God Hates Fake Stuff.

God Hates Fake Stuff - (from walk in the word ministries)

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:1-4

Everybody hates a fake.

My wife is so tricky sometimes! She puts out all this counterfeit fruit in bowls in our kitchen and I get so confused. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve picked up a great looking pear and almost broken my tooth when I tried to bite into it! How worthless is that? I hope you don’t have fake fruit at your house.

I also hate fake grass. Football should be played on real turf.

I hate fake laugh tracks on TV shows. What?-is the comedy so bad that it needs canned laughter?

I just hate fake stuff.

God hates fake stuff, too. Not so much the surfacey, silly things that bother me-God hates soul fakeness. He detests the gap in our lives between what we know to be true and how we’re living it. The biblical term is hypocrisy.

There should be some kind of alarm that’s goes off in your heart when there’s a substantive gap between what you say and what you do; between what you profess and what you actually live; between the appearances that you keep up at church in front of other people and what it’s really like at your house. God hates that phoniness. That’s why Jesus says, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them” (Matthew 6:1).

People will see you live your life; that’s not the problem. You don’t have to keep secret the fact that you go to church, or raise your hands in worship or get on your knees to pray, or open your written-in Bible. But when you do all those things so that people will see you-that is a problem. Doing-spiritual-things-so-other-people-notice goes right to motive. If you’re acting godly with the desire to get attention or affirmation or strokes from folks-you just got all the reward you deserve and lost God’s approval in the process.

So this begs the question, “Why is hypocrisy such a hard thing to shake?”

It’s because of the weight you and I put on people’s opinions of us rather than feeling the weight of what God thinks of us.

The solution: Don’t do anything “to be seen.” Have a better, more pure reason to do whatever it is you choose to do for God. Anything less than pleasing Him will only get you canned applause.

Thoughts on Fasting.

Today I spoke at a local Christian school during their Spiritual Emphasis Week. They evidently have been concentrating on the Spiritual Disciplines. My topic was Fasting. I chose Matthew 6:16-18 for my text. My intent was to share what fasting was, the motives for fasting and then some practical tips on fasting both food and "non-food" items. I prepared a hand-out due the sheer volume of material that I in no way could cover. I think it was well received. A staff member challenged the teens to commit to fasting and while some music played, called for them to come and fill out a sheet of paper to help them focus on why they would fast. I kept my head bowed and prayed that God would move in their hearts. I have no idea what the response was, although I heard teens moving around. My prayer is that God becomes very real to them during this time.

As I got in my car and headed to the house to pick my wife up for a date, a thought struck me: We are always fasting - whether we acknowledge it or not. What do I mean by that? A passionate Christian will incorporate fasting into their life so that they sacrifice something meaningful to focus intently on what is really important to them: Jesus Christ. However, the same is true for those who are worldly. They simply sacrifice a relationship with Christ (even as Christians) for the purpose of focusing intently on what is really important to them: _________. So while we may not teach on fasting all that much, or practice it as often as we'd like, we all do fast in some way each and every day. Question is: what are you fasting from and what are you fasting for?

Today I took my wife and two youngest children to the Great Wall Chinese restaurant in Warsaw. They have the best food at the best prices in town! This is an incredible restaurant - if you are local, you should try it out!!

As I sit here and type, I am having trouble concentrating. My coffee from my early appointment (6am) has worn off and dinner is making me sleepy. I am heading down to the kitchen here at church to brew a pot of java. Sadly it will only be Fogers regular grind or something along those lines. But it will do in a pinch!!

Big snow storm headed our way tonight. I'm taking work home in case I get snowed in. 6-10 inches - we'll see what happens!

Happiness & Wisdom: inexplicably intertwined.

Can I count on you to either: 1) click this link which contains our text, or (2) read Proverbs 8:20-36 from your own personal copy of Scripture? To post it all here would be lengthy, and perhaps unnecessary. Cool - now, let's discuss it.

We jump in the middle of chapter 8 and right in the middle of a conversation that Wisdom is having. It's impolite, but this will be beneficial, I'm sure! Do you see where Wisdom is gained - where you actually can find it? It's there in the first phrase: "...in the way of righteousness..." You will only find Wisdom when you are living rightly. Isn't it amazing that we think we can live any way we'd like and expect that God will still give us Wisdom at a moment's notice? Kinda ties in with James 1 doesn't it? Why would anyone who is double minded in that way expect to experience the blessings of Wisdom?

The blessings: Yes, they are manifold. From literal, practical items needed in life spreading out to all the spiritual ramifications of having Wisdom - they are all benefits of those pursuing her.

Happiness? You want happiness too? You'll find it in close proximity of Wisdom. Blessed = those who keep My ways (Wisdom) and Blessed = the man who listens to Me (Wisdom). Wisdom is the happiness source. Got Wisdom? Have Happiness.

There are some consequences of choice at the end of this passage by the way. v.36: Find Wisdom = life and favor of the LORD. v.37: Sin against Wisdom = injury to self & death. You do choose, each and every day. Did you know that the ramifications were that intense?

totally unrelated news:

Yesterday I spackled (I love that word) some cracks in the walls in the kitchen (from the house settling). I also cleaned, scraped and painted our entryway into the basement. Sometime this week I will add another coat. I am reminded again of how cheap it is to brighten an area with a fresh coat of paint.

I still have some Gevalia on eBay - although I haven't started any new auctions. :(

I am enjoying what may be my very last free McDonald's sweet tea. Today is that last Tuesday in January and from now on they won't be free. Decent enough beverage for the price you pay.

Dallas Brass...

So a very short entry today:

My wife and I had the extreme pleasure to watch our middle son, Patrick, play with the Dallas Brass. These guys are highly entertaining and worth every cent to see! I have to admit that prior to going I thought it would be another one of "those" concerts that you'd have to just force yourself to sit through. Boy, was I wrong. These guys are very interactive and are very energetic. I'll try and add a clip from youtube and some pics - but check out their site... they are worth listening to.

Embracing the Difficulties for the Progress of the Gospel

The text:
Philippians 1:12-14
Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.

I remember the first time this really dawned on me what Paul was saying. I was about to go to a home to speak with both parents and teen about a rough time they were going through. I was reading the book of Philippians that day in personal study. Then I saw it. Did you? The Apostle Paul, imprisoned, was rejoicing that the gospel was progressing because of his imprisonment.

What? Where is Paul praying to be released? Where is Paul seeking God's face to comfort him? Where is Paul begging God to allow him freedom once more to be more effective in his ministry? Why isn't Paul seeking release from the circumstances?

It dawned on me. Paul had figured it out. He knew that God would allow certain uncomfortable things to come in our lives, so that God would: 1) receive glory, (2) His gospel would progress, (3) the world would see it [the whole Praetorian guard] and (4) believers would be embolden by it [most of the brethern...have far more courage to speak]. So what it would boil down to would be whether I would begin to notice the 'difficulties' in life in such a way that I would pray that God would, (not release me from the circumstances), but rather, allow the circumstances to unfold in such a way that He would receive glory. I would pray that I would respond in such a way that the gospel of God would progress...that the world would be changed, and my brothers and sisters in Christ would become even more bold in their ministries.

That is a huge paradigm shift for not only the culture in which we live, but for the Western church.

One of my memory goals for this year is to memorize Ephesians. My goal for January is to have vv.1-12 down pat. I am actually ahead of schedule and have up to v.14 almost word for word. However, my translation of Ephesians is faltering. For some reason I cannot keep it going - even though I love doing it. Pray for me. I want to accomplish this. Goals without accountability are bound to fail.

I just finished listening to an audio-book entitled, 13 Cent Killers: The 5th Marine Snipers in Vietnam. It was my first audio-book. I am unsure that I like audio-books. I have to really concentrate on what is being said, or I find myself drifting off into thinking of other things. I love history, especially military history, and this was an interesting 'read'. It wasn't outstanding, but if you like this sort of thing it would be worth checking out of a library. I wouldn't necessarily buy it.

Believe it or not, I am actually trying to sell some of my Limited Edition Gevalia coffees. I have too many for personal consumption and need to jettison some from my cupboard. If you're interested, go to eBay and search under my username: grizzlie101. I currently only have two boxes up, but will be posting more soon.

Speaking of java, I haven't had any today and it's getting close to 11:00. All I have had is a McD's sweet tea - and that is weak. But I was out and about and had to get something. So, I am off to create some coffee delight. God bless, hope your weekend is a good one.

Al, did you read the entire post?

How to Spend the Day with God - Richard Baxter

adapted and updated from Richard Baxter (1615-1691) by Matthew Vogan (original)

A holy life is inclined to be made easier when we know the usual sequence and method of our duties - with everything falling into its proper place. Therefore, I shall give some brief directions for spending the day in a holy manner.

Sleep

Measure the time of your sleep appropriately so that you do not waste your precious morning hours sluggishly in your bed. Let the time of your sleep be matched to your health and labour, and not to slothful pleasure.

First Thoughts

Let God have your first awaking thoughts; lift up your hearts to Him reverently and thankfully for the rest enjoyed the night before and cast yourself upon Him for the day which follows.

Familiarise yourself so consistently to this that your conscience may check you when common thoughts shall first intrude. Think of the mercy of a night's rest and of how many that have spent that night in Hell; how many in prison; how many in cold, hard lodgings; how many suffering from agonising pains and sickness, weary of their beds and of their lives.

Think of how many souls were that night called from their bodies terrifyingly to appear before God and think how quickly days and nights are rolling on! How speedily your last night and day will come! Observe that which is lacking in the preparedness of your soul for such a time and seek it without delay.

Prayer

Let prayer by yourself alone (or with your partner) take place before the collective prayer of the family. If possible let it be first, before any work of the day.

Family Worship

Let family worship be performed consistently and at a time when it is most likely for the family to be free of interruptions.

Ultimate Purpose

Remember your ultimate purpose, and when you set yourself to your day's work or approach any activity in the world, let HOLINESS TO THE LORD be written upon your hearts in all that you do.

Do no activity which you cannot entitle God to, and truly say that he set you about it, and do nothing in the world for any other ultimate purpose than to please, glorify and enjoy Him. "Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31.

Diligence in Your Calling

Follow the tasks of your calling carefully and diligently. Thus:

(a) You will show that you are not sluggish and servants to your flesh (as those that cannot deny it ease), and you will further the putting to death of all the fleshly lusts and desires that are fed by ease and idleness.
(b) You will keep out idle thoughts from your mind, that swarm in the minds of idle persons.
(c) You will not lose precious time, something that idle persons are daily guilty of.
(d) You will be in a way of obedience to God when the slothful are in constant sins of omission.
(e) You may have more time to spend in holy duties if you follow your occupation diligently. Idle persons have no time for praying and reading because they lose time by loitering at their work.
(f) You may expect God's blessing and comfortable provision for both yourself and your families.
(g) it may also encourage the health of your body which will increase its competence for the service of your soul.

Temptations and Things That Corrupt

Be thoroughly acquainted with your temptations and the things that may corrupt you - and watch against them all day long. You should watch especially the most dangerous of the things that corrupt, and those temptations that either your company or business will unavoidably lay before you.

Watch against the master sins of unbelief: hypocrisy, selfishness, pride, flesh pleasing and the excessive love of earthly things. Take care against being drawn into earthly mindedness and excessive cares, or covetous designs for rising in the world, under the pretence of diligence in your calling.

If you are to trade or deal with others, be vigilant against selfishness and all that smacks of injustice or uncharitableness. In all your dealings with others, watch against the temptation of empty and idle talking. Watch also against those persons who would tempt you to anger. Maintain that modesty and cleanness of speech that the laws of purity require. If you converse with flatterers, be on your guard against swelling pride.

If you converse with those that despise and injure you, strengthen yourself against impatient, revengeful pride.

At first these things will be very difficult, while sin has any strength in you, but once you have grasped a continual awareness of the poisonous danger of any one of these sins, your heart will readily and easily avoid them.

Meditation

When alone in your occupations, improve the time in practical and beneficial meditations. Meditate upon the infinite goodness and perfections of God; Christ and redemption; Heaven and how unworthy you are of going there and how you deserve eternal misery in Hell.

The Only Motive

Whatever you are doing, in company or alone, do it all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Otherwise, it is unacceptable to God.

Redeeming The Time

Place a high value upon your time, be more careful of not losing it than you would of losing your money. Do not let worthless recreations, television, idle talk, unprofitable company, or sleep rob you of your precious time.

Be more careful to escape that person, action or course of life that would rob you of your time than you would be to escape thieves and robbers.

Make sure that you are not merely never idle, but rather that you are using your time in the most profitable way that you can and do not prefer a less profitable way before one of greater profit.

Eating and Drinking

Eat and drink with moderation and thankfulness for health, not for unprofitable pleasure. Never please your appetite in food or drink when it is prone to be detrimental to your health.

Remember the sin of Sodom: "Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food and abundance of idleness" - Ezekiel 16:49.

The Apostle Paul wept when he mentioned those "whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame -- who set their minds on earthly things, being enemies to the cross of Christ" - Philippians 3:18-19. O then do not live according to the flesh lest you die (Romans 8:13).

Prevailing Sins

If any temptation prevails against you and you fall into any sins in addition to habitual failures, immediately lament it and confess it to God; repent quickly whatever the cost. It will certainly cost you more if you continue in sin and remain unrepentant.

Do not make light of your habitual failures, but confess them and daily strive against them, taking care not to aggravate them by unrepentance and contempt.

Relationships

Remember every day the special duties of various relationships: whether as husbands, wives, children, masters, servants, pastors, people, magistrates, subjects.

Remember every relationship has its special duty and its advantage for the doing of some good. God requires your faithfulness in this matter as well as in any other duty.

Closing the Day

Before returning to sleep, it is wise and necessary to review the actions and mercies of the day past, so that you may be thankful for all the special mercies and humbled for all your sins.

This is necessary in order that you might renew your repentance as well as your resolve for obedience, and in order that you may examine yourself to see whether your soul grew better or worse, whether sin goes down and grace goes up and whether you are better prepared for suffering, death and eternity.

May these directions be engraven upon your mind and be made the daily practice of your life.

If sincerely adhered to, these will be conducive to the holiness, fruitfulness and quietness of your life and add to you a comfortable and peaceful death.

Facing the Giants (the original)...

I read this morning the familiar Bible story of David and Goliath. It is very familiar, although I do suggest you read it for yourself - just to bring to mind some of the peculiarities. Here is what I noted in my bible:

• In times of great difficulty comes added responsibilities.
• v.15 - The nation was at war. David's brothers left to go to battle. David not only had to tend to his flock, as was his usual job, but had to run back & forth from the battlefied to home, checking on his brother's and bringing them supplies, etc. When difficulties come, sometimes we have the added pressures of additional responsibilities as well.
• Not everyone gets to go to the front.
• v.15 - The place of prominence in war is the front-line. That's where the 'action' is. However, a support position is really needed as much, and sometimes it's good to remember that not everyone is going to the front, but everyone has an important job to do.
• Outward (physical) circumstances divert our eyes from spiritual realities.
• v.24 - The men of Israel were consumed with looking at the 'man'. They were frightened because they didn't take God at His word. They were 'greatly afraid' because the physical became the only thing that was tangible in their lives - the spiritual was a myth. When the spiritual reality (God's word that He would fight for them) becomes a myth, defeat is inevitable.
• Faith (taking God's Word for reality itself) accomplished in the heart, affects the actions of one's life to reflect that faith, and God receives the glory.
• vv.45-47 - David goes and 'conversates' with Goliath. He tells him that he (David) was coming to him "in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel" - hereby acknowledging his dependence on God & His word; David also states that he would kill Goliath so that "all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel" & that "the battle is the LORD's" - God receives the glory. Believe what God says, let it affect what people see in your life - so that God will receive the glory. (Matthew 5:16: "Let your light so shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven"
  

I don't know what "giants" you are facing in your life, but these principles remain true today. May God help you in your battles.

Today we have a pastoral retreat. Just the three of us on staff, going to an undisclosed location, away from all contact and concentrating on the Word, prayer and administration. I am looking forward to it.

I'm two cups of coffee into the day and it feels good! (by the way, Tuesdays are "free sweet tea" at McDonalds, and I'll be taking advantage of that!)

One last thing: I don't normally dream, but last night I had a gripping, very real dream. I had a mother come to me at a teen event, someone I had not met before, who needed help. She had a young child with her, a girl: blonde, curly hair and a smile that would knock 'em dead. This little girl was probably about 3, maybe 4. Her mother related to me that they had just discovered that this girl had cancer and asked me to pray with her. So as I began to, in my dream, we were somehow 'transported' to a Catholic church and took the communion. As I held this now limp body of the girl in my arms, (I'm not sure if she was sleeping or unconscious), I remember thinking how people were watching me because I didn't genuflect. At the end of that service, the mom disappeared and the priest brought the father to me. However, as the father of the girl explained he had to pray with the priest, he opened the door to a booth and in it lay a drunk man. The father fell across the bench next to me in anguish, sobbing because he couldn't be next to the priest while he prayed. I again was transported - (you know how dreams are) - and found myself in the emergency room of the hospital. The girl was now in their care and I was helpless as to what I could do. As I waited in the waiting area, the police came in with a group of criminals and lawyers and cleared the area so that they would have a place to process them (?). I was all but invisible to these men. I did notice one of the lawyers was an acquaintance of mine, but I couldn't interrupt. Then as I looked up, the nurses were cleaning the room in which the girl had been receiving treatment. She had died. That is when I awoke. I was disturbed, in a sense, by this dream. I recall the names of the mom and girl clearly. Very odd for someone who doesn't recall dreams much at all.

Holding Hands with God - Ps.73

Here is a small selection from my church's scheduled reading in Psalm 73. The entire chapter is very encouraging, especially to the believer who is becoming disillusioned with the 'blessings' that the world seem to always have at hand. I found this selection comforting to me:

Psalm 73:23-26
23) Nevertheless I am continually with Thee; Thou hast taken hold of my right hand. (24) With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me, And afterward receive me to glory. (25) Whom have I in heaven but Thee? And besides Thee, I desire nothing on earth. (26) My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Some thoughts from this verse that struck me:

• God never leaves us. He is continually with us. Reminds me of Hebrews 13:5, quoting Deuteronomy 31:6
• He initiated the grasp of my hand. He is in control. I can rely on Him.
• I need counsel in this life - God provides it for me and He guides me. I guess that's better then my GPS I'll be talking about here shortly.
• The best of both worlds...literally. God guides me here on earth, and then receives me to glory, where I will be with Him eternally. Awesome!
• Is there anyone else more powerful, more gracious, more merciful, more loving, more kind, more holy than my God? No. No-one in earth, or heaven. He is all I need.
• My heart's prayer is that He becomes all I desire here on earth.
• If I were to live this life in my flesh, I will fail. Miserably. However, if I rely on God and live a God-dependent life, I will prosper and succeed - for His glory!

God's word amazes me in how true to life and relevant it really is. Are you in it?

Yesterday I enjoyed a full day of worship with my 'family'. My immediate family has been able to attend only 3 of the last 7 weeks of Sunday worship at our church. Whether it was weather (snow & ice - 2 weeks) or illness or travel, we have just missed out. And I mean missed out. I love our church and its people. Yesterday as we were worshiping in song, I was once again amazed at how the words and music washed over me as I stood near the front. It was good to hear God's people lifting their voices in praise to Him.

Last night I was able to preach a 'short' sermon on Prayer from Ephesians 6:18-24. I entitled it, "Pray on my behalf...", a direct quote of Paul's. I pray that it encouraged many as it did me preparing for it. I have seen God move quite clearly in my life already this year.

Today I am planning on purchasing a birthday present for myself. It is the Garmin Nuvi 350. A really neat GPS system - my brother received one for Christmas and I was immediately enthralled with it. I am such a techie - or perhaps more accurately, a gadget-guy. I have researched this one out and think I am making the right choice for the money I have. It is a little more expensive then what I would normally spend on myself, but I have had some money come in and I think I have found a great deal. Besides, you only turn 40 once. (That's a whole different post). I know my birthday isn't until February, but c'mon, when the deal is there you have to move!

Since Mondays are my day "off", I made some scrambled eggs with Mozeralla cheese and doubled the intake of Java. Gevalia's Dark Roast again - I am nearing the bottom of this bag, so will have to move onto something else shortly.

Have a great day & inhale deeply the steam that rises from your mug!

The Pain of Perseverance and How to Avoid Apostasy: A Quick Look at 1 Timothy 4

This morning, with mug of java in hand, I sat down at my kitchen table and read 1 Timothy 4. I have always been intrigued with this passage, but today I decided to work through it in greater detail than I have in the past. These are my thoughts as I wrote them down at breakfast:

I see a warning, written by the Apostle, spoken by the Holy Spirit in vv.1-5. It is very obvious that there will be in "later times" a falling away from the faith. Supposed brothers and sisters in Christ will abandon what we hold precious and simply walk away. That is sobering and frightening. I do not want to be in that number. How does one find themselves included in the withering faith that ends in withdrawal? I think 1 Timothy lays it out pretty clearly.

• Embrace Falsehoods - v.1 - "...paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons..." There is a switch from listening and heeding Truth and being deceived into passionate pursuit of demonic lies. Unfortunately, sometimes these very well may be propagated from the pulpits in our nation, on our TV and in our hometowns.
• External Focus - v.3 - "...men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods..." Suddenly the heart is neglected (partly due to a seared conscience) and outward behavior becomes the prominent focus. Ironically these heretical claims fly in the face of the blessings of what God has given us.
  

Is there something that I can do to ensure that I do not embrace falsehoods & focus on externals? Yes. Scripture never leaves us wanting in "training in righteousness". Listed below are the preventative measures to keep oneself from falling away:

• Train in the Word & Sound Doctrine - v.6 - "...constantly nourished on the words of faith and the sound doctrine which you have been following..." The primacy of God's Word in one's life is key to persevering! That means you must be constantly in it. There is no other way. Also, listen to others that are constantly in the Word and learn from them. Don't try to re-invent the wheel in your biblical education. Read solid authors, listen to podcasts from godly teachers and pastors, tune your radios to Truth when possible. Let the water of the word wash through your mind constantly.
• Reject Falsehoods - v.7 - "...have nothing to do with worldly fables..." With a knowledge of the Word comes discernment. Discern what is right and wrong and reject the untruths held by the culture around you. This might not be a popular stance, but one that will ensure that you persevere.
• Exercise for the purpose of Godliness - v.7 - "...discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness..." It does take effort to be godly. It's not always fun and games in this process of perseverance. But it is well worth the effort! This godliness that is achieved through discipline profits us not only in the life to come, but also this life as well! (v.8) How cool is that? It's win-win for the believer in pursuit of persevering for their Lord!

What kind of intensity should be involved in our persevering? Again, the answer is found in 1 Timothy 4:

• Take pains with these things, be absorbed in them - v.15 - as we so carefully move through our study of the Word, as we allow it to work in our lives and mold our hearts, this progress will be noticed by everyone around us.
• Pay close attention to:
• Yourself - v.16 - why? So that you don't stray from the Truth. So that your heart and mind are holding to Truth.
  
• Your teaching - v.16 - why? So that you don't lead others astray. So that what pours out of your heart only encourages others in this pursuit of perseverance.

In maintaining this intensity, you will "...insure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you..."

May God help you take pains with your perseverance and avoid apostasy in your life! Study 1 Timothy 4 further - because there is sooo much more in this chapter. God bless!

Two E's in a Man's Life

I was reading in Colossians 3:16-25 today, and noticed two "E's" that a husband / father ought to pay close attention to:
1. (v.19) - for the Husbands - "...Husbands, love your wives, and do not be embittered against them..."
2. (v.21) - for the Dads - "...Fathers, do not exasperate your children, that they may not lose heart..."

Embitter & Exasperate. Just by reading these words you know they don't sound good. Let's define them:

• Embitter - to allow bitter feelings to exist; "...to excite bitter feelings in..." (Merriam-Webster's dictionary online)
• Exasperate - to cause to react in such a way that suggests acceptance of a challenge / arouse / provoke

Embitter:
What would cause me to become bitter against my wife? That sounds really harsh! It must be a common thing for husbands to experience, because the Apostle Paul addresses it. I think many times in the marriage relationship, there is frustration in the fact that the wife doesn't "think like" the husband - therefore leading to some real communication issues. Just because our spouse may be "wired differently" doesn't mean she has no valuable input. Differences in opinion may be a cause of excited bitter feelings. But I think there is more.

I think that many times husbands tend to not communicate properly and engage their wives in what they (husbands) are thinking about - and then when a decision is made, it is to the total surprise of the spouse. "Honey, look at this XBOX 360 I just bought on eBay!!!" <- for example. Then when the wife reacts with incredulity the husband becomes embittered against her for not "going along with the program", etc, etc. You know what I'm talking about if you've been married for any length of time.

Or how about the fact that you have spent the entire day at work thinking, dreaming and planning out the family vacation. Your wife is at home tending to the matters of the house. When you hit the door at 5:15p you proudly exclaim to your wife, "Honey, this year for vacation we're going ice-fishing in Alberta, CA!!" Your wife's jaw hits the floor as you explain how you've reserved the 'finest cabin' in a spot only accessible by snowmobiles. The cabin that doesn't have electric or running water, but does have cushioned toilet seats in the outhouse. And when your loving spouse bursts into tears and collapses across the bed, you get embittered and flip on ESPN.

Get the picture? These are some ways to be bitter towards the girl you pledged to stay with till death did you part. How do you counter these feelings? Read the first part of the verse. LOVE. Put her needs, wants and desires before your own. Live to serve her. That's how to avoid the bitterness - and you'll find intense satisfaction there as well!

Exasperate:
If you have teen-agers you may have experienced this already in your home. But it can happen at younger ages as well. "Provoke to anger" may also be a good translation. When we refuse to parent the child's heart and simply attempt behavior modification for our own ease in life, often we can stir up feelings of anger in our children. We cause them to choose to accept the challenge of authority. We do this as dad's because we have idols in our own heart we refuse to deal with: Comfort, Acceptance, Appreciation, Respect, etc. When we don't get our idol - we become infuriated and react in such a way that cause our children to become angry and eventually "lose heart". While they have a personal responsibility to obey and honor, we make it difficult for them to do these things and actually become the catalyst for them to choose to sin. Not what I dreamed of when I dreamed of being a dad. Two excellent books I suggest for reading that will go indepth on this subject: Shepherding a Child's Heart & Age of Opportunity.

We have great responsibility as husbands and fathers. We are the leaders. Spiritually, physically, emotionally, relationally, etc. We don't have a choice. We were saddled with that by God. You might not think it's fair, but all I got to say is "Cowboy Up".

Seriously, how do you accomplish these enormous tasks of being the right husband and right dad in dealing with your family? Where do you learn this responsibility - especially if you have no good examples in your personal upbringing? The answer is found in Colossians 3:

1. God's Word - 3:16 - let it dwell in you richly
2. God's people - 3:16 - we should be teaching and admonishing one another daily with God's Word.

My prayer for myself, and anyone who would read this is that we become men of the Word. Husbands and Fathers that are not subscribing to the "two E's" found in Colossians 3. May God bless your endeavors in these areas!

The Difference is Day and Night

I was reading Proverbs 4 today, and was reminded of the stark contrast between the righteous and the wicked. Here is what is said:

...But the path of the righteous is like the light of the dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know over what they stumble...

A couple of observations:
1. I was reminded of what I call the 'snowball' effect that is mentioned in Romans 6:19. As we live righteously, we gain further righteousness, etc. The same is true adversely. It's a great verse. Basically the truth is that whatever path you choose becomes like a snowball heading down hill: righteousness leads to further sanctification & sin leads to further lawlessness.
2. I was also reminded of the fact that as we progress in righteousness, the path grows more clear. It is often that I hear myself or others say, "If God just told me what to do..."; well, he does. It's getting in His Word, letting it be light unto your feet and by taking these small steps of faith, the way becomes clearer and clearer. Clarity is dependent on right living.
3. The light of the dawn. Ever watched the sun rise? It is inevitable, right? It will come - you can't hold it back! The path of the righteous is the exact same way. There is no way of keeping the light from permeating your way when you are walking righteously. Sounds like 1 John doesn't it? Walk in the light as He is in the light?
4. v.18 of Proverbs 4 just reminds me of Daniel 12:3. There is a stark difference in the life of believers from the darkness of sinners & sin. If it's not noticeable in your life - it's time to do some testing of self. (2 Cor.13:5)
5. The alternative to this bright life of righteous living is being wicked and living in darkness. Note: there is no middle ground. You can't have a little light and a lot of darkness, or a lot of light and just a little darkness in your life. Life abolishes darkness and darkness will cover light - you cannot be with Christ and hold to that which is against Him. It is impossible.
6. The terrible disadvantage of being wicked and pursuing sin is that there is no clear direction in life, nor is there any safety. No-one likes to stumble around in the darkness... and yet many do spiritually. They fall quickly into Satan's snares and don't even realize what is happening. Again, 1 John 2 tells us that darkness blinds men's eyes so that they cannot see where they are going. What a discomforting feeling & existence to follow blindly after that which will only cause harm to yourself.

There is so much in Proverbs 4 to learn. These are just a few thoughts I've had this morning. Take some time and read through it for yourself, allowing the Word of God to be used by the Spirit of God to affect the will of God in your life. (I don't think that last statement is original with me - but I can't recall who said it)

On a side note, I received a call from my older brother (see pic here) and he got a job in Missouri which God simply provided. There is no other way to explain it. He was rejoicing in God's goodness, and I am also rejoicing with him. God moves through answered prayer! I continue in prayer for him that he will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Also, we have been experiencing torrential rain & flooding in Warsaw, IN. My basement had flooded and I spent the day yesterday using a shop vac, fans and dehumidifiers to get it back in order. The rain had started up again as I went to bed last night, and I have yet to walk back down there to check the situation. It was seeping in again as I went to bed, but I gotta get my sleep!! God is good in that we didn't experience any real serious loss with the flooding.

Well, my java mug is empty. I must either refill or get going. Have a blessed day as you continue in total dependence on your Savior!

Watch & don't forget!

In our Bible reading for today (using our church's Bible reading plan), I read Deuteronomy 6:1-18. While our intent and focus was to be on "teaching children", I drew some other applications to my own life.

In verses 1 & 2, we see the model for discipleship. The model is laid out this way:
1. (v.1) Instruction = Knowledge received. - "...this is the commandment, the statutes and the judgments, which the Lord your God has commanded me to teach you..."
2. (v.1) Action = Knowledge employed. - "...that you might do them..."
3. (v.2,7) Reproduction = Knowledge given. - "...so that you and your son..." & "...you shall teach them diligently to your sons..."

Also, throughout this passage is the abundance of blessing that comes with obedience. The Israelites would received incredible material blessing as they heeded the commands of YHWH. So too, the believer today receives incredible blessings in their obedience to God's word. No, not material blessings, but the abundant life that Jesus spoke of in John 10.

Interesting points, but let's look at what struck me the most this morning:
Deut.6:12 - "...watch yourself, lest you forget the Lord..."

This warning comes at the end of a list of blessings for the Israelites. As they would obey God's commands about moving into the Promised Land, they would receive:

• great and splendid cities which they did not build
• houses full of good things which they did not fill
• hewn cisterns which they did not dig
• vineyards and olive trees which they did not plant
• and, they would "...eat and be satisfied..."

Did you catch it? In the list of the blessings from YHWH would come the very thing that could cause them to forget Him. Satisfaction. I made this notation in my Bible: With satisfaction can come complacency. It's still true today. God brings me to a point where I am enjoying my relationship with Him, things are going good... and then I forget what got me to this point. I forget the very things that are important in maintaining.

That's why Moses wrote v.12: "...then watch yourself, lest you forget the LORD who brought you from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery..." How easy it is to forget where we came from (bondage to sin) and how we received incredible blessings from God (obedience to His commands) and become complacent in our daily relationship with the Lord.

Take this warning to heart! Watch yourself! Don't forget!! The one curse found in Deuteronomy 6 comes in v.15, "...for the LORD your God in the midst of you if a jealous God; otherwise the anger of the LORD your God will be kindled against you, and He will wipe you off the face of the earth..." God jealously desires one on one commitment to obedience to Him from those He has delivered from bondage.

Think on these things, let them shape your heart.

Today I am again drinking my Dark Roast Gevalia. I use three scoops of beans in my grinder to bring this brew to perfection. (That's three scoops of java beans that get brewed into one large mug). Pretty strong, but intensely enjoyable!

I have decided to take part in Indiana's Lose 10 in 10 program. It is a program designed to encourage Hoosiers to lose ten pounds in ten weeks. Perhaps I'll post my progress as time goes by. Right now I am just trying to count calories. I may end up losing 10 in like 30 weeks!

Appearances are not what they seem...

I know you may have read my last blog entry from 2007 and thought, "Oh the daily jolt will never be a 'daily' anything..." (because I just haven't updated it much since 1/2008). However, appearances are not what they seem.

We left on 1/02 and headed to Missouri to visit family and enjoy a belated Christmas with them. This picture below is a picture of me with my brothers and mom. I'm in the black.

Appearances are not what they seem: This picture shows what appears to be a family happy, comfortable with themselves. However, this past week was something totally different. My older brother has not been a part of our family for about 25 years, and this week was the first chance to begin to develop a relationship with him. And it has been good. I spent several hours in Bible study with him and am excited about how he is growing and hungering for the Word. Pray for healing and restoration in our family - I'll just leave it at that.

Appearances are not what they seem: On the way home yesterday we stopped for a much needed bathroom break and I needed to grab some more java. I know of only one other person on this planet that makes coffee like I prefer. Two actually: my previous secretary and my current secretary. Everyone else just drinks hot water! Oh, the coffee appears to be dark and promises some sort of lift - however, when I place creamer in it, it ends up being slightly flavored sock water. Not at all a joy to drink. Now, this morning I am drinking a stiff mugful of my Dark Roast from Gevalia... and it's strong! Its the kind of coffee that barely changes color with the creamer being added... good stuff!!

As a side note as I wrap up this "daily" jolt... how are you doing in your New Year Resolutions? Now is about the time things start falling back into the 'old' routine. May I encourage you to keep at it? I am about 7 verses into my memory of Ephesians...not at all as far as I thought I would be, but farther then I was a week ago! Keep up your hard work. Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.

Keep the coffee strong and hot & prayerfully I'll see you tomorrow morning!

I lift this psalm up as praise to God for this past week:

Psalm 100:1-5

A Psalm for Thanksgiving.

Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before Him with joyful singing.
3 Know that the LORD Himself is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
5 For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting, And His faithfulness to all generations.

Out with the old, in with the New...

Well, I have to write my final entry of this year 2007. I haven't been too consistent with this blogging machine I call the daily jolt from what I see. Perhaps I'll do better in the New Year - let me add that to my list of resolutions.

Looking back:
God has been good to me and my family over these last 365 days. (note to self: 2008 is a leap year, and I must remember to say 366 in my final post then). I'm getting to that stage in life where things are getting harder to remember. I'll turn 40 in a couple of months. With age comes difficulties - and this year has brought a few. I have noticed that I am experiencing greater difficulty in sleeping, maneuvering and hearing. Life seems to be catching up with me. The wear and tear I shrugged off for 30+ years is now playing the tortoise in this race... and winning. How I wish I would have taken care of my body when I was younger! (ahhh... youth is wasted on the young).

God has taught me a few things about myself, Himself and our relationship together. He is instilling in me the desire to persevere and finish strong in this life. Scripture seems to become very clear to me on this point - the absolute necessity of persevering. Another lesson He is teaching - one I will take into the New Year - is that I should not seek release from the circumstances, just to avoid the discomfort. How easy it is to self-medicate these days. Not only physically, but relationally, spiritually and emotionally. Another lesson: the need to be a dad not just the guy "in charge" of the family... or worse yet, not the "youth pastor" who I have to live with to my kids. This will demand greater time for them and less time for me. Yeah, it's suppose to be that way. Another lesson: cutting off the sleeves on which I wear my emotions / responses. This is especially true with those with whom I am most comfortable, like my lovely wife. How easy it has been to mistreat her.

There have been other vast lessons - some intensely personal, some not - but would prove to be incredibly boring to the average web-surfer who might stumble across this well-hidden blog. God has taken care of us providentially in amazing ways. Poultry, pork, beef and venison have all graced our freezers at no charge. Our income has been supplemented by the faithfulness and goodness of God's people. Even last night, "God's middle-man" (his self-appointed title), blessed us with an unexpected gift to aid us in our trip to Missouri. Indeed God is good.

God has worked in our ministry here at Calvary as well. I have seen teens rebel, repent and return to a loving relationship with God. All in the course of 2007. God is so good. Our youth group is growing in number and in maturity. We are very excited about the future.
I could go on and on about this past year - let's move ahead and think about '08.

Looking ahead:
What are the resolutions I have made for 2008? Here are a few:
1. Translate Ephesians. In order for me to maintain any level of proficiency with Greek, I must do this. (I've actually already started - it is proving to be an incredible task)
2. Memorize Ephesians. Yes, the book. I have taken the year and broken it down, and I think that in concentrating on 3-4 verses a week, I can get the book memorized. Much of chapter 2 is pretty much memorized, as are chapters 4-6. This will greatly aid this endeavor as I continue on in the year.
3. Read through this list of books: (I'll explain my choices at the end of the list)

• The Mortification of Sin - John Owen
• The Great Exchange - Jerry Bridges
• The Doctrine of Repentance - Thomas Watson
• Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave - Edward Welch
• Pierced for Our Transgressions: Rediscovering the Glory of Penal Substitution - Steve Jeffery, Michael Ovey and John Piper
• Seeing with New Eyes: Counseling and the Human Condition Through the Lens of Scripture - David Powlison
• The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World - Stephen J. Nichols
• Christ-Centered Preaching: Redeeming the Expository Sermon - Bryan Chappell
• Speaking the Truth in Love - David Powlison

You can see sprinkled in this list a couple of Puritan authors and a book about the Reformation. I am unsure who has suggested this, and I hesitate to assign credit inappropriately, but I heard someone (Piper?) say that for every 'contemporary' author one reads, they should read an author whose works have stood the test of time. Hence I am including some of the Puritan's works in my 'official list'. I am looking forward to reading through them. (I've actually started Owen's book and am enjoying it thoroughly). I have of course other books started that I will finish: Competent to Counsel - Jay Adams, The Reformed Pastor - Richard Baxter, A Reporter's Life - Walter Cronkite, Safely Home - Randy Alcorn, and a couple other minimal reads.
4. Improve physical well-being: This will require the loss of about 15 pounds, improved cardio care and the dreaded (already scheduled) physical. At this age of 40 - and a family history of cancer, heart disease and a host of other ailments - this will begin the annual treks to participate in various tests to watch for these types of things. An improved diet will help too.
5. Incorporate and maintain a family worship time. This has proven to be my thorn in the flesh. For whatever reason, (read: lack of discipline on my part), I have failed miserably in this endeavor. I again will attempt to improve here.
6. Begin to learn Spanish. I have tried this for several years - (enrolling in classes, only to have them cancel them due to lack of students) - I will again try to get this started. I love the Hispanic populace and desperately want to be able to communicate with them in their language.
7. Learn web-design. So as to better present our church online. This has been in the back of my mind as a goal now for a couple of years.

Oh, there are no doubt several other things I would like to get done. There are some personal and familial goals I have set that would not be appropriate to publish. The excitement of the New Year is that we can use this time as a time to re-energize our passions and desires to do well for our Savior!

One thing I will take with me into 2008 is my desire and enjoyment of strong coffee. Even as I type this out I have been enjoying Gevalia's "Dark Roast" coffee. The aroma of a strong java combined with it's somewhat sharp taste will remain a favorite of mine. Peering into my cup I see that I need a refill. It is probably a good time to shut down this most lengthy post of 07 and bid you a God-centered 08. May God bless you and yours - drop a comment now and then to let me know that you are reading. That helps me keep this random blog moving forward. God bless, and Happy New Year!!!

Blind to Truth

Having eyes, they do not see.

We don't wrestle...

Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

My oldest son and I went to a high school wrestling match tonight. I had forgotten how intense the matches were. The teams faced each other across a large wrestling mat. Painted orange and black, the circle had the "Warsaw Tiger" painted on it. Sitting in a long row, the wrestlers peered at each other from either side. When the match started, the intensity rose. Even sitting in the stands I tensed as I watched both wrestlers strain against the other.

As I watched the match continue, I began to notice some things that I found were interesting. The physical exertion was not constant the entire match. The strain grew in intensity depending on the position of the wrestler on the mat. Some times the wrestlers would even be looking at their coaches for guidance in the middle of a move against their opponent. The teammates also played an important role. They hollered encouragement and offered bits of advice throughout the match. I also noticed that neither opponent quit until the referee blew his whistle.

Enter my thoughts on Ephesians 6:12.

In one of the only mentions of this word "struggle" or "wrestle" in the New Testament, we see it mentioned in relation to spiritual warfare. It is important to realize that our struggle is not against one another - or any other human being. I also think it is important to understand that the intensity of the conflict is never constant. Sometimes we find ourselves straining vigorously - and other times we have times of 'rest' during which we can even look to our Coach for advice. Sometimes when we find ourselves at a disadvantage spiritually, perhaps because we made a wrong choice or wrong move, we find ourselves struggling intensely trying to overcome and achieve spiritual victory. There are many times when we can hear the encouragement of fellow-believers as they offer advice and help as we struggle. And I think its important to realize that we are in this wrestling match against evil until the day the Referee blows His whistle.

High school sports or theology? God used a simple set of wrestling matches lasting no more then 45 minutes to remind me of the warfare in which I am engaged even now. It is important to understand that we wrestle for a victorious Coach - One who has faced every move of the enemy and won every time. He understands our weaknesses. His Spirit empowers us. His word guides our every move. His victory is transferable.

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? Part 4 (finally)

As I sit here in our living room, traffic begins to pick up on the state highway outside. It's dark. And cold. The only noise that varies from the sound of automobiles going north and south is the clacking of the keys as I type and the ticking of the clock above the mantle of the fireplace. Soon the boys alarms will be going off and the school day will begin. An apple sits next to me on the couch. My coffee (Gevalia's Limited Edition, Paupa New Guinea) is situated close at hand as well.

Now is a perfect time to get back to Psalm 15 and my look at Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? We have worked through two verses in this Psalm, and now begin v.3 with this phrase: "...he does not slander with his tongue...".

This idea of slander is one of falsification, of adulterating the truth. Speaking falsehoods, presumably against one's fellow man. Perhaps it goes a bit farther then our immediate thought of "lying". Deception. Manipulation. Distorting.

My mind immediately slips back to Genesis and the serpent's conversation with Eve. Not outright lying, but surely an adulteration of truth.

The outcome of slander is destruction. Truth destroyed. People destroyed. Relationships destroyed. There is never an appropriate time to be dishonest. Let me re-state that lest, in this post-modern age in which we live, we miss it. It is never right to lie. To falsify truth. To twist truth. To adulterate truth. To distort.

I started thinking about how this practically plays out in our lives. Slander immediately takes my mind to interpersonal relationships. I don't view slander as truth distortion - at least I didn't until I started thinking about this phrase. I think we need to be more careful in how we speak about one another, to one another. We need to make sure our speech is edifying and truthful.

The opposite of slandering would be edifying, even speaking the truth in love. See Ephesians 4 for more details.

God states that if someone desires to inhabit His holy hill, they can't be characterized by a slanderous tongue. We would do well to heed this challenge. Perhaps a New Testament reading of James 3 and Matthew 12 would be in order.

My apple awaits. The kids are starting to awake. I've got about 16 hours ahead of me that I can put this challenge of not slandering with my tongue into practice.

I embrace the day.

A moment in the life of a pilgrim...

There are days in which the struggle is this intense: (an excerpt from John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress)

Christian: "Apollyon, beware what you do; for I am in the King's highway, the way of holiness; therefore take heed to yourself."

Then Apollyon straddled quite over the whole breadth of the way, and said, I am void of fear in this matter; prepare thyself to die; for I swear by my infernal den that thou shalt go no further; here will I spill thy soul.

And with that he threw a flaming dart at his breast; but Christian had a shield in his hand, and which he caught it, and so prevented the danger of that. Then did Christian draw, for he saw 'twas time to bestir him; and Apollyon as fast made at him, throwing darts as thick as hail; by the which, notwithstanding all that Christian could do to avoid it, Apollyon wounded him in his head, his hand, and foot. This made Christian gave a little back; Apollyon therefore followed his work amain, and Christian was almost quite spent; for you must know that Christian, by reason of his wounds, must needs grow weaker and weaker.

Then Apollyon, espying his opportunity, began to gather up close to Christian, and wrestling with him, gave him a dreadful fall; and with that Christian's sword flew out of his hand.

Then said Apollyon, I am sure of thee now. And with that he had almost pressed him to death, so that Christian began to despair of life; but as God would have it, while Apollyon was fetching of his last blow, thereby to make a full end of this good man, Christian nimbly reached out his hand for his sword and caught it, saying, "Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy; when I fall I shall arise"; and with that gave him a deadly thrust, which made him give back, as one that had received his mortal wound.

Christian perceiving that, made at him again, saying, "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us."

And with that Apollyon spread forth his dragon's wings and sped him away, that Christian for a season saw him no more.

Latest Read...

I just finished reading this great compilation by Wayne Grudem & Dennis Rainey today. Pastoral Leadership for Manhood and Womanhood is a great practical resource for pastors. In a day and age when the family suffers greatly, and often silently, this book challenges pastors to re-ignite their God-ordained responsibilities and lead their flock as they should. Taking contributions from some of today's well-known authors in Christianity, Grudem and Rainey divide the book into three sections: The Pastor's Personal Life, The Opportunities Today and The Challenges Today.

The Pastor's Personal Life:
This section deals with two matters that need intense magnification in the majority of today's minister's lives: the Pastor's Marriage and the Pastor's Responsibility for Romance in His Congregation and Marriage.

The Opportunities Today:
This section covers such topics as:

• The Little Things that Build or Destroy Marriages
• Using Small Groups: The Key Strategy for Building Stronger Marriages
• Cultivating a Man-Friendly Church
• Single Adults in Your Ministry: Why They Stay and Why They Stray
• Father Hunger Among a Lost Generation: The Pastor's Opportunity
• The Marriage Ceremony: A Cornerstone in Building Godly Families
• Church Discipline: God's Tool to Preserve and Heal Marriages

The Challenges Today:
This section covers such topics as:

• How to Encourage Husbands to Lead and Wives to Follow
• Church Ministry to Persons Tempted by Homosexuality
• "Someone I Love is Gay": Church Ministry to Family and Friends
• Helping Single Adults Handle Moral Failures
• Pastoral Responses to Domestic Violence
• Standing Courageously in Your Home, Church and Community

I like this book because each and every one of the authors falls back to the authoritativeness of Scripture, applies Scripture practically and plainly and gives wonderful practical suggestions to follow for the reader.

I think this is a must read for all pastors. Need a Christmas gift idea for your pastor? Get him a copy of Pastoral Leadership for Manhood and Womanhood. It is an easy read - but will challenge him in the difficult areas of ministry: from his own marriage to the lives of his people.

------------

Today was extremely dreary in Northeast Indiana. A lot of mist, rain and some snow mixed in kept everything damp and bone-chillingly cold. A fire built in the fireplace and some Mocha Java kept nearby helped ward off Jack Frost's grip. Winter is slowly elbowing its way in.

On a side note for a future post: We got our Christmas tree and decorated it this last weekend. Pictures are sure to follow. And I haven't given up on Psalm 15 - more to come this week!

missed the "thanksgiving post"...

So, I missed the opportune "Thanksgiving Post" that so many bloggers get to do on Thanksgiving Day. Guess there is always next year, right? Yesterday, Thanksgiving Day, was a good day. It was a day we spent with some family and friends about 50 miles to the Northeast of where we live. We didn't have turkey for Thanksgiving - we had a dinner which we were thankful for, from the bounty of our own harvest. So that meant beef, chicken, veggies and homemade breads and desserts. It was a meal that recognized our dependence on our Sovereign Provider and one in which we thanked Him for His bountiful blessings throughout the year. We squeezed around a table with a burlap covering and a beautiful harvest themed centerpiece. The kids came and went as they do during the holidays - happy to spend time with cousins and friends. The adults enjoyed conversation, and realized that many of the 'new' adults were really just some of our kids who had grown up 'overnight' and now were planning new life ventures of their own. "...Time flies..." was repeated over and over, perhaps a gentle reminder to those of us with young children or a wistful memory of years too quickly passed.

Football.

Yes, we did watch the games yesterday. I say games, but I didn't think they were very close or competitive. I did get to experience HDTV for the first time in my life (I am behind the times I know), and was very impressed with the quality of the picture. I don't think I would want to be on HDTV - it's too realistic. Perhaps I should shed some of this holiday weight first!

Hunting.

I was able to take my freshman son hunting for the first time - just the two of us. We had been hunting together before, but usually with my seventh grade son along as well. We were graciously invited by my nephew to join him where he hunts his grandfather's farm. He let us share a very nice tree stand that accommodated both of us quite easily. It snowed very heavily throughout the afternoon and we didn't see any deer. We did see many squirrels, one feral cat and about 8 swans land in the field to the north of us. I was very thankful for the time alone with my son in the stand - we didn't get to talk much, but it was good. I treasure these times. We were about ready to leave when we heard a very close shot - and thought it might be my nephew. Turns out someone was shooting from the road and left before we were able to get there. That's dangerous - but thankfully we are watched over by a Sovereign Protector.

We are thankful for God's goodness to us on a daily basis - this day yesterday allowed us to concentrate on it a little more pointedly. God is good all the time, and all the time God is good - that's a phrase we used to say in our church all the time... but have gotten away from it's reminder. Perhaps we need to start that again.

Coffee.

Today I wrapped up my Costa Rican blend - actually had to mix in some of my Mocha Java from Gevalia. I think, due to the chilly weather & crazy shoppers, that I'll stay close to the fireplace and just drink this precious brew all day.

Scrambled thots...

I'll continue posting the "who shall dwell on my holy hill" posts tomorrow - but today, since I'm off of work and all - I'll refrain from posting in that series.

Today is very overcast and a 'typical' Fall day here in Northeast Indiana. Temps are about 45* and predicted only to reach 54*. I've noticed that my sleeping habits are changing and I am unsure why. Partly due to a weak back - which hurts consistently when laying down - and partly due to getting older (pushing 40 hard right now), I'm sure. Typical sleep follows this pattern: in bed and reading by 10pm, usually lights out by 1030 or 1100p, awake again around 330a or 400a and fitful wake / sleep from then until 6:30a - my best sleep is from 630a till 800a (if I get to sleep that long). It's really been strange to notice the change.

Today has been the day that we run errands: my wife to the grocery and me to the parts store. I had 3 different lights go out on my Ford Taurus in the last week or so. Today I replaced the 'third' brake light and the turn signal. I also picked up some new wipers in preparation for winter. Antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid and motor oil was also purchased. I always buy my oil by the case. Today when I checked out with all theses items I thought the total sounded low. I paid for my items and went out to the car. I got to looking at my receipt and realized that although the clerk scanned the UPC on my case of oil, it only registered that I purchased one quart! Quite the deal - the Lord sure blesses in various ways!! (just kidding)

I was tempted just briefly to back out and hit the road not letting them know their error, but instead shut down the car, walked back inside and paid from 11 more quarts of 10w30. They were appreciative of my honesty and I was enjoying that 'good feeling' from doing something right. Isn't it funny how satan can tempt you with the smallest things?

Due to the slightly cooler temps, I enjoyed my Costa Rican coffee, extra strong and with a shot of chocolate (Hersheys of course) in it. It really helped me start the day off right.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to preach an overview of Roman's in our church. I gave some background info and concentrated on what I consider the theme verses Romans 1:16,17. All in all, Romans is probably one of my favorite, if not favorite book in all the NT. What's yours?

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? Part 3

A continuation of a look at Psalm 15. So far we have looked at two requirements to those who wish to dwell on the holy mountain of the Lord: walk blamelessly and doing what is right. Today we look at the third 'requirement': he who"...speaks truth in his heart..."

There is something to be said about the lack of integrity in society today. Unfortunately it has crept into the church as well. We all would do well to heed the instruction of David as he asks the question, "...who will dwell on the holy hill..." of the Lord. Integrity is a quality that is highly desired in the Christian's life. It is so easy to communicate one thing verbally and yet have contrary thinking running through one's heart.

As I write this just before the holiday season - my mind goes to family gatherings. Have you ever commented on how 'good' someone has looked and in your mind done the math on how much weight they may have gained? Or perhaps you've spoken to how delicious a meal was only to think in your heart about over seasoned it was. This would be a practical out working of this passage. Speaking truth in your heart will lead to speaking truth with your mouth. There is a necessity to also speak '...truth in love...' (Eph.4:15) - as well as, not letting any '...unwholesome words proceed out of your mouth...' (Eph.4:29) all the while speaking the truth in love.

Here's a challenge for you this holiday season: speak the truth - in your heart. And your mouth. Live a life of integrity. May God bless your efforts as you move closer to 'meeting the requirements' of dwelling on the Lord's holy hill!

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Tonight we are not having an evening service at our church. We had our annual "Harvest Dinner" this afternoon and so gave everyone time "off" for time with family and friends tonight. We decided to stay home and enjoy some much needed family time. Subway provided the meal, and the NFL has provided the entertainment. I am wrapping up the night with a double mug of Mocha Java Gevalia coffee - some of my favorite!

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? Part 2

A continued devotional look at Psalm 15.

Psalm 15:2 "...does what is right..."

We have already looked at the first "requirement" of being able to dwell on the Lord's holy hill - that being the ability to walk blamelessly. Now we see the characteristic of doing what is right. Such a simple thought isn't it? Oh, the Christian life is quite simplistic in it's 'requirements', but so difficult to live out. How does one know what is right in order to be able to perform what is right?

Scripture is clear in it's wisdom passages that "...the way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice..." and "...every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart..." So quite easily we see that if we simply accept our own reasoning without taking advantage of the counsel and wisdom of others that we can quickly be headed in the wrong direction. Wouldn't it be easier if everyone saw everything like us? Wouldn't it be more comfortable if everybody thought like us? Wouldn't this world be scarier if these things were true? We must realize that just because we perceive something to be 'right', it may not always be so. Secondly we see that even when we do think we are 'right', our heart may be deceiving us. The Lord is able to judge our heart and it's motives. I think it would be safe to assume that we can't simply trust our own reasoning to determine what is 'right'. Where then do we turn?

One of my favorite passages to direct me in this line of thinking is 2 Timothy 3:16. Scripture, not only inspired, is profitable in four areas: teaching, reproof, correction and training in righteousness. I break these four areas down as follows:

• teaching - God's word tells me what is right
• reproof - God's word tells me when I am wrong
• correction - God's word tells me how to get back right
• training in righteousness - God's word reveals to me how to stay right

Very simply put, it is God's Word that shows me how to do what is right. It is then up to me to act on what I read or hear. If I want to fill this second requirement to be able to dwell on the holy hill of the Lord, it is best that I follow the guidelines that Scripture sets forth.

So, what do you think? Have anything to add? Feel free to post a comment!

On a totally unrelated topic: I am barely going at the moment. I received about 3.5 hours of sleep last night and had quite the full day with meetings, appointments and bible studies. I drained 3 coffee pots to help me tread water, but I am starting to crash this evening. One of my youth leaders is a Herbalife dealer and has what amounts to an energy drink in a tablet form. I think they're called "Lift-off". They are very similar to Alka-seltzer tablets and you place them in 8 oz of water before taking them. I sure could use one now!

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? Part 1

Ps.15:1-5 - A Psalm of David
O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill?
He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart;
who does not slander with his tongue and does no evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
in whose eyes a vile person is despised, but who honors those who fear the LORD; who swears to his own hurt and does not change;
who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent, He who does these things shall never be moved.

Today I will attempt to embark on a several part blog about this Psalm. I think that there are ten - maybe eleven - requirements for entrance to the Lord's "tent" or the privilege to dwell on his holy hill. Today we will look at one. This is prayerfully a short devotional series designe to encourage those who are 'pressing on the upward way'. My prayer is that through your study of God's Word that you will find yourself moving ever closer to entering the Lord's "tent".

Requirement #1: walk blamelessly.
There are several reasons why one should walk blamelessly before the Lord. Proverbs (28)states that the blameless will be delivered and (Psalm 89) those that walk uprightly will experience that no good thing will be with-held from them. Ephesians 1 indicates that God has elected us to be holy and blameless, and this He did before the foundations of the world. The Apostle Paul's driving desire was to have a blameless conscience before men and God (Acts 24). Our lives, as lived blamelessly and with integrity, will contrast the evil generation in which we live (Philippians 2). We are to be diligent to live blamelessly, so that Christ will find us without spot or blemish and in peace at His appearing (2 Peter 3). The body of believers, the church is also to be known and characterized by being blameless (Ephesians 5:27). We rest in the sovereign fact that we cannot do this in our own strength and that God will cause us to stand before Him blameless some day (Jude).
But what does it mean to be "blameless"? This word has the idea of: being complete. It refers to animals which are without blemish; also translated as such related adjectives as full, whole, upright, perfect. it represents the divine standard for man's attainment. (Thanks to the Theological Wordbook of the OT.) It's a goal. It's a realization that I am spotted by sin...by the world. How do you get rid of spots? With my shirts I have to launder them. With my sins I do the same. Ephesians is clear, we are cleansed by Christ through the washing of water with the Word.
So you begin to understand what cleanliness / blamelessness is by understanding what the word does in relation to your spots / sin. Then you proactively begin to move in a direction that ensures that you will stay spotless / blameless by constant washing in the Word. It is a way of life governed by the word of God that will allow me to walk blamelessly. Then I will know that I am well on my way to being able to dwell on the Holy Hill of our LORD.
Let me know what you think.
Today's java was Costa Rica - Gevalia and then here at the office: Folgers. Ewww. I can't complain - it is java. God bless,

Where are your eyes?

ESV
Psalm 123 - A Song of Ascents.
To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens! Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he has mercy upon us. Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt. Our soul has had more than enough of the scorn of those who are at ease, of the contempt of the proud.

The weary pilgrims, dust covered and foot-sore, glance upward to the looming city on the hillside. They have been traveling for days. The grit that grinds between their teeth has been their constant unwanted sustenance as they plod continually beside their beasts of burden. They are Jews. They seek Jerusalem. Pausing now, looking towards their holy city, a tear forms at the corner of their eye. As it forms and then slowly descends downward over the leathery wrinkled face of one who has spent their life exposed to the harsh wind and sun of the Middle East, it cleanses all it touches. These tears wash the dust from the pilgrims cheek.

The oppressors deal harshly with the Jews. They randomly swoop in from the hills and help themselves to any produce, stock or goods that these nomadic dwellers may have accumulated. It is a wearying existence. The constant glances over their shoulder, the beatings and the mockery... the mockery hurts the most. The sneer of the intruders, the arrogance of these heathen infidels curdles the blood of the Jew. They mock the pilgrim's belief. They mock Jehovah. Their cruel laughs and taunts ring loudly in the ears of the oppressed long after the dust settles from their departure.

Where is Jehovah?

Jerusalem. The city gates are now within sight. A traveler sighs, and it ripples through the caravan like the desert wind assaulting their tent walls. Then, softly at first, now stronger... a voice. Calling out to Jehovah. The sing-song cadence of the mercy request swells in volume. The children now join their parents in recitation.

Direction. Mercy. Our fill of scorn. Lord hear us! We have no other place to turn - You are the guidance we desperately need. Hear us from Your throne, O sovereign Lord!

I finished my Kona today. I usually use three scoops of beans into my grinder to provide the succulent grounds that will allow the precious drippage of java into my two cup mug - today however, I had just about another scoop left in the bag after preparing to grind my beans. I don't like to mix my coffee beans - so I just poured the rest into my grinder and started grinding. My coffee was a little stronger than usual, but it was most excellent in taste! It also provided the energy to start on the Fall chores around the house. I made an omelet in which I threw onions, garlic and hot peppers. We didn't have any breakfast meat in the house (Monday is shopping day) so I just made due with what we had. It was a little strong, and kinda hot - but it tasted pretty good!

Today the boy's and I headed out to rake leaves. I have never lived anywhere before where I could not burn leaves - but in the last two years we have lived in this home, we are required to haul the leaves to the curb for pickup. The problem is that even as we hauled a 'ton' of leaves to the curb, we would turn and see that the trees were dropping them faster then we could rake them. The back yard doesn't even seem to have been raked. The other problem is that our trees don't all drop their leaves at the same time. We have 5 large maples in our yard - but they drop their leaves at different times through out the Fall. They sure are pretty though. Lot's of reds, yellows and pale greens right now. God sure does know how to make this time of year beautiful.

This week has been a very long, long week for me in my pastor position. It seems that I put in about double the hours I usually do. It's all good - I was able to hopefully encourage some people in some dark hours. It brought me back to the point that I realized that God desires that we live lives dependent on Him. "The normal Christian life is not one you can live in your own strength" ~ my senior pastor.

Makes you think, doesn't it?

Today's grind: Gevalia's Kona. I rec'd my last package of coffee yesterday: Dark Roast, Espresso Roast, Costa Rica and (my fav) Mocha Java. I have suspended my shipments due to costs. However, I am well stocked and will probably have enough coffee to make it through the winter - unless my boys increase their consumption!

On to more important things:

You may have noticed I added an online Lectionary to the blog. It is located in the upper right hand corner and updates daily for Bible reading. It is so very important to have a consistent reading program of some sort. I am involved in three right now - and am trying to keep up with all of them. I like the lectionary, although I am unsure if it is just out of trying something new, or if I will continue with it for the days to come. I'm sure I'll keep you updated.

Psalm 96 was in the reading today for the Lectionary. I like verse 2 - although it challenged me as well: Sing to the LORD, bless His name, tell of His salvation from day to day (esv). The Psalm is full of instructions on giving praise to God - worshiping the Lord for who He is, what He has done and for what He will do. This phrase of speaking His salvation from day to day struck a chord with me. I don't think it is an evangelistic phrase as some would term "soul-winning", but certainly would correlate with giving an answer for the hope that lies within us! The thought that came across my mind was, "how good am I at doing this on a day to day basis"? While I work in a church office and typically surrounded with Christian people now, I still need to live a life in such a way that the deliverance of the Lord is proclaimed on a daily basis. Whether in evangelistic outreach or discipleship (kind of the same thing actually), I need to continually proclaim the goodness of my Savior! What say ye on this matter?

You'll notice when I quoted the verse it was in the ESV version. I am quite possibly making the switch from NASB to ESV. And today may prove to be the perfect day! Ligonier Ministries is making available to Reformation Study Bible in ESV for only $15.17 - today only. This price is for the hardback edition - but I like hard covers anyway. I have purchased two - one may be a gift... I am looking forward to using it in everyday study and seeing how I like it. I have the ESV in my bible software, but not in any book form. Check out this study bible and get one if you're so inclined! They also have it in leather, etc for those interested.

It truly was colder outside this morning. The digital thermometer read 35* this a.m. and I thought I detected the lingering fingers of frost in the backyard. Those in charge of forecasting the weather stated that we were under a freeze warning and claimed an end to the growing season. Right now as I sit in the living room looking out through the circular window in our front door, I see a somewhat stiff breeze delicately removing the red and yellow maple leaves from one of the trees in our front yard. The city of Warsaw came by earlier today and used their large leaf vac to remove all our leaves by the curb. I think we'll be raking later today when the boys get off of school.

I decided to check out the furnace today - just to make sure everything was running well. It was not. Our furnace is very efficient and does not have a pilot light. It is supposed to automatically light when needed, but for whatever reason it is not. Tomorrow the repairman comes to take a look. He will also replace our very large and effective furnace filter - which costs $46! It is one of the best for those dealing with allergies.

I have just finished reading a book that my oldest son is to read in his English class: Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank. It is a book written in the late 50's and deals with one community's efforts to survive a nuclear strike from Russia. It's hard to believe that in the last 40 years the concerns of society have moved away from fears of total nuclear holocaust to individual terrorist attacks. The book was an interesting read, although there were some un-necessary allusions to improper behavior. All in all, it was a book that could be read in a weekend - and if one just wanted something to read for pure recreation, this would fit the bill.

I have now undertaken reading again Competent to Counsel by Dr. Jay Adams. It pertains to counseling people "nouthetically" - thus, biblically. I respect Dr. Adams immensely and he writes with wisdom. He is a great man of God, a wonderful teacher and I have had the pleasure to sit under his instruction on a couple of occasions. I encourage every Pastor or lay leader...frankly every serious believer to read this timeless work!

As I wrap up some very varied thoughts, I want you to know that again today I am drinking Gevalia's Kona blend. I mixed it very strong this morning, and this afternoon I ground it a little weaker. It is a fine coffee. I am enjoying it tremendously. Have a blessed day!