. Listen and pay attention. The more you put into it, the more you’ll benefit from it.

(An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/colossians-3-verses-12-17-the-clothing-christ-gives-us–63486813)

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 1675)
  2. Dunnam, M.D., & Ogilvie, L.J.,: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 31: Galatians/Ephesians/Philippians/Colossians/Philemon (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc.; 1982; pp. 375-384)
  3. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F. Jr.: The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5. Xochitl Dixon, “Should I Forgive?” Retrieved from donotreply@email.rbc.org
  6. Mary Southerland, “The Freedom of Forgiveness, Part 1”. Retrieved from www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/girlfriends/
  7. Dr. Robert Jeffres, “Count Blessings, Not Sheep.” Retrieved from drrobertjeffres@ptv.org
  8. Dr. David Jeremiah, “Laughter Through Tiers.” Retrieved from TurningPoint@davidjeremiah.org
  9. “Spiritual Workout”. Retrieved from www.keysforkids.org
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

Luke 19:11-27 Leading a Christian Lifestyle

The events in Luke 19:11-27 took place just before Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where His earthly ministry would find its painful fulfillment. Jesus once again had to correct misconceptions about His kingdom. In this story of the nobleman, his citizens and his servants, Jesus presents three very distinctive lifestyles.

First, there are the people who say, “I want it my way. I’m going to get all I can.” This is the attitude of the citizens who are to be the subjects of the future king. They don’t want him. They have their own plans. They represent people who insist on life on their own terms. They often succeed because of their determination to get what they want. Having it all on our own terms is a mixed blessing. We can have it all, and yet somehow the hunger for power and wealth is not satisfied. That’s how we’re made.

As Christians, we believe that Jesus is the king and that in the last days He will return to His kingdom. Being an atheist, a skeptic, or one who practices any kind of non-Christian religion doesn’t change that reality. Jesus tells us through this parable that right now we are free to argue and debate, but when the final curtain is closed, he is Lord. Taking the part of the atheist or the Christian who decides not to act out his Christianity does not cancel out God, but it gets His attention in a most severe way. If we think God is strict, then we must submit to Him instead of ignoring Him.

The story of the servant who kept his money safe in a handkerchief presents us with a second way to live-cautiously and conservatively. These are people who want to go through life hurting no one, breaking no rules, and making no enemies. Their aim is to get through life being good old boys, or good old girls. They are determined not to consume, but to leave everything the way they found it. They see life as a picnic area. Their aim is to pick up all the garbage and leave the place just as it was. This is commendable until we consider that someone planted the trees, provided the tables, the fireplaces, the restrooms, and the trash cans. Simply picking up after ourselves is not enough. We are parasites on those who plant, build, go, and do. We can’t live without breaking rules, making some enemies, creating a few waves. To think we can live in the world using nothing and hurting no one is contrary to what we read in the Scriptures. The truth is we only have what we use.

The third lifestyle we are presented with is that of the faithful steward. In this story, Jesus is actually describing His kingdom, of which He is, of course, the King. Jesus seems to be saying that there are only two classes of people-the fruitful and the unfruitful. The fruitful people are alive and reproducing. It is a powerful injunction that we are to leave more behind than we found. If we don’t, we’ve missed the message.

As stewards of our own lives, are we increasing? We may be fearful, like the spies Moses sent from Israel who came back saying, “We can’t conquer that land. There are giants there.” Because of their fear, the Israelites wandered for forty more years.

Jesus’ parable taught two primary lessons. First, while the kingdom of God would certainly come in all its power and glory, it would not come right away. A long period of time would elapse between Jesus’ first coming and His final coming. Second, in that intermediate time, Jesus’ followers are expected to use whatever gifts they have for the advancement of the kingdom.

The number of gifts is not nearly as critical as their faithful use. God rewards His faithful servants with more responsibility. Those who are faithful with what God has given them will be given more, and those who are wasteful will have what God has given them taken away and given to another. Are we faithful servants? What are we doing with the abilities and things that God has given to us? Will God reward us?

Jesus wants us to step out of our comfort zone, and it’s okay to take baby steps. We can start by doing the very things that He has already gifted us to do and do them for His glory. We will be surprised by what happens next. The way we live our lives on earth today has a direct bearing on our capacity for joy, worship, and service in heaven. This is what makes our present life so exciting.

(An audio version of this post can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/luke-19-verses-11-27-leading-a-christian-lifestyle–63046711)

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible, New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 1423)
  2. Larsen, B., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 26: Luke (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc., 1983, pp. 283-288)
  3. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F. Jr.: The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5. Mike Slay, “Why Does the Guy With Ten Minas Get the Other Guy’s Mina?” Retrieved from noreply@ailbe.org
  6. Andrew Wommack, “Respond to God’s Direction.” Retrieved from info@awmi.net
  7. Michael Youssef, Ph.D., “Until He Returns.” Retrieved from web@ltw.org
  8. Kathy Sweeny, “Multiply Your Talents.” Retrieved from Crosswalk@corsswalkmail.com
  9. Dr. Paul Chappell, “Ready for the Reckoning.” Retrieved from daily@dailyintheword.org
  10. Dr. Paul Chappell, “The Rejected Ruler.” Retrieved from daily@dailyintheword.org
  11. Joni Eareckson Tada, “The Way You Live Today.” Retrieved from communications@joniandfriends.org
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

Joel 2:21-27 God’s “Do Overs”

To kids on a playground, the concept of a “do-over” is well-known. When they’re playing kickball and the ball gets stuck in a tree, or when they’re playing basketball and the ball sticks between the backboard and the rim, a chorus of “do-over” can be heard. It’s an unspoken rule that every kid knows.

Sometimes as adults we wish we could resurrect the rule in our own lives. When we miss a bill payment, we long to be able to appeal to the utility company for a “do-over.” When we speak a thoughtless word that hurts another person, we wish for the same. Through the prophet Joel God tells the Israelites they can have a “do-over.” If they repent God will return what He has taken away in punishment. A plague of locusts destroyed the nation’s crops, and God promised to give the people abundant harvests once again.

Many people have had similar situations happen in their lives. Addictions, bad decisions, divorce, abuse, and other sins bring a hoard of consequences. These “locusts” rob us and those we love. Sometimes we wonder if we can ever recover from the days of spiritual ruin. Maybe you feel that your past sins have robbed you. God promised to “repay” His people “for the years the locusts have eaten.” God graciously wants to bring restoration.

Joel 2:21-27 is a reminder of how God has provided for us in our lives. In the good times and in the problems solved and health restored, we are quick to inhale and ask for more, but in the not so good times…in the hard places of life that are not so easy to chew and almost impossible to swallow, we rarely even finish the first helping.

In order to digest the nutrition God gives us properly, we must consider the following words:

  1. “You will have plenty to eat…” If we are still standing on this earth, God is assuredly providing a way for us to be here another day, and if He’s provided another day, He will get us through it.
  2. “…and you will praise the name of the Lord your God.” Good entrees in life call for a side or two of praise.
  3. “…who has worked wonders for you…” By recognizing the miracles God has woven into our everyday lives, we acknowledge the fact that He’ll do it again! The Israelites had to be reminded constantly of the way God brought them out of Egypt and provided for them. If they were prone to forget the massive miracles that God had bestowed upon them, then we are surely prone to forget what He’s done in our lives. We must choose to remember.
  4. “…never again will my people be shamed…” When Christ died on the cross, the guilt and shame and wrath we deserve for our sin was wiped out. In one last breath, He sealed those that believe in Him for good. Though our lives remain imperfect, grace forgives us over and over as we grow in holiness all the way to heaven.

God brings about both the good and the bad. The seasons of famine have a divine purpose in our lives. They accomplish things that only these hard times can accomplish. There is a time when those hard times have accomplished their purpose and He begins to restore. God wants us to know that there is a time when He will restore in order to demonstrate His gracious hand in our lives. He is a loving God who tenderly guides His children through the difficult places.

So how can we make the reality of “do-over” active in our lives once again? This concept usually doesn’t work in our adult lives and relationships without a good deal of work and humility on our part. We bear the consequences of our mistakes until regret grows and we ask for forgiveness. That’s when grace can intervene, and the person we’ve harmed can forgive. The same is true in our relationship with God. If we understand that sin has kept us from realizing our potential, we need to do the same as the Israelites: repent.

God’s provision of rain is highlighted in Joel 2:23 for good reason. Most of Palestine was totally dependent on rain to provide the water necessary for growing crops. There was no great river for irrigation, such as those enjoyed by Egypt and Mesopotamia. Sufficient rainfall was a crucial gift of the Lord to His people. Where there is rain, there can be growth. Where there is growth, there can be a harvest. Where there is a harvest, there can be hope. Where there is hope, there can be prophetic vision.

If we are without hope in the face of it all, the prophetic vision for change will not come. If we are without a harvest-without the richness of community, the resources for wellbeing, the fruits of wisdom-hope might not form. If we are without growth from seed to self, from fear to freedom, from apathy to love, we might miss the abundance of the harvest. If we are without rain-without the water and breath essential to life, without the respite of cool grace to ease the burns of struggle, without the clouds to pour over the maddening world until it stills-without rain we might not grow.

Joel 2:26-27 presents the results of the restitution offered in Joel 2:25. The receptacles for the products of the harvest will be overflowing. The threshing floor, where the grain is separated from the straw, will be full of wheat. The vats, where the olive oil and grape juice collect after the fruit is crushed, will overflow. The harvests will again be plentiful enough for the people to eat and be satisfied. The people will then praise the name of the Lord, recognizing the source of their sustenance. The people will confidently know God, His presence, and His uniqueness. They will know that He is in their midst, effectively present with them, that He is their God, active on their behalf and the One to whom they owe allegiance.

While it’s true that in the natural world we can’t get back time, we serve a supernatural God who knows how to make up for lost time. He’s not going to just restore the years we lost. He promises us an abundance of joy, an overflow of peace, and more than enough resources for what should have been ours-and that is a reason for us to be thankful.

(An audio version of this message is available at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/joel-2-verses-21-27-god-s-do-over–62342740)

Bibliography

  1. Ogilvie, L.J., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 22: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc., 1990, pp. 252-254)
  2. Os Hillman, “When God Restores What The Locusts Eat.” Retrieved from os@marketplaceleaders.org
  3. Joel Osteen, “It’s Not Too Late.” Retrieved from www.joelosteen.com
  4. Rachel Hackenburg, “Rain in the Forest.” Retrieved from dailydevotional@ucc.org
  5. Ron Moore, “Restoration.” Retrieved from www.ronmoore.org
  6. Meg Bucher, “The Swiftness of God’s Provision.” Retrieved from www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/your-daily-bible-verse/
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

Luke 9:7-9 How to See Jesus

In Luke 9:1-6, Jesus sent His disciples out with a specific purpose. He wanted them to do what He did-heal the sick and cast out demons. Realizing they were not qualified, He gave them power and authority to do as they were instructed in Luke 9:1. No degrees required, no extra clothing, no cash, no food-just a complete dependence upon Jesus’ power and authority.

The disciples were wildly successful-so much so that Herod Antipas, the ruler of the area, heard all about it and said, “I beheaded John the Baptist. Who, then, is this I hear such things about?” Herod was both frightened of Jesus and fascinated by Him, as we read in Luke 9:7-9. Reports of the remarkable ministry of Jesus’ disciples led to speculation that either John the Baptist had risen from the dead or Eijah (who had prophesied centuries before in the same territory that Herod now ruled) had returned. Herod became fearful and jealous as rumours reached him that someone was performing mighty miracles in the region. 

Although Herod disregarded the rumours because he knew no one else so executed had managed to come back from the dead, he did worry about reaction to the news spreading out of control and Rome removing him from his throne. Apparently Herod sent several messages to Jesus asking for some sort of meeting, but Jesus ignored him.

People of privilege and power can be afraid to embrace the truth or do the right thing because they risk losing their influence. To follow their conscience may mean that they won’t be re-elected or that their ratings will drop. They can’t risk it, so they close their hearts and cling tightly to their power, even when it means embracing lies and practicing deception. Herod knew the truth personally and was exceedingly sorry, but he chose death-both John the Baptist’s (after all, Herod had John the Baptist executed at the request of both his wife Herodias and her daughter Salome) and his own spiritual death. Herod lacked peace after his fatal choice. He feared his wife and the opinion of others more than he feared God.

Like Herod, we are going to hear all sorts of things about Jesus, especially if we go to church. At a certain point, we, like Herod, want to cut through the noise and meet Jesus directly. The good news is that Jesus is already available. If we feel the desire to meet Jesus directly, that means He is already calling us. God is already at work inside of us.

The disciples were preaching and healing, but Herod tried to see Jesus-singular. Here’s the reason why. Jesus invites us to do things beyond our abilities because He knows we must depend upon Him to empower us. As a result of His empowerment, others will be drawn to seek Him.

An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/luke-9-verses-7-9-how-to-see-jesus–62149072

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 1404)
  2. Pete Briscoe, “Beyond Credentials.” Retrieved from Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
  3. Br. David Vryhof, “Herod’s Perplexity.” Retrieved from www.ssje.org/author/br-david-vryhof/)
  4. Andrew Wommack, “No Peace for the Wicked.” Retrieved from info@awmi.org
  5. Br. Jack Crowley, “Herod the Perplexed.” Retrieved from www.ssje.org/author/br-jack-crowley/
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

James 2:1-17 Actions Do Speak Louder Than Words

The story has been told of a man who asked a minister to conduct a memorial service for his pet dog. The minister was irate. “We do not hold memorial services for dead dogs! You might try the church down the street.” As he turned to leave the man said, “I really loved that dog. I was going to offer a million-dollar gift for performing the service.” The minister spoke up, “Wait a minute, you never told me your dog was a Christian!”

We all do it. Whatever the defining factors are-race, denomination, political views, gender, economic class, or interests, too often we categorize people as “in” or “out.” These categorizations are demonstrated when we play favourites. The sin of partiality is one of the most subtle of all. Partiality reveals a non-Christian sense of values. James wrote in James 2:1-17 to warn believers of the sin of partiality and to remind us of God’s sense of values. He taught his readers to avoid partiality by observing three specific principles.

First is the example of the rich man who would enter a church service. He would be wearing fine clothes and gold rings. The human tendency would be to welcome him warmly and invite him to sit in the place of honour. James warned against this preferential treatment, arguing in James 2:6-7, “Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts? Do they not blaspheme that noble name by which you are called?” James stated that rich people should not be treated with any special honour or favour. True value in the kingdom of God has nothing to do with bank accounts, gold rings, or fine clothes.

Instead of honouring Jesus Christ, James’ readers were revering the rich and despising the poor. Instead of accepting people based on their faith in Christ, they showed favouritism based on appearance and status. Such choices allow evil to enter among believers. Our vision of God as the lover of all creation inspires us to welcome the stranger and uplift the impoverished. Beneath the exteriors of wealth and poverty and power and weakness, God’s Spirit lives. In Matthew 25 Jesus tells us to treat the poor with grace and hospitality-with equality and hospitality-because our care for the creature and the Creator are one in the same reality.

James presented a second hypothetical example to illustrate his warning against the sin of partiality. He suggests that a poor man might come into the church dressed in filthy clothes. The tendency would be to treat him much differently than a rich person. James and Jesus tell us not to dishonour the poor, and to not put down a person simply because he or she is poor.

When James uses the term “my brethren,” he is about to point out something that his readers need to change in their lives. Here he denounces all forms of prejudice, snobbery, and lack of respect for people, especially with regard to the poor. The word “partiality” means “to receive the face” and describes the favouritism that was shown to the wealthy. Such conduct dishonors the Lord, who does not play favourites.

Earthly riches do not equal spiritual wealth any more than economic poverty indicates spiritual poverty. Those who love God, regardless of their earthly financial position, are rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom. Jesus calls on us to serve the ones who hate us; forgive the ones who hurt us; take the lowest place, not the highest; seek to serve, not to be served; retaliate, not in kind, but in kindness.

James emphatically states that mistreating the poor (or anyone else) does not just show a lack of respect, but it also violates God’s law. Here James refers not to just Mosaic law but to the law of God’s kingdom, which Jesus stressed throughout His earthly ministry. It is the law of loving a neighbour as oneself. James stressed in chapter 2 verse 8, “If you really fulfill the royal law according to Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself,’ you do well.”

Jesus was anything but a snob. He never walked around with His nose in the air, reminding everyone that He was somebody special. He treated the Samaritan woman at the well as kindly as He treated noble Nicodemus. He was as gracious to a beggar and a prostitute as He was to Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue. James writes, “Act like Jesus Christ; think like He thought; live as He lived; treat others as He treated them.” The world says, “Treat people like they treat you.” Jesus challenges us to live with an entirely different attitude.

Most people whom God chooses to use are not rich or powerful. When Christians reject the poor in favour of the rich, they dishonor the very people whom God has singled out for special blessings in both this life and the next. Scripture tells us that the poor are precious in the Lord’s sight. James describes the faulty thinking of his readers. Here are the poor that God wants to bless, yet James’ readers ignore them. Here are the rich who are cheating them, yet James’ readers give them honour.

When we love another with Christ’s love, we are always at eye level. We can neither look up at another person nor down. Everyone who comes into our lives is on one level, whether rich or poor, bathed or unbathed, impressive or unimpressive. Love is the key to the Christian lifestyle. Love is the very essence of God. Jesus came to teach the importance of the life of love. In John 13:34-35, He said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”

This is the royal law of love. James states that this love is essential. He teaches us how to obey this royal law:

  1. All of us have broken God’s law.
  2. Only love can fulfill the law.
  3. Only Christ can supply that love.

We can only fulfill this royal law when we:

  1. Acknowledge that we have broken God’s law.
  2. Discover that only the life of love can fulfill that law; and
  3. Believe that only Christ can supply that love.

Then we must receive the gift of the Holy Spirit each day so that God’s love can live within us and flow from us to touch the lives of others. The law of liberty is not a series of separate edicts but a unified whole that ultimately calls God’s people to a life of love and mercy.

Verbal faith-faith that consists of words without actions-is insufficient. It cannot save, serve, or survive. But everyone profits when the love of God abides in the believer and is expressed through good works. When James asks, “Can faith save him?” he expects a negative answer, “Of course not!” A faith that does not demonstrate itself in works is not genuine. Although works do not earn salvation, they are necessary as the proof of genuine conversion. Real faith results in a compassionate life. Any professing Christian who refuses to help a brother or sister in need casts doubt on the integrity of his or her own faith. This person shows that he or she has never responded to the great mercy of God, and as an unredeemed person, will receive only strict, unrelieved judgment in eternal hell.

Faith unaccompanied by works was never alive. A workless faith is a worthless faith. As Martin Luther said, “It is as impossible to separate works from faith as it is to separate burning and shining from fire.” Saving faith must include deeds or works. Any faith without works is useless. Works can be placed into one of two categories. There are works of the flesh and works that are done with the help of the Holy Spirit which bring glory to God

The fruitfulness of our Christian life is not just the sounds we make or the activity we generate-what we say or how busy we are. As believers, we are no longer free to respond to people based on our feelings or emotions. We must choose to act according to the royal law.  Our fruitfulness is measured by what is actually produced in our lives-the fruit of the Spirit and our witness. Bible faith is always active faith, and active faith always results in something happening. It is inconceivable for those who are walking in the Spirit to say that they have faith if that faith is not translated into appropriate works of the Spirit in reaching out and responding to the needs of a brother or sister. In other words, actions really do speak louder than words.

An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/james-2-verses-1-17-actions-do-speak-louder-than-words–62149005

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; pp 1772-1773)
  2. Cedar, P.A., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 34: James/1&2 Peter/Jude Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1984; pp. 53-64)
  3. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F. Jr.: The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5. Lucado, M.: The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson; 2010; pp. 1710-1712)
  6. Jim Liebelt, “Playing Favorites.” Retrieved from www.crosswalk.com/devitionals/homeword/
  7. Dr. Paul Chappell, “Productive Faith.” Retrieved from daily@dailyintheword.org
  8. Vikki Burke, “Love is a Gift.” Retrieved from www.dennisburkeministries.org
  9. Stephen Davey, “Don’t Be a Snob.” Retrieved from www.wisdomonline.org
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

1 Corinthians 3:18-23 How to Gain God’s Wisdom

Have you ever said to yourself, “if only I knew God’s thoughts?” Some people seem presumptuous to think that they do know God’s thoughts. They’re full of advice and act as if they understand exactly what God thinks and what He would do in every situation. Too often such people fail to recognize that God’s thoughts and ways are far beyond our ability to understand. His ways are typically not our ways.

God’s Word does give a glimpse into His thoughts and desires. He calls us to forsake our worldly thought patterns and learn His principles for life because conventional, worldly wisdom is the exact opposite of God’s ways. By saturating our minds with God’s Word we begin to see both God’s message and His method.

What God calls wisdom and what the world calls wisdom are two very different things. The world looks to academia for wisdom. That is a trap. Pride loves the appearance of wisdom, but it is always rooted in self-deception. The wisdom of God; however, is viewed as foolish to the world.

Many people have concluded that when the light of faith goes on in a person’s heart, the light of knowledge in their brain has to be put out. Nowhere in Scripture does God condemn the acquisition of knowledge. It is only when experts elevate human knowledge over godly wisdom-that they become foolish. God isn’t against human knowledge. He who gave us brains to think is pleased when we put them to use. When earthly experts elevate human knowledge over God’s wisdom, they become foolish.

God used infinite wisdom when He created the earth. God by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens. It would be wise to fear God, which means to stand in awe of who He is. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

If we think we have a lot of religious knowledge, we actually might not know anything. The core reason for this is that true Christianity is not adherence to doctrine and devotion. It’s a mystery that can only be known in the context of relationships. If we have the Holy Spirit in our spirit and God’s Word in our hand, all things pertaining to the mystery and all things pertaining to salvation and life in Christ are available to us. We can understand them as the Holy Spirit reveals them to us. As we submit to the Holy Spirit and ask Him to do that, He will be faithful to do it.

When we confuse being current with being wise, we deceive ourselves. The only way to be wise is to walk with God. To walk with God, we need to spend time reading and studying the Bible. There are no shortcuts to wisdom! We can ask God to give us a desire for His wisdom over any worldly wisdom. When we live in light of what He reveals to us in His Word, we won’t need to know everything in the world. We won’t need to be right all the time.

God gave us Jesus. We are the Father’s love-gift to His Son. He assessed the price of our redemption and decided it was worth the torturous, bloody death of Jesus on the cross. This knowledge will shore up our hearts against temptation. Knowing how easily we fall into temptation, we can say “I cannot, and will not do this offensive thing, for I am Christ.” This simple phrase is all the Holy Spirit needs to pull us back from the edge of disobedience.

(An audio version of this sermon can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/1-corinthians-3-verses-18-23-how-to-gain-god-s-wisdom–62148448)

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah, David: The Jeremiah Study Bible, New Kings James Version (Nashville, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; p. 1378)
  2. “Reading God’s Mind.” Retrieved from Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
  3. Pastor Daid McGee, “Need Wisdom?” Retrieved from Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
  4. Joni Eareckson Tada, “You Are of Christ.” Retrieved from communications@joniandfriends.org
  5. Pastor Ken Klaus, “Real Wisdom.” Retrieved from www.lhm.org
  6. Raul Ries, “Man’s Futile Wisdom.” Retrieved from www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/somebody-loves-you-radio-w-raul-ries/
  7. Pete Briscoe, “Do You Really Know Him?” Retrieved from Crosswalk@crosswalkmail.com
  8. Rick Warren, “A Faith That Works When Life Doesn’t.” Retrieved from connect@newsletter.purposedriven.com
Posted on by craigcondonlayreader

1 Kings 2:10-12, 1 Kings 3:3-14 Solomon and Wisdom

Two-year-old Kenneth went missing, but within three minutes of his mom’s 9-1-1 call, an emergency worker found him just two blocks from his home. He was at the county fair. His mom promised he could go later that day with his grandfather, but he had driven his toy tractor there, and parked it at his favourite ride. When the boy was safely home, his dad wisely removed the toy’s battery. Kenneth was actually rather smart to get where he wanted to go, but two-year-olds are missing another key quality: wisdom.

Solomon also lacked wisdom when he became king of Israel. In 1 Kings 2:10-12 and 1 Kings 3:3-14, we see the “passing of the torch”. King David died, and the throne passed to his son Solomon. King David’s death marked the end of a momentous 40-year reign in Israel’s history. The line of David would continue on Israel’s throne, eventually culminating in the birth of the Messiah.

Solomon was known for his wisdom and wealth, and 1 Kings 3:3-14 tells how he got these gifts. Solomon’s rise to power was not easy. He had to wrestle the kingdom from his brother in a deadly campaign against popular military leaders and a high priest. The writer of 1 Kings thought it was important to show the other, more benevolent side of Solomon. He was not only a shrewd politician but also a mild and pious ruler (at least in the early part of his reign) whom God blessed with great abilities.

Before his coronation, Solomon married an Egyptian princess so that a political alliance would be formed between Egypt and Israel. This was at least his second marriage. Multiple marriages that were made for political alliances were common among kings in Old Testament times, but in Solomon’s case he went against God’s rule prohibiting multiple marriages. He also worshipped in forbidden places. These seeds of disobedience would eventually bring down Solomon’s kingdom and cause the kingdom to be divided.

In his book entitled Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the author Robert Louis Stevenson shows how sin can encroach in a person’s life. The magic potion that turned the respected Dr. Jekyll into the wicked Mr. Hyde provided the noble doctor with a convenient way to enjoy sinful pleasure without losing his reputation. When he had his fill of wickedness, all he had to do was take one sip of the antidote to become Dr. Jekyll again, all without a hint of scandal. One day, however, Dr. Jekyll woke to discover that in his sleep, without the help of the potion, he had become Mr. Hyde again. He took the antidote, but nothing happened. No formula he concocted would restore him to the genial, gracious, gentle man he had been. The evil he had voluntarily unleashed in his life had become dominant, supreme, and uncontrollable. Solomon became another example of the same situation, but that would not happen until later in life-long after the events in this passage happened.

Solomon went to the temple in Gibeon to make sacrifices. Gibeon was also the last resting place for the tabernacle and had become the centre of worship before the temple was built in Jerusalem. Here the God of heaven bent down to meet Solomon. God granted the supplication of Solomon and gave the key to all His treasures to the young man. God knew Solomon well enough to know that he could be trusted with the wide open offer to grant him anything he wished. God knows our needs better than we know them ourselves, and He often grants them without our asking. He still wants us to ask, and some of His gifts come only when we ask. God is like a wise parent who knows what a child needs but who also knows how important it is that the child be encouraged to talk to the parent.

Solomon’s dream was a means of direct revelation from God, not a symbolic vision needing interpretation. Scholars estimate that Solomon was about 20 years old at this time. His answer to God’s question marks his maturity as well as his love for the Lord. He was young and inexperienced. He stood in the shadow of his father David’s glorious reign, and that could be intimidating to a young man. He knew that the Israelites were great in number and difficult to lead. He knew that the people were looking to him to lead, to guide, and to judge.  He recognized that his burden was heavy, and he had the wisdom to tell God that he was inadequate.

Solomon encountered what is known as imposter syndrome. He felt that he was underqualified. He lacked skills compared to his father. He was learning the ropes of his new role. This could have been debilitating or paralyzing. It could have derailed him from entering this new venture. It was a steep learning curve that could have revealed his weaknesses-if he had not relied on the Lord.

In asking for wisdom, Solomon asked for the highest gift. In the Old Testament, wisdom was considered to be the greatest gift. It can put itself in the place of others because it includes sensitivity and imagination. Great leaders must know more than facts about others. They must also be able to feel for them and get inside their situation. Worthy leaders must be able to love the unlovable and see them as God sees them. A hearing heart is an indispensable quality of leadership. He who seeks this kind of wisdom first is already wise.

God is pleased when, in our hearts, we put others before ourselves. He delights in prospering us when prosperity is not our chief aim. When we get it right, and in our hearts we do place others before ourselves, God can bless us beyond our wildest dreams.

When we put God first, when we put God’s will before personal gain, He will bless us. The more we pour out to God, the more He pours out to us. The blessings we receive will not always be material, but living for the Lord will always result in a deeper and stronger relationship with Him. Solomon’s example reminds us of the truth found in Matthew 6:33- “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

The humility of an understanding heart births a spirit that is sensitive to what God says through His Word and His people. The word “discern” derives from the same root as the word “between” and refers to the ability to choose between two options. The additional gifts of riches and honour, along with the conditional offer of a long life, signaled God’s pleasure at Solomon’s request.

If we want to summarize the meaning of this passage, we will find some very clear and concise principles related to our asking:

  1. God wants us to ask Him to meet all of our needs.
  2. God loves to reveal to us His desires and His ways of doing things.
  3. We can ask God for all things, including those that relate to the natural world.
  4. We are wise to ask in agreement with others.
  5. We must always ask in faith and in the name of Jesus.
  6. God will respond to our needs not in a way that opposes His commandments, but in a way that pleases Him and brings Him glory.
  7. We can be assured that whenever we ask God for something, He hears and answers us, giving us precisely what we need-which may not be what we think we need, but which always benefits us most.

An audio version of this message can be found at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/1-kings-2-verses-10-12-and-1-kings-3-verses-3-14-solomon-and-wisdom–61053280

Bibliography

  1. Jeremiah David: The Jeremiah Study Bible: New King James Version (Brentwood, TN: Worthy Publishing; 2013; pp. 443,445)
  2. Dilday, R., & Ogilvie, L.J.: The Preacher’s Commentary Series, Vol. 9: 1,2 Kings (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc.; 1987; pp. 58-65)
  3. Stanley, C.F.: The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible: New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Nelson Bibles; 2005)
  4. MacArthur, J.F., Jr.: The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers; 2006)
  5. Berni Dymet, “Wisdom and Wealth.” Retrieved from www.christianityworks.com
  6. Ashley Moore, “How to Lead Well When Underqualified.” Retrieved from www.crosswalk.cim/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/
  7. Anne Cetas, “Missing: Wisdom.” Retrieved from donotreply@email.rbc.org
  8. Ed Young, “The Gift of Wisdom.” Retrieved from info@edyoung.com
  9. Crystal B., “God Gives More Than Requested.” Retrieved from www.actsweb.org
  10. Bayless Conley, “A Prosperous Attitude.” Retrieved from Bayless@AnswersBC.org