"God, Who is the best, must be served with the best we have." - Matthew Henry"
The good man will give his best things to God.""Of all we have we should give the Lord His portion, and that should be the choicest we can select."
"Reader, never attempt to come before God without Jesus, the divinely promised, given, and accepted burnt offering." - All three quotes from Charles Spurgeon
Proverbs 15:8 says - "The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD..."
Now contrast Solomon's statement with that of David's in Psalm 66:13 and 15 - "I will go into Thy house with burnt offerings...I will offer unto Thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with the incense of rams; I will offer bullocks with goats. Selah."Both portions of Scripture deal with offering "sacrifices" unto the Lord. In other words, they deal with acts of worship. However, the "wicked" man's offering is distinguished from the godly man's by these words - "is an abomination to the LORD."Why is his particular "sacrifice" referred to as such?First of all, His "sacrifice" doesn't represent Jesus - the Ultimate Sacrifice. On the contrary, it represents self - self-will, self-confidence, and self-pride. The second reason is because his heart is not in it. Thirdly, his observance of the "sacrifices" doesn't flow from a principle of pure devotion to God. It is done hypocritically - not according to His word and will...not done in faith...not springing from love to Him... and not directed to His glory.It is "an abomination to the LORD."Just how many "sacrifices" of this sort are offered every time a worship service is conducted? And just how many "wicked" people are there - impersonating as Christians - who approach God without faith and with no sense of sin or repentance for it?The truth of the matter is - our churches are full of such people and the stench of such offerings before the Lord - each time that the doors are opened.David said - "I will go into Thy house with burnt offerings..."He made up his mind that he was going to the place of worship to acknowledge God's goodness and render Him His due praise. He had been delivered out of many troubles and brought into a "wealthy" or prosperous place (Psalm 66:12). Hence, he would bring the best for the King of kings. He wouldn't dare to appear before Him empty. His "sacrifice" would surely cost him something."I will go into Thy house with burnt offerings..."Would to God that every worshipper would come before the Lord with such "offerings."Why?Because of what the "burnt offering" represents.The words in the Hebrew mean - "to go, ascend." It applied to the sacrifice that was wholly consumed by fire on an altar or made to ascend in smoke before the Lord. It was a voluntary offering of which the offerers had no share and where all parts were entirely burned - except for the blood which was sprinkled round about the altar. It was offered in honor of God.In Psalm 66:15, David went on to say - "I will offer unto Thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with the incense of rams; I will offer bullocks with goats. Selah."He was determined to give God his very best. This is implied in his words - "burnt sacrifices of fatlings." These "fatlings" were just as they sound - the fattest of the flock - the best of the herd and fold. He would not dare to offer God any "sacrifice" that was lame or lean.He burnt the fattest of rams on the altar - which produced a smoke which ascended before the Lord and was just as acceptable and aromatic as sweet incense - "with the incense of rams.""I will offer bullocks with goats" - This type of offering cost him a great deal for he was very liberal in expressing his gratitude for all that the Lord had done for him.The "whole burnt offering" was the highest of the gifts given to God. Every part was burnt in the sacred fire - which symbolized God's Holy Presence. It represented the offerer's unreserved dedication of his body, soul, spirit, and will to the Lord. It also represented the most perfect surrender of the human will to the divine. It symbolized the true meaning of worship.It was that which the Apostle Paul referred to in his exhortation to the Christians in Romans 12:1 where he said - "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.""Present" is a technical term used in the language of offerings or sacrifice. It means to offer or bring.What were the believers required to offer before God?Their "bodies" - which included their personality as well as their faculties and rational powers - were to be placed at the disposal of God - dedicated and consecrated for His service and use. Their greatest desires would be - to live a life of holiness ... live for God ... worship and obey Him ... hate evil ... stand for righteousness... follow and serve Christ ... be filled with the Spirit ... and imitate Christ in all their relationships.In other words, they would be that "whole burnt offering" that was placed on the altar and figuratively burnt with the Holy Fire of God's Presence - sending forth a sweet aroma from the complete dedication and commitment of their lives unto Him."The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD..."When we read this, we think of the gross sinner who uses religion as "a cloak for sin." And that understanding of the Scripture can easily apply here.But what about the believer who tries to enter into the Holy of Holies with his life so totally consumed with His own fleshly ideas, plans, agenda, ways, and confidences? What kind of stench - do you suppose - comes from the smoke of his worship?What would happen if every believer would go to church as a "living sacrifice" - as a "whole burnt offering" - one whose carnal flesh is so totally consumed by the fires of God's Holiness? The Lord would surely come down in our midst in His Power and Glory. Miracles would be "the order of the day. "David said - "I will go into Thy house with burnt offerings...
"After reading this message, how will you go?
May God Bless His Word,Connie© COPYRIGHT Connie Giordano - All Rights Reserved
Subscribe to Daily Bible Messages at - connie@walkingintruth.org .
Walking In Truth Ministry P.O. Box 383016 Duncanville TX 75138
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Having Crossed Over, Hold On...
Galatians 3:29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
This amazing passage defines all true believers in Messiah as “Abraham’s seed and heirs according to God’s promise”. Abraham was known as the first Hebrew – literally, “one who crosses over!” Before he crossed over into the promised land, we know from the scriptures that Abraham lived in a deeply idolatrous society and that even his own father was an idol worshiper. (Joshua 24:2) But one remarkable day, a call came to Abraham….a call from the Most High God – and he became one who “crossed over” from idolatrous polytheism into a personal knowledge of the one true Creator God. So leaving his past behind, he entered a new life of spiritual truth and holiness and a new land of promise; a profound transformation, and for us, a beautiful picture of our own “crossing over” into the new life of Yeshua the Messiah.Now looking at Abraham’s story, do we see that his life was free of obstacles and troubles once he reached his destination in Caanan? No way! Here are a few major events: he felt forced to go into Egypt to escape a famine, where his wife, Sarah, was held captive in Pharoah’s harem for an undisclosed amount of time; after being liberated, Sarah continued barren until old age; then, Abraham was required by his own deep loyalty, to rescue his worldly nephew Lot and his family, risking his own life and the lives of his men; again he was tested when following Sarah’s advice, Abraham conceived a son with Hagar, whom he deeply loved but was required to send into the desert with his Egyptian wife/mother. And of course, he probably faced the greatest test of faith when God asked Abraham to sacrifice the son of promise, Isaac, Sarah’s only son, for whom they both had waited all their lives!Isn’t it interesting that we know nothing of Abraham’s life trials before he crossed over into Caanan? Only after he crossed over do we read of the successive testings of this great man of faith – and in fact, because of those tests Abraham is considered the “father” of faith. (Romans 4:16)We are called to bear our crosses daily, and also to respond with faith to whatever may come our way. And, praise God that when we do, we also will be known as those who “crossed over” and overcame every obstacle and trial of faith…having held firm to every great promise of God!
By Worthy Devotions
This amazing passage defines all true believers in Messiah as “Abraham’s seed and heirs according to God’s promise”. Abraham was known as the first Hebrew – literally, “one who crosses over!” Before he crossed over into the promised land, we know from the scriptures that Abraham lived in a deeply idolatrous society and that even his own father was an idol worshiper. (Joshua 24:2) But one remarkable day, a call came to Abraham….a call from the Most High God – and he became one who “crossed over” from idolatrous polytheism into a personal knowledge of the one true Creator God. So leaving his past behind, he entered a new life of spiritual truth and holiness and a new land of promise; a profound transformation, and for us, a beautiful picture of our own “crossing over” into the new life of Yeshua the Messiah.Now looking at Abraham’s story, do we see that his life was free of obstacles and troubles once he reached his destination in Caanan? No way! Here are a few major events: he felt forced to go into Egypt to escape a famine, where his wife, Sarah, was held captive in Pharoah’s harem for an undisclosed amount of time; after being liberated, Sarah continued barren until old age; then, Abraham was required by his own deep loyalty, to rescue his worldly nephew Lot and his family, risking his own life and the lives of his men; again he was tested when following Sarah’s advice, Abraham conceived a son with Hagar, whom he deeply loved but was required to send into the desert with his Egyptian wife/mother. And of course, he probably faced the greatest test of faith when God asked Abraham to sacrifice the son of promise, Isaac, Sarah’s only son, for whom they both had waited all their lives!Isn’t it interesting that we know nothing of Abraham’s life trials before he crossed over into Caanan? Only after he crossed over do we read of the successive testings of this great man of faith – and in fact, because of those tests Abraham is considered the “father” of faith. (Romans 4:16)We are called to bear our crosses daily, and also to respond with faith to whatever may come our way. And, praise God that when we do, we also will be known as those who “crossed over” and overcame every obstacle and trial of faith…having held firm to every great promise of God!
By Worthy Devotions
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Wisdom From Proverbs
1 Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, But a just weight is His delight.
-Proverbs 11:1
My pastor is doing a study on the heart and each day in July we are reading a proverb. Today's devotional really spoke to me. I couln't get past the first verse.
I know in verse 1 God is talking about fair and just business practices, but spiritually I think He may also be talking about deceitfulness, carnal thinking, etc. Honest scales will always be in perfect balance. Is our hearts honest, or our we off balance in some areas of our lives? We are studying the heart, and God measures everything by the heart, so how balanced are our hearts? Jeremiah says that the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? Jer 17:9
In those days things were measured with stones. That is interesting to me because, we may need to take away some stones in our heart to get in perfect balance. Then our "just" weight will be His delight.
Praise God and may He Bless His Word.
-Proverbs 11:1
My pastor is doing a study on the heart and each day in July we are reading a proverb. Today's devotional really spoke to me. I couln't get past the first verse.
I know in verse 1 God is talking about fair and just business practices, but spiritually I think He may also be talking about deceitfulness, carnal thinking, etc. Honest scales will always be in perfect balance. Is our hearts honest, or our we off balance in some areas of our lives? We are studying the heart, and God measures everything by the heart, so how balanced are our hearts? Jeremiah says that the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? Jer 17:9
In those days things were measured with stones. That is interesting to me because, we may need to take away some stones in our heart to get in perfect balance. Then our "just" weight will be His delight.
Praise God and may He Bless His Word.
Monday, July 6, 2009
A Song of Thankfulness
1 Samuel 21And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.2There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.3Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.4The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.5They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.6The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up.7The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.8He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD's, and he hath set the world upon them.9He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.10The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.
Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:1-10 (Matthew Henry)Hannah's heart rejoiced, not in Samuel, but in the Lord. She looks beyond the gift, and praises the Giver. She rejoiced in the salvation of the Lord, and in expectation of His coming, who is the whole salvation of his people. The strong are soon weakened, and the weak are soon strengthened, when God pleases. Are we poor? God made us poor, which is a good reason why we should be content, and make up our minds to our condition. Are we rich? God made us rich, which is a good reason why we should be thankful, and serve him cheerfully, and do good with the abundance he gives us. He respects not man's wisdom or fancied excellences, but chooses those whom the world accounts foolish, teaching them to feel their guilt, and to value his free and precious salvation. This prophecy looks to the kingdom of Christ, that kingdom of grace, of which Hannah speaks, after having spoken largely of the kingdom of providence. And here is the first time that we meet with the name MESSIAH, or his Anointed. The subjects of Christ's kingdom will be safe, and the enemies of it will be ruined; for the Anointed, the Lord Christ, is able to save, and to destroy.
Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:1-10 (Matthew Henry)Hannah's heart rejoiced, not in Samuel, but in the Lord. She looks beyond the gift, and praises the Giver. She rejoiced in the salvation of the Lord, and in expectation of His coming, who is the whole salvation of his people. The strong are soon weakened, and the weak are soon strengthened, when God pleases. Are we poor? God made us poor, which is a good reason why we should be content, and make up our minds to our condition. Are we rich? God made us rich, which is a good reason why we should be thankful, and serve him cheerfully, and do good with the abundance he gives us. He respects not man's wisdom or fancied excellences, but chooses those whom the world accounts foolish, teaching them to feel their guilt, and to value his free and precious salvation. This prophecy looks to the kingdom of Christ, that kingdom of grace, of which Hannah speaks, after having spoken largely of the kingdom of providence. And here is the first time that we meet with the name MESSIAH, or his Anointed. The subjects of Christ's kingdom will be safe, and the enemies of it will be ruined; for the Anointed, the Lord Christ, is able to save, and to destroy.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Hey Everyone, You Don't Want To Miss This...
My pastor is doing a verse by verse study in Proverbs and he is blogging it @
www.pastordavevcc.blogspot.com
It is very interesting, and he is receiving a lot of comments. So join in, read and get blessed, and leave a comment about whatever the Lord has revealed to you about a verse. It is how we learn. God can say many different things to different people and it is good to get a wide variety of thoughts.
My prayer is that Pastor Dave will put his audio sermons on his blog page. It would be a HUGE blessing to the whole world. I have listened to many preachers around the world on the web and it is a blessing and a good learning tool. Sooooo, Pastor Dave, something to pray about!
www.pastordavevcc.blogspot.com
It is very interesting, and he is receiving a lot of comments. So join in, read and get blessed, and leave a comment about whatever the Lord has revealed to you about a verse. It is how we learn. God can say many different things to different people and it is good to get a wide variety of thoughts.
My prayer is that Pastor Dave will put his audio sermons on his blog page. It would be a HUGE blessing to the whole world. I have listened to many preachers around the world on the web and it is a blessing and a good learning tool. Sooooo, Pastor Dave, something to pray about!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
The Prostitute in the Mirror...
Don't know who this lady is, but this teaching blew me away. It will definitely make you examine yourself to see if you be in the faith.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aloviJ1Hnbc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aloviJ1Hnbc
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Best Poem in the World...
"BEST POEM IN THE WORLD"
I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor..
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.
'And why's everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock..
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'
JUDGE NOT.
Remember...Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more
than standing in your garage makes you a mechanic or a car.
Every saint has a PAST...
Every sinner has a FUTURE...
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor..
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.
'And why's everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock..
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'
JUDGE NOT.
Remember...Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more
than standing in your garage makes you a mechanic or a car.
Every saint has a PAST...
Every sinner has a FUTURE...
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Disobedience Rooted in Fear...
Disobedience Rooted in Fear
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os HillmanSaturday, June 06 2009
"Then Moses said to them, 'No one is to keep any of it until morning.'" - Exodus 16:19
Have you ever seen God do something really good in your life only to find that you have abused the blessing He gave you? Such was the case of the Israelites as they were traveling through the desert on their way to the Promised Land. God was providing for them in miraculous ways. Manna was provided each day as their bread. God gave Moses specific instructions as to how this manna was to be eaten. God said each one was to gather only what he needed for that day. No one was to keep it until the next morning.
"However, some of them paid no attention to Moses; they kept part of it until morning, but it was full of maggots and began to smell. So Moses was angry with them" (Ex. 16:20). God was teaching the Israelites daily trust in His provision for them. He wanted them to trust Him one day at a time. If they tried to hoard, God put a self-destruct feature in the manna. Yet God also told them to gather two days' worth on the sixth day so that they would have manna to eat on the seventh day. Interestingly, this manna did not stink or have maggots.
For many years I gathered manna in business out of fear of not having enough. One day, the Lord decided that manna should be destroyed in order for me to learn total trust in His provision. When we operate out of fear, we can expect the Lord to lovingly discipline us in order to help us learn to trust Him. There is a danger when we seek to "insure ourselves" against calamity. If your actions are born from fear, you can expect God to demonstrate His loving reproof so that you might not live in fear.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Ten "I Will's" of Psalm 119...
"I will praise Thee..."
"I will keep Thy statutes..."
"I will meditate in Thy precepts..."
"I will delight myself in Thy statutes..."
"I will not forget Thy word"
"I will run the way of Thy commandments..."
"I will walk at liberty..."
"I will speak of Thy testimonies also before kings..."
"My hands also will I lift up unto Thy commandments..."
"At midnight I will rise to give thanks..."
"I will keep Thy statutes..."
"I will meditate in Thy precepts..."
"I will delight myself in Thy statutes..."
"I will not forget Thy word"
"I will run the way of Thy commandments..."
"I will walk at liberty..."
"I will speak of Thy testimonies also before kings..."
"My hands also will I lift up unto Thy commandments..."
"At midnight I will rise to give thanks..."
Sunday, May 31, 2009
The Ministry of Prayer
"The Ministry of Prayer"
There's a holy high vocation
Needing workers everywhere;
'Tis the highest form of service-
'Tis the ministry of prayer.
None need stand idly longing
For a place in which to share,
Active service for the Master-
Needing workers everywhere;
'Tis the highest form of service-
'Tis the ministry of prayer.
None need stand idly longing
For a place in which to share,
Active service for the Master-
There's always room inprayer.
In these days of tribulation,
Wickedness prevades the air;
And battles we engage in
Must be won by fervent prayer.
There's no weapon half so mighty
As what the intercessors bear;
Nor a broader field of service
Than the ministry of prayer.
-A.S. Woolworth
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority... ITimothy 2:1
In these days of tribulation,
Wickedness prevades the air;
And battles we engage in
Must be won by fervent prayer.
There's no weapon half so mighty
As what the intercessors bear;
Nor a broader field of service
Than the ministry of prayer.
-A.S. Woolworth
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority... ITimothy 2:1
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Daily Bread...
Greek ThoughtsWeek of May 24 - 30, 2009
EN* - In
Please note that all Biblical quotes, in this and all other lessons posted to Greek Thoughts, are from The Literal English Translation of the Bible produced by BTE Ministries - The Bible Translation and Exegesis Institute of America.
This week we are studying the fourth word in our series of studies relating to the believer's battle with the attacks of Satan. We first considered the verb diw/kw (Strong's #1377, pronounced dē ō kō**), meaning "to pursue" or "to chase." It is from diw/kw that we developed an understanding of the first principle relating to dealing with evil forces in the spirit realm: Satan (the devil) is only able to chase or pursue those who are in Christ; but he is unable to spiritually overtake them, since the Spirit of Christ resides within their souls (spirits) thereby sealing them—making them spiritually impenetrable (see Ephesians 1:13). Because only the flesh is left exposed, Satan attacks here, in an attempt to chase believers. His desire is to continually divert their thoughts and emotions away from God.
We next considered the word a´nqi/sthmi (Strong's #436, pronounced än thēs tā mē**), which means "to resist" or "to oppose." It holds the concept of our second principle—that the plan of God for each believer is revealed as he or she resists the devil's attacks. Believers are to resist Satan while resting in the finished work of Christ. This, of course, is the opposite of what Man would implement– which would be to fight Satan in an attempt to chase him away.Last week we studied the word ièsthmi (Strong's #2476, pronounced hē stā mē**), which means "to stand, set or place." It reveals the third principle involved in comprehending how believers are to respond to Satan's attacks, in that it brings to light the purpose God has for believers in resisting Satan. God's designed plan for Christians is that we resist Satan's attempts to chase us, and the purpose for this is that of being able to stand in a one-place position.
In this week's study our attention is focused on the place in which believers stand. Our word of study is the preposition e´n (Strong's #1722, pronounced ĕn**), which is translated "in" and represents a position or location. We will again be looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, noting that its theme is "In Christ." Paul has this letter distributed to all of the churches, in order for believers to understand their position within the spirit realm. This is one of the most misunderstood truths of the Christian faith, because Satan works through the physical realm to try to convince believers that their spiritual condition is based upon their physical circumstances and feelings. In contrast, Paul writes that everyone who has received Christ has the Christ living within them and that they are positioned in Christ in the spirit realm. Ephesians 1:3) Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the One who has blessed us in (e´n) every spiritual blessing, in (e´n) the spirit realm, in (e´n) Christ.
The aorist participial form of euÌloge/w (Strong's #2127, pronounced ū lō gĕ ō**), which means "to bless," indicates that God's blessing upon us has already been given at a time in the past (which would be at salvation). The use of "in (e´n)" tells us the location in which He has blessed us – "in (e´n) every spiritual blessing." This tells us that we are positioned in every – not some – spiritual blessing from God.
Paul then tells us that every spiritual blessing is located "in (e´n) the spirit realm." The traditionally used word "heavenlies" is a translation of the Greek word eÌpoura/niov (Strong's #2032, pronounced ĕ pö rä nē ōs**), which literally means "the spirit realm." So our blessings are found in every spiritual blessing and are located in the spirit realm. Next Paul gives us the exact location of our blessings in the spirit realm: "in Christ." The location of our blessings is spiritual, in the spirit realm, specifically in Christ.
Ephesians 1:20-21) which He worked in (e´n) Christ, having raised Him from out of the dead, and seated Him in (e´n) His right hand in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov),
21)
above every ruler, and authority, and power, and lordship, and every name being named, not only in this age, but also in the one being about to come;Our consideration now is to understand the position of Christ within the spirit realm. In verses 20,21, Paul presents the power of God having first said, in verse 20, that it is the same power that worked in Christ when He raised Him from out of the dead and seated Him "in (e´n) His right hand in (e´n) the spirit realm." These verses tell us that God raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in (e´n) the right of the throne of God in (e´n) the spirit realm. Verse 21 reveals even more about the surpassing power of God and the spirit realm. In it we see that Christ is seated in (e´n) the right of the throne of God, "above every ruler, authority, and power, and lordship, and every name being named, not only in this age, but also in the one being about to come."
From a study of Ephesians 3:9-10 and Ephesians 6:11-12,we can identify the rulers, authorities, powers, and lordships referred to in Ephesians 1:20-21.
Ephesians 3:9-10) and to enlighten everyone as to what is the fellowship of the mystery, the one which has been hidden from the ages in (e´n) God, the One who has created all things through Jesus Christ,
10)
in order that might be made known now to the rulers and the authorities in the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov) - through the church - the manifold wisdom of God.In Ephesians 3:9, Paul expresses that it is God's desire to enlighten everyone about the "fellowship of the mystery" which has been hidden in ages past in (e´n) God who created all things through Christ. The next verse is connected to this one by the phrase "in order that" and presents the purpose for God's desire to enlighten everyone about this mystery– …to make known the manifold wisdom of God through the church to "the rulers and the authorities in the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov)." Here Paul reveals that the rulers and authorities are ranks of spirit beings in the spirit realm; but he defines them more specifically in Ephesians 6:11-12.
Ephesians 6:11-12) Put on the full armor of God, for you to be able to stand against the methods of the devil;
12)
because the wrestling for us is not against blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces of evil in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov).In Paul's conclusion to this letter, he emphasizes the absolute necessity of putting on the full armor of God, in order to have the ability to stand against the continuous attacks of the devil. He gives the reason for this in verse 12: because our wrestling "is not against blood and flesh, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the world rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces of evil in the spirit realm." Paul is teaching that Christians wrestle and struggle against the spiritual forces of evil "in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov)." In verse 12, he defines the spiritual forces of evil as ranks of rulers and authorities and world rulers "of the darkness of this age."
Therefore, since Christ is seated in (e´n) the right hand of God in (e´n) the spirit realm, as we see in Ephesians 1:20-21, He is seated far above all the forces of evil that inhabit and operate in the spirit realm. Understanding this positioning of Christ is foundational to understanding the position of believers, especially as it relates to responding to Satan's attacks.Ephesians 2:5-6) and while we being dead in trespasses, He made us alive together in (e´n) Christ (by grace you are having been saved);
6)
and raised us up together, and seated us together in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov) in (e´n) Christ Jesus.In Ephesians 2:5-6, Paul uses resurrection terminology to describe the salvation experience. He writes that God makes people, who are dead in trespasses, alive together in (e´n) Christ, raises them up together, and seats them together in (e´n) the spirit realm in (e´n) Christ Jesus. This teaches us that three things happen in the salvation experience: First, a person is made alive in (e´n) the life of Christ being born within; Second, a person is raised from out of the spiritual dead; Third, a person is seated – at the time of salvation – in (e´n) the spirit realm, specifically in (e´n) Christ Jesus.
This is the great teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ that has been hidden in ages past and is still a mystery to many believers: When Jesus Christ was raised from out of the dead, He was exalted above every spiritual force, whether good or evil, and every name being named, both now and in the coming age. He is now seated in (e´n) the right hand of the throne of God far above the ranks of evil spiritual forces in the spirit realm; and once a person is born of the Spirit of Christ, that believer is then in a spiritual position of being seated in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm. "In (e´n) Christ Jesus" is the present and continuous spiritual position of every believer.
With an understanding of this basic fundamental truth, we can better comprehend our part in the battle against Satan's attacks. Since believers are already in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm, Satan attempts to chase them by using elements of the physical realm, in order to make them feel that they are under attack and must run. Satan's ultimate goal is to make believers think that they are not in a spiritual position of safety, but are rather in a position of vulnerability where Satan must be fought with every ounce of effort and attention. The Bible, however, establishes that believers are spiritually positioned in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm, and this is the reason that God's plan for them is to "resist" aÌnqi/sthmi (Strong's #436, pronounced än thēs tā mē**), in order that they can "stand" ièsthmi (Strong's #2476, pronounced hē stā mē**). The position in which a believer is to stand is in (e´n) Christ, in (e´n) the spirit realm. Therefore, the Good News message is that those who have been born by the life and Spirit of Christ are spiritually protected by the armor of God, Jesus Christ.
Next week we will study the biblical teaching of overcoming evil.*EN is the English font spelling of the Greek word e´n.
**English pronunciation of vowel sounds & accented syllables: āle, ăm, fäther; ēve, ĕnd; īce, ǐll; ōld, ǒdd, whö; oi as in oil; ow as in cow; ūse, ŭp, rüde. Bold type indicates an accented syllable.
Author's Bio:Bill Klein has been a pastor, counselor, and educator for the past 36 years. He has had extensive training and education in biblical languages, and has authored a Biblical Greek course. He is currently serving as Professor of Biblical Greek at Master's Graduate School of Divinity, and president of BTE Ministries - The Bible Translation and Exegesis Institute of America, a non-profit organization located in California that provides Bible study tapes and Greek study materials through their website BTEMinistries.org.
Copyright Statement: 'Greek Thoughts' Copyright 2003-2009 © Bill Klein. 'Greek Thoughts' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each article, along with a link to www.studylight.org/col/ht/ 2) 'Greek Thoughts' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.
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EN* - In
Please note that all Biblical quotes, in this and all other lessons posted to Greek Thoughts, are from The Literal English Translation of the Bible produced by BTE Ministries - The Bible Translation and Exegesis Institute of America.
This week we are studying the fourth word in our series of studies relating to the believer's battle with the attacks of Satan. We first considered the verb diw/kw (Strong's #1377, pronounced dē ō kō**), meaning "to pursue" or "to chase." It is from diw/kw that we developed an understanding of the first principle relating to dealing with evil forces in the spirit realm: Satan (the devil) is only able to chase or pursue those who are in Christ; but he is unable to spiritually overtake them, since the Spirit of Christ resides within their souls (spirits) thereby sealing them—making them spiritually impenetrable (see Ephesians 1:13). Because only the flesh is left exposed, Satan attacks here, in an attempt to chase believers. His desire is to continually divert their thoughts and emotions away from God.
We next considered the word a´nqi/sthmi (Strong's #436, pronounced än thēs tā mē**), which means "to resist" or "to oppose." It holds the concept of our second principle—that the plan of God for each believer is revealed as he or she resists the devil's attacks. Believers are to resist Satan while resting in the finished work of Christ. This, of course, is the opposite of what Man would implement– which would be to fight Satan in an attempt to chase him away.Last week we studied the word ièsthmi (Strong's #2476, pronounced hē stā mē**), which means "to stand, set or place." It reveals the third principle involved in comprehending how believers are to respond to Satan's attacks, in that it brings to light the purpose God has for believers in resisting Satan. God's designed plan for Christians is that we resist Satan's attempts to chase us, and the purpose for this is that of being able to stand in a one-place position.
In this week's study our attention is focused on the place in which believers stand. Our word of study is the preposition e´n (Strong's #1722, pronounced ĕn**), which is translated "in" and represents a position or location. We will again be looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians, noting that its theme is "In Christ." Paul has this letter distributed to all of the churches, in order for believers to understand their position within the spirit realm. This is one of the most misunderstood truths of the Christian faith, because Satan works through the physical realm to try to convince believers that their spiritual condition is based upon their physical circumstances and feelings. In contrast, Paul writes that everyone who has received Christ has the Christ living within them and that they are positioned in Christ in the spirit realm. Ephesians 1:3) Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the One who has blessed us in (e´n) every spiritual blessing, in (e´n) the spirit realm, in (e´n) Christ.
The aorist participial form of euÌloge/w (Strong's #2127, pronounced ū lō gĕ ō**), which means "to bless," indicates that God's blessing upon us has already been given at a time in the past (which would be at salvation). The use of "in (e´n)" tells us the location in which He has blessed us – "in (e´n) every spiritual blessing." This tells us that we are positioned in every – not some – spiritual blessing from God.
Paul then tells us that every spiritual blessing is located "in (e´n) the spirit realm." The traditionally used word "heavenlies" is a translation of the Greek word eÌpoura/niov (Strong's #2032, pronounced ĕ pö rä nē ōs**), which literally means "the spirit realm." So our blessings are found in every spiritual blessing and are located in the spirit realm. Next Paul gives us the exact location of our blessings in the spirit realm: "in Christ." The location of our blessings is spiritual, in the spirit realm, specifically in Christ.
Ephesians 1:20-21) which He worked in (e´n) Christ, having raised Him from out of the dead, and seated Him in (e´n) His right hand in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov),
21)
above every ruler, and authority, and power, and lordship, and every name being named, not only in this age, but also in the one being about to come;Our consideration now is to understand the position of Christ within the spirit realm. In verses 20,21, Paul presents the power of God having first said, in verse 20, that it is the same power that worked in Christ when He raised Him from out of the dead and seated Him "in (e´n) His right hand in (e´n) the spirit realm." These verses tell us that God raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in (e´n) the right of the throne of God in (e´n) the spirit realm. Verse 21 reveals even more about the surpassing power of God and the spirit realm. In it we see that Christ is seated in (e´n) the right of the throne of God, "above every ruler, authority, and power, and lordship, and every name being named, not only in this age, but also in the one being about to come."
From a study of Ephesians 3:9-10 and Ephesians 6:11-12,we can identify the rulers, authorities, powers, and lordships referred to in Ephesians 1:20-21.
Ephesians 3:9-10) and to enlighten everyone as to what is the fellowship of the mystery, the one which has been hidden from the ages in (e´n) God, the One who has created all things through Jesus Christ,
10)
in order that might be made known now to the rulers and the authorities in the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov) - through the church - the manifold wisdom of God.In Ephesians 3:9, Paul expresses that it is God's desire to enlighten everyone about the "fellowship of the mystery" which has been hidden in ages past in (e´n) God who created all things through Christ. The next verse is connected to this one by the phrase "in order that" and presents the purpose for God's desire to enlighten everyone about this mystery– …to make known the manifold wisdom of God through the church to "the rulers and the authorities in the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov)." Here Paul reveals that the rulers and authorities are ranks of spirit beings in the spirit realm; but he defines them more specifically in Ephesians 6:11-12.
Ephesians 6:11-12) Put on the full armor of God, for you to be able to stand against the methods of the devil;
12)
because the wrestling for us is not against blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces of evil in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov).In Paul's conclusion to this letter, he emphasizes the absolute necessity of putting on the full armor of God, in order to have the ability to stand against the continuous attacks of the devil. He gives the reason for this in verse 12: because our wrestling "is not against blood and flesh, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the world rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces of evil in the spirit realm." Paul is teaching that Christians wrestle and struggle against the spiritual forces of evil "in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov)." In verse 12, he defines the spiritual forces of evil as ranks of rulers and authorities and world rulers "of the darkness of this age."
Therefore, since Christ is seated in (e´n) the right hand of God in (e´n) the spirit realm, as we see in Ephesians 1:20-21, He is seated far above all the forces of evil that inhabit and operate in the spirit realm. Understanding this positioning of Christ is foundational to understanding the position of believers, especially as it relates to responding to Satan's attacks.Ephesians 2:5-6) and while we being dead in trespasses, He made us alive together in (e´n) Christ (by grace you are having been saved);
6)
and raised us up together, and seated us together in (e´n) the spirit realm (eÌpoura/niov) in (e´n) Christ Jesus.In Ephesians 2:5-6, Paul uses resurrection terminology to describe the salvation experience. He writes that God makes people, who are dead in trespasses, alive together in (e´n) Christ, raises them up together, and seats them together in (e´n) the spirit realm in (e´n) Christ Jesus. This teaches us that three things happen in the salvation experience: First, a person is made alive in (e´n) the life of Christ being born within; Second, a person is raised from out of the spiritual dead; Third, a person is seated – at the time of salvation – in (e´n) the spirit realm, specifically in (e´n) Christ Jesus.
This is the great teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ that has been hidden in ages past and is still a mystery to many believers: When Jesus Christ was raised from out of the dead, He was exalted above every spiritual force, whether good or evil, and every name being named, both now and in the coming age. He is now seated in (e´n) the right hand of the throne of God far above the ranks of evil spiritual forces in the spirit realm; and once a person is born of the Spirit of Christ, that believer is then in a spiritual position of being seated in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm. "In (e´n) Christ Jesus" is the present and continuous spiritual position of every believer.
With an understanding of this basic fundamental truth, we can better comprehend our part in the battle against Satan's attacks. Since believers are already in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm, Satan attempts to chase them by using elements of the physical realm, in order to make them feel that they are under attack and must run. Satan's ultimate goal is to make believers think that they are not in a spiritual position of safety, but are rather in a position of vulnerability where Satan must be fought with every ounce of effort and attention. The Bible, however, establishes that believers are spiritually positioned in (e´n) Christ in (e´n) the spirit realm, and this is the reason that God's plan for them is to "resist" aÌnqi/sthmi (Strong's #436, pronounced än thēs tā mē**), in order that they can "stand" ièsthmi (Strong's #2476, pronounced hē stā mē**). The position in which a believer is to stand is in (e´n) Christ, in (e´n) the spirit realm. Therefore, the Good News message is that those who have been born by the life and Spirit of Christ are spiritually protected by the armor of God, Jesus Christ.
Next week we will study the biblical teaching of overcoming evil.*EN is the English font spelling of the Greek word e´n.
**English pronunciation of vowel sounds & accented syllables: āle, ăm, fäther; ēve, ĕnd; īce, ǐll; ōld, ǒdd, whö; oi as in oil; ow as in cow; ūse, ŭp, rüde. Bold type indicates an accented syllable.
Author's Bio:Bill Klein has been a pastor, counselor, and educator for the past 36 years. He has had extensive training and education in biblical languages, and has authored a Biblical Greek course. He is currently serving as Professor of Biblical Greek at Master's Graduate School of Divinity, and president of BTE Ministries - The Bible Translation and Exegesis Institute of America, a non-profit organization located in California that provides Bible study tapes and Greek study materials through their website BTEMinistries.org.
Copyright Statement: 'Greek Thoughts' Copyright 2003-2009 © Bill Klein. 'Greek Thoughts' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each article, along with a link to www.studylight.org/col/ht/ 2) 'Greek Thoughts' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.
To unsubscribe, go to http://lists.studylight.org/ and follow the instructions. Make sure the email address you use in the process is the same one you used when subscribing.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Happy are the doers...
In the Book of John chapter 13 verse 17 Jesus sneaks in a lot of wisdom in just a few short words. He said, If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
He didn't say happy are you if you know them. He said happy are you if you do them. There are a lot of people in this world that knows the Bible from front to back but doesn't practice it. Knowing the Bible will not make you happy. Listening to the Word all day long, whether it be christian television, teaching cd's, or going to church 7 days a week will not make you happy. No, you must DO what it says. I am amazed at the number of people who say they believe in tithing yet they don't tithe. You may know it is Biblical to tithe, but if you don't tithe don't expect God to open the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing.
Be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22
He didn't say happy are you if you know them. He said happy are you if you do them. There are a lot of people in this world that knows the Bible from front to back but doesn't practice it. Knowing the Bible will not make you happy. Listening to the Word all day long, whether it be christian television, teaching cd's, or going to church 7 days a week will not make you happy. No, you must DO what it says. I am amazed at the number of people who say they believe in tithing yet they don't tithe. You may know it is Biblical to tithe, but if you don't tithe don't expect God to open the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing.
Be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22
Monday, April 27, 2009
I Give Thee Humble Thanks...
For all the gifts that Thou dost send,
For every kind and loyal friend,
For prompt supply of all my need,
For all that's good in word or deed,
For gift of health along life's way,
For strength to work from day to day,
I give Thee humble thanks.
For ready hands to help and cheer,
For listening ears Thy voice to hear,
For yielded tongue Thy love to talk,
For willing feet Thy paths to walk,
For open eyes Thy Word to read,
For loving heart Thy will to heed,
I give Thee humble thanks.
For Christ who came from Heaven above,
For the Cross and His redeeming love,
For His mighty power to seek and save,
For His glorious triumph o'ver the grave,
For the lovely mansions in the sky,
For His blessed coming by-and-by,
I give Thee humble thanks.
-Clifford Lewis
For every kind and loyal friend,
For prompt supply of all my need,
For all that's good in word or deed,
For gift of health along life's way,
For strength to work from day to day,
I give Thee humble thanks.
For ready hands to help and cheer,
For listening ears Thy voice to hear,
For yielded tongue Thy love to talk,
For willing feet Thy paths to walk,
For open eyes Thy Word to read,
For loving heart Thy will to heed,
I give Thee humble thanks.
For Christ who came from Heaven above,
For the Cross and His redeeming love,
For His mighty power to seek and save,
For His glorious triumph o'ver the grave,
For the lovely mansions in the sky,
For His blessed coming by-and-by,
I give Thee humble thanks.
-Clifford Lewis
Saturday, April 25, 2009
A Monkey's Viewpoint...
Three monkeys dining in a coconut tree
Were discussing something they thought shouldn't be,
Said one to the others,
"Now, listen, you two-Here monkeys,
is something that cannot be true:
"That humans descend from our noble race!
Why, it's shocking- a terrible disgrace!
Whoever heard of a monkey deserting his wife;
Leaving a baby to starve; maybe ruin its life?"
And have you ever known of a mother monk
To leave her darling with strangers to bunk?
Human babies are handed from one to another
And some scarcely know the love of a mother.
"I've never known a monkey so selfish to be
As to build a fence 'round a coconut tree
So other monkeys couldn't get a wee taste
While bushels of coconuts were going to waste.
"Why, if I'd put a fence 'round this coconut tree,
Starvation would force you to steal food from me.
And here is another thing a monkey won't do:
Seek a cocktail parlor and get on a stew;
"Carouse on a whoopee, disgracing his life,
Then reel madly home and beat up his wife.
Some humans think it fun-they fuss and theycuss-
They've descended from something, but it can'tbe from us."
-Anonymous
Were discussing something they thought shouldn't be,
Said one to the others,
"Now, listen, you two-Here monkeys,
is something that cannot be true:
"That humans descend from our noble race!
Why, it's shocking- a terrible disgrace!
Whoever heard of a monkey deserting his wife;
Leaving a baby to starve; maybe ruin its life?"
And have you ever known of a mother monk
To leave her darling with strangers to bunk?
Human babies are handed from one to another
And some scarcely know the love of a mother.
"I've never known a monkey so selfish to be
As to build a fence 'round a coconut tree
So other monkeys couldn't get a wee taste
While bushels of coconuts were going to waste.
"Why, if I'd put a fence 'round this coconut tree,
Starvation would force you to steal food from me.
And here is another thing a monkey won't do:
Seek a cocktail parlor and get on a stew;
"Carouse on a whoopee, disgracing his life,
Then reel madly home and beat up his wife.
Some humans think it fun-they fuss and theycuss-
They've descended from something, but it can'tbe from us."
-Anonymous
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sitting at His Feet...
"So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah" (Ruth 2:17-18).
The story of Ruth provides an excellent illustration of the connection between spending time in the presence of God and receiving physical provision. Naomi was married to Elimelech. They had two married sons. Elimelech died and ten years later both of the sons also died. Ruth was married to one of the sons.
The other daughter-in-law moved back to her family, but Ruth, in spite of Naomi's encouragement, insisted on staying with Naomi. The only way for the family line to continue would have been for Ruth to marry another son or direct relative. Now, through a custom known as the kinsman redeemer, Ruth could be married to a relative in the family line. Times were tough and most people made a living by farming. Naomi had a relative named Boaz who was a prominent land owner and farmer. She sent Ruth to glean in the fields of Boaz all day in hopes of picking up excess grain left behind by the harvesters.
Ruth stayed in the fields all day and yielded just one ephah of grain. It is a picture of sweat and toil for very little return. However, something happens later in the story. Naomi realized the only way Ruth was going to have any kind of future is if a kinsman redeemer came to her rescue. She instructed Ruth to go to the threshing floor where Boaz would be and to quietly sit at the feet of Boaz all night. This would be a sign of submitting her life to Boaz. He would have to exercise his right to be her kinsmen redeemer.
Later, Boaz sends Ruth home and takes the necessary steps to become her redeemer. But before he sends her home, he gives her six ephahs of barley - six times what she got spending all day in the fields.
Friend, if we are going to succeed in fulfilling God's destiny for our lives, we must have a life of intimate worship and devotion to Jesus. Why not start spending more time at the feet of Jesus.
-Os Hillman
The story of Ruth provides an excellent illustration of the connection between spending time in the presence of God and receiving physical provision. Naomi was married to Elimelech. They had two married sons. Elimelech died and ten years later both of the sons also died. Ruth was married to one of the sons.
The other daughter-in-law moved back to her family, but Ruth, in spite of Naomi's encouragement, insisted on staying with Naomi. The only way for the family line to continue would have been for Ruth to marry another son or direct relative. Now, through a custom known as the kinsman redeemer, Ruth could be married to a relative in the family line. Times were tough and most people made a living by farming. Naomi had a relative named Boaz who was a prominent land owner and farmer. She sent Ruth to glean in the fields of Boaz all day in hopes of picking up excess grain left behind by the harvesters.
Ruth stayed in the fields all day and yielded just one ephah of grain. It is a picture of sweat and toil for very little return. However, something happens later in the story. Naomi realized the only way Ruth was going to have any kind of future is if a kinsman redeemer came to her rescue. She instructed Ruth to go to the threshing floor where Boaz would be and to quietly sit at the feet of Boaz all night. This would be a sign of submitting her life to Boaz. He would have to exercise his right to be her kinsmen redeemer.
Later, Boaz sends Ruth home and takes the necessary steps to become her redeemer. But before he sends her home, he gives her six ephahs of barley - six times what she got spending all day in the fields.
Friend, if we are going to succeed in fulfilling God's destiny for our lives, we must have a life of intimate worship and devotion to Jesus. Why not start spending more time at the feet of Jesus.
-Os Hillman
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Daily Bread...
Losing Your Life for His Purposes...TGIF, Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Saturday, April 18 2009
"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will save it." - Luke 9:24
When the time came for God to fulfill Joseph's dreams, Joseph himself had virtually no interest at all in it. Jesus said, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will save it" (Lk. 9:24). God wants to teach us a different set of values so that the kind of thing we start out wanting becomes secondary. God has something in mind for us that is far greater than the interest we began with.
Joseph's day of exaltation had arrived. Yet, through it all, a very real humiliation had to take place. We know about the humiliation Joseph had experienced for 13 years after being sold by his brothers into slavery, then taken to Egypt. We know how he was falsely accused and cast into prison.
Then came a different situation. Joseph had had a triumph and was given an exaltation, but the kind he really never asked for. He did not appear to be all that interested in what was about to happen. He watched as the Pharaoh took his ring off his finger and put it on Joseph's finger. Joseph never asked for that. All he wanted was to go home. He longed to go back to Canaan, to see his father, and to have his dreams fulfilled.
Therefore, here we find an extraordinary incongruity: a humiliation in the heart of vindication. A triumph that was the opposite of everything he, himself, could have envisaged. Joseph wanted to go home, but a one-way ticket to Canaan wasn't available. Before he knew it, he had Egypt in his hip pocket. He had never prayed for that. But God wanted Egypt. What God wanted is what Joseph got.
Joseph was given something that he could be trusted with because it didn't mean that much to him.
Saturday, April 18 2009
"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will save it." - Luke 9:24
When the time came for God to fulfill Joseph's dreams, Joseph himself had virtually no interest at all in it. Jesus said, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will save it" (Lk. 9:24). God wants to teach us a different set of values so that the kind of thing we start out wanting becomes secondary. God has something in mind for us that is far greater than the interest we began with.
Joseph's day of exaltation had arrived. Yet, through it all, a very real humiliation had to take place. We know about the humiliation Joseph had experienced for 13 years after being sold by his brothers into slavery, then taken to Egypt. We know how he was falsely accused and cast into prison.
Then came a different situation. Joseph had had a triumph and was given an exaltation, but the kind he really never asked for. He did not appear to be all that interested in what was about to happen. He watched as the Pharaoh took his ring off his finger and put it on Joseph's finger. Joseph never asked for that. All he wanted was to go home. He longed to go back to Canaan, to see his father, and to have his dreams fulfilled.
Therefore, here we find an extraordinary incongruity: a humiliation in the heart of vindication. A triumph that was the opposite of everything he, himself, could have envisaged. Joseph wanted to go home, but a one-way ticket to Canaan wasn't available. Before he knew it, he had Egypt in his hip pocket. He had never prayed for that. But God wanted Egypt. What God wanted is what Joseph got.
Joseph was given something that he could be trusted with because it didn't mean that much to him.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Remember This...
If it's free, it's advice.
If you have to pay for it, it's counseling.
If you can use either one, it's a miracle!
-Barbara Johnson, Author
If you have to pay for it, it's counseling.
If you can use either one, it's a miracle!
-Barbara Johnson, Author
Sunday, April 12, 2009
The Owners Manual...
I borrowed this from a fellow blogger, I hope they don't mind.
Years ago a young man was stopped by the side of the road with the hood of his Model T Ford raised up, trying to figure out how to get it started again. While he was bent over the motor a limousine pulled up behind him, and out stepped a well-dressed man. "Can I help you with that?" the stranger asked. "Nah....I'm just tinkering around 'till I get it fixed. I think I can handle it, thanks."After watching the young man for a few minutes the stranger offered a couple of suggestions: "You know, you might try jigging that thing right there, and then crank up the engine again." Frustrated that he hadn't figured it out for himself the young man snorted, "Fine", and gave it a whirl. To his surprise the motor roared to life again."Wow. How'd you know to finagle that thing?"Reaching his hand out the stranger said, "My name is Henry Ford, son, and I designed and built that thing."You know, friends, life is like a Model T. God has designed and built it for us to use and run at peak perfection, but sometimes things break down, and we can be as stubborn as the young man by the side of the road: "I think I can fix it on my own, thanks."But why not go straight to the Designer and His Owner's Manual for our fix-it advice? He knows better than any of us what needs to be jigged and tweaked.
Ps 139:13-24"For You formed my inward parts;You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in secret and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed and in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;When I awake, I am still with You.Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties, and see if there is any wicked way in me..... and lead me in the way everlasting.
Years ago a young man was stopped by the side of the road with the hood of his Model T Ford raised up, trying to figure out how to get it started again. While he was bent over the motor a limousine pulled up behind him, and out stepped a well-dressed man. "Can I help you with that?" the stranger asked. "Nah....I'm just tinkering around 'till I get it fixed. I think I can handle it, thanks."After watching the young man for a few minutes the stranger offered a couple of suggestions: "You know, you might try jigging that thing right there, and then crank up the engine again." Frustrated that he hadn't figured it out for himself the young man snorted, "Fine", and gave it a whirl. To his surprise the motor roared to life again."Wow. How'd you know to finagle that thing?"Reaching his hand out the stranger said, "My name is Henry Ford, son, and I designed and built that thing."You know, friends, life is like a Model T. God has designed and built it for us to use and run at peak perfection, but sometimes things break down, and we can be as stubborn as the young man by the side of the road: "I think I can fix it on my own, thanks."But why not go straight to the Designer and His Owner's Manual for our fix-it advice? He knows better than any of us what needs to be jigged and tweaked.
Ps 139:13-24"For You formed my inward parts;You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in secret and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed and in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;When I awake, I am still with You.Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties, and see if there is any wicked way in me..... and lead me in the way everlasting.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
The Dangers of Overcontrol...
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os HillmanSaturday, April 04 2009
"For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He has rejected you as king." - 1 Samuel 15:23
A friend of mine who is a jet pilot once told me that whenever a jet goes out of control and begins to spin, the only thing to do is totally take your hands off the controls and the plane will right itself. This goes against our natural inclination to control and manipulate in order to bring things back under control. It is scary to be out of control. Or is it?
Saul was a man out of control. He was losing control of his kingdom to David. He was losing the favor of God and the people. It began as compromises. Eventually he was given a final test to obey the voice of God fully. He was instructed to kill the Amalekites completely; but he failed to follow through. The prophet Samuel delivered a hard word to King Saul, "Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He has rejected you as king" (see 1 Sam. 15:26). Saul obeyed partially, but not fully. It was partial obedience that led to his removal as king of Israel and his calling from God. But why did Saul do such a thing? "I was afraid of the people and so I gave in to them" (1 Sam. 15:24b). Saul's fear and insecurity made him more afraid of the people and what they thought than of God. At the core of Saul's disobedience was fear of losing control. That fear of losing control led to partial obedience and the loss of his reign as king.
How many of us are in danger of losing God's blessing due to partial obedience? How many of us have such a need to control people and circumstances that we fail to fully walk in obedience to God's voice in our lives? Saul provides a great lesson for us as workplace believers. The need to overcontrol things around us can prevent us from receiving all that God has for us. Today, take an inventory of your control quotient.
Ask God if you are being fully obedient to what He has called you to do this day, and avoid being put on the shelf for disobedience. "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams" (1 Sam. 15:22b).
"For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He has rejected you as king." - 1 Samuel 15:23
A friend of mine who is a jet pilot once told me that whenever a jet goes out of control and begins to spin, the only thing to do is totally take your hands off the controls and the plane will right itself. This goes against our natural inclination to control and manipulate in order to bring things back under control. It is scary to be out of control. Or is it?
Saul was a man out of control. He was losing control of his kingdom to David. He was losing the favor of God and the people. It began as compromises. Eventually he was given a final test to obey the voice of God fully. He was instructed to kill the Amalekites completely; but he failed to follow through. The prophet Samuel delivered a hard word to King Saul, "Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He has rejected you as king" (see 1 Sam. 15:26). Saul obeyed partially, but not fully. It was partial obedience that led to his removal as king of Israel and his calling from God. But why did Saul do such a thing? "I was afraid of the people and so I gave in to them" (1 Sam. 15:24b). Saul's fear and insecurity made him more afraid of the people and what they thought than of God. At the core of Saul's disobedience was fear of losing control. That fear of losing control led to partial obedience and the loss of his reign as king.
How many of us are in danger of losing God's blessing due to partial obedience? How many of us have such a need to control people and circumstances that we fail to fully walk in obedience to God's voice in our lives? Saul provides a great lesson for us as workplace believers. The need to overcontrol things around us can prevent us from receiving all that God has for us. Today, take an inventory of your control quotient.
Ask God if you are being fully obedient to what He has called you to do this day, and avoid being put on the shelf for disobedience. "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams" (1 Sam. 15:22b).
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