"Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful." James 5:11
Back at the beginning of April, I had a friend who lost her husband very quickly and unexpectedly. She is left behind along with 6 children and has been getting used to life as a single mother of six. Today I read through "Behind a Frowning Providence" by John J Murray. I intend to send a copy to her but wanted to read it before I sent it. Its a great read and very applicable to anyone who might read it. It deals with many types of sufferings. One part that especially hit home with me is quoted below. Here is an excerpt, which is actually a quote from the Westminster Confession of Faith on God's dealings with His children:
"The most wise, righteous and gracious God, doth oftentimes leave for a season his own children to manifold temptations, and the corruption of their own hearts, to chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto them the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness of their own hearts, that they may be humbled; and to raise them to a more close and constant dependence for their support upon himself, and to make them more watchful against future occasions of sin, and for sundry other just and holy ends."
This is not the portion that I expect to be of great help to my friend in her present circumstances, but just an example of the pamphlet's other points. According to this pamphlet, sufferings are meant to try us, expose our sins, build character, bring us to know God better, produce fruit in our lives and prepare us for usefulness, and lead us to make God our all and to prepare us for glory. Many of our sufferings are meant to accomplish several of these ends. My prayer is that through her suffering, God might bring my friend to know Him better.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Give God the Glory
"Paul, an apostle -- not from men nor through men, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead -- and all the brothers who are with me, To the churches of Galatia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen." Galatians 1:1-5
I did my study on Friday but was away from my computer so I wasn't able to blog about it. So, I'm going to attempt to do that today. I'm following a study by John MacArthur about Galatians at the moment. I've also been given some other resources (which I haven't yet had the moment to listen to) thanks to my dear friend, Troy.
So, let's transport ourselves back to Galatia in AD 48 or 49 when Judaizers were looking to undercut Paul's teaching of justification by faith alone. Instead, they were making believable arguments that the people needed to continue Jewish traditions and submit to Mosaic law before they could be saved. In other words, they were teaching that the people must do something other than repent and have faith in order to be saved. Paul, upon hearing of this, responded very quickly and strongly. This was so important because this false teaching is like one drop of poison in a barrel of water, which will ruin the entire barrel.
The first thing Paul does is defend his apostleship. Why? He wanted to make sure that the people understood that what he was teaching was from God himself. That he was not made an apostle by mere men but that he was selected by Jesus Christ. It established his authority. It established his authority on the subject over these false teachers.
Next, he briefly greets his audience and even in his greeting he summarizes his purpose for writing. "Grace to you" is how he starts. He is already reiterating salvation by faith through grace. And through grace there is "peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." Right off the bat he is defending the gospel of justification by faith.
Not only that but he then tells again about what Jesus Christ did for his people and states that this is "according to the will of our God and Father." Why is this important? God's will was for Jesus Christ to pay the price for our sins and release us from our slavery to the law. God's will is for us to no longer be slaves to the Law!
Finally, Paul says of God "to whom be the glory for ever and ever, Amen." The teaching of justification by works or salvation by works gives us some claim to the merit of our own salvation. But Paul takes that away in this final statement. Salvation is not by works but by faith in Jesus Christ through grace. And therefore, God has the glory...not me or you. Give God the glory for when you give God the glory, it is rightfully placed. And, give God ALL of the glory! None of it is ours.
I did my study on Friday but was away from my computer so I wasn't able to blog about it. So, I'm going to attempt to do that today. I'm following a study by John MacArthur about Galatians at the moment. I've also been given some other resources (which I haven't yet had the moment to listen to) thanks to my dear friend, Troy.
So, let's transport ourselves back to Galatia in AD 48 or 49 when Judaizers were looking to undercut Paul's teaching of justification by faith alone. Instead, they were making believable arguments that the people needed to continue Jewish traditions and submit to Mosaic law before they could be saved. In other words, they were teaching that the people must do something other than repent and have faith in order to be saved. Paul, upon hearing of this, responded very quickly and strongly. This was so important because this false teaching is like one drop of poison in a barrel of water, which will ruin the entire barrel.
The first thing Paul does is defend his apostleship. Why? He wanted to make sure that the people understood that what he was teaching was from God himself. That he was not made an apostle by mere men but that he was selected by Jesus Christ. It established his authority. It established his authority on the subject over these false teachers.
Next, he briefly greets his audience and even in his greeting he summarizes his purpose for writing. "Grace to you" is how he starts. He is already reiterating salvation by faith through grace. And through grace there is "peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." Right off the bat he is defending the gospel of justification by faith.
Not only that but he then tells again about what Jesus Christ did for his people and states that this is "according to the will of our God and Father." Why is this important? God's will was for Jesus Christ to pay the price for our sins and release us from our slavery to the law. God's will is for us to no longer be slaves to the Law!
Finally, Paul says of God "to whom be the glory for ever and ever, Amen." The teaching of justification by works or salvation by works gives us some claim to the merit of our own salvation. But Paul takes that away in this final statement. Salvation is not by works but by faith in Jesus Christ through grace. And therefore, God has the glory...not me or you. Give God the glory for when you give God the glory, it is rightfully placed. And, give God ALL of the glory! None of it is ours.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Galatians it is!
"Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for 'The righteous shall live by faith.'" Galatians 3:11
Okay, so I'm going with Galatians, which, come to find out, has a lot of the same themes as Romans. It also has some controversial passages which should be fun. :)
In my study so far today, I have found out that Galatians was written by Paul sometime after the "Jerusalem Council" (Acts 15, Galatians 2:1). Some speculate that it was written around AD 48 or 49. It was written, obviously, to the churches of Galatia but, more specifically, the churches of southern Galatia (which is not "ethnic Galatia" which is to the north). This is most likely true since Paul's missionary travels had already taken him to southern Galatia where he had already set up several churches, but he had not yet been to northern Galatia. (Note: I am using a John MacArthur study for all of this information but have found it to be backed up in other places that I have looked.)
Galatians main theme has to do with justification by faith. There were false teachers at the time who were teaching that Gentiles must first become Jewish proselytes and submit to all the Mosaic Law before they could become Christians. The Galatians were apparently open to this teaching and Paul wrote this letter to defend justification by faith and to warn these churches of the consequences of abandoning such doctrine. This is Paul's only epistle where he does not commend his readers, which would lead you to believe that he was very concerned about the path they were headed down. (Kind of like getting a letter from your parents that never asks how you are doing or what you've been up to lately.)
Thank God for Paul and his letters...they reveal SO many truths about the gospel. He is probably the world's greatest missionary because his mission is still active through his letters in the bible.
Okay, so I'm going with Galatians, which, come to find out, has a lot of the same themes as Romans. It also has some controversial passages which should be fun. :)
In my study so far today, I have found out that Galatians was written by Paul sometime after the "Jerusalem Council" (Acts 15, Galatians 2:1). Some speculate that it was written around AD 48 or 49. It was written, obviously, to the churches of Galatia but, more specifically, the churches of southern Galatia (which is not "ethnic Galatia" which is to the north). This is most likely true since Paul's missionary travels had already taken him to southern Galatia where he had already set up several churches, but he had not yet been to northern Galatia. (Note: I am using a John MacArthur study for all of this information but have found it to be backed up in other places that I have looked.)
Galatians main theme has to do with justification by faith. There were false teachers at the time who were teaching that Gentiles must first become Jewish proselytes and submit to all the Mosaic Law before they could become Christians. The Galatians were apparently open to this teaching and Paul wrote this letter to defend justification by faith and to warn these churches of the consequences of abandoning such doctrine. This is Paul's only epistle where he does not commend his readers, which would lead you to believe that he was very concerned about the path they were headed down. (Kind of like getting a letter from your parents that never asks how you are doing or what you've been up to lately.)
Thank God for Paul and his letters...they reveal SO many truths about the gospel. He is probably the world's greatest missionary because his mission is still active through his letters in the bible.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Wow! It's been a little while.
"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139:14
About a month ago, Peter and I found out we are expecting our second little one!! Yippee!! I am now about 10 weeks along. About a week ago, Peter had to go on travel and I have been hit by some ruthless nausea and exhaustion. So, I haven't been on here to blog my bible study recently. I also found that when I was doing it everyday of the week during Alex's nap, I wasn't getting my wifely duties done each week! Not good! So, I'm going to try to do 3 times a week and see if that will be a nice balance. I hope to still do my bible reading on the other days, just not the in-depth study. Hopefully I'm not drawn in by the afternoon nap everyday. Its so hard to resist some days!
So, I was in Psalms but have recently been drawn to Paul's letters in the NT. Specifically Galations for some reason. I don't know whether I will start in Romans or go directly to Galations. Romans is SO FULL. If I studied it like it needs to be studied, I'd be in Romans for a long time. So, do I jump around? I just don't know. I hope to take a look at my options today and try to decide which route to take. If you have an opinion, let me know! :)
About a month ago, Peter and I found out we are expecting our second little one!! Yippee!! I am now about 10 weeks along. About a week ago, Peter had to go on travel and I have been hit by some ruthless nausea and exhaustion. So, I haven't been on here to blog my bible study recently. I also found that when I was doing it everyday of the week during Alex's nap, I wasn't getting my wifely duties done each week! Not good! So, I'm going to try to do 3 times a week and see if that will be a nice balance. I hope to still do my bible reading on the other days, just not the in-depth study. Hopefully I'm not drawn in by the afternoon nap everyday. Its so hard to resist some days!
So, I was in Psalms but have recently been drawn to Paul's letters in the NT. Specifically Galations for some reason. I don't know whether I will start in Romans or go directly to Galations. Romans is SO FULL. If I studied it like it needs to be studied, I'd be in Romans for a long time. So, do I jump around? I just don't know. I hope to take a look at my options today and try to decide which route to take. If you have an opinion, let me know! :)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Praise God During Trials
"The LORD tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence." Psalm 11:5
Ready for a jaw dropper??? I once heard someone say that they didn't believe that God actively disciplines His people during this present time. They probably don't believe that He tests them either. But there is much scripture to back this up. It was shortly after that conversation (at which time I was not prepared to point to the needed scripture) that I came across those verses that I SO needed that night.
Hebrews 12:3-11
3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. 4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?
"My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,
nor be weary when reproved by him.6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and chastises every son whom he receives."
7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
And also in 1 Corinthians, when speaking about examining oneself prior to receiving the Lord's Supper...
"But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world." 1 Corinthians 11:32
So, what about tests and trials? As Christians, we have all endured some test or trial from the Lord, be it small or HUGE. But being tested by the Lord should be seen as an opportunity to glorify Him rather than an opportunity to sulk.
1 Peter 4:12-19
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And
"If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
So, yes, Christians endure tests, trials, and discipline all from God above. And in each, we should Praise the Lord and act in a way that is glorifying to Him. I know that I have not glorified God in all trials and discipline. It certainly is not easy. In our day and age, people tend to complain and rebel against trials and discipline. I pray that by God's grace I will have the appropriate response to future trials and discipline, for they are designed for my good and His glory.
Ready for a jaw dropper??? I once heard someone say that they didn't believe that God actively disciplines His people during this present time. They probably don't believe that He tests them either. But there is much scripture to back this up. It was shortly after that conversation (at which time I was not prepared to point to the needed scripture) that I came across those verses that I SO needed that night.
Hebrews 12:3-11
3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. 4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?
"My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,
nor be weary when reproved by him.6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and chastises every son whom he receives."
7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
And also in 1 Corinthians, when speaking about examining oneself prior to receiving the Lord's Supper...
"But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world." 1 Corinthians 11:32
So, what about tests and trials? As Christians, we have all endured some test or trial from the Lord, be it small or HUGE. But being tested by the Lord should be seen as an opportunity to glorify Him rather than an opportunity to sulk.
1 Peter 4:12-19
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And
"If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"
19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
So, yes, Christians endure tests, trials, and discipline all from God above. And in each, we should Praise the Lord and act in a way that is glorifying to Him. I know that I have not glorified God in all trials and discipline. It certainly is not easy. In our day and age, people tend to complain and rebel against trials and discipline. I pray that by God's grace I will have the appropriate response to future trials and discipline, for they are designed for my good and His glory.
Monday, March 30, 2009
No Excuse
"In the pride of his face the wicken does not seek him, all his thoughts are, 'There is no God.'" Psalm 10:4
"His mouth is filled with cursing and deceit and oppression; under his tongue are mischief and iniquity." Psalm 10:7
"He says in his heart, 'God has forgotten, he has hidden his face, he will never see it.'" Psalm 10:11
"Why does the wicked renounce God and say in his heart, 'You will not call to account'?" Psalm 10:13
Did you know that there was a time when there weren't atheists?? Yep, back when people were so close to the creation event that they couldn't deny God's existence. There were still sinful people who rebelled against God, but no one who said He didn't exist. But by the time of David there were already atheists. People who would say there was no God and at the same time hate God. How can you hate someone who doesn't exist?? How can you say "There is no God" and then say "God has forgotten"??
What else does the bible say about atheists?
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good." Psalm 14:1
But, they are without excuse...
"For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." Romans 1:19-20
And, Job 12:7-25...
7"But ask the beasts, and they will teach you;
the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you;
8or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you;
and the fish of the sea will declare to you.
9Who among all these does not know
that the hand of the LORD has done this?
10In his hand is the life of every living thing
and the breath of all mankind.
11Does not the ear test words
as the palate tastes food?
12Wisdom is with the aged,
and understanding in length of days.
"His mouth is filled with cursing and deceit and oppression; under his tongue are mischief and iniquity." Psalm 10:7
"He says in his heart, 'God has forgotten, he has hidden his face, he will never see it.'" Psalm 10:11
"Why does the wicked renounce God and say in his heart, 'You will not call to account'?" Psalm 10:13
Did you know that there was a time when there weren't atheists?? Yep, back when people were so close to the creation event that they couldn't deny God's existence. There were still sinful people who rebelled against God, but no one who said He didn't exist. But by the time of David there were already atheists. People who would say there was no God and at the same time hate God. How can you hate someone who doesn't exist?? How can you say "There is no God" and then say "God has forgotten"??
What else does the bible say about atheists?
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good." Psalm 14:1
But, they are without excuse...
"For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." Romans 1:19-20
And, Job 12:7-25...
7"But ask the beasts, and they will teach you;
the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you;
8or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you;
and the fish of the sea will declare to you.
9Who among all these does not know
that the hand of the LORD has done this?
10In his hand is the life of every living thing
and the breath of all mankind.
11Does not the ear test words
as the palate tastes food?
12Wisdom is with the aged,
and understanding in length of days.
13 "With God are wisdom and might;
he has counsel and understanding.
14If he tears down, none can rebuild;
if he shuts a man in, none can open.
15If he withholds the waters, they dry up;
if he sends them out, they overwhelm the land.
16With him are strength and sound wisdom;
the deceived and the deceiver are his.
17He leads counselors away stripped,
and judges he makes fools.
18He looses the bonds of kings
and binds a waistcloth on their hips.
19He leads priests away stripped
and overthrows the mighty.
20He deprives of speech those who are trusted
and takes away the discernment of the elders.
21He pours contempt on princes
and loosens the belt of the strong.
22He uncovers the deeps out of darkness
and brings deep darkness to light.
23He makes nations great, and he destroys them;
he enlarges nations, and leads them away.
24He takes away understanding from the chiefs of the people of the earth
and makes them wander in a pathless waste.
25They grope in the dark without light,
and he makes them stagger like a drunken man.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
I've said it once, and I'll say it again...God is in Control!
"Arise, O LORD! Let not man prevail; let the nations be judged before you! Put them in fear, O LORD! Let the nations know that they are but men! Selah" Psalm 9:19-20
In recent days, I've heard many people reminding themselves that God is in control. This is mostly due to the recent political climate and the economy. We can certainly make our prayer, "Arise, O LORD! Let not man prevail!" Our nation is a sinful nation and if God gives us what we deserve, it will not make for happy times. However, we can rest in the fact that God is in control. So when things like stem cell research and abortion come up, we can continue to cling to God's will and plan. And even when concerns about the economy and our jobs come up, we can still rest in God's will. God will prevail, not man. That is a fact. So we may have to weather some tumultuous times, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is Christ.
What we must remember now is that we are just men (and women). Our president is just a man. Our congressmen are mere men and women. No matter how much they may try to give themselves power or take on the attributes of God, they will fail. What they need and what we need at this time is prayer.
In recent days, I've heard many people reminding themselves that God is in control. This is mostly due to the recent political climate and the economy. We can certainly make our prayer, "Arise, O LORD! Let not man prevail!" Our nation is a sinful nation and if God gives us what we deserve, it will not make for happy times. However, we can rest in the fact that God is in control. So when things like stem cell research and abortion come up, we can continue to cling to God's will and plan. And even when concerns about the economy and our jobs come up, we can still rest in God's will. God will prevail, not man. That is a fact. So we may have to weather some tumultuous times, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is Christ.
What we must remember now is that we are just men (and women). Our president is just a man. Our congressmen are mere men and women. No matter how much they may try to give themselves power or take on the attributes of God, they will fail. What they need and what we need at this time is prayer.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Be Careful When You Set Traps!
"The nations have sunk in the pit that they made; in the net that they hid, their own foot has been caught. The LORD has made himself known; he has executed judgment; the wicked are snared in the work of their own hands. Higgaion. Selah The wicked shall return to Sheol, all the nations that forget God. For the needy shall not always be forgotten, and the hope of the poor shall not perish forever." Psalm 9:15-18
Can you imagine setting up a trap to catch some sort of pesky rodent and then stepping in it yourself?? This is what happens to "the nations" or the wicked. Our God turns the devices of the wicked back on them. The very traps that they set are the things that will ensnare them and lead to their demise. God protects His people, the needy and the poor, by defeating the wicked and He does so with their very own devices. How wonderfully ironic is that!
The needy and poor in our society tend to be pushed aside. During election year, you'll see them all over the place and those few high office hopefuls are out shaking their hands and spouting out promises. But much of the time, they still fall to the bottom of the heap and do not get the REAL help that they need. Politicians try to cover them up or appease them with a little money here and there but the real problem will not be helped in that way.
True believers in Christ are like these needy and poor who will not find their answers or help in fellow men. The only help that can be given is through Christ and this is certainly one of the great promises of the bible... "For the needy shall not always be forgotten, and the hope of the poor shall not perish forever." Psalm 9:18 Praise God! This reminds me of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:
2And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Be gracious to me...
"Be gracious to me, O LORD! See my affliction from those who hate me, O you who lift me up from the gates of death, that I may recount all your praises, that in the gates of the daughter of Zion I may rejoice in your salvation." Psalm 9:13-14
I've been sick the last few days and it has been difficult for me to compose my thoughts around some of my bible study. My bible reading has been very good. I've been reading through Job and I finally made it to the Lord's words at the end. I'll finish out Job today and look forward to that. First, though, I'm going to try to put down some of my study notes from yesterday's study in Psalm 9.
I wish I was sitting in a library of commentaries sometimes. From what I can find, the "gates of death" refer to physical death, or I suppose it could refer to spiritual death. In the phrase "gates of the daughter of Zion" Zion most usually refers to Jerusalem and the daughter of Zion refers to the inhabitants thereof. So the gates of the daughter of Zion would seem to be indicating the gates to Jerusalem or perhaps it could be referring to something else (maybe heaven???)?
The writer is asking for mercy, something I most definitely need. He asks God to see his affliction at the hands of "those who hate me" and have mercy of him so that when looking back, he can praise God for his mercies and rejoice in the salvation provided by God. I do this often. Maybe not due to persecution at the hands of those who hate God, but for other afflictions. I ask God for mercy and I reflect on past mercies and praise God for them. I also rejoice in the salvation that is of the Lord and that He has blessed me with.
I've been sick the last few days and it has been difficult for me to compose my thoughts around some of my bible study. My bible reading has been very good. I've been reading through Job and I finally made it to the Lord's words at the end. I'll finish out Job today and look forward to that. First, though, I'm going to try to put down some of my study notes from yesterday's study in Psalm 9.
I wish I was sitting in a library of commentaries sometimes. From what I can find, the "gates of death" refer to physical death, or I suppose it could refer to spiritual death. In the phrase "gates of the daughter of Zion" Zion most usually refers to Jerusalem and the daughter of Zion refers to the inhabitants thereof. So the gates of the daughter of Zion would seem to be indicating the gates to Jerusalem or perhaps it could be referring to something else (maybe heaven???)?
The writer is asking for mercy, something I most definitely need. He asks God to see his affliction at the hands of "those who hate me" and have mercy of him so that when looking back, he can praise God for his mercies and rejoice in the salvation provided by God. I do this often. Maybe not due to persecution at the hands of those who hate God, but for other afflictions. I ask God for mercy and I reflect on past mercies and praise God for them. I also rejoice in the salvation that is of the Lord and that He has blessed me with.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Sing Praises to the LORD
"Sing praises to the LORD, who sits enthroned in Zion! Tell among the peoples his deeds! For he who avenges blood is mindful of them; he does not forget the cry of the afflicted." Psalm 9:11-12
In these verses, we can see God's desire for His people in Israel to tell the Gentiles about Him. They are to do this by speaking about Him and singing praises to Him. Why? Because He is "mindful of them" and does not forget about their affliction. The Israelites were quick to forget about God. They especially forgot to trust in Him at all times. Many times they tried to build idols and find other ways of gaining blessings. But, God is so patient. He was continually mindful of them and the afflictions that they suffered at the hands of the Gentiles. Yet He desired for them to trust in Him as a sign and show to the Gentiles that God was on their side.
God's desire for His people today is very much the same. He desires for us to trust in Him, sing praises to Him, and tell others about Him. He wants for us to be a picture of His glory and grace. Just in the way that we lead our lives, we are a testimony to others of God. If we put God first in everything we do, we are telling others about the priority He takes in our lives. If we remain faithful and trusting during trials, we show others God's mercy and love. If we sing praises to Him during the good times and the bad, we tell others about how God is directly involved in our lives and the blessings thereof. But in addition to living in this way and living for God's glory, we must also tell people about God with our mouths. We must witness and pray that the Lord will use our feeble words to draw more people to Him.
I praise God for our missionaries. They have such a love for the lost that is amazing. They are one of a kind folks who oftentimes give up all of the "comforts" of life to live in a foreign, and many times hostile, land to tell others about Christ. They learn new and very difficult languages, they live in huts without clean running water, they raise their kids there, and through the grace and mercy of God, they lead many people to the throne of God. And yet they desire no praise for themselves and no compensation because their compensation is in the Lord and their praise is directed to God for He has the glory.
I'll leave you with this passage from Romans:
"Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,
and sing to your name."
In these verses, we can see God's desire for His people in Israel to tell the Gentiles about Him. They are to do this by speaking about Him and singing praises to Him. Why? Because He is "mindful of them" and does not forget about their affliction. The Israelites were quick to forget about God. They especially forgot to trust in Him at all times. Many times they tried to build idols and find other ways of gaining blessings. But, God is so patient. He was continually mindful of them and the afflictions that they suffered at the hands of the Gentiles. Yet He desired for them to trust in Him as a sign and show to the Gentiles that God was on their side.
God's desire for His people today is very much the same. He desires for us to trust in Him, sing praises to Him, and tell others about Him. He wants for us to be a picture of His glory and grace. Just in the way that we lead our lives, we are a testimony to others of God. If we put God first in everything we do, we are telling others about the priority He takes in our lives. If we remain faithful and trusting during trials, we show others God's mercy and love. If we sing praises to Him during the good times and the bad, we tell others about how God is directly involved in our lives and the blessings thereof. But in addition to living in this way and living for God's glory, we must also tell people about God with our mouths. We must witness and pray that the Lord will use our feeble words to draw more people to Him.
I praise God for our missionaries. They have such a love for the lost that is amazing. They are one of a kind folks who oftentimes give up all of the "comforts" of life to live in a foreign, and many times hostile, land to tell others about Christ. They learn new and very difficult languages, they live in huts without clean running water, they raise their kids there, and through the grace and mercy of God, they lead many people to the throne of God. And yet they desire no praise for themselves and no compensation because their compensation is in the Lord and their praise is directed to God for He has the glory.
I'll leave you with this passage from Romans:
Romans 15:8-13 (English Standard Version)
Christ the Hope of Jews and Gentiles
8For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,"Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,
and sing to your name."
10And again it is said,
"Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people."
11And again,
"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and let all the peoples extol him."
12And again Isaiah says,
"The root of Jesse will come,
even he who arises to rule the Gentiles;
in him will the Gentiles hope."
13May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
God is Molding Me Today!
"But the LORD sits enthroned forever; he has established his throne for justice, and he judges the world with righteousness; he judges the peoples with uprightness. The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:7-10
Alex has been sick with croup for the last few days and I didn't do any of my bible reading or study yesterday. I don't really have an excuse though because he slept for 4 hours yesterday afternoon and I could have done it then! Today, however, I'm determined to do it and hope that it will help my attitude for the rest of the day. Yesterday my attitude wasn't the most pleasant. :)
The Lord is just and righteous and it would do us good to remember that when we study about His judgment! Some people like to think of God as our personal Santa in heaven ready to take requests and dole them out presents. There's no wrath with Santa. Santa doesn't hate anything or anyone. However, we know that God does hate evil. There is no evil with Him and He is just and right to judge.
And what a blessing to have a just God who is a "stronghold for the oppressed" and who does not forsake those who seek Him. Those who know God trust Him and He does not forsake them. To know God is prime! To know God should be our aim and top priority. Stop looking for a Santa type of god and look to the one and only true God who is supreme, and sovereign, and righteous, and just.
Okay, I feel kind of preachy. I love all of my friends and family, both saved and lost. I desire from the bottom of my heart for the lost ones to come to a saving faith in God and so I pray. Some of them I'm not close enough to (distance-wise and friendship-wise) to properly witness to them except through how I live my life (which is not always the greatest of witnesses!!). I am a sinful human being. Very sinful. But I have a savior who forgives and I am gradually and prayerfully trying to live the way that God would desire for me to live and to do everything for His glory. Its much harder to knowingly and willfully sin when you know it is not glorifying to your savior and that it is much like a stab in the back to Him. When you really begin to LOVE Christ, it makes way to many changes in your life. God is working in my life. He is molding me and making me into the person He desires for me to be. Isn't that a wonderful and glorious thought!!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
What does it mean to be on the Lord's side?
"When my enemies turn back, they stumble and perish before your presence. For you have maintained my just cause; you have sat on the throne, giving righteous judgment. You have rebuked the nations; you have made the wicked perish; you have blotted out their name forever and ever. The enemy came to an end in everlasting ruins; their cities you rooted out; the very memory of them has perished." Psalm 9:3-6
The Psalmist here is speaking about some of God's "wonderful deeds" which led to the protection of His people. In a larger sense, God may have also been pointing to the judgment that will take place in the future. Regardless, it is pretty clear whose side we should desire to be on. We should worry less about whether or not God is on our side and be concerned about where we stand. If we are on God's side, He is most definitely on our side. What does it mean to be on God's side? For me, it means learning more about Him each day so that that I can better serve Him. To serve Him, I should be bearing fruit through my witness to lost people and through my encouragement to saved people. I should be living my life in such a way as to be bringing glory to God each day. I should be living for His glory alone. Soli Deo Gloria - "glory to God alone." If I do everything each day with the glory of God in mind, then won't I be rightly serving Him?
Who is on the Lord's Side
by Frances Havergal
The Psalmist here is speaking about some of God's "wonderful deeds" which led to the protection of His people. In a larger sense, God may have also been pointing to the judgment that will take place in the future. Regardless, it is pretty clear whose side we should desire to be on. We should worry less about whether or not God is on our side and be concerned about where we stand. If we are on God's side, He is most definitely on our side. What does it mean to be on God's side? For me, it means learning more about Him each day so that that I can better serve Him. To serve Him, I should be bearing fruit through my witness to lost people and through my encouragement to saved people. I should be living my life in such a way as to be bringing glory to God each day. I should be living for His glory alone. Soli Deo Gloria - "glory to God alone." If I do everything each day with the glory of God in mind, then won't I be rightly serving Him?
Who is on the Lord's Side
by Frances Havergal
Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?
Who will be His helpers, other lives to bring?
Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?
Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?
By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!
Not for weight of glory, nor for crown and palm,
Enter we the army, raise the warrior psalm;
But for love that claimeth lives for whom He died:
He whom Jesus nameth must be on His side.
By Thy love constraining, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!
Jesus, Thou hast bought us, not with gold or gem,
But with Thine own life blood, for Thy diadem;
With Thy blessing filling each who comes to Thee,
Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.
By Thy grand redemption, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!
Fierce may be the conflict, strong may be the foe,
But the King’s own army none can overthrow;
’Round His standard ranging, victory is secure,
For His truth unchanging makes the triumph sure.
Joyfully enlisting, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!
Chosen to be soldiers, in an alien land,
Chosen, called, and faithful, for our Captain’s band,
In the service royal, let us not grow cold;
Let us be right loyal, noble, true and bold.
Master, Thou wilt keep us, by Thy grace divine,
Always on the Lord’s side—Savior, always Thine!
Monday, March 16, 2009
One Day, When I am in God's Presence...
"I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." Psalm 9:1-2
These words make me think of the things I might say about the time after my physical death or Christ's return. When all of God's people will be taken up to be in God's presence for eternity. During that eternity, "I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart." My whole being will be involved in thanking the Lord for his grace and mercy. "I will recount all of your wonderful deeds." At that time I will have a clear understanding of all of the blessings that the Lord has and will bestow upon me. I will also have a better understanding of the incredible amount of grace given by God. "I will be glad and exult in you." Oh, what a gladness, that will lead to, "I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." Days of eternally praising and worshipping God and just being in His presence...That is what is in store for His people.
These words make me think of the things I might say about the time after my physical death or Christ's return. When all of God's people will be taken up to be in God's presence for eternity. During that eternity, "I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart." My whole being will be involved in thanking the Lord for his grace and mercy. "I will recount all of your wonderful deeds." At that time I will have a clear understanding of all of the blessings that the Lord has and will bestow upon me. I will also have a better understanding of the incredible amount of grace given by God. "I will be glad and exult in you." Oh, what a gladness, that will lead to, "I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." Days of eternally praising and worshipping God and just being in His presence...That is what is in store for His people.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
A Sympathetic Savior
"Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas.
"O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" Psalm 8:5-9
In this Psalm of David, David is describing man's place in the created order. Man was made a little lower than heavenly beings (such as angels), and created in God's image. He was given dominion over all of the animals on the earth.
However, this being a messianic Psalm (one that points to the Messiah to come), it also points to Christ. For, "we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone." Hebrews 2:9 Our Lord, our God, our Savior, Jesus Christ came to earth fully man and fully God, made a little lower than the angels for a little while, so that He could die on the cross an innocent man to pay the debt for all of our sins. But that's not where the story ends, for then He was raised from the dead and is now seated at the right hand of God making intercession for His people. He came to the earth fully man and knows and understands the temptations and trials we struggle with. "For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted." Hebrews 2:18 Thank the Lord that we have a sympathetic savior.
"O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" Psalm 8:5-9
In this Psalm of David, David is describing man's place in the created order. Man was made a little lower than heavenly beings (such as angels), and created in God's image. He was given dominion over all of the animals on the earth.
However, this being a messianic Psalm (one that points to the Messiah to come), it also points to Christ. For, "we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone." Hebrews 2:9 Our Lord, our God, our Savior, Jesus Christ came to earth fully man and fully God, made a little lower than the angels for a little while, so that He could die on the cross an innocent man to pay the debt for all of our sins. But that's not where the story ends, for then He was raised from the dead and is now seated at the right hand of God making intercession for His people. He came to the earth fully man and knows and understands the temptations and trials we struggle with. "For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted." Hebrews 2:18 Thank the Lord that we have a sympathetic savior.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Wow! What love!
"When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?" Psalm 8:3-4
When I get the chance to get out of the city and see a little bit of God's (mostly) untouched creation, I love to just look around and let it sink in. Just sit back and take it in. On the beach, I marvel at the beauty of the ocean waves...both the sounds and the sight. I also marvel at the breadth of the horizon. When I'm on the farm, I marvel at the many different kinds of plants and bugs and the beauty of the bubbling creek. When I'm flying in an airplane, I am amazed by the size of everything and how small we are in it...like ants. And at night, when I look up at the stars I am amazed by the vastness of this universe. Then, to think about all of these things and to consider that God personally put each of these things into their place and made them exactly as they are...WOW! Who am I?? I am like the ant that you see crawling up your leg and you flick it away (or smash it). And yet, God knows everything about me and each and every one of you. He knows how many hairs are on my head and He knows when I stub my toe (which happens a lot...just ask Peter...I wonder if God cringes a little bit when that happens. Ha!). How!? Why are we so important to God in a way that is far over and above the care that He places on any other thing? Why did He send His son to die for us? And yet He did. He really cares about His people, folks. He cares about us enough to know everything there is to know about us and still not just destroy us. Wow! That is love. Now husbands, consider this... You are told to love your wives as Christ loves the church. Now, that's a tall order! :-)
(I didn't get to the messianic aspects of this Psalm today after all...tomorrow, I promise!)
When I get the chance to get out of the city and see a little bit of God's (mostly) untouched creation, I love to just look around and let it sink in. Just sit back and take it in. On the beach, I marvel at the beauty of the ocean waves...both the sounds and the sight. I also marvel at the breadth of the horizon. When I'm on the farm, I marvel at the many different kinds of plants and bugs and the beauty of the bubbling creek. When I'm flying in an airplane, I am amazed by the size of everything and how small we are in it...like ants. And at night, when I look up at the stars I am amazed by the vastness of this universe. Then, to think about all of these things and to consider that God personally put each of these things into their place and made them exactly as they are...WOW! Who am I?? I am like the ant that you see crawling up your leg and you flick it away (or smash it). And yet, God knows everything about me and each and every one of you. He knows how many hairs are on my head and He knows when I stub my toe (which happens a lot...just ask Peter...I wonder if God cringes a little bit when that happens. Ha!). How!? Why are we so important to God in a way that is far over and above the care that He places on any other thing? Why did He send His son to die for us? And yet He did. He really cares about His people, folks. He cares about us enough to know everything there is to know about us and still not just destroy us. Wow! That is love. Now husbands, consider this... You are told to love your wives as Christ loves the church. Now, that's a tall order! :-)
(I didn't get to the messianic aspects of this Psalm today after all...tomorrow, I promise!)
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Let us be like children
"O LORD [YHWH], our Lord [Adon], how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger." Psalm 8:1-2
Yay, I'm on Psalm 8. What a wonderful psalm of praise (and a messianic Psalm which we'll get into more tomorrow)! Every verse is filled to the max with incredible truths and clearly shows the glory of God. In verse one, there are two different words used for Lord (or LORD). The first, which you will usually find in the bible as LORD (all caps) is the name God gave himself to the Israelites. Vines states "God chose it as His personal name by which He related specificaly to His chosen or covenant people." The second word is most often found in the bible as Lord, lord, or master. It refers to the relationship between a master and servant. Specifically recalling Psalm 8:1, Vines states "The word is often a title of respect, a term of direct address usually assuming a specific concrete lord-vassal or master-servant relationship."
Our Lord's name does not really seem to be majestic throughout the world today, does it? People are always using His name in vain. Many times we don't even really hear it anymore because its like saying "huh?" or "hello". God's name is not spoken in reverence by many. Even those who profess to be Christians speak His name irreverently all of the time. But there will be a time, my friends (reading J. Vernon McGee makes me want to use that phrase all of the time!), when our Lord's name will never be spoken in vain again and will be revered by all. I want to be there for that!!!
Now, what about verse 2? Let's look into the NT to see how this verse is used there. In Matthew 21 during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and while He cleansed the temple, children were crying "Hosanna to the Son of David!" When asked about this in verse 16, Jesus replies, "Yes; have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise'?" Here he refers directly to Psalm 8:2 and further strengthens the argument that He is the Messiah. Its almost like He was saying, "Even these young insignificant children know who I am! DUH!!" Now remember what is written, "'Truly, I say unto you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3 Let us be like children!!
Yay, I'm on Psalm 8. What a wonderful psalm of praise (and a messianic Psalm which we'll get into more tomorrow)! Every verse is filled to the max with incredible truths and clearly shows the glory of God. In verse one, there are two different words used for Lord (or LORD). The first, which you will usually find in the bible as LORD (all caps) is the name God gave himself to the Israelites. Vines states "God chose it as His personal name by which He related specificaly to His chosen or covenant people." The second word is most often found in the bible as Lord, lord, or master. It refers to the relationship between a master and servant. Specifically recalling Psalm 8:1, Vines states "The word is often a title of respect, a term of direct address usually assuming a specific concrete lord-vassal or master-servant relationship."
Our Lord's name does not really seem to be majestic throughout the world today, does it? People are always using His name in vain. Many times we don't even really hear it anymore because its like saying "huh?" or "hello". God's name is not spoken in reverence by many. Even those who profess to be Christians speak His name irreverently all of the time. But there will be a time, my friends (reading J. Vernon McGee makes me want to use that phrase all of the time!), when our Lord's name will never be spoken in vain again and will be revered by all. I want to be there for that!!!
Now, what about verse 2? Let's look into the NT to see how this verse is used there. In Matthew 21 during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and while He cleansed the temple, children were crying "Hosanna to the Son of David!" When asked about this in verse 16, Jesus replies, "Yes; have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise'?" Here he refers directly to Psalm 8:2 and further strengthens the argument that He is the Messiah. Its almost like He was saying, "Even these young insignificant children know who I am! DUH!!" Now remember what is written, "'Truly, I say unto you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3 Let us be like children!!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
God's Purpose of Justice will Prevail
"I will give to the LORD the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the LORD, the Most High." Psalm 7:17
Here is another psalm of David where he is asking for God to judge those who wrongly accuse or slander him. When we are unfairly persecuted, this is a model of the prayer we can pray. There is trust in the protection of God at the beginning of the psalm (vs 1-2). Then vs 3-5 make us careful in praying this prayer. Before praying such a prayer we must be sure that we are innocent, for it reads, "...if I have repaid my friend (the one at peace with me) with evil or plundered my enemy without cause, let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it..."
In verse 12, we can see the desire that the enemy repent and be forgiven by God. However, there is the warning that without repentance the path leads to destruction. One commentary notes that in verses 14-16, "The sinner is described as taking more pains to ruin his soul than, if directed aright, would save it." That's scary and yet so true. I don't know how many times I've seen nonbelievers dig themselves further and further into their unbelief as though they are trying to not believe rather than trying to find the truth.
However, we can know that in the end, "God's purpose of justice will prevail." Praise the Lord!
Here is another psalm of David where he is asking for God to judge those who wrongly accuse or slander him. When we are unfairly persecuted, this is a model of the prayer we can pray. There is trust in the protection of God at the beginning of the psalm (vs 1-2). Then vs 3-5 make us careful in praying this prayer. Before praying such a prayer we must be sure that we are innocent, for it reads, "...if I have repaid my friend (the one at peace with me) with evil or plundered my enemy without cause, let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it..."
In verse 12, we can see the desire that the enemy repent and be forgiven by God. However, there is the warning that without repentance the path leads to destruction. One commentary notes that in verses 14-16, "The sinner is described as taking more pains to ruin his soul than, if directed aright, would save it." That's scary and yet so true. I don't know how many times I've seen nonbelievers dig themselves further and further into their unbelief as though they are trying to not believe rather than trying to find the truth.
However, we can know that in the end, "God's purpose of justice will prevail." Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Alex entertaining us
Just a quick funny Alex story....
Here lately, if we leave a cup of water out on the table in our breakfast nook, Alex will sometimes climb up into a chair and get a drink. Last night, Peter and I were sitting on the couch watching as Alex did just that. He's so good about it too and has gotten to where he rarely spills anything. Somehow milk was brought up so Alex got down, ran over to the fridge, and got his milk out. He then took it back to the table and climbed back up into the chair. Now he has his cup of water and a sippy cup of milk.
So, we watched as he dropped the sippy cup of milk. We asked him to pick it back up. So, he gets down out of his chair and goes to get it. Only apparently he was distracted by something. He sat the sippy cup up (still on the floor but now sitting up instead of on its side) and goes off to get something. A minute later, Peter and I were laughing when we watched as he used a piece of paper to try and clean up the milk. He was wiping the floor with it. Then he grabbed the sippy cup and got up and went off to play. I kind of like this clean freak part of my son!! :-)
Here lately, if we leave a cup of water out on the table in our breakfast nook, Alex will sometimes climb up into a chair and get a drink. Last night, Peter and I were sitting on the couch watching as Alex did just that. He's so good about it too and has gotten to where he rarely spills anything. Somehow milk was brought up so Alex got down, ran over to the fridge, and got his milk out. He then took it back to the table and climbed back up into the chair. Now he has his cup of water and a sippy cup of milk.
So, we watched as he dropped the sippy cup of milk. We asked him to pick it back up. So, he gets down out of his chair and goes to get it. Only apparently he was distracted by something. He sat the sippy cup up (still on the floor but now sitting up instead of on its side) and goes off to get something. A minute later, Peter and I were laughing when we watched as he used a piece of paper to try and clean up the milk. He was wiping the floor with it. Then he grabbed the sippy cup and got up and went off to play. I kind of like this clean freak part of my son!! :-)
The Lord Forgives
"O LORD, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath." Psalm 6:1
"I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears; I drench my couch with my weeping." Psalm 6:6
"The LORD has heard my plea; the LORD accepts my prayer." Psalm 6:9
I like the KJV of verse 1 where it reads "neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure." Here in Psalm 6, we can see that David is feeling convicted of some sin. He is remorseful over it to the point of not being able to sleep at night. He cries out to the Lord for forgiveness and mercy. And, we find out in verse 9 that he gets it. The Lord hears and accepts David's prayer for forgiveness and we can be certain that the Lord will do the same for us. If we are truly repentant, God will forgive.
Let me also mention verse 8 which reads, "Depart from me, all you workers of evil, for the Lord has heard the sound of my weeping." If we are repentant and God has heard and forgiven, we are released also from guilt. In a recent Wednesday night service, a good friend was talking about this. Our consciences, Satan, and other people in our lives can continually accuse us of our sins and attempt to make us feel guilty even after the Lord has forgiven. All too often, it works. However, if you have been forgiven by God, you are free of this guilt. I believe that it would be unwise to not regret the sin. Regret for a sin can lead to obedience in the future. (It makes me cringe sometimes to hear someone say they have no regrets in their life.) However, God is our judge; not our conscience, not other people, and certainly not Satan. As Romans 8:33 reads, "Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies."
"I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears; I drench my couch with my weeping." Psalm 6:6
"The LORD has heard my plea; the LORD accepts my prayer." Psalm 6:9
I like the KJV of verse 1 where it reads "neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure." Here in Psalm 6, we can see that David is feeling convicted of some sin. He is remorseful over it to the point of not being able to sleep at night. He cries out to the Lord for forgiveness and mercy. And, we find out in verse 9 that he gets it. The Lord hears and accepts David's prayer for forgiveness and we can be certain that the Lord will do the same for us. If we are truly repentant, God will forgive.
Let me also mention verse 8 which reads, "Depart from me, all you workers of evil, for the Lord has heard the sound of my weeping." If we are repentant and God has heard and forgiven, we are released also from guilt. In a recent Wednesday night service, a good friend was talking about this. Our consciences, Satan, and other people in our lives can continually accuse us of our sins and attempt to make us feel guilty even after the Lord has forgiven. All too often, it works. However, if you have been forgiven by God, you are free of this guilt. I believe that it would be unwise to not regret the sin. Regret for a sin can lead to obedience in the future. (It makes me cringe sometimes to hear someone say they have no regrets in their life.) However, God is our judge; not our conscience, not other people, and certainly not Satan. As Romans 8:33 reads, "Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies."
Monday, March 9, 2009
Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me
"But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O LORD: you cover him with favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12
Oh, what a place to be!! Taking refuge in God, being protected by God, and being "shielded" by His favor! This is where you will find faithful Christians. Now, that's not to say that faithful Christians will never suffer. They (we) certainly do suffer. But there is relief with the Lord. There is rest with the Lord. And that is a promise, my friends.
Rock of Ages
by Augustus Toplady
Oh, what a place to be!! Taking refuge in God, being protected by God, and being "shielded" by His favor! This is where you will find faithful Christians. Now, that's not to say that faithful Christians will never suffer. They (we) certainly do suffer. But there is relief with the Lord. There is rest with the Lord. And that is a promise, my friends.
Rock of Ages
by Augustus Toplady
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure;
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to the cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I soar to worlds unknown,
See Thee on Thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.
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