How To Read Scripture, Part 12

To continue from yesterday, I believe the balance is found in the truth that both scholarship and a reliance upon the Spirit are needed. I never preach on a text of Scripture without first consulting the scholarship of a commentary. I want to know what the words mean. I don’t want to be sloppy with the text. However, I don’t allow this to detract from what I draw out of the text for personal application.

For example, in studying the life of Abraham, scholarship helps me understand the various meanings of God’s names, such as Adonai, Jehovah, and El Shaddai. Meditation revealed to me that Abraham’s life typifies the Christian life. We see the ups and downs. We see hope and doubt. We see victory and failure. In summary, we could conclude the following:

· In Genesis chapter 12, Abraham went down to Egypt. In Genesis 22, he went up a mountain.
· In chapter 12, Abraham went down to sin. In chapter 22, he went up to sacrifice his son.
· In chapter 12, Abraham feared man. In chapter 22, he feared God.
· In chapter 12, Abraham was rebuked by the heathen. In chapter 22, he was rewarded by God.

All the scholarship in the world would not have revealed this to me, but meditation in the Holy Spirit did. All the meditation in the world will not tell me what Jehovah means but scholarship does. I trust we can see that both are essential. Scholarship keeps me honest with God, while meditation keeps me in touch with Him. Certainly this is not an exhaustive study of either discipline but hopefully will help the reader see the need for cooperation. That the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 11

Many believers are intimidated by the Word because they are not graduates of seminary or Bible college. They feel inept and secretly ask, “What right have I to interpret God’s Word when I lack the tools for such an endeavor?” Certainly this is an honest question and one I asked years ago. Since I have no original language study, can I really draw as deeply from the well?

This is where we must call for balance. There are those who feel scholarship is cold and lacks the work of the Spirit. Scholarship is quick to defend its position by denouncing the loose handling of the Word and the more subjective reliance upon the Spirit to tell the reader what the Scriptures say. Do we need scholarship? Absolutely! Do we need the Spirit for illumination? Absolutely! What is the balance? Perhaps an illustration may help at this point. A few years ago I was sitting in the bleachers watching a high school basketball game. I recognized the man next to me as a referee. At halftime I struck up a conversation and asked him if he was able to enjoy the game as a spectator or was he still wearing his referee’s hat while observing. He said, “I couldn’t tell you the score. I constantly look for any fouls or infractions. I simply can’t just sit back and enjoy the game.” As I drove away that evening, I began to think of how many scholars there are who know all the nuances of the Word but don’t know the score. They simply can’t enjoy the Christian life. Every word has to be analyzed to the point where they can’t see the forest for the trees. By the same token, I wonder how many who are opposed to scholarship think they know the score but are loose with their interpretation and rely on feelings or a “movement of the Spirit,” rather than careful biblical exposition. Confusion will result with either extreme. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 10

The Word of God is always the final authority. Any personal message from the Holy Spirit through the Word must never contradict the Word. “In my quiet time the Lord told me to leave my wife because He wants me to be happy.” Such foolish interpretation counters the clear teaching of His Word and can be dismissed immediately as a false conclusion. There will always be the temptation to fall for some satanic lure that suggests the Word is not the final authority. There are four factors to consider as you read Scripture:

· The Word is more authoritative than a sign. “But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas” (Matthew 12:39). Here the Lord Jesus rebukes any who would put a sign above the written Word. Jesus then uses Scripture to support His point.

· The Word is more authoritative than a miracle. “And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead” (Luke 16:31). We have the clear testimony of Christ explaining that even the miracle of a resurrection will not bring about conversion if the observer denies what was written by Moses and the prophets.

· The Word is more authoritative than human reason. “Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual” (I Corinthians 2:13). The Apostle Paul addressed the issue of human reason resisting divine revelation. This is a major temptation, which is all around us. We must be on guard and compare all human wisdom and reason with Scripture.

· The Word of God is more authoritative than any experience. “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts” (II Peter 1:19). Peter speaks of his experience at the Mount of Transfiguration and then goes on to tell us that Scripture (the more sure word of prophecy) is more reliable than any experience.

Always keep the Word as the final authority. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 9

A number of years ago, my family and I experienced an example of personal revelation. We were renting a house from a deceitful young man who asked us to leave and refused to return the security deposit. In my devotional time that given day, I came across this passage, “And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again” (Luke 6:29-30). The Scripture penetrated deeply into my soul and it was unmistakably clear that I was not to fight for my security deposit. We were left with no money to move into our next home. Within a week’s time, I had $3,000 in the bank, a second car, a nicer home (which we eventually purchased) and a washer and dryer. I saw the hand of God at work in a way that I had never experienced. If these events had unfolded over a year’s time, I would never have made the connection of the Lord speaking to me and His blessings that followed immediately.

Would I ever tell someone else in the same situation to do what I did? No! Would they have every right to use our legal system to stay in the house where they had a two-year lease? Certainly. But sometimes the Lord speaks to us in such a way that it is unmistakably clear. Listen to the words of our Lord’s disciples on the road to Emmaus: “And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” (Luke 24:32). This sense of “burning” may be a parallel expression to Hebrews 4:12, where it tells us that the Word “pierces” into the core of our moral and spiritual life.

I do not encourage believers to seek strange meanings beyond the clear, intended meaning of the Word. However, I also do not want to rule out the voice of God that often speaks at a personal level while we read Scripture. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 8

There is no doubt that some might resist this description because they believe that it falls into the mystical arena. Throughout Old and New Testament history, we read about people who audibly heard from God. I believe that with the 66 books comprising the canon of Scripture we no longer need visions, dreams, or personal appearances by the Lord to give us direction. However, we must be careful not to force Scripture to say what it doesn’t say. Those who vehemently oppose hearing from God use logic rather than clear Scripture to support their argument. Let me share some guidelines about personal revelation:
· The Lord generally speaks to His people through His written Word.
· Any experience outside the Word must never contradict the Word.
· Hearing from the Lord is not a mystical experience but the living Word relating to the life of a believer.

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Since the Word is spiritually and we as believers are spiritually alive, then two living things of the same kind can communicate. Most people who do not believe the Lord can speak to them today will often give evidence contrary to what they verbalize. Here is an example. Several years ago, one of my favorite Bible teachers was conducting a seminar. In the midst of his teaching, he defended his staunch position that the only revelation we have is the Scripture. Following his lecture, someone asked how the speaker felt called into the ministry. Without hesitation, he told us of a car accident he was involved in during high school. He said, “This was my Jonah experience.” He went on to tell us that he had been running from God and the Lord used the accident to call him into the ministry. Though he didn’t realize it, this countered everything he had just said regarding the silence of God outside of Scripture. Perhaps he learned firsthand what the psalmist said, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes” (Psalm 119:71). Another common example can occur with career choices. Those who deny the Lord can speak in any way other than God’s Word will often ask for prayer about a possible job change. “Please ask the Lord to reveal to me if my family and I should move to California and take this job.” How will it be made clear if we can only go by Scripture?

Much of what we believe comes out of a defense against the pendulum swing--if we allow for God to speak outside of Scripture, then we open the door for all types of heresy. Should fear of what might happen affect how we interpret Scripture? The Bible itself gives us permission to learn of God outside of His Word. If this sounds heretical, consider the following: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge” (Psalm 19:1-2). This verse tells us that we can learn of God through natural revelation. Job tells us to go to the fish of the sea and the beasts of the field and learn of God (Job 12:7-9). What about answered prayer? Is this not God speaking? Who could ever deny the promptings of God’s spirit (Romans 8:16)? Proverbs 6:23 tells us that one of our instructors are the reproofs of life. I’m not trying to put all this on the same level of divine revelation because divine revelation is universal, whereas promptings, circumstances, and the reproofs of life are personal. Hebrews 12 is an example of God’s dealing with His children in discipline. Most believers have felt this discipline and recognize it as from the hand of God. I simply want to point out that the most ardent defenders against hearing from God outside the words of Scripture will often use such terms as, “the Lord answered my prayer,” or “I could feel the Lord pulling at my heart,” or “I felt the Holy Spirit convicting me,” or “the Lord put you on my heart today.” These are all mystical expressions at best, but ones that are very dear to every believer. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 7

We have seen that the Word has much to offer as we ascend to its heights. It would be unfair, however, to make the climb seem easy. The Word is stubborn in yielding its secrets. “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter” (Proverbs 25:2). God wants us to dig, labor, and toil in the areas of reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating. I believe that as we exercise these related disciplines, much fruit will be harvested. We must not be discouraged as we encounter difficult passages. Revelation comes by degree and the process may cause frustration until we understand what the Lord says about His Word. A simple definition of revelation is what God wants man to know that man could otherwise not know. From my own study of the Scriptures, I have come across six degrees of revelation that the reader must keep in mind.

We must understand the mind of God regarding His Word. When we hear people say, “The Bible has the answer to all questions,” we will become disillusioned when we find that there are issues on which the Scriptures are silent. I have labeled these issues with degrees of revelation, so as difficulties arise I can assign the appropriate category of revelation ranging from 1-6, with 1 representing no revelation to 6 representing personal revelation. For example, “Why did God create Adam and Eve if He knew from eternity past that they would fail the test?” Answer? The Scriptures don’t tell us. This falls into category number 1, which is classified as “secret.” “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law” (Deuteronomy 29:29). Scripture reveals that there are some issues the Lord keeps to Himself for His own reasons. We must learn to trust Him.

The second category is defined as “hard to understand.” “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction” (II Peter 3:16). The Bible tells us that some revelation is hard to comprehend. Each person has his own area that may fall under this heading. It is not a secret--these passages are clearly revealed but difficult to accept. Perhaps you know that Scripture teaches Christ to be the only way to heaven. This is a very clear teaching, but you might feel it’s unfair. After all, there are many who have never heard of Christ. Although the first chapter of Romans may help us better understand God’s plan, for many, it does not erase feelings of unfairness. Thus it is “hard to understand.”

The third area deals with revelation that is “partial” as we read in I Corinthians 13:12: “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Here we have biblical revelation that leaves out some details. We know that heaven is a perfect place with no more pain or sickness, and my assumption is that human language can’t describe it, so we are given partial revelation on this subject.

Fourth, we have revelation based on “maturity and need.” Jesus told his disciples, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now” (John 16:12). Revelation is often based on obedience and maturity. As we grow in our knowledge of the Lord, the Holy Spirit as our interpreter and illuminator will expand our capacity to understand the deeper truths of His revelation. Psalm 25:14 Type Out.

Our fifth point can be labeled as “clear.” Clear revelation is just that. These five degrees of revelation are based on the fundamental doctrines of the faith that have stood the test of time. I believe the sixth and final degree of revelation is perhaps the most important--personal revelation, which we will look at tomorrow. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 6

As the hiker moves gradually through the forest, he gains information, insight, and guidance from careful observations along the way. However, the best part of any hike is taking the time to reflect on what cannot be experienced when we move too rapidly through the forest. When I was a boy hiking with my dad and brother through the Blue Ridge Mountains, my dad would often have us sit on a log for about 20 minutes and wait for the forest to come alive. Things began to appear--things we would have otherwise missed because of a quickened pace. Creatures began to emerge. Birds and squirrels found their way back into the clearings. A deer crept out from the late afternoon shadows as a chipmunk scurried by.

I remember camping out in chapter 40 of Genesis several years ago. Joseph was in prison and observed the discouraged faces of his two cellmates, the butler and the baker. He lovingly asked them why they were so sad. They told him they had had dreams that no one could interpret. What seemed like simple dialogue brought life to my soul through meditation. Had I remained at the lower levels, I would have missed the message waiting at the summit. What appeared to be an innocent question from Joseph was actually the turning point of all history. Had Joseph not inquired about his friends’ sadness, he would never have interpreted their dreams; had he never interpreted their dreams, Pharaoh would never have sent for Joseph to interpret his dream several years later. When Pharaoh saw the wisdom of Joseph he responded, “Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou” (Genesis 41:39-40). Consequently, Joseph’s life took on a whole new meaning. Just like the excitement in Joseph’s life, we are now at the summit. At first glance, one might ask what could possibly live at this elevation? However, Joseph’s life has many hidden treasures that, once discovered, give a 360-degree view of life that would otherwise be missed if we remained at the lower elevations.

Joseph was now in a position to sell grain to his 11 brothers and eventually reveal himself to them. The 12 tribes were birthed out of Joseph’s simple inquiry while in prison. The Messiah would come through the line of Judah. Through meditation I learned that what might seem like a small concern for others can in fact be used by God to change the world. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 5

Four Methods of Learning God's Word (Part 2)

The third method is to memorize Scripture. “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11). Strengthened by the two former exercises, we are ready to move to an even higher elevation. The hiker now memorizes the identifying marks of an oak or maple tree. Memorization protects us in time of need and gives us direction like guideposts that keep us on the trail. We recall from Joseph’s life that he told his brothers, “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). As we find ourselves in difficult situations, Scripture can provide us a lifeline to heaven. We see ourselves as pilgrims who have learned the lay of the land through memorization. As we tuck away the Word of God in our hearts, our souls will be comforted. But how much further do we have to go?

We are now above the timberline. The summit is just ahead, but it cannot be reached without this final biblical exercise--meditation. Reading gives information, study gives insight, memorization comforts and guides, but meditation gives life. As we meditate, Joseph’s life becomes very real. It is no longer just biblical information sacrificed on the altar of exposition for another message disconnected from real life. Meditation doesn’t give life to the Word, it gives life to the one who meditates on the Word. The message of life and fruitful living will never be fully experienced at the base of the mountain. The Scripture promises that those who meditate will “be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper” (Psalm 1:3). That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 4

Four Methods of Learning God’s Word (Part 1)

As I spend time in Scripture, there seem to be four basic learning approaches, with each compounding our understanding of God’s revelation. The first approach is to read. “Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine” (I Timothy 4:13). Reading is like walking through the woods. As we walk, we gain information about our surroundings. We notice beautiful trees, ferns, moss, and streams meandering through the forest. When we read Scripture, we learn various truths. For example, we read the account of Joseph being sold into slavery in Egypt, his attempts to flee from an immoral woman, his subsequent jail sentence and final release. We can rehearse the highlights with others and tell about Joseph’s encounter with Pharaoh and learn about Pharaoh’s promotion of Joseph to second in command of all of Egypt. This is a good start to understanding Joseph’s life, but does it end here?

The second method of learning God’s Word, taking us to yet a higher elevation, is study. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (II Timothy 2:15). At this new level, we gain insight that is a step beyond information. Now the hiker begins to identify the trees and ferns. He takes note of the fact that streams have a destination and merge with other streams, giving birth to rivers. Details become important. Joseph’s life is not just an account of a young man who rose to power through difficulty. That’s information. Through study and careful insight, we discover that his obedience is woven into the providential working of God. “But as for you, ye thought evil against me: but God meant it unto good to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive” (Genesis 50:20). At this elevation, we have a greater understanding because we begin to have God’s perspective. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 3

How to Approach the Word

When the believer turns to Scripture, he must be aware that he is standing on holy ground. A teachable heart will enable the reader to learn and remove the sting of boredom:

• Approach the Word with all the reverence of approaching God Himself. “For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word” (Isaiah 66:2).
• Approach the Word prayerfully. “Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works” (Psalm 119:27).
• Approach the Word with a pure heart. “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me” (Psalm 66:18).
• Approach the Word with the expectation of hearing from God. “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law” (Psalm 119:19).
• Approach the Word with the full understanding that you will obey what it says. “Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statues; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart” (Psalm 119:33-34).

This attitude of the heart will prepare the soul to receive the Word as the Lord speaks to those desiring truth. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 2

Approaching the Mountain

The standard cry from many who know Christ is that the Bible is just too hard to understand. “I don’t get anything out of it when I read” is the common refrain. The assumption is that I will go to church and have someone else explain the Bible to me. Though sympathy may run deep for those who make such statements, I can’t help but wonder why Scripture would command us to study what can’t be understood. First, let me note that the Bible is a profoundly deep book with many baffling statements and difficulties. As we begin studying, we find ourselves at the base of a mountain. This is where Moses was before he was given the law. I believe there is a lesson to be learned here. We, too, must begin the upward climb. The higher we ascend, the greater the vantage point to understand what lies below. The view becomes breathtaking and the ability to climb to greater heights is supported by the strength we have gained through the exercise-–precept upon precept. We are challenged intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally with every step. The journey is not easy. All who take this lifelong climb will experience the rugged terrain of “things hard to be understood,” the dense forest of “things seen darkly,” the cutting edge of a “two-edged sword,” and the guiding light of a “lamp unto my feet.” Certain skills are necessary to learn and to apply to our lives as we ascend to new elevations. Whether you are a new believer or a seasoned saint, I believe there is much here to feed upon because it is based on God’s Word. Different skill sets are needed at each level, as every new elevation broadens the view of what lies below and draws us closer to what lies above. The general purpose of this booklet is to help prepare each hiker with the necessary skill set for the climb. That's the way I see things.

How To Read Scripture, Part 1

“And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Acts 20:32

The study before us is about the Word of God. Paul commends the Scriptures to us so that we might be built up. Believers have an invitation to drink deeply from God’s eternal truth and to feast at His banquet to their hearts’ content. I selected this study’s title because grace is our instructor, mentor, and friend--“Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously and godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:12). We don’t read the Bible so we can master it; we read it so it will master us. To discover its truth is to discover who I am and why I exist. We will never know all about the Word, but the Word will forever know all about us.

The following thoughts about the Word of God have been collected through years of study and meditation. Though personal, I trust the truths will go beyond the bounds of my own life and benefit others. I believe that these expressions about His divine revelation are from His Spirit, who promises to guide us into truth. My intentions for writing this blog are threefold:

- To encourage believers to fall in love with God’s Word.

- To help the believer prepare to hear from his Lord and experience a deeper intimacy with Christ.

- To show the believer how to grasp more deeply what is revealed in Scripture.

That's the way I see things.

The Power Of Influence

It has been said that the power of influence is greater than the power of position. I suspect this is true. When God chronicled in His Word what took place on earth, He gave little space to the world leaders. We read of a pharaoh in Egypt or some king over Persia, but what is highlighted by God are the people of influence. Daniel was but a teenager, as was Joseph and even Moses in his early years in Egypt, yet all of these men had great influence upon those in position. Joseph impacted Pharaoh, as did Moses in later years. Daniel touched the lives of Kings which in turn moved nations like pawns on a chess board.

Have you ever given much thought to those you influence who may have a higher social, financial, or military ranking? Do you see yourself as just another member of a large organization or do you see yourself as the one God may use to influence people in positions of power.

The next time you read the Scriptures, note carefully the ones God has selected to be included in the holy writ. They are usually just simple people like you and me. So rejoice in the fact that you are a child of the King and may be used of God to move nations. That’s the way I see things.

You’re A Mother

You’re a mother and the evidence of this sobering fact bears heavily upon your emotional constitution with every passing day. You’ve changed diapers, wiped runny noses, cooked ten thousand meals and washed as many floors. You either have or will experience all the stages attendant with this great title.

The first stage demands your constant attention as your “candle goeth not out by night” explaining that ghosts don’t exist or that nightmares are nothing to worry about. Morning comes sooner than you would like with its verbal barrage of “Billy hit me,” “David’s trying to eat his cereal with a fork,” “Have you seen my underwear mom? Huh? Huh?” You have learned by experience that facing the music at this early hour is merely the prelude of what’s to follow. By nightfall you’ve had it. If you hear one more question like, “Do worms yawn?” or “Where does the white go when the snow melts?” you’ll scream. Each day takes it toll and you pay it faithfully because you’re a mother.

Like a tidal wave, the teenage years break upon the shoreline of your life – unannounced and unprepared for. You trade in your bib for boxing gloves. New demands and new challenges force your hand. Nursery rhymes won’t cut it. You’re a counselor whose sensitivity and advice must be couched in love. You’re dealing with tender hearts that question self worth and life’s values, but you’re always there because you’re a mother.

As your children leave the nest you pose for a different picture. You’re a grandmother and this mountain top experience offers a breathtaking view of the past, present, and future. It gives you a chance to experience the contentment of knowing that you’ve helped to landscape the lives of those whom God lovingly calls “the fruit of the womb.” You’re a bit older and a bit wiser now; and if the truth were known, you wouldn’t trade it for anything. It is for this reason that today and every day we rise up and call you blessed because you’re a mother. That's the way I see things.

A Life on Display

“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.”
Philippians 1:27

I have become convinced over the years that one of the main reasons Christians don’t share their faith in the marketplace is that once it has been disclosed that they are a believer, their life will be on display. Their every word and action will be weighed on different scales. The bar will be raised and they may actually have to live a life consistent with the gospel. No more dirty jokes, deception, or lying to make the sale. No more getting a little tipsy after work at the local bar.

Is this really a reason that many are afraid to share their faith? I think so. It might be worth carefully examining your heart to see if this really is an excuse. Allow me to make a few suggestions. Suppose your testimony has been well below the gospel standard. Consider asking forgiveness from those around you so that you may then have entrée to share your faith. It will at least pave the way. No one has to be perfect in the work environment. Anger, harsh words, or even deception may surface. Yes, you may be judged by an unbelieving world, particularly if they know you are a believer. Here is a great opportunity to humble yourself and seek forgiveness for your action. Proverbs tells us that before honor must come humility. The world is not use to people admitting wrong.


Your life will then be on display and those around you will see the Lord in your life. That’s the way I see things.

Grace Needed For The Christian Life – Part 2

When told to “love not the world” (I John 2:15) we find ourselves up against another impossible demand. A stroll through the mall or flipping through the latest catalog challenges these words from Scripture. You might as well tell a cripple to run a marathon as to tell me not to love this world. The Christian life can never be lived out in our own strength. But we get tired of hearing about Christ living through us. These are again just more demands that seem to be just words on a page. How do I let Christ live through me? How do I find giving better than receiving? How can I overcome jealousy? How? How? How? That is the real question. The Scriptures would never call us to do something that God would not empower us to carry out. Grace is the key word found in all of God’s demands. Paul said that grace did the laboring. “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me” (I Corinthians 15:10). In Titus 2:11 we are told that grace is the instructor on how to resist the draw of the world. II Peter 3:18 tells us that we grow in grace. But where do I find this grace? In James 4 we are told that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. I must daily humble myself and admit that all challenges of life are far beyond my ability to handle. God’s commands are impossible, but Paul said His grace is sufficient. Note that Paul was humbled by a thorn in the flesh before he spoke about grace. He said he was the least of the apostles just before he spoke about grace laboring. Just prior to Paul exalting the power of grace in II Corinthians 4:15 he says, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (II Corinthians 4:7). Note that humility precedes grace in all these passages. Paul did not have an easy life, but the HOW of the Christian life was no mystery. We must daily humble ourselves and admit that we are insufficient for the challenge. Then and only then will the grace flow. That’s the way I see things.

Grace Needed For The Christian Life, Part 1

Christians are often called by another name. We refer to ourselves as believers. Have you ever taken the time to reflect on this label and what it connotes for our lives? Allow me to meddle a bit. Here are some verses that believers don’t really believe.

“And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth” Luke 12:15.

Who do you know that actually believes this verse? Our lives as Americans reflect nothing of the sort. Our cars, clothes, and homes tell the world that we believe just what the world believes: life consists in the abundance of stuff. Here is another verse we don’t believe

“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive” Acts 20:35.

If we really believed that it is more blessed to give than to receive, then every bonus, pay raise, or inheritance would immediately leave our hands and be given to those less fortunate. But if the truth were known (and it is), our first thoughts are how we can spend it on ourselves. What addition can we put on the house, what cruise can I take, or what new toy can I buy? The truth is we are unbelieving believers. We truly have believed in Christ for salvation but this call to a sacrificial life we want nothing to do with. There are times when we feel guilty because we can’t seem to obey these impossible demands. Tomorrow’s blog will explain how we can find victory. But for now, I will leave you with these words: We believe only what we act on; all the rest is just religious talk. That’s the way I see things.

Isaac

It has been said of Isaac that he was the son of a great father and the father of a great son. Not much is said of Isaac regarding his character. We don’t walk away with any sense that he was man of great conviction. His main place in biblical history is that he was the fulfillment of the promised seed.

The main character flaw in Isaac, as was also true with his wife Rebekah, was that he favored one son over another. Isaac loved Esau because he was a hunter and fixed him great venison. Small and insignificant as this might seem, it created great controversy and jealousy within the home. God had made it clear that Jacob, the younger son, was to receive the blessing. The blessing meant that the covenant promised to Abraham was to be fulfilled in Isaac and then in Jacob. Because Isaac loved Esau more, he decided to bypass Jacob and give the blessing to Esau. Rebekah, Isaac’s wife, joined in and decided to reverse the blessing back to her favorite son, Jacob. The mess that was created caused enormous problems, including a desire on Esau’s part to kill his brother.

We have no idea how much rage can be built up in family members because of favoritism. This can also show up at the office or on a sports team. It is wise to be aware of potential hostility caused by perceived favoritism. Though there may be no real display of leaning toward one child or employee over another, it may be viewed as such. Always look for signs, particularly within the family, that would indicate favoritism. Stay close to your children and allow them to express how they feel, so they will not grow up with a sense of feeling like a second-class citizen. Good, healthy, and consistent communication will prevent such a crisis. That's the way I see things.

Abraham

"For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." - Hebrews 11:10

What is it about those words that get my meditative juices flowing? I have long been pondering these words of the New Testament that distill the life of Abraham as recorded in the Old Testament. He was looking for a city. He was proactively seeking to find an eternal habitation that consumed his life. The city he was in quest of was no ordinary city. The architect did not have the fingerprints of fallen man on its design. God was the builder and the foundations were sure and unshakable. No earthquake, tidal wave, hurricane, or other natural disaster could destroy this eternal city.

But how did his life reflect such a journey? What clues along the way caused him to stop and look around to see if he was still on the right trail? The first thing Abraham did was leave his home by faith and start looking for a land that he had never seen and had no idea where it lay. We are called to do the same. We are to leave the comforts of this life and move as God directs us toward our heavenly home. Our journey toward the same city will take place in the world. We will fail along the way as Abraham did. We will doubt and fear. We might even give birth to some Ishmaels along the way. We will be called to lay down an Isaac or two. God directed this man through chastening and reward. He started slow but finished strong.

When he was told by God to offer up his son Isaac, he was willing to do so without hesitation. Why? Because he had learned in his pilgrimage that God does not lie, and since Isaac was the promised son through whom the Messiah would come, then the only way God could keep the promise would be to bring Isaac back from the dead. Abraham by faith was forced to think in terms that made no sense at all. In Romans 4 we read these remarkable words, "And being fully persuaded that, what he (God) had promised, he was able also to perform." Here we see that Abraham and Sarah were past the years of child bearing, but God does not lie; therefore a miraculous birth must take place.

Since God kept His promise regarding the birth, He would have to keep his promise that Isaac would have children. Abraham therefore believed in resurrection power. Our lives should reflect a similar pattern as we walk this narrow road. That's the way I see things.

Noah

We looked at Adam in the last entry and saw how sin entered the world. The next major person to come on the scene is Noah. He is a man of remarkable character. He probably lived 1,500 to 2,000 years after Adam. The earth's population was certainly in the millions by this time, and according to Genesis, the thoughts of men were only evil continually. God's judgment was hovering over this wicked world, but there was one man and his family who were believers. According to the New Testament, Noah was as preacher of righteousness in the midst of a totally unbelieving world. There are several notable character traits that are worthy of examination in this man's life. He found grace in the eyes of the Lord, which means that he was a believer and was under the instructive eye of God. It tells us in Genesis 6:9 that Noah walked with God. If we ponder that statement, we are forced to arrive at certain conclusions. To walk with God, means we must agree with God, for the Scriptures ask us "can two walk together except they be agreed?" To agree with God means he had to know what God believed. I can only agree with you in politics if I know what you believe about politics. To walk with God means to move in the same direction as God is moving and at the same pace. It also implies being in His presence.

Pause for a moment and ask yourself some hard questions: Are you familiar enough with God's Word to know God's will? To walk with Him is to obey what He reveals to us from His Word. Are you getting ahead of the Lord, or are you moving at His pace? In America, where everything is instant-this and instant-that, we grow impatient with a God who tells His children to wait. Are you walking by faith and not by sight? According to Hebrews 11:7, Noah was a man of great faith. He believed what he had never seen and lived in accordance with God's revelation of the flood that was to come. Are we living in accordance with God's revelation of future judgment? Does it impact our decision-making, priorities, and lifestyle? We must learn to be people of faith and walk in light of God's revelation. In this pilgrimage, we must encourage others to get on board the ark of safety. That the way I see things.

Adam

We are beginning a new study. I have for some time wanted to look at the people of Scripture that God used to order His plan for the ages. In examining these people, I hope to have each of us see what role God wants us to play.

ADAM

Though Adam and Eve were both guilty, Adam is held responsible for introducing sin into the world because he was the federal head of the human race. In listening to the voice of Satan, and allowing pride to get the upper hand, sin entered the bloodstream of human history. No words can describe the damage that has been done though the fall. Sin has so scarred the life of every human, that the pre-fall existence and the future new heavens and new earth, are dim realities eclipsed by the blinding nature of our fallenness. Every broken marriage, rebellious child, fractured relationship, sarcastic word or angry comment comes from a sinful heart. Sin has crippled the human race, and comprehending Heaven and its glory is beyond the scope of human thought.

What the first Adam destroyed through rebellion, Christ, also known as the last Adam, restored through obedience. Through Adam came sin, and through sin came death. Through Christ came righteousness and through righteousness came life. Though we still live in these mortal bodies, we are now alive in Christ. The fellowship with God that was broken through sin, has been restored by the righteousness of Christ. Rejoice in the fact that your name is written in the Lamb's book of life. That's the way I see things.

Humble Thy Self In The Sight Of The Lord

The subject of humility is punctuated throughout Scripture. It is of paramount significance that we understand what the Lord says, for there are many blessings associated with humility.

1. Grace is given to all those who humble themselves (James 4:6).
Grace is essential to living out the Christian life. The Apostle Paul clearly states that grace was bestowed upon him in order to carry out what God had called him to do (I Cor. 15:10).

2. Exaltation is the next gift granted to the humble.
Exaltation is not to be confused with being rich and famous. That would contradict what Scripture deems important. To be exalted is to be lifted up but not for the sake of glory. We are to be lifted up above the fallen ways of man and protected by the power of God. How desperately we need this (Daniel 4:34-37).

3. Honor is another blessing associated with humility.
To honor someone is to admire and respect them. Have you ever wished to honor a proud, arrogant individual? We are repulsed by the thought. Robert E. Lee was a humble God-fearing man, who was deeply respected by his friends as well as his enemies. To this day he is honored and highly respected (Prov 15:33).

4. God hears the cry of the humble.
A humble person sees God as his all in all. He realizes that without Christ he can do nothing. God will not listen to the proud, after all they don't need Him, for their strength is fully in control and God's help is a crutch for the weak. God does mighty works through humble people because He is their only source of strength, and when His strength is active, we will surely see what He and only He is capable of (Psalm 9:12).

5. The Lord speaks to the humble.
It is of great significance that the Apostle John in his own gospel never mentions himself. Guess who wrote the book of Revelation? John as a humble self-effacing man was entrusted with the final revelation. All 160 verses in Psalm 119 is a humble cry to hear from God (Psalm 119:145).

The world has yet to see what the Lord would do through a humble church. His power would be displayed in ways that are unimaginable. A humble church is made up of humble individuals. Could we collectively admit to any pride and ask the Lord to take inventory of our hearts and reveal to us that which is not pleasing to Him? I joyfully anticipate having His glory displayed. That's the way I see things.

Doubts

As I read Scripture I never cease to be amazed at how the Lord subtly reveals His heart to us. In the early stages of my Christian life I had many doubts about if I had the truth, since so many other religions claimed with equal exclusivity, that they had the truth. What used to rock my boat the most was when I would hear about some cult member who had an amazing answer to prayer. The fiery darts of doubt from the enemy would break into my mind and say, "See, others claim they have the truth and equally amazing things happen to them. Are you sure Christianity is the truth? These other groups also use the Bible, so who are you to claim you have the truth?"

Through many years of study, meditation, and teaching, I have total confidence in God's Word and the truth of His gospel. But what about these issues that have been raised? In Deuteronomy 12:29 – 13:4 the Lord warns Israel to not even inquire about other gods, even if their followers have amazing things happen. He tells us that great wonders may occur so that we will be tested to trust in the one true God. When we inquire we are in danger of falling from the faith and being ensnared by false doctrine.

I realized many years ago that thousands upon thousands of people have come to a saving knowledge of Christ by just reading the Scriptures. They were never told what to believe nor were thy indoctrinated into a system of belief but were led by the Holy Spirit to discover the basic truths of the faith. This cannot be said of any cult or false religion. No one reading the Bible would arrive at the doctrines of Mormonism. They must be carefully led into a certain way of thinking. There is a literal brainwashing that takes place because there is no Spirit of God to reveal the truth of Scripture.

I hope this is a help to any of you who have wrestled with this issue. Stay in the Word and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. That's the way I see things.