Today's Reading - Joel 1-3
Our reading today takes us to a time when Judah experienced an infestation of locusts. The swarm destroyed the crops and left the nation without food. Particularly in that time and that economy, this was a major event that impacted everyone's lives. The prophet Joel seizes this opportunity to use these events as a time to teach the nation about repentance and the coming judgement. He emphasizes that God is faithful and that He will honor His promises and will bring blessing to the people if they will turn to Him.
When I got to Joel 2:28ff, I was immediately transported to the second chapter of the book of Acts. When Peter and the other apostles began to speak in tongues (other languages), the people gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost thought they were drunk. But Peter tells the crowd that what was occurring was in fact the fulfillment of the words of the prophet Joel.
For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: "‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;
the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day. And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ (Acts 2:15-21)
Peter tells the crowd, "what you are seeing now is what Joel was talking about in his prophecy. Today is the day that the Lord has poured out His Spirit and what you are hearing is the result of that." He then uses the event to tell people about Jesus. In what is called the first Christian sermon, Peter lays out the message that Jesus is the Son of God and that they (we) are responsible for His crucifixion. Take a moment to read the entire second chapter. The message that Peter preached is the same message that we need today. We need to confront our sins and turn to Him with broken hearts and ask the same question that the people asked on that day...Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” (v 37)
When our hearts are cut, when pride is removed and we stand face to face with our unrighteousness, there is nowhere to go except to ask the question... "what do I need to do?". These people knew that just a few weeks earlier, they had demanded the death of the Son of God. They knew that their sin had caused His crucifixion and that they were in need of redemption. What shall we do? The same question is asked today when a person is confronted with their sins and understand that they need help. Unfortunately, it depends on who you ask as to what answer you will receive. So, rather than ask someone, let's let Peter give the very specific and direct answer to your question.
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. (Acts 2:38-41)
What shall we do? Peter (the apostle, the man who walked with Jesus and was told that he had been given the keys to the kingdom) tells them the very simple and straight forward solution to their problem. They were sinners and they needed forgiveness. He tells them that forgiveness was found by repenting and being baptized. He didn't tell them to say a prayer. If that is what they needed to do, he could have told them that. (actually, there is no example in the Bible of someone being told to say a prayer to be saved, there is no example of praying Jesus into your heart) Peter tells them to turn their lives around, change their hearts and to be immersed in water. That is it. Repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of their sins. Simple, yet so many will debate the issue.
He tells them that when they do that, God's Spirit will come live within them. He tells them that this a promise and that this promise is for everyone. Everyone... that includes you and me. How do I get my sin problem taken care of.... believe that Jesus is God's Son, repent of my sins and be immersed in water. The promise is for everyone. That day, three thousand souls were immersed into Christ and were added to the saved. (vs 41, 47) The rest of the book of Acts includes the stories of others who believed and were baptized... even the apostle Paul... Acts 22:16.
Joel's prophecy is for us. He was pointing to the time when the Savior would die and He would send His Spirit to live within us. He was pointing to a time when salvation would be available to every nation. But he was also pointing to a day of judgement. A day when those that have not believed in the Son, those that have not obeyed the gospel call will stand before God and answer for their rejection of His Son.
If you have not responded to Peter's sermon, if you have not repented of your sins, turned your life over to God and been immersed for the remission of your sins.... your day of judgement will be one of condemnation. Joel points to the day that Peter announced the beginning of the Christian age and the day that forgiveness was offered to all nations. My prayer is that you will accept His offer, that you will respond to the call and turn your life over to Him. Repent and be baptized... that was Peter's response to the question.... "what shall we do?" In the words of Nike... "Just Do It!"
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
God's Provision, Power and Protection
Today we read the story of Elijah the prophet. (1 Kings 17-19) It is the story of God raising up a man to speak for Him at a time when Israel was in crisis, both of character and direction. Ahab and Jezebel are ruling over the nation and they had turned the people's hearts to the false god, Baal.
Elijah meets with king Ahab and tells him the God of Israel had determined that the nation would face a drought, with "neither dew nor rain" for several years. Elijah was told to leave the area and go to the Kerith Ravine and that the ravens would feed him. He did and they did. He was later told to go live with a widow and her son and that they would provide for him. He did and they did. We all know the story of the never ending flour jar. The point is this... Elijah was obedient to God and God took care of him. God provided for his needs! He used ravens and a bottomless flour jar to take care of His servant. God's provision is always adequate. His provision is sure.
We might want more, we might think that His provision leaves something to be desired. Paul put it this way in Philippians 4:11-13... Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Whatever our situation, our circumstance God will surely provide for His servant. The unsure part of the equation is our attitude about the provision.
During this time away, Ahab and Jezebel had "abandoned the Lord's commands and followed the Baals". So, God sent Elijah to Ahab to confront him about his worship of other gods and his leading His people away from Him. Elijah calls for all the prophets of Baal and all the people from Israel to meet him on Mount Carmel. He proposes a contest between his God and their gods. Each would place a sacrifice on the alter and then pray for god/God to consume the sacrifice by fire. The outcome of the test would determine whose god was the true God.
The prophets of Baal accepted the test and placed their sacrifice on the alter and began to call on their god to send fire. They called on Baal from morning until noon and shouted "O, Baal, answer us!". But there was no response. Elijah encouraged them to shout louder. Perhaps Baal was busy or traveling and needed to hear a louder call. They shouted all the louder until evening, still no fire. Then Elijah prepared his sacrifice and had water dumped on the alter, twelve large jars until the water filled the trench around the sacrifice. Then Elijah prayed. He called on God to demonstrate to all the children of Israel that He was the one true God. "The fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench". God's power was clearly seen by all. The punishment for the priests of Baal? They were slaughtered and their teaching was ended. His power is sure.
The drought was ended and the rains came. You would think all would be well in Israel, but you would be wrong. Jezebel is unhappy with the outcome of the "test" and so she sent word to Elijah that she would have him killed by the next day. I find it interesting that the prophet who had just witnessed the awesome power of God would run for his life in fear of Jezebel. I would never do anything like that, would I? I would never gather with the saints on Sunday and hear of God's goodness and power and forget what I learned on Monday, would I?
Elijah hides in a cave and God visits him there. He gives him His protection and stands him up and sends him on a mission. I like that... Elijah trembling in a cave and God calls him out to send him off to work. Are you afraid of someones reaction to the message about Jesus? Are you cowering in a cave, avoiding everyone around you? God says to each of us, "come on out, leave your fears in the cave, I will protect you and I have a mission for you". Elijah is told that even though things look bad, he is not alone. God assures him that there are 7000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Sometimes we feel alone, but God says, "you don't know how many faithful believers I have". He tells us not to worry about those things, He has them under control, just get to work. Fulfill the mission. His protection is sure.
Sometimes we forget who God is. We get concerned with the day to day and God seems distant to us. Elijah's story reminds us that God is the provider of our needs, that His power is unlimited and that in his service we have protection. The faithful follower will not be concerned about lunch tomorrow, they will work and let God bless the effort. The faithful follower will not worry about the outcome of everything, they understand that God is in control and that by His power all things continue. The faithful follower will not live in fear, they understand that God's protection is eternal. The faithful follower will carryout the mission that has been assigned to them, for His glory.
Elijah meets with king Ahab and tells him the God of Israel had determined that the nation would face a drought, with "neither dew nor rain" for several years. Elijah was told to leave the area and go to the Kerith Ravine and that the ravens would feed him. He did and they did. He was later told to go live with a widow and her son and that they would provide for him. He did and they did. We all know the story of the never ending flour jar. The point is this... Elijah was obedient to God and God took care of him. God provided for his needs! He used ravens and a bottomless flour jar to take care of His servant. God's provision is always adequate. His provision is sure.
We might want more, we might think that His provision leaves something to be desired. Paul put it this way in Philippians 4:11-13... Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Whatever our situation, our circumstance God will surely provide for His servant. The unsure part of the equation is our attitude about the provision.
During this time away, Ahab and Jezebel had "abandoned the Lord's commands and followed the Baals". So, God sent Elijah to Ahab to confront him about his worship of other gods and his leading His people away from Him. Elijah calls for all the prophets of Baal and all the people from Israel to meet him on Mount Carmel. He proposes a contest between his God and their gods. Each would place a sacrifice on the alter and then pray for god/God to consume the sacrifice by fire. The outcome of the test would determine whose god was the true God.
The prophets of Baal accepted the test and placed their sacrifice on the alter and began to call on their god to send fire. They called on Baal from morning until noon and shouted "O, Baal, answer us!". But there was no response. Elijah encouraged them to shout louder. Perhaps Baal was busy or traveling and needed to hear a louder call. They shouted all the louder until evening, still no fire. Then Elijah prepared his sacrifice and had water dumped on the alter, twelve large jars until the water filled the trench around the sacrifice. Then Elijah prayed. He called on God to demonstrate to all the children of Israel that He was the one true God. "The fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench". God's power was clearly seen by all. The punishment for the priests of Baal? They were slaughtered and their teaching was ended. His power is sure.
The drought was ended and the rains came. You would think all would be well in Israel, but you would be wrong. Jezebel is unhappy with the outcome of the "test" and so she sent word to Elijah that she would have him killed by the next day. I find it interesting that the prophet who had just witnessed the awesome power of God would run for his life in fear of Jezebel. I would never do anything like that, would I? I would never gather with the saints on Sunday and hear of God's goodness and power and forget what I learned on Monday, would I?
Elijah hides in a cave and God visits him there. He gives him His protection and stands him up and sends him on a mission. I like that... Elijah trembling in a cave and God calls him out to send him off to work. Are you afraid of someones reaction to the message about Jesus? Are you cowering in a cave, avoiding everyone around you? God says to each of us, "come on out, leave your fears in the cave, I will protect you and I have a mission for you". Elijah is told that even though things look bad, he is not alone. God assures him that there are 7000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Sometimes we feel alone, but God says, "you don't know how many faithful believers I have". He tells us not to worry about those things, He has them under control, just get to work. Fulfill the mission. His protection is sure.
Sometimes we forget who God is. We get concerned with the day to day and God seems distant to us. Elijah's story reminds us that God is the provider of our needs, that His power is unlimited and that in his service we have protection. The faithful follower will not be concerned about lunch tomorrow, they will work and let God bless the effort. The faithful follower will not worry about the outcome of everything, they understand that God is in control and that by His power all things continue. The faithful follower will not live in fear, they understand that God's protection is eternal. The faithful follower will carryout the mission that has been assigned to them, for His glory.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
On Growing Old and Dying
(Ecclesiastes 11:7 -12:14)
There is an appointment that every person will keep. It doesn't matter who you are or what you have or how young or old you are.... you will keep this appointment. Everyone has up to this point and everyone will from here forward. Death is sure. Hebrews 9:27 puts it this way..."And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment". The wisest of the wise, Solomon wasn't able to avoid death or aging and his writings as he grew old reflect the wisdom of his years and gives us sound advice as we face the same future.
His words are very meaningful to me as I am now a little past mid-life and am facing the pains of age. Getting up in the mornings is a little more difficult and doing the things that I once laughed at, is becoming more challenging. Solomon advises us to enjoy all the days of our lives, but he also advises the young to take full advantage of their youth. He warns them that whatever things they do, they will have to answer for, he says "God will bring you to judgement". So if you are young, have fun, enjoy your lives, but know that if you abuse the time, you will face your Creator in judgment. He calls on the young to "Remember your Creator in the days of your youth".
Solomon uses many symbols to represent the effects of aging. Read his words and let them wash over you as you consider the changes that come as we grow older. He talks about our sight, our posture, our level of energy, our fears, our physical limitations and the lose of desire. He closes this encouraging section with these words... "Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets." He says that our "dust returns to the ground it came from and our spirit returns to God who gave it". That is the future for some. It is the present for others and the past for billions of others. It is sure, you and I will share the exact same future. If we live, we will age, if we age, we will suffer the effects and death is an appointment that we all will keep.
He concludes this section with a few verses that he tells us are the conclusion of the matter. He doesn't leave us depressed with little to look forward to. Rather, he sums it all up and sends us on our way to live out the lives we have left.... with purpose!
Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the whole duty of man.
For God will bring every deed into judgment,
including every hidden thing,
whether it is good or evil.(Ecclesiastes 12: 13,14)
He tells us that when everything has been heard, all has been said, that our entire duty, our purpose in this life is to "fear God and keep his commandments". When we understand that our lives are short and that we will give an answer for what we have done in the flesh, we will fear the one who will judge us. I know that is not popular Theology these days, but the Bible is clear on this matter... God is to be feared and He is to be obeyed. Solomon warns the young and old alike, you will die and you will face your Creator and answer for everything in your life. Everything hidden, everything known.... everything. That is a scary proposition for us.
Growing old, facing death, going to the judgment.... sounds pretty bad. If that were the end of the story, we would live lives of regret and depression. We would carry around guilt and live every day knowing that we have no hope. Sad. But, thankfully that isn't the end of the story!
When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?”The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
Without Jesus, death reigns eternal; with Jesus, death is swallowed up in victory. What fool goes to court to face the judge without his attorney, his advocate? Even more important, who wants to face aging, death and the judgment without Jesus? As Christians, we should understand the fear of the Lord and because of that our hearts should be set on persuading others to come to Him.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. (2 Corinthians 5:10-11)
Tell it!
There is an appointment that every person will keep. It doesn't matter who you are or what you have or how young or old you are.... you will keep this appointment. Everyone has up to this point and everyone will from here forward. Death is sure. Hebrews 9:27 puts it this way..."And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment". The wisest of the wise, Solomon wasn't able to avoid death or aging and his writings as he grew old reflect the wisdom of his years and gives us sound advice as we face the same future.
His words are very meaningful to me as I am now a little past mid-life and am facing the pains of age. Getting up in the mornings is a little more difficult and doing the things that I once laughed at, is becoming more challenging. Solomon advises us to enjoy all the days of our lives, but he also advises the young to take full advantage of their youth. He warns them that whatever things they do, they will have to answer for, he says "God will bring you to judgement". So if you are young, have fun, enjoy your lives, but know that if you abuse the time, you will face your Creator in judgment. He calls on the young to "Remember your Creator in the days of your youth".
Solomon uses many symbols to represent the effects of aging. Read his words and let them wash over you as you consider the changes that come as we grow older. He talks about our sight, our posture, our level of energy, our fears, our physical limitations and the lose of desire. He closes this encouraging section with these words... "Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets." He says that our "dust returns to the ground it came from and our spirit returns to God who gave it". That is the future for some. It is the present for others and the past for billions of others. It is sure, you and I will share the exact same future. If we live, we will age, if we age, we will suffer the effects and death is an appointment that we all will keep.
He concludes this section with a few verses that he tells us are the conclusion of the matter. He doesn't leave us depressed with little to look forward to. Rather, he sums it all up and sends us on our way to live out the lives we have left.... with purpose!
Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the whole duty of man.
For God will bring every deed into judgment,
including every hidden thing,
whether it is good or evil.(Ecclesiastes 12: 13,14)
He tells us that when everything has been heard, all has been said, that our entire duty, our purpose in this life is to "fear God and keep his commandments". When we understand that our lives are short and that we will give an answer for what we have done in the flesh, we will fear the one who will judge us. I know that is not popular Theology these days, but the Bible is clear on this matter... God is to be feared and He is to be obeyed. Solomon warns the young and old alike, you will die and you will face your Creator and answer for everything in your life. Everything hidden, everything known.... everything. That is a scary proposition for us.
Growing old, facing death, going to the judgment.... sounds pretty bad. If that were the end of the story, we would live lives of regret and depression. We would carry around guilt and live every day knowing that we have no hope. Sad. But, thankfully that isn't the end of the story!
When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?”The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
(1 Corinthians 15:54-58)
Without Jesus, death reigns eternal; with Jesus, death is swallowed up in victory. What fool goes to court to face the judge without his attorney, his advocate? Even more important, who wants to face aging, death and the judgment without Jesus? As Christians, we should understand the fear of the Lord and because of that our hearts should be set on persuading others to come to Him.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. (2 Corinthians 5:10-11)
Tell it!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
An Equal Opportunity
Much is said these days by politicians about our nation and it's ability to provide an equal opportunity for success to all. Not much is said about effort. Not much is said about hard work. Not much is said about taking risks and the possibility of failure. Is the Bible silent on this issue? Does God speak to the idea of hard work and success?
Our Daily Bible reading today includes some interesting teachings that deal with work and success. The sections that I am going to be focusing on are Proverbs 6:6-11; 10:4-5; 12:11; 24:30-34. They all convey a consistent message.... let's study them together and see if we can gain some wisdom.
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. (Proverbs 6:6-11)
The Proverb writer uses an illustration that people anywhere, any time can relate to. Who has not watched ants as they labor and admired their work ethic. I have never seen an ant take a break. I have never seen an ant carry a protest sign or stand on a picket line. I have never seen an ant union. Maybe there are lazy ants... but I have never seen one. The writer tells us that the ant works when it is time to work without being told to work. The ant doesn't need a boss or a job description. The ant just works hard every day to prepare for the times of need.
God tells us that we need to be like the ant. He calls us from laziness and calls us to hard work. He warns us that sitting around will end in poverty. Success is not guaranteed. Sometimes the ant works hard, stores up for the winter and a storm washes it all away. Sometimes it's nature, other times it's a predator and sometimes it is poor planning. Success is not guaranteed for the ant, but what is guaranteed for the ant is failure if it doesn't work hard and so the ant works.
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame. (Proverbs 10:4-5)
The writer gives us a contrast between those that are "slack" and those that work diligently. Slackness.... Poverty. Diligence.... Riches. He tells us that if we work when we are supposed to, we are "prudent" and if we lay in the bed, we suffer shame. Hard work, diligent work is held up as something to take pride in, while laziness is something that we should feel ashamed of.
Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense. (Proverbs 12:11)
The Proverb writer is giving us advice on what we go after, what we pursue. You need food, work your garden and you will be fed. He tells us that "our dreams" can lead to worthless ends. He is encouraging us to to not only work hard, but also work smart. Some pursuits are worthless! We might even work hard in a pursuit; but if that pursuit is selling ice to Eskimos... don't expect success. We are to spend our time and effort on things that have proven to give a harvest or he says that we "lack sense". Success is not guaranteed, but it will surely be more likely when we work the land that we know.
I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. (Proverbs 24: 30-34)
Next the Proverb writer gives us insight from his stroll down the street by a neighbor's house. This is the house of a lazy person that doesn't use good judgement. He owns a vineyard and a field. He owns a home and it has a stone wall around it. By most standards, this is a wealthy person, a successful person. Maybe he was a hard worker at one time or maybe he inherited the farm.... I don't know, but this we know for sure, he will not own it long. He is lazy and doesn't look after what was placed in his care. The writer tells us that as he looked at his neighbors "mess", he received instruction and that instruction is this....A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
He tells us that the outcome of our laziness is surely poverty and want. He tells us that laying down on the job will end in failure. What was once a beautiful vineyard with at lovely stone wall around it has become weeds and rubble. He hasn't cared for the vines, he hasn't maintained the stone wall, so what once provided food and security now produces nothing and allows predators to come in and destroy. We are told that our hard work pays off and that laziness will surely end in poverty. Over and over, the message is the same. God expects His people, His followers to work and work smart. He expects us to care for what we are blessed with and use it for His glory.
We live in a nation that provides opportunity for all. I know of many examples of people coming to this country with nothing and through hard work and determination, they achieve great success. I know of many that were born here and grew up with a sense of entitlement that led them to sit down and expect success to come to them. When it didn't, they demanded a different result. You see, they didn't want and equal opportunity, they wanted an equal result. It doesn't work that way, God says... get up, get a job, go to work and work hard. He will honor your efforts. Success is not guaranteed through hard work, but my witness is that it comes to those that work hard. This I am sure of, the other side of the coin is certain... sit around, do nothing, wait for success to find you and you will find failure in this life.
The next pretty day that comes along, go outside, find an ant hill and sit down and get some instruction. Watch the ants working, looking after their home; carrying food for the family. Learn from the ant! Next, walk by your lazy neighbors house and see the paint peeling, look at the yard and check out his garden and get some instruction. Then go to the home of the neighbor that works hard. I don't care if it is a big house or a little one, the hard workers house will bring him or her honor. It will be cared for, the yard will be mowed, the paint will be fresh and the garden will be green. In this nation, success is not guaranteed, but the opportunity is there and God expects us to work in such a way that brings Him honor and us dignity. Now get off your computer and go get to work. :-)
Our Daily Bible reading today includes some interesting teachings that deal with work and success. The sections that I am going to be focusing on are Proverbs 6:6-11; 10:4-5; 12:11; 24:30-34. They all convey a consistent message.... let's study them together and see if we can gain some wisdom.
Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. (Proverbs 6:6-11)
The Proverb writer uses an illustration that people anywhere, any time can relate to. Who has not watched ants as they labor and admired their work ethic. I have never seen an ant take a break. I have never seen an ant carry a protest sign or stand on a picket line. I have never seen an ant union. Maybe there are lazy ants... but I have never seen one. The writer tells us that the ant works when it is time to work without being told to work. The ant doesn't need a boss or a job description. The ant just works hard every day to prepare for the times of need.
God tells us that we need to be like the ant. He calls us from laziness and calls us to hard work. He warns us that sitting around will end in poverty. Success is not guaranteed. Sometimes the ant works hard, stores up for the winter and a storm washes it all away. Sometimes it's nature, other times it's a predator and sometimes it is poor planning. Success is not guaranteed for the ant, but what is guaranteed for the ant is failure if it doesn't work hard and so the ant works.
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame. (Proverbs 10:4-5)
The writer gives us a contrast between those that are "slack" and those that work diligently. Slackness.... Poverty. Diligence.... Riches. He tells us that if we work when we are supposed to, we are "prudent" and if we lay in the bed, we suffer shame. Hard work, diligent work is held up as something to take pride in, while laziness is something that we should feel ashamed of.
Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense. (Proverbs 12:11)
The Proverb writer is giving us advice on what we go after, what we pursue. You need food, work your garden and you will be fed. He tells us that "our dreams" can lead to worthless ends. He is encouraging us to to not only work hard, but also work smart. Some pursuits are worthless! We might even work hard in a pursuit; but if that pursuit is selling ice to Eskimos... don't expect success. We are to spend our time and effort on things that have proven to give a harvest or he says that we "lack sense". Success is not guaranteed, but it will surely be more likely when we work the land that we know.
I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man. (Proverbs 24: 30-34)
Next the Proverb writer gives us insight from his stroll down the street by a neighbor's house. This is the house of a lazy person that doesn't use good judgement. He owns a vineyard and a field. He owns a home and it has a stone wall around it. By most standards, this is a wealthy person, a successful person. Maybe he was a hard worker at one time or maybe he inherited the farm.... I don't know, but this we know for sure, he will not own it long. He is lazy and doesn't look after what was placed in his care. The writer tells us that as he looked at his neighbors "mess", he received instruction and that instruction is this....A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
He tells us that the outcome of our laziness is surely poverty and want. He tells us that laying down on the job will end in failure. What was once a beautiful vineyard with at lovely stone wall around it has become weeds and rubble. He hasn't cared for the vines, he hasn't maintained the stone wall, so what once provided food and security now produces nothing and allows predators to come in and destroy. We are told that our hard work pays off and that laziness will surely end in poverty. Over and over, the message is the same. God expects His people, His followers to work and work smart. He expects us to care for what we are blessed with and use it for His glory.
We live in a nation that provides opportunity for all. I know of many examples of people coming to this country with nothing and through hard work and determination, they achieve great success. I know of many that were born here and grew up with a sense of entitlement that led them to sit down and expect success to come to them. When it didn't, they demanded a different result. You see, they didn't want and equal opportunity, they wanted an equal result. It doesn't work that way, God says... get up, get a job, go to work and work hard. He will honor your efforts. Success is not guaranteed through hard work, but my witness is that it comes to those that work hard. This I am sure of, the other side of the coin is certain... sit around, do nothing, wait for success to find you and you will find failure in this life.
The next pretty day that comes along, go outside, find an ant hill and sit down and get some instruction. Watch the ants working, looking after their home; carrying food for the family. Learn from the ant! Next, walk by your lazy neighbors house and see the paint peeling, look at the yard and check out his garden and get some instruction. Then go to the home of the neighbor that works hard. I don't care if it is a big house or a little one, the hard workers house will bring him or her honor. It will be cared for, the yard will be mowed, the paint will be fresh and the garden will be green. In this nation, success is not guaranteed, but the opportunity is there and God expects us to work in such a way that brings Him honor and us dignity. Now get off your computer and go get to work. :-)
Monday, May 7, 2012
The Solution for Depression
(Psalm 42)
Man is always looking for solutions to his problems. A quick fix is always preferable; one that costs little and at least puts a band-aid over the issue. Depression is a problem that everyone deals with during their lifetime. Everyone! None go through this life without trouble and trouble brings about depression. Be it financial, relational, physical, emotional or whatever brings you down, trouble is the cause of our depression.
Man's solution... counseling, medication, self-help books, a new job, a new wife.... whatever it takes to remove the "problem" and fix the trouble. Never considering that the next job, the next boyfriend, the next situation will bring with it... trouble. My friends, that is life. It is filled with trouble. Job put it this way... “Man who is born of a woman is few of days and full of trouble." (Job 14:1) Sounds good doesn't it. His point and my point is the same; if you live life, you will experience trouble, sorrow, pain and problems. Guaranteed!
So what does God have to say about this. I mean, He made us, so He must offer the true solution to our depression. Psalm 42 gives His prescription for life's downs. Let's pull over and park and take a few minutes to read the 42nd Psalm.
As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?
My tears have been my food day and night, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God with glad shouts and songs of praise, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?
Man is always looking for solutions to his problems. A quick fix is always preferable; one that costs little and at least puts a band-aid over the issue. Depression is a problem that everyone deals with during their lifetime. Everyone! None go through this life without trouble and trouble brings about depression. Be it financial, relational, physical, emotional or whatever brings you down, trouble is the cause of our depression.
Man's solution... counseling, medication, self-help books, a new job, a new wife.... whatever it takes to remove the "problem" and fix the trouble. Never considering that the next job, the next boyfriend, the next situation will bring with it... trouble. My friends, that is life. It is filled with trouble. Job put it this way... “Man who is born of a woman is few of days and full of trouble." (Job 14:1) Sounds good doesn't it. His point and my point is the same; if you live life, you will experience trouble, sorrow, pain and problems. Guaranteed!
So what does God have to say about this. I mean, He made us, so He must offer the true solution to our depression. Psalm 42 gives His prescription for life's downs. Let's pull over and park and take a few minutes to read the 42nd Psalm.
As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?
My tears have been my food day and night, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God with glad shouts and songs of praise, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me. By day the Lord commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life. I say to God, my rock: “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” As with a deadly wound in my bones, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?” Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.
God's solution for depression... get the focus off of me. When I dwell on my situation; my focus is on me, then the problem is mine and I am responsible for the solution. Be careful to understand what I am saying... of course I will suffer the negative results of a bad decision, but when my attention is on me, life seems miserable. I don't have as nice a car as my neighbor. I don't have as handsome a husband as the lady in the next cube. I don't make as much money as I deserve. I, I, I... you get the idea.
David tells us to place our focus on God, rather than on ourselves, remembering that He is the source of hope and the giver of every blessing. Having a deep desire to be in His presence, in His house with His people, that is what will bring true joy and defeat depression. Depression is defined as "Severe despondency and dejection, accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy." The focus is on me when I am depressed. I am not good enough. I have no hope. As long as I am relying on me, I will be disappointed. But when I depend on God, my focus turns towards Him. As David said, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?" He lived to be near God, to offer praise and song and prayer. His hope was in the LORD. When others would taunt him, he remembered what God had done for him. When he was distressed, he turned towards God and longed to be with Him. When he was "cast down", when his soul was in "turmoil", he found hope in God and looked forward to praising him, his salvation and his God.
I understand that this is not the popular fix being marketed on television or prescribed by the doctor, but God offers the true solution to every problem, if we will just take the time to seek Him and His wisdom.
Money issues....Philippians 4:10-12; Marriage issues.... Ephesians 5:24-26; Parenting issues.... Proverbs 22:6; Relationship issues.... 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
You see the solutions to our problems and overcoming depression is there for the taking. The problem for most people isn't that it isn't available, it's that they don't want it. God offers the blueprint for a life filled with joy; not a life without pain or trouble, but a life that deals with those things properly. I wish you well, seek the LORD, read His word, abide by His laws and this life and the life hereafter will be wonderful.
God's solution for depression... get the focus off of me. When I dwell on my situation; my focus is on me, then the problem is mine and I am responsible for the solution. Be careful to understand what I am saying... of course I will suffer the negative results of a bad decision, but when my attention is on me, life seems miserable. I don't have as nice a car as my neighbor. I don't have as handsome a husband as the lady in the next cube. I don't make as much money as I deserve. I, I, I... you get the idea.
David tells us to place our focus on God, rather than on ourselves, remembering that He is the source of hope and the giver of every blessing. Having a deep desire to be in His presence, in His house with His people, that is what will bring true joy and defeat depression. Depression is defined as "Severe despondency and dejection, accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy." The focus is on me when I am depressed. I am not good enough. I have no hope. As long as I am relying on me, I will be disappointed. But when I depend on God, my focus turns towards Him. As David said, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?" He lived to be near God, to offer praise and song and prayer. His hope was in the LORD. When others would taunt him, he remembered what God had done for him. When he was distressed, he turned towards God and longed to be with Him. When he was "cast down", when his soul was in "turmoil", he found hope in God and looked forward to praising him, his salvation and his God.
I understand that this is not the popular fix being marketed on television or prescribed by the doctor, but God offers the true solution to every problem, if we will just take the time to seek Him and His wisdom.
Money issues....Philippians 4:10-12; Marriage issues.... Ephesians 5:24-26; Parenting issues.... Proverbs 22:6; Relationship issues.... 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
You see the solutions to our problems and overcoming depression is there for the taking. The problem for most people isn't that it isn't available, it's that they don't want it. God offers the blueprint for a life filled with joy; not a life without pain or trouble, but a life that deals with those things properly. I wish you well, seek the LORD, read His word, abide by His laws and this life and the life hereafter will be wonderful.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Same-sex Marriage
I am going to take a detour today and write about a topic that is getting lots of press these days. Marriage. The citizens of North Carolina will go to the polls on May 8th to vote on a constitutional amendment that defines marriage between a man and a woman as the only legal union recognized by the state. The outcome of the vote is in little doubt. The latest polls show that the measure will pass with about 60% in favor of the amendment, but only God knows the result right now.
The question that I want us to consider is this... what if the outcome was reversed? What if the amendment was to legalize gay marriage and it passed with 60% of the vote? What would that change in your life? How would I react to that? (my guess is that one day it will pass and gay marriage will be the law of the land, so what then?) As a Christian, how do I respond to a law that is in direct conflict to God's word? That is the question that Christians face everyday, all around the world.
We must understand that something being legal does not make that thing right and something being illegal, does not make that thing wrong in certain circumstances. As a Christian, I am to live under that laws of the land. Romans 13:1-7 makes it clear that we are to respect governing authorities and abide by the laws where we live. That is easy for a Christian when the laws that exist do not violate God's law, but when they do... what then? Does God's word give us insight into our conduct when man's law violates God's law? Do we have examples that give us principles that enable us to respond appropriately?
Thankfully, God did not leave us to our own devices. Acts 4 contains the story of Peter and John being charged to stop speaking about Jesus. Their response is clear...But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard. Obedience to God is required when a law is in direct conflict with His will. Peter and John remained respectful of the authorities, but understood that submission to civil authorities ended when that authority was in opposition to God. They continued to be obedient to other laws of the land; only the laws that conflicted with God's laws were disobeyed. In other words, general civil disobedience is not found in the scriptures.
Another example of this disobedience is found in the book of Daniel. Daniel and his three friends disobeyed the specific laws that conflicted with God's will. They would not bow down to the statue. They would not discontinue the practice of prayer. Even in their disobedience, they continued to show respect and be law abiding citizens. They disobeyed the law that was in conflict with God's law, but continued to live in obedience to the civil authorities.
So, what does that have to do with gay marriage and the Christian. If an amendment ever passes that legalizes Gay marriage, the Christian must continue to abide by the laws of the land and be in subjection the civil authorities. Consider this, in some parts of the country, prostitution is legal. Does that mean that the Christian then approves of prostitution? Of course not! Does that mean that in those areas of the country the Christian can ignore all the laws? Of course not! The Bible makes it clear that God's design for marriage is that it be between a man and a woman. When man decides that marriage is to be between same sex couples, then that law is in direct conflict with God's teaching and the Christian will speak out against it and will not abide by it; the same way that the Christian speaks out against prostitution and does not abide by that law.
We are called to live lives filled with love for our fellow person. We are to live at peace with everyone, as much as it depends on us. I have many homosexual friends that I love dearly and would do anything for. One thing I would not do for them is let them think that God approves of their "lifestyle" choice. He does not. There are dozens of scriptures that deal with the sin (breaking God's law) of homosexuality. Romans 1:18-32 is a good example of these scriptures. I do not deny that same sex attraction exists any more than I would deny that some people are attracted to sex with children or some are attracted to drugs and alcohol abuse. The desire to do something does not justify the act of doing it.
As people, we have many things that attempt to draw us away from God, but we make the choice. I choose and when I choose to ignore God's will, I choose to sin. That is what we owe to our fellow person. We owe them the truth and we must in a loving and kind way tell them the truth found in His word. What they do with it is between them and God.
Regardless of the outcome of the vote on May 8th, God's word doesn't change. What is right does not change. If same sex marriage is wrong before the vote, then it is wrong after the vote. A society that changes it's plan does not change His plan. Christians that live under the laws of a land are to conduct themselves as Jesus did when He lived under the laws of Rome. He knew that Caesar was not god, but He obeyed the laws of the land and directed His disciples to do the same. He told the truth and confronted sin. That is our example. Let's live by it.
The question that I want us to consider is this... what if the outcome was reversed? What if the amendment was to legalize gay marriage and it passed with 60% of the vote? What would that change in your life? How would I react to that? (my guess is that one day it will pass and gay marriage will be the law of the land, so what then?) As a Christian, how do I respond to a law that is in direct conflict to God's word? That is the question that Christians face everyday, all around the world.
We must understand that something being legal does not make that thing right and something being illegal, does not make that thing wrong in certain circumstances. As a Christian, I am to live under that laws of the land. Romans 13:1-7 makes it clear that we are to respect governing authorities and abide by the laws where we live. That is easy for a Christian when the laws that exist do not violate God's law, but when they do... what then? Does God's word give us insight into our conduct when man's law violates God's law? Do we have examples that give us principles that enable us to respond appropriately?
Thankfully, God did not leave us to our own devices. Acts 4 contains the story of Peter and John being charged to stop speaking about Jesus. Their response is clear...But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard. Obedience to God is required when a law is in direct conflict with His will. Peter and John remained respectful of the authorities, but understood that submission to civil authorities ended when that authority was in opposition to God. They continued to be obedient to other laws of the land; only the laws that conflicted with God's laws were disobeyed. In other words, general civil disobedience is not found in the scriptures.
Another example of this disobedience is found in the book of Daniel. Daniel and his three friends disobeyed the specific laws that conflicted with God's will. They would not bow down to the statue. They would not discontinue the practice of prayer. Even in their disobedience, they continued to show respect and be law abiding citizens. They disobeyed the law that was in conflict with God's law, but continued to live in obedience to the civil authorities.
So, what does that have to do with gay marriage and the Christian. If an amendment ever passes that legalizes Gay marriage, the Christian must continue to abide by the laws of the land and be in subjection the civil authorities. Consider this, in some parts of the country, prostitution is legal. Does that mean that the Christian then approves of prostitution? Of course not! Does that mean that in those areas of the country the Christian can ignore all the laws? Of course not! The Bible makes it clear that God's design for marriage is that it be between a man and a woman. When man decides that marriage is to be between same sex couples, then that law is in direct conflict with God's teaching and the Christian will speak out against it and will not abide by it; the same way that the Christian speaks out against prostitution and does not abide by that law.
We are called to live lives filled with love for our fellow person. We are to live at peace with everyone, as much as it depends on us. I have many homosexual friends that I love dearly and would do anything for. One thing I would not do for them is let them think that God approves of their "lifestyle" choice. He does not. There are dozens of scriptures that deal with the sin (breaking God's law) of homosexuality. Romans 1:18-32 is a good example of these scriptures. I do not deny that same sex attraction exists any more than I would deny that some people are attracted to sex with children or some are attracted to drugs and alcohol abuse. The desire to do something does not justify the act of doing it.
As people, we have many things that attempt to draw us away from God, but we make the choice. I choose and when I choose to ignore God's will, I choose to sin. That is what we owe to our fellow person. We owe them the truth and we must in a loving and kind way tell them the truth found in His word. What they do with it is between them and God.
Regardless of the outcome of the vote on May 8th, God's word doesn't change. What is right does not change. If same sex marriage is wrong before the vote, then it is wrong after the vote. A society that changes it's plan does not change His plan. Christians that live under the laws of a land are to conduct themselves as Jesus did when He lived under the laws of Rome. He knew that Caesar was not god, but He obeyed the laws of the land and directed His disciples to do the same. He told the truth and confronted sin. That is our example. Let's live by it.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Pray Like a King
(1 Chron 29:10-20)
David's time as king is almost over as he prepares to turn over the throne to his son, Solomon. I am sure somewhere down deep inside, he is disappointed that God has chosen to let Solomon build the temple. David worked and saved and designed and planned, only to hand over the entire project to his son. Sure, if you have to hand over the reigns to someone, better a son than a stranger. But still, there must have been some hurt, some disappointment in the situation.
That is what amazes me about the prayer that is contained in these verses. Take a moment to read and digest the setting and the words.
Therefore David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.
"But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding. O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own. I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you. O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”
Then David said to all the assembly, “Bless the Lord your God.” And all the assembly blessed the Lord, the God of their fathers, and bowed their heads and paid homage to the Lord and to the king.
David rises above the human disappointment, puts aside his ego and praises God in prayer. Publicly! He stands before the assembly and proclaims God's goodness and power. Reread the prayer if you need to. Underline the words that leap from the page in worship to God. The thing that really inspires me is that these are the words of a great and powerful king. This leads me to some questions that I believe each of us should ask ourselves.
1. If king David was willing to step down from his throne to put God up there, am I willing to place the King on the throne of my life?
2. Am I willing, in the face of disappointment (when things didn't go like I wanted them to) to praise God for His goodness and power? Or do I pout and think badly of God who didn't conduct His business the way I wanted Him to do it?
3. Am I willing to (like David did) go totally public with my praise for God? Am I willing to let others see me pour out my heart before the LORD?
4. Am I praying for those around me? For God to direct their hearts? For Him to keep our children faithful?
5. Am I willing to thank God, in the midst of my own personal disappointment, for His provision and care in my life?
David was surely a man after God's own heart, but he was also a notorious sinner who struggled just like I do. His example is included in God's word for us to see that even though we are sinners (and we all are), even though we suffer the consequences of those sins, God is always there, always loving us and always ready to welcome us back to His house.
David's prayer is filled with worship and praise because he understood that life here is temporary and that his time as king was "like a shadow and there is no abiding". He looked forward to his home in heaven with God and so he prayed for those that he would leave behind. David left us with a great example in his prayer. May we determine to pray like a king, on our knees, lifting up our friends and family in prayer, praising His holy name. Amen? Amen!
David's time as king is almost over as he prepares to turn over the throne to his son, Solomon. I am sure somewhere down deep inside, he is disappointed that God has chosen to let Solomon build the temple. David worked and saved and designed and planned, only to hand over the entire project to his son. Sure, if you have to hand over the reigns to someone, better a son than a stranger. But still, there must have been some hurt, some disappointment in the situation.
That is what amazes me about the prayer that is contained in these verses. Take a moment to read and digest the setting and the words.
Therefore David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.
"But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding. O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own. I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you. O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”
Then David said to all the assembly, “Bless the Lord your God.” And all the assembly blessed the Lord, the God of their fathers, and bowed their heads and paid homage to the Lord and to the king.
David rises above the human disappointment, puts aside his ego and praises God in prayer. Publicly! He stands before the assembly and proclaims God's goodness and power. Reread the prayer if you need to. Underline the words that leap from the page in worship to God. The thing that really inspires me is that these are the words of a great and powerful king. This leads me to some questions that I believe each of us should ask ourselves.
1. If king David was willing to step down from his throne to put God up there, am I willing to place the King on the throne of my life?
2. Am I willing, in the face of disappointment (when things didn't go like I wanted them to) to praise God for His goodness and power? Or do I pout and think badly of God who didn't conduct His business the way I wanted Him to do it?
3. Am I willing to (like David did) go totally public with my praise for God? Am I willing to let others see me pour out my heart before the LORD?
4. Am I praying for those around me? For God to direct their hearts? For Him to keep our children faithful?
5. Am I willing to thank God, in the midst of my own personal disappointment, for His provision and care in my life?
David was surely a man after God's own heart, but he was also a notorious sinner who struggled just like I do. His example is included in God's word for us to see that even though we are sinners (and we all are), even though we suffer the consequences of those sins, God is always there, always loving us and always ready to welcome us back to His house.
David's prayer is filled with worship and praise because he understood that life here is temporary and that his time as king was "like a shadow and there is no abiding". He looked forward to his home in heaven with God and so he prayed for those that he would leave behind. David left us with a great example in his prayer. May we determine to pray like a king, on our knees, lifting up our friends and family in prayer, praising His holy name. Amen? Amen!
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