The Lord Spoke

THE LORD SPOKE (January 29)

2012-01-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 17-19

Happy is the man who has a good father-in-law. Not every man can give thanks but Moses surely could. Jethro was a help to him on more than one occasion, but none so much as that recorded in Exodus 18. When he observed how Moses was spread so thinly, Jehro laid out a plan which eventually set the pattern for the Sanhedrin and is still practiced as a valid principle of modern management.

What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people's representative before God and bring their disputes to him. Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform. But select capable men from all the people - men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain - and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied. (Ex. 18:17-23)

By dividing the responsibilities, Moses multiplied his effectiveness. Take good note of the elements that make this plan workable:

Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform. Make sure that the people are properly instructed in the first place. Make sure they understand their duties.
Select capable men from all the people...and appoint them as officials. By careful selection, godly leaders should be chosen to shoulder the task. They must be “men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain”.
Have them serve. The load is lightened by dividing the task. Moses still had to deal with the tough decisions but he could delegate the lesser ones and ease some of his own burden.

That came from an apparently recently-converted father-in-law. As a Midianite priest (Ex. 18:1), Jethro no doubt worshiped the Midianite gods but he had come to understand that Yahweh was the one true God. His use of this name in Exodus 18:10-11 is significant since Moses had explained to him all that Yahweh had done in Egypt (see Ex. 18:8).

Are you listening to the wise voices around you? Do you seek out good advice? Learn this lesson from what Moses experienced just before he was put to the task for 40 years in the wilderness.

New Testament: Mark 1

Mark likes to keep it short. His Gospel is the shortest and he often demonstrates a great economy of words. Not a quality that most people have! Look, for example, at how much he crowds into one brief paragraph of two verses about Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness (Mark 1:12-13). Matthew and Luke have eleven and thirteen verses respectively to cover this material and we’re still left longing for more information.

Mark is also characterized by action and quick movement - “immediately” He did this or that, or went here or there. Mark is the most geographical of the Gospels in terms of identifying where things happened. Though he emphasizes Jesus’ humanity, his favorite name for Him is “Son of God”. Another favorite is “teacher” or “Rabbi”. (This and other references to Jesus’ teaching occur 39x.)

Another very useful characteristic of Mark’s Gospel is that he identifies two major turning points in Jesus’ ministry. After referring to “the beginning of the gospel” (1:1), he indicates that John’s imprisonment was a turning point that served to trigger Jesus’ ministry in Galilee to “proclaim the good news of God” (1:14). The second hinge point comes in 8:31 (“He then began to teach them...”) when Jesus begins to prepare His disciples for His suffering and death. Matthew is even more emphatic about this moment, adding “from that time on” (Mat. 16:21).

What’s instructive about Mark’s Gospel are the events that he does choose to elaborate on. For example, here in chapter one Mark tells the story of the man with leprosy who came to Jesus. Both Matthew and Luke include the story but Mark informs us that he came and “begged him on his knees” (1"40). Though all three tell how Jesus physically touched the leper, Mark is the only one who specifically says that Jesus was “filled with compassion” when He did so. Mark also informs us that this miracle brought the result of Jesus “no longer [being able] to enter a town openly” (1:45). That’s why He had previously avoided an emphasis on healing only - it often served just to draw a superficial crowd. Now, even though he “stayed outside in lonely places” the people “still came to him from everywhere”.

What a Man! Wouldn’t you have been one of those who tried to get close to Him too? How about right now?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 28)

2012-01-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 15-16

We’ve been struck by 9-11 in more ways than one. So-called worship songs are often not much more than nine words repeated eleven times over (thanks to Chuck Swindoll for the original idea here). Somehow we’ve gotten the idea that raised hands, semi-glazed and up-turned eyes, and a repetitive croon equals worship.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Though there is plenty of repetition, for example, in the psalms, biblical worship is always content-rich. Take a look at the song Moses led the Israelites to sing in Exodus 15. Every verse is dripping with praise for the mighty attributes of God. His majesty is exalted with content-rich language.

vs. 1 - He is exalted
vs. 2 - He is strong (repeated several times in what follows)
vs. 2 - He is the redeemer (“he has become my salvation”) - c.f. vs. 13
vs. 3 - He is a warrior
vs. 3 - He is eternal (“Yahweh [probably from all three tenses of the verb “to be”] is his name”)
vs. 6 - He is majestic
vs. 7 - He is great
vs. 7 - He is angry = righteous in His wrath
vs. 11 - He is holy
vs. 11 - He is glorious
vs. 11 - He is all-powerful (“working wonders”, “your right hand”) - c.f. vs. 16
vs. 13 - He is merciful, gracious (Heb. hesed)
vs. 13 - He is our guide
vs. 18 - He is sovereign over all

And we haven’t even gotten to the chorus yet (that comes in vs. 21).

Let’s put some more thought into our praise. Let’s think longer and harder about the attributes of God and be less worried about producing a mood.

New Testament: Matthew 28

There was a lot of shaking going on. The first earthquake (Mat. 27:51) happened at the moment of Jesus’ death and shook the city of Jerusalem so violently that tombs actually broke open. Some dead people were shaken alive again and “many holy people who had died” went into the city after the resurrection. That probably made a good number of other people shake too.

But there was a second earthquake three days later. On Resurrection Sunday morning, another violent earthquake shook Jerusalem (28:2). No doubt, many people were still shaking from the first one and these rumblings didn’t help. This earthquake was accompanied by an angel of the Lord who came to the tomb to roll back the stone. At that sight, the Roman guards were so afraid that “they shook and became like dead men” (28:4).

Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome saw the empty tomb and trembled (Mk. 16:8). Peter and John were probably trembling when they heard the news and ran to the tomb. Wouldn’t you? The two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Lk. 24:13-32) had palpitations that left their hearts “burning”. The disciples gathered in Jerusalem were trembling “for fear of the Jews” (Jn. 20:19) and when Jesus appeared in their midst, their hearts must have trembled for joy. Wouldn’t yours?

That Jewish leadership was also trembling. Some in fury that their plan had failed and they really had no Plan B. What more can you do than kill a man? Some in frustration that the news would get out and they’d have more to deal with than they could possibly handle. How were they going to control the crowds now? Some in fear that the Roman authorities would hear and crack down even worse on them all. How do you explain that your fail-safe plan didn’t work?

There was a lot of shaking going on.

Maybe the biggest shake-up was the plan that Jesus announced at the conclusion (Mat. 28:18-20). Based on His authority as Lord of heaven and earth, the Commander-in-Chief issued an “Order of the Day” for His troops. Hereafter, they were to be actively and continuously involved in motion towards the lost. Wherever they went (“in your going”) they were to make disciples. That was to involve two primary activities: baptizing and teaching. Baptism was/is an identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It is the best outward sign of inward conversion. Teaching is necessary for continuing and sustained growth. Through it, the new disciple is strengthened and brought to maturity.

You are left with two options. You can be a “discipler“, one who is actively and continuously seeking the lost and bringing them to Christ. Remember, it’s the lost “of all nations” (Mat. 28:19). What that means is spelled out for us in Acts 1:8 - “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”. So you don’t wait until you’ve saturated the home front first and then do something about distant battlefields.

The other option is to be disobedient.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 27)

2012-01-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 13-14

It’s the ultimate aquarium. Imagine a wall of water on both sides of a corridor which you can walk through, observing the fish and other sea-life. And the Red Sea has some of the most spectacular underwater life on earth. Look out Chicago, Atlanta, and San Diego - your aquaria spectator numbers are going to face some serious competition.

Unfortunately, the Israelites weren’t able to concentrate much on spectating just then. Feeling trapped, with the Egyptians hot on their heels, their primary response was one of relief and haste. Nobody was anxious to stay between those two walls of water for very long. The Israelites scurried on through and when the Egyptian wheels came off, panic struck.

You can read the whole story in Exodus 14 - how the Israelites made it through on dry ground (which, in itself is another miracle), how “the sea went back to its place” in a devastating water clap, and how the Egyptians were swept into the sea. “Not one of them survived” (Ex. 14:28). That day the Israelites saw the frightening threat vanish and the fish had a banquet.

And when the Israelites saw the great power the Lord displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the Lord and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant. (Ex. 14:31)

Ponder the results of this memorable experience:

they “saw the power of the Lord displayed” - The same can be said of us in hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanoes, or even the mighty display of a glorious sunset. God’s power is frequently on display for all to see.
they “feared the Lord” - A reverential awe that respects His sovereignty and bows before Him should be our response too.
they “put their trust in Him” - Of course! If He is so powerful and sovereign over all, how could I respond in any other way? I surely don’t want to fight against Him.
they “put their trust in...Moses his servant” - When God sets His seal upon a leader, he is to be trusted and followed. That’s what leadership means, especially godly, spiritual leadership. We’ve had our share of miserable deceptions and failed leaders, but that doesn’t change God’s pattern one bit. He has given leaders to His people and He expects us to follow their example and leadership, so long as it conforms to Scripture.

New Testament: Matthew 27

“Let his blood be on us and on our children!” (Mat. 27:25). What horrible words! But could they even say such a thing? Does the saying make it true?

No! God said, “Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sins” (II Ki. 14:6). Children are never held accountable for the sins of their parents. They may have liability. It’s certainly true that they will probably suffer for bad choices made by their parents. But they are not to be judged for someone else’s sin. Not by God and not by anyone else. Sufficient unto each one is the guilt of his own sin.

So how are we to understand the words of Matthew 27:25? At most, it is the misguided statement of a handful of the Jewish religious leaders in the city of Jerusalem in the year AD 30 (± depending on chronology questions). Large crowds of people followed Jesus and the common people gladly received him (Mk. 12:37) so those who condemned him represent only a tiny minority. No stretch of the imagination can make the entire Jewish people responsible for the death of Jesus forever after.

But never underestimate the theological stretch of the imagination of some. The Roman Catholic Church and a majority of misguided “Christianity” through the centuries has taught that the Jews are the “Christ-killers”. Christians have hounded, condemned, persecuted, and even murdered Jews ever since, all “in the name of Christ”. Sad to say, anti-semitism is primarily a “Christian” invention. So called “Christians” often hate Jews even where no Jews live - they’ve never even seen one but they know they’re supposed to despise them. That’s despicable!

Who did actually put Jesus to death?

True, a handful of Jewish religious authorities in Jerusalem requisitioned His death.
Pilate and the Roman government provided the legal apparatus to murder him.
Some Roman soldiers performed the physical act of scourging Him, placing the crown of thorns on His head, and nailing Him on the crossbar of death.
But, the reason He died was because of my sin. I am the one responsible. He hung there for me.

My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine;
For thee all the follies of sin I resign.
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou;
If ever I loved thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.

I love thee because thou hast first loved me,
And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree;
I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow;
If ever I loved thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 26)

2012-01-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 10-12

“So that you may tell...your grandchildren....” (Ex. 10:2)

The influence that flows from generation to generation is precious - if it’s a good influence. The opposite can be devastatingly true too - a sinful influence will be felt for generations to come.

Imagine the effect the plagues had on the children and grandchildren. It had to be explained to them why they couldn’t drink water out of the normal water bucket, why there were so many stinking dead animals outside, and why some locusts were even under the covers at night. It couldn’t be avoided when the little Egyptian neighbor boy died last night - it had to be explained in language a child could understand. “God must be obeyed. Always listen to Him and then do what He says.” The best advice was, “Do what I do. Follow my example.”

Grandpa and Grandma, you have at the same time an incredible opportunity and a heavy responsibility. “From everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children” (Ps. 103:17).

In Daddy’s Steps [works for Grandpa too!]
T.T. Judd

There are little eyes upon you, and they’re watching night and day;
There are little ears that quickly take in every word you say;
There are little hands all eager to do everything you do,
And a little boy who’s dreaming of the day he’ll be like you.

You’re the little fellow’s idol, you’re the wisest of the wise.
In his little mind about you , no suspicions ever rise;
He believes in you devoutly, holds that all you say and do,
He will say and do in your way when he’s grown up to be like you.

There’s a wide-eyed little fellow who believes you’re always right,
And his ears are always open and he watches day and night;
You are setting an example every day in all you do,
For the little boy who’s waiting to grow up to be like you.

New Testament: Matthew 26

If your spirituality isn’t enough to break the bonds of slumber, it isn’t worth much, is it? It’s so easy to see it in this chapter with the disciples. Though they all swore they would stand with Jesus through thick and thin (vs. 35), when crunch time came every single one ran. One was actually the betrayer. He kissed heaven’s Door and went to hell. Another denied Him with an oath - three times! Not one hung around after the first sniff of danger. Before the going got tough, the tough skedaddled.

It started back in the garden. Actually, it started way before that but it should have been painfully apparent to them in Gethsemane. Their dear friend Jesus had only moments before told them plainly that he would be struck down (vs. 31; the Hebrew word in the OT quote from Zech. 13:7, is used for being struck by a weapon in battle, resulting in death). Then they saw as “He began to be sorrowful and troubled” (vs. 37). Three times He came back to them, pleading with them for support in His distress. Even in a garden on a dark night, they could have seen the blood mixed with His sweat (Lk. 22:44). They could, at least, have heard the pain in His voice and felt the quiver in His hand.

But no, they were tired. They could only look for a softer spot to rest their heads. The good Passover meal was sitting heavy in their bellies and the four cups of wine were beginning to work. Slumber was more important than the Savior. Sleep sounded better than service. Snoozing led to losing out on one of the most significant moments in the Gospel narrative.

As the Son submitted to the Father (“nevertheless, not my will but thine be done”), they missed seeing the Trinity in action. They slept through one of the best parts of the movie.

How can we overcome this sort of thing? Our own spiritual slumber often dulls our perception and we miss the voice of God. Here’s something you can do about it:

Kick the devil in the teeth (I Pet. 5:9; Jas. 4:7). Tell him to get out and never come back.
Lay your soul out before the Lord and plead for His help in overcoming your slumbering weakness.
Set your alarm so you can get up a while before you must. Put it on the other side of the room so it’s not so easy to turn it off without getting up.
Throw off the covers. Splash some cold water on your face so you’re brought quickly to alertness.
Open your Bible and let the Lord speak. Let Jesus shine on you. Let the Spirit wash over you. Be quickened in your soul!

THE LORD SPOKE (January 25)

2012-01-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 8-9

Frog on your teeth and gnats in your nose. Flies in your eyes and boils between your toes. You’d think Pharaoh would take the hint. But repeatedly his heart was hardened. A few of his officials learned to fear the Lord through this experience (Ex. 10:20) but many didn’t.

Meanwhile, God continues to speak to and through Moses. Have you noticed how often the text says that? From the earlier conversation when God reminded him “Who gave man his mouth? Who made him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” (Ex. 4:11-12). Starting in Exodus 6:1, a phrase is repeated no less than 27 times over the next 9 chapters: “Then the Lord said to Moses....”

It must have been a great comfort to Moses to hear heaven speak so often. In the midst of a great conflict with the mightiest political power on earth at the time, it had to be an encouragement to know God was calling the shots. On a regular basis, Moses was strengthened by the presence and the whisper of God’s voice. God’s whisper produced thunder when Moses said:

Let my people go, so that they may worship me, or this time I will send the full force of my plagues against you and against your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth. For by now I could have stretched out my hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth. But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. (Ex. 9:13-16)

Woe to the man who resists the voice of God, be he Pharaoh or peasant. A stiff neck will result in a bruised shin to begin with. If the condition persists, it will end in a crushed skull (Gen. 3:15).

So, learn from Pharaoh. Do not harden your heart in the day of provocation (Heb. 3:8,15). Learn to listen for the voice of God when He speaks. Then learn to listen to it.

New Testament: Matthew 25

“Well done, good and faithful servant!” Well done. Not well said. Not even well believed. But well done! Talk is cheap and it’s often easy to say you believe something. But the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Will you actually do something about what you say you believe?

The story is told of Jean Francois Gravelot, also known as “The Great Blondin”, who crossed Niagra Falls on a tightrope. On the return crossing he offered to carry someone on his shoulders to the other side. Everyone believed he could do it but no one was ready to demonstrate that belief by volunteering to take the ride. They might have heard a “well said” or a “well believed”, but no “well done”.

Jesus tells another parable of two sons (Mat. 21:28-32) where one says he’ll go work in his father’s vineyard but doesn’t. The other says he won’t go but then does. “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” asked Jesus afterwards. Of course, it was the one who went and worked in the vineyard.

How about you? Does your life match your words? Are you at least as good at doing as you are at saying? That’s the only true evidence of genuine belief. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (Jn. 14:15). In other words, do something about it!

Don’t miss the point of the parable. Jesus is illustrating that each individual will be judged on the basis of what he does with what he’s been given. Not everyone receives the same resources to work with. God, in His sovereignty, distributes gifts (another type of “talents”, so to speak) as He determines (I Cor. 12:11). Some receive five times as much as others. Are they five times more responsible? No! Each one is 100% responsible for that which he’s been given.

So take stock. Evaluate your life. How are you doing on producing the just return that God has every right to expect on His investment in you? Would His words to you be, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Mat. 25:21,23).

THE LORD SPOKE (January 24)

2012-01-24T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 6-7

If you had to summarize the whole of the Bible in one word or phrase, what would it be? Keep in mind, this “center” of Scripture must work for both Old and New Testaments. At least 23 different answers to that question have been proposed in the last 100 years of theological studies. The problem is that a single point probably has to be so broad (e.g. God, revelation, sovereignty, etc.) that it fails to really help define things, or a single point ends up being too exclusive of other significant points (e.g. love, salvation, etc.). Consequently, what is proposed here is not a single word but a collection of key words under the umbrella of the Sovereignty (power, rule, kingdom) of God.

Exodus 6 is one of the pivotal passages of the entire Bible and helps us to identify the major themes of Scripture. They are:

(1) PRINCE / Messiah (Ex. 6:2) - Moses is God’s anointed one to do the job here. He is the receptor and transmitter of revelation and a type of the Messiah.

(2) PROMISE / Covenant (Ex. 6:4-5) - God says, “I established my covenant” and “I have remembered my covenant”. In fact, this theme is repeated 264 times in Scripture, most notably in the Pentateuch, Psalms, Isaiah, and Malachi. It’s all founded on the fact that “I am the Lord”, used four times just in this chapter and 161 times elsewhere in Scripture (the holy name Yahweh appears a total of 5512 times!).

(3) PRESERVATION / Redemption, Salvation (Ex. 6:6-7) - Four verbs affirm what God will do to preserve His people: “I will bring you out”, “I will free you”, “I will redeem you”, and “I will take you”.

(4) PEOPLE / Election (Ex. 6:7) - That last phrase goes on to say “I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God.” Verse three makes mention of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and verse five speaks of the Israelites. These were the people of the covenant, the people God preserved through thick and thin, the people chosen by God for himself.

(5) POSSESSION / Land, Life (Ex. 6:8) - “I will bring you to the Land.” This was, after all, part of the promise “to give them the Land”.

Thus you have in five words, the basic content and themes of the entire Old Testament and they work well for the New Testament also. The experience of believers today as the chosen people of God fits into this picture like a hand in a glove. Without doing damage to God’s special relationship with Israel, we have been grafted in and made partakers of the Promise. Praise God!

New Testament: Matthew 24

“Blast the bones of those who calculate the end!” So said Moses Maimonides, a great rabbi and Torah scholar from the 12th century. Apparently the calculators never got blasted very far, for we frequently hear them rattling in our theological closets. Calculating the end times has been a favorite sport for a variety of individuals and many groups have taken a cultic twist in doing so.

That’s what scares us. We’ve seen it before. People get to spending so much time and effort on prophetic questions that it seems they don’t have their feet on the ground or their head screwed on right. Besides, doesn’t the Bible say, “no one can know the day or the hour”?

In Matthew 24, Jesus speaks in response to the disciples’ question, “What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” He answers those two aspects with lots of detail. But look again at the disciples’ question (vs. 3). They begin with “tell us when” and He doesn’t give them an answer to that. The first part of Jesus’ answer (vs. 4-8) describes the first half of the Tribulation with its “wars and rumors of wars”. At the beginning of vs. 9 He uses a chronological marker “then...” to signal a shift. What follows (vs. 9-14) describes the second half of the Tribulation with its “increase of wickedness”. Again, that is followed with a “then”. In this case He says, “then the end will come”. The more you look, the more you’ll see phrases like “at that time”, “then will be”, and other uses of “then”.

What Jesus never answers is, “when” will this start? At the time not even He knew the answer to that question, but the Father only (vs. 36). That has to do with His voluntary and temporary self-emptying (Phil. 2:6-8). For a time, He laid aside the independent use of some of His attributes. Today, exalted at the right hand of the Father, He does know when His return will be.

But He’s not telling us because His message to us is, “keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (vs. 42). We are encouraged (commanded!) to “be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when [we] do not expect him” (vs. 44). In His sovereign wisdom, He has chosen not to give us those specifics because it’s better that we don’t know. We are encouraged to walk closely with Him and to live expectantly. That’s what He wants of us more than anything.

There is nothing else on the prophetic calendar that must be fulfilled before His return. He is coming - that is certain. Are you ready? Are you watching?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 23)

2012-01-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 4-5

We’re so good at making up excuses. It’s always easier to think of ten reasons why something can’t be done or why we can’t do it. We must have learned it from Moses. In his conversation with God before leaving Midian, Moses came up with some real whoppers.

First, he uses the argument of lack of prestige. He says, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt” (Ex. 3:11), conveniently forgetting that he was uniquely qualified to do so, having been raised in the palace. No one was in a better position for the job than he.

Second, he claimed lack of authority (Ex. 3:13). Never mind he’d just heard the voice of God coming from the burning bush. Never mind he was currently in conversation with the Creator of heaven and earth. Never mind the last words he’d just heard Him speak - “I will be with you” (Ex. 3:12). God’s response is to reveal His most sacred name, “I AM...the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation” (Ex. 3:15).

Third, Moses pled a lack of credibility (Ex. 4:1) so God gave him a series of miraculous signs to use when necessary. Later, even the crafty medicine men of Egypt recognized them as “the finger of God” (Ex. 8:19).

Fourth, the mighty prophet protested a lack of eloquence (Ex. 4:10. “Slow of speech and tongue”, he said. “I’ve never been eloquent.” As if any of it depended on him in the first place. As if God couldn’t do it. God very simply and forcefully answered, “Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." (Ex. 4:11-12).

Finally, Moses was resorted to whining about a lack of ability (Ex. 4:13). “Please send someone else to do it.” Then the Lord, who is slow to anger (Ex. 34:6), got mad. Moses was reduced to first chair playing second fiddle. He was still God’s chosen leader but he was diminished, demoted, and downgraded from what he could have been. Even so, some of the whining carried on for some time after (see Ex. 6:12,30).

With “the staff of God [!] in his hand”, Moses started back to Egypt (Ex. 4:20). Aaron came out into the desert to meet him and, together, they went to the elders of the Israelites “and Aaron told them everything the Lord had said to Moses” (Ex. 4:29). Awkward, to say the least, but still effective for “they believed” and “they bowed down and worshiped” (Ex. 4:31).

Is there a message to give or a job to do that has your name on it? Don’t miss out on what God wants to accomplish through you.

New Testament: Matthew 23

They “sit in Moses’ seat”. It was a position of authority in the synagogue. An intact example of one was found in the excavations at Chorazin and another possible piece of one at Capernaum. It was a special chair located at the front of the synagogue prayer hall and was where the teachers of the law used to sit while teaching.

More important, it was a position of great responsibility. For to teach it and not live it yourself would be a disgrace. It would be a terrible dishonor to God and His Word. And that’s just what was happening! Jesus uses some of the harshest language recorded of Him in the entire New Testament to describe these unworthy leaders of men: hypocrites (6x), blind guides (3x), whitewashed tombs full of dead men’s bones, snakes and vipers. They do not practice what they preach (vs. 3), they won’t lift a finger to help others (vs. 4), everything they do is for show (vs. 5)... and on and on it goes. Some are even willing to kill (vs. 34) to advance their wicked and selfish aims.

They were full of greed and self-indulgence (vs. 25). They craved all the wrong things for all the wrong reasons, yet they had the audacity to set themselves up as masters and teachers. That’s a dangerous position. As James tells us, “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly” (Jas. 3:1).

Jesus’ words ring out against the rabbis of His day but are also a fearsome reminder to every one of us: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (vs. 12). That has not changed, nor will it. Not far back (Mat. 18:3-4), Jesus had told His disciples, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

You can’t be full of God and full of yourself at the same time. He won’t share that space.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 22)

2012-01-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Exodus 1-3

It sounds so crass - “if it is a boy, kill him” and “every boy that is born you must throw into the Nile” (Ex. 1:6,22). Not really much worse than our “modern” abortion methods maybe - you still have to get rid of that disconcerting bit of tissue, don’t you? Hide the evidence. Do it quick and don’t think about it too much. O, that more of our nurses today would act like the Egyptian midwives back then. Someone, somewhere needs to say, “No! I won’t do that.” Someone needs to tell the evil abortion doctors they’re wrong and put a stop to this murder.

Someone needs to trust God for the outcome. In fact, we all need to. We need to act with integrity, obedient to God’s Word and to trust Him for the results. So what if it produces some difficulties along the way. They’re petty and inconsequential with eternity’s values in view.

Where would we be if Moses hadn’t been born? Imagine the world without Moses! Yes, it’s true that if he’d been one of the babies tossed to the Nile crocodiles God would have raised up someone else to do the job. But the fact is that Moses lived and God used him to change the entire world for good. God works through people, His wonders to perform, and few there have ever been in the history of mankind who have exercised a greater influence than Moses.

The story of Moses’ birth in Exodus 2 is a marvel of God’s grace. Amran and Jocabed (see Ex. 6:20) play their part as does big sister Miriam, but only God could have worked out such a miraculous deliverance. And then there’s the way He got the prince out of Egypt and gave him a desert education. How else could you come up with just the right combination for the job Moses was destined to do? Forty years in the university system of Egypt and then forty years at MIT/DS - the Midianite Institute of Technology / Desert Style.

When the time came to launch the operation, God performed another wonder. Shepherds don’t easily change professions. Desert rats aren’t comfortable with the idea of going to the big city. Someone who enjoys the solitude of sheep in the field isn’t probably going to jump at the chance to lead two million Chosen People subjected to slavery. But God moved Moses.

He moved him by revealing Himself. The Eternal One let Moses see the edge of His splendor and told him:

"I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' ...Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers - the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob - has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation. (Ex. 3:14-15)

The very next word was “Go” (Ex. 3:16) and Moses went. He never flagged for the next forty years. His leadership changed a nation permanently. In fact, it has continued to go on from generation to generation right down to the present.

Will you follow the Lord like Moses?

New Testament: Matthew 22

They were all coming to Him with their “questions”. The Pharisees tried repeatedly (vs. 15,34,41) but the Sadducees (vs. 34) and the Herodians (vs. 16) tried also to get in their licks. They all came away licking their own wounds. Even when they plotted together (vs. 15-16) they were unable to stump Him. He beat them repeatedly by the power of His Word. Each time the crowd and those who heard Him were amazed (vs. 22,33,46). His words left them speechless, astonished, and without a comeback.

With the Herodians, who thought they could get Him to speak against Herod’s tax system (not a hard thing to do in first century Jerusalem), He turned it around to remind them that they were created in the image of God and that God expected an even higher tax of them (vs. 21).

The Sadducees didn’t believe in the resurrection so, with them, He cut straight to the chase. He silenced them (vs. 34) with His words and told them, “You’re wrong because you don’t know what the Bible says!” Rather than arguing with them, that should also be our response today with the cults and false thinking that surrounds us! (By the way, make sure you know what the Bible does say yourself.)

The Pharisees were the toughest nut to crack. With them, Jesus didn’t wait for their questions. He got it started by asking them some hard questions: “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose Son is he?” When they came back at Him with their neat little, memorized answers, He challenged them on their own turf. To the Bible-thumpers of His day, He posed a Bible question that a child could have answered but, because it would destroy their whole theological system, they turned away without a response (vs. 46). In fact, they studiously avoided Him thereafter because they were afraid to get trapped again in His words.

And so, the living Word of God (Jn. 1:1) used the written Word of God to establish truth and make His case. We can do no better, for Scripture is “quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb. 4:12). It is the Bible that penetrates even the thickest skin.

It did mine.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 21)

2012-01-21T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 49-50

“Jacob’s Dozen” it’s been called. Like a baker’s dozen, there were actually thirteen when you added Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh in their father’s place. But at this moment in time, all twelve of the original siblings were alive and together. Jacob gathered them around himself to tell them their future in terms of his blessing (Gen. 49:1). We’re told that he gave each one “the blessing appropriate to him” (Gen. 49:2).

Reuben - He forfeited the right and honor of primogeniture by his ugly sin. His descendants were characterized by indecision and no judge, prophet, or ruler, ever sprang from this tribe.

Simeon & Levi - They joined together to commit this crime and, as a punishment, they were both divided and scattered in the nation of Israel with no independent or compact existence.

Judah - Besides the honor of giving name to the Promised Land, he produced both David and “a greater than David” - the Messiah. Chief among the tribes, he grew from “a lion’s cub” (a little power) to become an old lion (calm and quiet, yet formidable).

Zebulun - He had the good fortune of an allotment on the seacoast which allowed him to engage in maritime pursuits and commerce.

Issachar - This tribe would be like a strong donkey crouching down between two burdens but the result was that it settled down in the midst of the Canaanites where it had to “bend his shoulder to the burden and submit to forced labor”.

Dan - Though the son of a secondary wife, he was “as one of the tribes of Israel”. Samson, from the tribe of Dan, “bit the horse’s heals” in defeating the Philistines in his day.

Gad - This tribe was often attacked and wasted by hostile powers coming across the borders, but they were usually victorious by the close of their wars.

Asher - The fertile land of its allotment ensured the prosperity of his descendants.

Naphtali - Also located in a territory very fertile and relatively isolated, this tribe would develop an independent spirit.

Joseph - As a “fruitful vine”, this tribe would increase greatly. Though attacked by envy, revenge, temptation, and ingratitude, by the grace of God, he triumphed over all opposition and became the sustainer of Israel.

Benjamin - This tribe spent its energies in petty and violent conflict. Its warlike character let it to be almost exterminated.

When Jacob died, the other boys entertained some fears that Joseph might now turn on them. But his forgiveness was genuine and he left us with one of the greatest ever statements on the sovereignty of God: “You intended it to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done...” (Gen. 50:20).

New Testament: Matthew 21

Matthew 21:12-13 - Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it a ‘den of robbers’.”

It’s not your usual picture of “gentle Jesus, meek and mild”. He was enraged by what He found in the Temple courtyards. Some would have a hard time visualizing Jesus fashioning a whip (see Jn. 2:15) to drive them out, overturning tables and sending coins and animals flying in every direction. Imagine the shouts and racket. All four gospels record it and He even did it twice!

The line between sinful rage and righteous indignation may be very thin for us at times but you may be sure He never over-stepped it. His anger was based on God’s Word and He quotes from two passages to justify His actions:

Isaiah 56:6-8 - “...All who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant - these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” The Sovereign Lord declares - he who gathers the exiles of Israel; “I will gather still others to them besides those already gathered.”

Jeremiah 7:8-11 - But look, you are trusting in deceptive words that are worthless. Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, “We are safe” - safe to do all these detestable things? Has this house, which bears my Name, become a den of robbers to you? But I have been watching! declares the Lord.

There is a time for anger. We are commanded to put away unrighteous anger in all its various forms (see Ephesians 4:31 and Colossians 3:8). But there is a place for righteous indignation and Jesus was angered on more than one occasion. His anger was caused by irreverence and disregard for God standards. So, where do you stand on that? Do you also get angry at the same things that angered Him? Do you control your anger in other areas? Are you ever a cause of His anger yourself?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 20)

2012-01-20T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 47-48

How did he do it? Maybe he didn’t. But God did and directed Jacob’s hands to cross over, putting Ephraim ahead of his older brother Manasseh. Thus did Joseph’s two sons become equal heirs with Jacob’s other sons. Reuben lost his birthright through sin (Gen. 35:22; 49:3-4) and the double portion fell to Joseph’s two sons.

Ephraim want on to become one of the largest tribes in Israel. During the days of the divided monarchy (930-722 BC), the tribe of Ephraim was the most powerful in the northern kingdom, the whole of which was sometimes called “Ephraim” to distinguish it from “Judah” to the south (see Isa. 7:2f and Hos. 9:13; 12:1). Both of the boys, Ephraim and Manasseh came to represent God’s richest blessing, as Jacob’s words in Genesis 48:20 indicate:

He blessed them that day and said, “In your name will Israel pronounce this blessing: ‘May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh.’”

Though Jacob’s eyesight was dimming, God directed him to make this switch. The boys represented also the other sons that Rachel might have borne if she had not died upon arrival in Canaan (Gen. 48:5-7). Joseph’s other children would be his own but these two were considered Jacob’s thereafter.

His parting words in Genesis 48 are worthy of some attention. He grants “the ridge of land I took from the Amorites with my sword and my bow” (Gen. 48:22, NIV). It’s probably a reference to the events in Genesis 34 following the rape of Dinah. Those took place at Shechem in the center of the country and the Hebrew word translated “ridge” is also shechem. The root comes from “shoulder” or “back of the neck” (between the shoulders), thus the figure of a spur of a hill. When Joseph himself dies and his bones are taken to Canaan several years late, he is finally buried at Shechem (Josh. 24:32). [P.S. The synagogue marking the traditional burial place was trashed and pulled down by a Palestinian mob in October, 2000.]

It’s like the curtains are pulling together. Jacob is about to breathe his last but a new act is about to begin. Houselights are dim right now, but the story is not over.

New Testament: Matthew 20

It doesn’t seem fair, does it? Why should those who worked less get the same payment? Why should the guy who came late get the same treatment?

One thing needs to be made very clear - this is not a parable about salvation! The day’s wage of one denarius in the parable does not represent salvation or Christ. You don’t work to earn salvation! Neither is this a parable about rewards. Everyone will receive rewards “according to his own labor” (I Cor. 3:8).

Jesus is responding to Peter’s question in the last chapter (see 19:27). Peter had just asked, with a little whine in his voice (?), “What’s in it for me?” Peter’s motivation was the issue here and the purpose of the parable was to help him see the importance of his heart attitude toward the Lord. Jesus uses the parable to teach about having a right attitude in service.

In doing so, Jesus points out that:

Overconfidence can lead us to suppose that we’re worth more than we really are (20:10). Assuming that “if he got that much, I must be worth this much more”, will give you an inflated idea of your own value. It will breed dissatisfaction and greed.
If we serve the Lord for what we can get out of it - whether immediate or eternal - we miss the best things He has prepared for us. Rather, we should serve with “sincerity of heart” (Eph. 6:6). It isn’t about having a contract so we can be sure to get everything that’s coming to us. Do you really want to get what’s coming to you?
It’s not our job to watch other workers, measuring and comparing ourselves to them. We need to take care of our own motivation before the Lord. We may be very surprised when the truth is finally known (20:16). Some of those who seem so quiet and low-key may be way ahead of all our bluster and show in terms of real faithfulness to God.
Neither is it up to us to judge God. He is the Master of the vineyard and He will do right every time. It is not our calling to hold Him to our standards of justice. How foolish it sounds to even say it.

God calls us to different tasks in His kingdom. His rewards are not on the basis of how hard we work, or how organized we are in our labor, or even how much we produce - but on how faithfully we respond to Him. He knows our abilities and just what can be expected of each one of us. He fashions the task to the laborer and He knows us better than we know ourselves. He sees exactly what is our motivation. We can trust the Righteous Judge to judge righteously.

What does He see in your heart today?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 19)

2012-01-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 45-46

Suddenly it all made sense. The probing questions. The special interest in Benjamin. The unusual invitation to a meal at the palace. Why, he’d even been able to understand their private conversations in Hebrew (Gen. 42:23). This was too much to take in. It was almost beyond belief, yet look at all the evidence.

His Hebrew had a funny Egyptian accent after all those years. He certainly looked like an Egyptian. And what about all this opulence - the steward, the slaves, the banquet hall, all the fancy stuff. How could Joseph have come into all this? But how could he know all about Jacob? How could he keep all their names straight and know such details about their lives back in Canaan? And that hug he gave Benjamin - that wasn’t fake.

When Jacob heard he nearly dropped his choppers. His heart skipped several beats but he also became convinced that it really was his long-lost Joseph. Twenty donkeys braying in Egyptian out in the garage were hard to ignore.

But there was one problem. He couldn’t leave the Promised Land without running the risk of stepping outside of God’s will. So God made a special appearance (Gen. 46:1-4), reassuring him of His approval. In fact, God Himself promised to go down to Egypt with him (Gen. 46:4). He also reaffirmed the great Promise that started with Abraham. God even repeated verbatim His promise to Isaac (Gen. 26:24). And, as if that weren’t enough, He reassured Jacob that his own son Joseph would provide for his old age, death, and the return of his body to Canaan (Gen. 46:4).

Yes, it was too much to believe - humanly speaking. Only God could do such a thing. And only God could pull it off with such class. Such style. Such loving-kindness (hesed).

It was one 450-mile long party. Seventy some people rejoicing at God’s goodness every mile of the way. And what a hug awaited him at the other end (Gen. 46:29). Jacob wanted it to last forever - it had to make up for a lot of lost time.

New Testament: Matthew 19

Matthew 19:24-26 - “...I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Let it be categorically said: there is not now and never was a gate in Jerusalem known as “The Eye of the Needle”, through which camels had to duck to get in. Any commentary that tells you differently is making it up. Ask for a map showing where it is, or some historical document that mentions it. Jesus’ whole point was the ridiculousness of thinking a camel could go through the eye of a needle.

If you look at Jesus’ words in Matthew, he says that passing a camel through the eye of a needle is impossible. In the same sense, it is impossible to work your way into heaven by being good or to buy your way into heaven with all your wealth. The rich young man had no doubt tried hard to earn heaven. Jesus never chides him about his failure in keeping any of the commandments. The young man had probably lived a pretty righteous life. But that’s just the problem. Our best is only pretty good. Not good enough!

Jesus quickly found the one thing that the rich young man was holding back. In his case, it was his wealth. What’s yours? If there is anything that you hold back from God, you may be sure that He will find a way to touch you at just that point. Because He gives us everything, He demands everything. If He were anything less than God, it wouldn’t be worth it. We’d be smarter to hang onto some things, to hold back in case of a rainy day, to make sure we have a cushion to fall back onto. But because He is the omnipotent and sovereign Lord of the Universe, He demands and has a right to our all.

Following Him has its rewards. He promises us “pie in the sky by and by”! But is that why we do it? It had better not be. That kind of motivation won’t get you very far. It won’t sustain you when the going gets tough. But it is certainly a promise with meaning for the present. We’re told that Moses “regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Heb. 11:26).

But does He only promise future reward? Absolutely not. Walking with Him brings immediate rewards and satisfaction. “He rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Heb. 11:6). His promise is straight-forward: “Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life” (Mat. 19:29). Some of that may be in this life. Maybe not. Some of it may not be material blessing, but there’s so much more to real life than material things. We should never fear that by giving something to Him, we will somehow come out on the short end. Our heavenly Father is immensely generous and He is the source of “every good and perfect gift” (Jas. 1:17).

THE LORD SPOKE (January 18)

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 43-44

He was sure they’d come back. But why did they delay so long? Joseph must have arranged his office so he could easily glance out the window up the long road to Canaan. Day after day he watched the horizon for a sign of their return.

They had other thoughts. How could they face this capricious man? What might he demand next time? Well-armed with gifts (Gen. 43:11) such as they had, they hoped to slip into Egypt and back out as soon as possible. Somehow they had to guard Benjamin and make sure to get him back to Dad. Dad’s health depended on it.

It was strange how the royal steward hardly paid attention to their explanations about the payments for the last shipment. Why would he be talking about God putting “treasure in their sacks”? This whole place was strange - the sooner out the better. And why all those questions? Did he have agents in Canaan checking up on them? He seemed to know too much about them already.

Oh, why did he have to invite them to dinner? Did all the others who came to buy in Egypt get such an invitation? This was not looking good. It seems nothing came of it except for that awkward scene when he choked up and left the room.

Finally, with a collective sigh of relief, all eleven were on the road and back home again. Their only thought at this point was to put some miles between them and the foreignness of Egypt. They had the grain they needed. In just a few days’ time they’d be back home and all would be well. But then, catastrophe of catastrophes. The steward’s agents detained them. With the donkeys in reverse, the film started running backwards.

Have you been there before? Your best efforts to reorganize your life and get things back on keel seem to fall apart. Instead of getting better, it only gets worse. Even a temporary lull is shattered by yet another blow. What can you do?

Turn back to God. There is no other place to turn and if you miss this, life really is hopeless.
Confide in Him alone. Tell Him so. And then don’t go back on your word. Give up! Cast all your care upon the Lord - for He careth for you (I Pet. 5:7).
Get your strength for each day from His Word. Feed on His Word. Let it sustain you. Use it as your constant crutch and your permanent prop.

New Testament: Matthew 18

picayune (pi-kē-yün) = petty, small-minded, trivial

How else could you define the disciples’ talk about who was “greatest in the kingdom”? Especially when you consider that much of it came after Jesus’ teaching here in Matthew 18. They should have known better. It was just plain picayunish of them.

So, how can you explain our tendencies in the same direction? Maybe we manage to keep it under wraps most of the time but aren’t we really pretty impressed with ourselves? It’s just too easy to think of yourself more highly than you ought. Paul assured the Corinthians “that we are [not] sufficient of ourselves to think anything of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God...” (II Cor. 3:5).

Jesus’ instruction was to think of ourselves as children (Mat. 18:3-4). They know when they can’t do something. They might even try to fly or something foolish like that but it usually only takes one bad landing to help them realize that it’s beyond them. How foolish we must look to God when we try to fly without Him. It is a humbling experience to be observed flapping your wings with both feet firmly planted on the ground. Especially when you’ve tried it already many times before - even with Him watching.

So let us learn the lesson here. The whole chapter emphasizes our utter dependence upon God. It’s about time we stop flapping our wings...and our tongues.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 17)

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 41-42

The last time he saw those ten faces, he was looking up from a pit. Yet “as soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them” (Gen. 42:7).

What unfolds is déjà vu for Joseph. Just as he’d dreamed those many years before, here were his brothers bowing before him. Naturally, he was anxious to find out about his father and his little brother, Ben. Unwittingly, the brothers spill out just the information he wants to hear. Now... how to organize the reunion?

In the process Joseph learned some things, like the brothers’ remorse over what they’d done to him, like Reuben’s feeble attempt to save him, like his father’s fragile health. He still had some lessons to learn from God through this experience too. But what’s so gratifying in the text is the change in the brothers’ attitudes.

When struck with apparent calamity, they ask, “What is this that God has done to us?” (Gen. 42:28). At last, they have come to the point of recognizing God’s hand in their lives and seeking His direction instead of plowing through without Him. Enough of their own determination. Isn’t it time we seek His face?

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master, today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me, I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine.

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me.

Adelaide A. Pollard

New Testament: Matthew 17

Where and when did it happen? The traditional site of the Mount of Transfiguration is Mt. Tabor on the north edge of the Jezreel Valley, near Nazareth. But that mountain had a large Roman fort on top during the first century. It’s possible that Jesus was transfigured in the middle of a Roman fort but not very likely. Matthew appears to place the event in the region of Caesarea Philippi (see Mat. 16:13) and a much more likely candidate is Mt. Hermon or one of its lower slopes. It is identified as “a high mountain” (17:1) and the brightness (“shone like the sun”, “white as light”) seems to fit Hermon’s snow-covered peaks.

Peter’s desire to put up three shelters (huts, tabernacles?) may be a hint as to the time of year. The Feast of Tabernacles is called Sukkot in Hebrew, which word means “shelters” or “huts”. It falls in September/October and commemorates the passage of the Israelites through the wilderness. For one week families build huts behind their houses, eating meals and occasionally sleeping inside with their children to tell them the story of the wilderness wanderings and God’s mighty provision in bringing them to the Promised Land. Did Peter want to detain Moses and Elijah for awhile in his sukkah? Wouldn’t they have had some magnificent stories to share in the huts?

Moses and Elijah are there to represent “The Law” and “The Prophets”. In other words, all of Scripture was there to support the testimony about the Christ. Jesus was the final objective of the Law (= the “schoolmaster to bring us to Christ”) and the fulfillment of all the messianic prophecies. How fitting that these two Old Testament characters should be present to give testimony to this.

You can hardly blame Peter for piping up and jabbering in his joy at the occasion. But the booming voice of God comes down, as if to say, “Will you just shut up for awhile and listen?!” The words must have stayed ringing in Peter’s ears for some time afterwards: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” (17:5). What a fantastic confirmation of Peter’s own confession in the previous chapter!

As always in Scripture upon seeing any manifestation of God, whether angel or otherwise, the reaction of those present was utter fear. The disciples fall on their faces, quaking. Jesus’ comforting words begin with, “Don’t be afraid.” There follows a sensitive “teaching moment”. Don’t you wish you could have been there? Especially for the part where “they saw no one except Jesus” (17:8)?!

THE LORD SPOKE (January 16)

2012-01-16T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 38-40

Sterling character. The two words seem to go together - just not very often. Everyone has character. It may range from tarnished to polished. But sterling character speaks of a high standard, something genuine and trustworthy.

Joseph had it. Character is what you are when no one is looking. Character is what you’ll do when you think you can get away with it. Character is what’s really inside you when the surface is scraped away.

Joseph had the external layers scraped away several times. First, his own brothers sold him as a slave to a band of Ishmaelites from Midian on their way to Egypt. Check that out on a map and you’ll wonder what they were doing clear up in central Israel near Dothan. By the time he lands in the house of Potiphar, an important theme is established in the text: “the Lord was with Joseph and he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master” (Gen. 39:2).

Then there was the affair with Potiphar’s wife. Actually, the non-affair! Joseph’s sterling character was put to the test like never before. A young man, not without hormones, in a remote place where no one would know, with an opportunity like you wouldn’t believe. Joseph’s sterling character landed him in jail and another surface was scraped away. But again, in that raw condition we’re told that “the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden” (Gen. 39:21).

Yet a third time “the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did” (Gen. 39:23). And another surface was scraped away when his prison mate, the royal cupbearer, forgot him and left him moldering in the jail. How many chances are you going to get in prison? This lost opportunity was cause for despair.

But the peacock’s feathers were genuine. Though he’d strutted a little too much in early days, Joseph’s true colors showed and in the following chapters God is going to exalt him to an almost unbelievable level. From disgraced slave in prison to distinguished second-in-command in the palace! And many times over in what follows, Joseph’s sterling character is going to collide with God’s amazing grace.

Make you want to work a little on your own character, doesn’t it?!

New Testament: Matthew 16

“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” So said Peter, and Jesus blessed him saying that these words came by revelation from the Father in heaven. Jewish people then and now don’t come easily to this conclusion. Knowledge of the deity of the Messiah won’t come easily from a quick reading of the Old Testament. That’s why so many Jewish people still don’t see it. Oh, it’s there; it’s just not easy to pick up on if you don’t have eyes to see and a heart to believe. However, it you look to the New Testament quotes and references to messianic passages of the Old Testament, it stands out clearly.

Many are the New Testament references to the deity of the Messiah but few are the Old Testament statements. One is found in Psalm 2. There the reference is to the Lord and “his Anointed One” (Hebrew = mashiah) and he’s called the Son (vs. 7 & 12). Another text is Isaiah 9:6 where the promised child is also called “Mighty God”. One more is in Proverbs 30:4 where we’re told that the Holy One has a son. So, it’s there but it has been conveniently side-stepped for centuries. The fact that Peter saw it clearly came by revelation from the Father.

What follows in Matthew 16 retains great significance for us today. Jesus identifies Peter’s great confession as the rock upon which He will build His church (vs. 17-18). It’s certainly true. Apart from a person recognizing that Jesus is the Son of God, there is no salvation. It is what qualifies Him to be our savior. He said himself, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Peter adds, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

What’s so amazing in the continuation of this chapter is that a very short time later this same Peter is used as a tool of Satan. Having made such a great confession, you’d think he be forever home free. But no! In verse 22 he contradicts the Lord who rebukes him, saying, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men” (16:23). What a sting that must have left. But Peter didn’t run away. Again in the next chapter, he is the one closest to the Lord, never letting Him out of sight, always wanting to speak to and of Him.

Yes, Peter made lots of mistakes. But he failed falling forward. Even when he fell back, he picked himself up and pushed forward again immediately after. He’s an example to us. Don’t you want to be like that too? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6).

THE LORD SPOKE (January 15)

2012-01-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 36-37

He probably should have been spanked. Jacob did rebuke him (Gen. 37:10) but Joseph would have done well to keep his dreams to himself or, at least, to be more discrete in how he recounted them to others. His not-so-innocent story-telling bordered on brashness and got him in trouble.

Not that his brothers were justified in what they did. The whole problem had started back in Paddan Aram with Jacob’s polygamous philandering. It was a recipe for disaster from the start. How God over-ruled the entire affair is just one spectacle of His amazing grace. His ability to work with shattered lives and to fashion a masterpiece out of earthy clay is part of why I love Him so.

One of the interesting character sketches throughout this story is Reuben. Jacob’s firstborn came from Leah, the unloved bride. She was the sisty ugler, the shocking surprise at sunrise, the attached “benefit” on the marriage contract with Laban. Under the circumstances, Reuben probably never got full coddling rights usually associated with a firstborn. With four sets of siblings in way-too-quick succession, primogeniture didn’t count for much for him.

He didn’t do so well in the big brother role in the affair with Dinah (Gen. 34). He’s not even mentioned there. Early on he made a very bad choice (Gen. 35:22) and his arrogant incest cost him his birthright (Gen. 49:3-4; I Chron. 5:1). It also cost him a natural leadership role that should have gone along with being the oldest boy in the family. Twice we have record of him attempting to do well but ultimately failing.

First, he tried to rescue Joseph’s life by suggesting to his brothers that they throw him into the pit rather than kill him, intending to come back himself and take Joseph home to his father. The brothers listened only so long as it suited their purposes but didn’t share Reuben’s intent and he was too slow or too weak to pull it off.

The second instance also involves Joseph, by now down in Egypt and requiring the twelfth brother to be brought to him. Reuben offers his own sons as security but his offer is turned down by aged Jacob. By then effective leadership had passed from Reuben to Judah (Gen. 37:26-27; 43:3-5 ,8-10; 44:18f; 46:28; 49:8-12). This was, of course, according to God’s plan for it was His design that...

The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his. (Gen. 49:10)

In spite of Jacob’s, or Reuben’s, or our own miserable failings, God’s purposes will be fulfilled, often in ways quite surprising to us. Take great comfort in knowing that He is always in perfect control of all things.

New Testament: Matthew 15

“Tradition!” shouts Tevya in Fiddler on the Roof in answer to many questions, from why he wears a hat to why he kept Shabbat. It’s still the answer to many questions, and not just those of Jewish people.

We all have traditions and, for the most part, they’re good things. They’re what tie us together as a family through multiple generations. They’re what remind us of the past and keep us conscious of our history and linked to our heritage. They’re often good object lessons to teach useful things to our children. They’re what give expression to our colorful ethnic differences the world over.

But, they can also be a stumbling block that keeps us too long on the same trail. They can hinder positive progress. They can pull us in wrong directions. They can reinforce wrong patterns of thinking. They can become so ingrained in our thinking that, by constant repetition, they take the place of truth.

Such was the case in Matthew’s day. Jesus was critical of people that “break the command of God for the sake of [their] traditions” (Mat. 15:3). You don’t have to be Jewish to fit that category. They never cornered the market on this problem. What about some of our Christmas and Easter traditions that detract miserably from the Truth that is to be remembered on those occasions. Really now! Bunnies laying chocolate eggs on the church lawn??

How sad! Jesus likens such practices to noxious weeds that need to be jerked out of the ground (Mat. 15:13). They “nullify the Word of God” (vs. 6). Does that offend you? It did the Pharisees (vs. 12). Jesus called them hypocrites (vs. 7) because they used lots of pretty God-words but didn’t have a place for Him in their hearts. Their “teachings are but rules taught by men” (vs. 9).

So, examine your traditions! Make sure you have a reason for what you do and make sure that reason will stay standing when you stand before the Throne.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 14)

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 33-35

Why didn’t Jacob go straight back to Bethel once he crossed over the Jordan River? Genesis 33:18 says he camped within sight of Shechem, which is within just a few miles of Bethel but why didn’t he return to that place where he’d raised a stone memorial to God. When he left Isaac’s house, he met God and named the spot Bethel (“house of God”) and vowed:

If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s house, then the LORD will be my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth. (Gen. 28:20-22)

He did, upon arrival in Canaan, acknowledge Jehovah (did you notice the caps) as the God of Israel. He set up an altar and called it El Elohe Israel, meaning “God, the God of Israel”. God had just acknowledged him by naming him “Israel” (Gen. 32:28) and he returned the favor.

But the fact that he lingered in Shechem brought trouble. It’s evident he wasn’t planning to leave too quickly, for he bought land there (Gen. 33:19) and attempted to settle down. The events of Genesis 34 made that less likely. But before he got out, his household had already begun to acquire foreign gods. The situation was quickly deteriorating. Something had to be done.

So God did it. He told Jacob clearly, “Go up to Bethel and settle there, and build an altar...” (Gen. 35:1). Jacob knew it was the right thing to do, the thing he should have done from the start. So he got all his family together, buried all the foreign gods and cultic paraphernalia there in Shechem, and moved on (Gen. 35:4-5).

Jacob and all the people with him came to Luz (that is, Bethel) in the land of Canaan. There he built an altar, and he called the place El Bethel [God of Bethel], because it was there that God revealed himself to him.... Jacob set up a stone pillar at the place where God had talked with him.... (Gen. 35:6-7,14)

On that occasion God repeated his new name for Jacob (Gen. 35:10) and He restated the terms of the Abrahamic Covenant (Gen. 35:11-12) as they applied to Jacob and his descendants. That was also the go-ahead to move further into the Land of Promise. The remainder of the chapter tells of how “they moved on” (Gen. 35:16,21,27), finally getting home to Isaac. We could wish the sacred text told us about that meeting and all the discussion that took place. It also doesn’t tell us how Esau came to be there for the burial (we last saw him headed for Seir (Gen. 33:16), which is southeast of the Dead Sea. But the boys were home when Isaac breathed his last.

New Testament: Matthew 14

It’s the shortest prayer in the Bible. There was no time for dramatics or flowery language. Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” (Mat. 14:30).

There’s a place for fine speeches and prayers. There’s nothing wrong with polished words. We could stand some improvement in our communications with Almighty God. Try reading the Book of Common Prayer sometime. The rich cadence and majestic language, like that of the King James Version of the Bible, lifts the soul and gives voice to the majesty of God.

But it’s too easy to give voice to such prayers with the wrong motivation. We can get more interested in crafting the language than in communicating with the Lord. We can get into the style that enthralls us, rather than the Spirit that should enthuse us. [That’s a really good word from two Greek words: en + theos = in God!] We can get more involved in the God-words than in speaking God-wards. Such prayers don’t make it above the ceiling of the room where they are spoken.

Peter’s prayer was quick and to the point. It acknowledged the sovereignty of God (“Lord”) and recognized the inadequacy of man (“save me”). It didn’t divert attention or run down a rabbit trail. It came straight out the barrel and wasted no words. And, it got the job done. Jesus “reached out his hand and caught him” (vs. 31).

Jesus also admonished him. Peter was chided for his doubts. Remember, Peter was the only other person on the outside of the boat; the others had not the faith to venture out. But he still had lingering doubts. Had he prayed a little earlier in the day maybe that wouldn’t have been the case. Had he really communed with the Lord previously maybe his faith would have sustained him on the raging sea.

We never know when our faith will be put to the test so it’s wise to stay “all prayed up”. Then a one-breath prayer will keep us on track.

I Didn’t Have Time to Pray
(author unknown)

I got up early one morning and rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish I didn’t have time to pray.
Troubles just tumbled about me and heavier came each task.
Why doesn’t God help me, I wondered.
He answered, “You didn’t ask.”

I tried to come into God’s presence, I used all my keys at the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided, “Why, child, you didn’t knock.”
I wanted to see joy and beauty but the day toiled on grey and bleak.
I wondered why God didn’t show me.
He said, “You didn’t seek.”

I woke up early this morning and paused before entering the day.
I had so much to accomplish that I had to take time to pray.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 13)

2012-01-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 31-32

Moses was a wordsmith. When Jacob sees “the angels of God” (Gen. 32:1), Moses records that he names the place “the camp of God” but the word is Mahanaim, which means “two camps”. Shortly after, Jacob divides all his possessions into two camps (same words used), fearing that Esau might be set on revenge. In the story of Jacob wrestling with God (Gen. 32:22-32), Moses has Jacob (ya’aqob) wrestling (ye’abeq) by the Jabbok (yabboq) River. Then, when Jacob realizes that the man he wrestles is actually God, he calls the place Peniel, “the face of God”.

In the middle of that story, Jacob’s own name is changed. From Jacob, “the grabber” (his name literally means “he grasps the heel”, see Gen. 25:26), his name is changed to Israel, “one who struggles with God”. The one who spent much of his life wrestling with men (Esau, Laban) is now the one who wrestles with God and overcomes. It seems to be a pattern set for all his descendants ever since.

The history of Israel (both the Patriarch and the nation) has been one of struggle. In both cases, much has been self-induced. Even more has been Satan-inspired. The devil has repeatedly tried to thwart the plan of God and bring about the downfall of Israel. He did it back then and he’s still doing it today.

Israel today wrestles with God, wrestles with the world, wrestles with the Devil, wrestles with the descendants of Ishmael and Esau, and wrestles with herself. She seems bound to struggle, and struggle she must, or be destroyed. Yet God has promised to guard her as the apple of His eye. He will never leave her, never fail or forsake her, never allow her to be destroyed. She is essential to His declared plan for the ages. His purposes in and through her are eternal.

The God of Abr’ham praise, who reigns enthroned above,
The Ancient of eternal days and God of love.
Jehovah, great I AM, by earth and heav’n confessed;
We bow and bless the sacred name forever blessed.

He by Himself hath sworn; we on His oath depend.
We shall, on eagles’ wings up-borne, to heav’n ascend.
We shall behold His face; we shall His pow’r adore
And sing the wonders of His grace forevermore.

The God who reigns on high the great archangels sing,
And “Holy, holy, holy”, cry, “Almighty king!”
Who was and is the same and evermore shall be;
Eternal Father, great I AM, we worship Thee.

The whole triumphant host give thanks to God on high;
“Hail, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!” they ever cry.
Hail, Abr’ham’s God and mine! With heav’n our songs we raise;
All might and majesty are Thine, and endless praise.

Thomas Olivers (based on Hebrew Yigdal of Daniel Ben Judah)

New Testament: Matthew 13

“He told them many things in parables” (vs. 3). It was a convenient way to teach the teachable. It also served to hide the truth from those not prepared to receive it.

Hide the truth?? That’s exactly what Jesus said. When the disciples asked why He taught in parables (vs. 10), His first response was that knowledge of the kingdom of heaven is given to some but not to others (vs. 11). Does that chafe against your sense of justice? Remember, not one soul deserves salvation. We are all sinners by choice and deed. God in His mercy and grace reaches down to redeem some (the Bible actually says many).

The purpose of parables then is to reveal the truth to some and to hide it from others (vs. 13-15). As soon as Jesus completes the parable of the sower and this exchange with the disciples, He gives them three more parables in quick succession - the parable of the weeds, the parable of the mustard seed, and the parable of the yeast.

With their minds reeling, the disciples say, “Slow down a little! Please explain the first one to us.” So He does. In amazingly few words (vs. 37-39) He identifies each of the elements of the parable and then gives its application (vs. 40-43). It seems so simple when it’s explained that way.

So now He gives them three more quick ones as if to practice. How well did you do on the parable of the hidden treasure, the parable of the pearl, and the parable of the net? Need some more practice too? This chapter is the perfect place to start.

Here are three simple rules for interpreting parables that may be of help:

1) Define the SETTING. To whom was Jesus speaking and why? What gave rise to the parable? How would the original hearers have understood the details of the parable? Recognize that there are two audiences being addressed by the parables: the audience to whom Jesus originally spoke and the audience of the early church to whom the evangelists wrote.

2) Determine the SIMPLICITY. Expect the meaning to be simple and straightforward. That is why Jesus used very familiar every day situations and events to illustrate His teaching. Parables are not complicated riddles!

3) Discover the SINGLE PURPOSE. The golden rule of interpreting parables is that a parable aims to teach one main truth. Normally it is not too difficult to discover the purpose of the parable in the context in which it is given. Don’t go beyond the author’s intent and don’t look for meaning and significance in every detail, word, or phrase, beyond what is given in Scripture itself.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 12)

2012-01-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 29-30

How far should you go with “dynamic equivalence”? It’s a relatively recent term used in Bible translation that calls for the substitution of an equivalent term or concept in the receptor language for something difficult or obscure in the original language.

There have been some notoriously bad examples of abuse in this practice. For example, some suggested the substitution of “pig” for “lamb” in a culture that had no sheep but was quite familiar with swine-herding. It was correctly rejected by most because of the difficulties raised by terms like “the Lamb of God” or “the Lamb upon the throne”. What do you do though with a term like “snow” in a desert culture that hardly knows rain, let alone snow?

Having said that, there is inevitably a certain amount of equivalent substitution that must happen in any translation work. It simply is not possible to go from one language to another seamlessly. Idiomatic phrases often demand some adaptation, “correction”, or explanation. Word order, syntax, and thought patterns are frequently different from language to language and necessarily become an important consideration in transferring the meaning from one language to another.

We’ve all read some translated text like those horrible assembly instructions on multi-folded thin paper that obviously were translated by someone who didn’t really know English very well. Good translation work cannot be reduced to a word-for-word equivalence. Otherwise, it would be quite simple to just program several dictionaries into a computer and churn out multiple translations at the push of a button. That might even work for some very simple texts if they’re originally composed with that in mind, but try doing it with good fiction, flowery prose, or poetry!

The New International Version (NIV) has been billed as a dynamic equivalent translation. Indeed, when it was first being composed in the late sixties, it was a fairly novel concept. Not a paraphrase, but also not a woodenly literal translation, it tried to steer a middle road as a clear and natural English translation. It succeeded admirably well.

Today’s Scripture reading contains an excellent illustration of all this which you probably would have skipped over entirely if it weren’t brought to your attention. In Genesis 29:14, Laban refers to Jacob as his own “flesh and blood”. The Hebrew text literally says “bone and flesh”. The meaning of the two phrases is an entirely acceptable dynamic equivalent. No violence was done to the original and the resultant translation reads as smooth English.

New Testament: Matthew 12

Greater than Solomon? You’ve got to be kidding! In the Jewish mind nothing could ever be greater than Solomon. His kingdom was the most extensive and secure, his wealth the most vast and impressive, and his wisdom the most perceptive and applicable. But Jesus had just told them (Mat. 11:11) that no one had ever been born of women who was greater than John the Baptist. That took them by surprise.

Now He takes it a step higher for the one He speaks of here (Mat. 12:42) is so much more than just “one born of women”. This One is God himself. In a veiled reference to Himself, Jesus charges His hearers with devastating unbelief. Take a look at the charge sheet. They failed to believe:

John’s testimony (11:7-19)
Jesus’ miracles (11:20-24)
the Father’s revelation (11:25-27)
Jesus’ own message (12:1-8)
their own rabbinic arguments (12:9-14)
Isaiah’s report (12:18-21)
the very testimony of the demons (12:22-28)
the evidence from the Holy Spirit (12:30-32)
the fruit Jesus produced (12:33-37)

Is it strange that they couldn’t perceive that “one greater than Solomon” was among them? Like ancient Pharaoh, they had hardened their own hearts.

Maybe we don’t do it so obviously. But think about it. When we don’t follow Him and act upon our “faith” is that any different?

We can be very subtle in our unbelief. We just don’t do anything about it. We’re content to go on our merry way. Who cares if we go to church Sunday night (never mind prayer meeting on Wednesday)? Who wants to serve in the nursery or children’s church (I wish they’d quit bugging me about it)? I already did my time on that committee - someone else can take it for awhile. Another meeting? I’m tired. Besides, my team is playing on television tonight. I work hard all week - I deserve my rest time.

And so, we practice a form of “practical atheism”. Our religion just doesn’t amount to much. It’s all fine and dandy as long as it doesn’t mess up my schedule. I’ll stick some more money in the offering plate.

But God won’t leave you alone. His Spirit will continue to prod you. Jesus’ words will haunt you. Because He wants all of you. He is content with nothing less and He is worthy of nothing less. Think about it!

THE LORD SPOKE (January 11)

2012-01-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 27-28

She should have known better. After her own miraculous experience with how the Lord works all things together for good to those who love Him, Rebekah should have been ready to leave the situation in God’s hands. He’d done so marvelously in her own story (Gen. 24). Remember how Abraham’s servant had gone looking for a wife for Isaac? It had all come together so perfectly without any human meddling.

But now (Gen. 27) through craftiness and intervention it all unraveled. In a moment she drove both of her sons away and was left with a befuddled husband. Whatever made her think her silly little plan would work?

In a sense it did work out. Not the way she probably had in mind (what on earth was she thinking?), but certainly the way God designed. Jacob, AKA “the grabber” (his name means “he grasps the heel”), was safely tucked away for the next several years in a place and a profession where God could have his full attention. It took years for him to learn his lessons. Esau ended up on the backside of a desert where he could waste his life and live out his worthless days in the same wanton ways that had characterized him from the start. His biggest accomplishment was supporting the cable company that carried all the hunting channels.

Isaac and Rebekah dropped off the radar at this point. Isaac gets a brief death notice (Gen. 35:29) and we’re told that they were both buried in the Cave of Machpelah (Gen. 49:31) but they finished their days in biblical obscurity and abandoned by both sons. They never went to their grandkids’ games, never got to watch them in the Christmas programs, never had their works of art tacked on the fridge. It must have been a very quiet and lonely existence baking in that dusty tent near Beersheba.

Meanwhile, God is still on His throne. His Promise is still alive. The next chapter is soon to unfold and the stage set for what will become the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob’s descendants will be so significant in God’s eternal plan that their names will be inscribed on the gates of the New Jerusalem forever (Rev. 21:12). One of those sons will carry on the pedigree of the Messiah and the second Person of the Trinity will be incarnated in that lineage. God’s purpose and plan will never be frustrated or thwarted by man’s puny machinations.

Rebekah knows that today. She’s had several millennia now to repent and to praise God for the way that he accomplishes His plan. Or, as Jacob heard God repeat the Promise to him on that occasion:

I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you. (Gen. 28:13-15)

New Testament: Matthew 11

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Mat. 11:28-30)

If it’s so easy, why am I finding it so hard? Jesus has promised that we’ll find His yoke to be easy and His burden to be light. And so it is. But why then do we at times find ourselves struggling so much?

Maybe you said you’d take it on but you haven’t really done so. You’re still working in your own strength. Still trying to pull the whole load alone. Still not settled straight in the harness and trying to head off in your own direction. You haven’t learned yet to trust fully.
Maybe you haven’t rested yet. You’re still weary from all the effort you put into it yourself. You need a time out. You need some downtime with Him. You need Him to lead you by still waters and restore your soul. You haven’t learned yet to drink deeply.
Maybe you haven’t learned yet to go straight and immediately to Him. Your first thought needs to be of Him. What has He already said in Scripture that applies to this situation? What indicators is He now giving me? You haven’t learned yet to lean heavily.
Maybe you’re still sour with sin. You haven’t let the Word wash away the stickiness and stains. “Gentle and humble in heart” doesn’t describe you because you still haven’t gotten close enough to Him. You still need to sweeten considerably.
Maybe you haven’t thought enough about what He’s done for you. You can’t see the forest for the trees. The messiness of life has distracted your attention from His amazing grace. You really need to enjoy immensely what He’s done for you. Look back at where you were and then look again at His beauty.

We mutter and sputter,
We fume and we spurt;
We mumble and grumble,
Our feelings get hurt.

We can’t understand things,
Our vision grows dim,
When all that we need is
A moment with Him.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 10)

2012-01-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 25-26

“Abimelech”. Several kings of the same name appear in Scripture, which has led some critics to suggest that the Bible is imprecise or inaccurate. But that is by no means a necessary conclusion. The name, which means “my father [is/was] the king” is probably a dynastic title similar to “Pharaoh” or “Henry”. Just as there was a Pharaoh Shishak, a Pharaoh Neco, etc., etc. or a Henry I...all the way to Henry VIII and more, so could there be several rulers by the name of Abimelech. By the way, the same is probably true of “Jabin”, which accounts for a series of kings from Hazor by the same name - a subject that has cause no small amount of confusion with Bible critics.

Perhaps the greater problem here in Genesis 26 is the presence of Philistines in the days of the Patriarchs. According to archaeology, the Philistines were “sea peoples” from the Aegean who attempted to invade Egypt in the 13th century BC and several times later but were repulsed. Instead, they settled along the coast of the Levant. There were actually five different groups of “sea peoples” of whom the Philistines are best known to us because of the many references to them in Scripture. The problem with that is it’s much too late for the days of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which should be placed back around 2000-1800 BC. What are the Philistines doing here in the days of the Patriarchs?

Two possible answers could be given which would maintain the integrity of Scripture. First, it’s possible that the author or subsequent editors of Genesis used a common name for Israel’s enemies from that region. For centuries the bad guys along the southern coastal plain were known as “Philistines” so that was the acceptable moniker to be used in this text. Just as Kiriath Arba was changed to Hebron or Laish was changed to Dan because of common usage, it was a name with which readers would have been more familiar.

Second, and this is probably the better of the two explanations, it could just be that we don’t know yet everything about the Philistines. For instance, these Philistines were agriculturalists, involved in herding flocks and digging wells. The later Philistines were mariners and had the secret of metallurgy. Just because we have excellent archaeological evidence for one event in the 13th century BC, it does not follow that we’ve pieced together all the history of the Philistines. After all, this historical text does clearly say they were Philistines (whether you believe the Bible to be inspired or not). Perhaps an earlier wave of Philistines came to the region and we just haven’t yet found any archaeological evidence. It’s a bit presumptuous to imply we know it all. That’s like the cosmonauts who came back from space and assured us there was no God since they’d been out there and didn’t see him anywhere.

Let’s let the Bible say what it says and hold back for awhile to see if a good explanation doesn’t pop up somewhere.

New Testament: Matthew 10

One by one He took them from me,
All the things I valued most,
Until I was empty-handed;
Every glittering toy was lost,
And I walked life’s highways, grieving,
In my rags and poverty,
‘Til I heard His voice inviting,
“Lift your empty hands to Me!”

So I held my hands toward heaven,
And He filled them with a store
Of His own transcendent riches,
‘Til they could contain no more.
And at last I comprehended
With my stupid mind and dull,
That God could not pour His riches
Into hands already full.
- Martha Snell Nicholson

What is it that stands in the way of your full commitment to God? Jesus speaks of loving parents or children more that Him and thereby missing His reward (Mat. 10:37-39). Our own desire to hang on to something can result in losing that very thing or person that we so desire.

Corrie ten-Boom used to say, “I’ve learned not to hold onto things too tightly, because it hurts so much when He pries my fingers apart.” It may very well be a good thing - there’s certainly nothing wrong with loving your parents or your children. But even a good thing can become a danger to our walk with the Lord if we allow it to pull us away from Him. Any substitute for that relationship becomes an entrapment that leads to sin.

So, take stock. Examine your heart. See if there is something or someone who is more important to you than Jesus Christ. Then, turn that person or relationship or thing over to Him. “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this...” (Psalm 37:4-5).

“He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” (Jim Elliot)

THE LORD SPOKE (January 09)

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 23-24

He could have had it all. It was his by divine right. Abraham had been promised all the land of Canaan. Forever.

The negotiations with the Hittites in Genesis 23 don’t sound extremely amicable. Though they had gathered to make him an offer, by the time the papers were signed it was clear that no one was really very willing to give up any land for a song.

The meeting took place at the city gate, the normal place for judicial matters of this nature. Six different geographical names are used to locate the exact plot. The walled city of Hebron was known as Kiriath Arba at the time (Gen. 23:2). It was located in the land of Canaan (Gen. 23:19). Nearby was a famous stand of oak trees where Abraham had first pitched his tent and built an altar to the Lord (Gen. 13:18). They were apparently named Mamre after one of the other local inhabitants and a friend of Abraham who accompanied him on the expedition against the four kings of Mesopotamia when they attacked the region (Gen. 14:13,24). Abraham was still camped there when the angel of the Lord announced that Sarah would have a child (Gen. 18:1f). Both Isaac and Jacob (Gen. 35:27) lived at the family homestead at some point and eventually all three patriarchs and their wives, with the exception of Rachel, were buried there.

Near the oak trees of Mamre,which belonged to an Amonite, there was a field belonging to Ephron, the Hittite. On the edge of that field was a well-known cave (it had a name of its own) that became even more famous on this occasion. Abraham purchased the Cave of Machpelah as the burial site for Sarah.

Did you catch that? The one who received the promise of all the land, had to buy a small plot from a foreigner. And he bought it at an exorbitant price. Though the original tender sounded like an open offer, the price of 400 shekels of silver was terribly inflated. Furthermore, a Bedouin nomad was required to purchase a significant parcel of ground along with it when all he needed was a burial cave. Hittite laws stipulated that if a landowner sold only a small part of his land he was still responsible for full taxes on the whole. Ephron insisted on selling “both the field and the cave in it, and all the trees within the borders of the field” (Gen. 23:17).

Abraham did not insist on his “rights” nor balk at the unfair conditions. Quietly he closed the deal in the knowledge that God was in control. After seeing how the Lord gave him a son and the promise of many descendants, he wasn’t worried about collecting dirt and stone and trees. In His time, God would provide that too.

New Testament: Matthew 9

Taken with the last chapter, Matthew presents here a broad list of healing and miracles performed by the Lord. The slam dunk comes in 9:35 when he tells us the Jesus went about “healing every disease and sickness. That’s so different from modern-day religious quacks who blame their failures on a lack of faith in the patients.

Some of Jesus “patients” had zero-faith! Like the dead girl (9:18-19, 23-26). Or the woman with death in her womb (9:20-22). Or the man with dead legs (9:1-7). When the Lord told him his sins were forgiven, the teachers of the law recognized Jesus’ words as exactly the same that the High Priest pronounced on the Day of Atonement when he came out of the Temple after offering a propitiation for the sins of the nation. They accused Jesus of blasphemy. But how do you argue with the power of the very Son of God?

Matthew himself didn’t! The tax collector left everything and followed Him (9:9-11). In fact, he organized an evangelistic dinner at his own house so other tax collectors could meet this Man of Galilee. They and many “sinners” followed Him while the religious people remained aloof and critical (9:3,11,24,34). His word to them, and to us, was “I desire mercy, not sacrifice [quoting Hosea 6:6], for I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Jesus is the friend of sinners! Aren’t you glad?

Did you notice how the chapter closes? When Jesus saw the many needs of the people around Him, He was moved with compassion. They were helpless and harassed, like sheep without a shepherd. His first response was a call for prayer. We might want to do something about the needs, and well we should. But the first and best thing we can do is to call upon the Lord for His help. He is more concerned than we could ever be and He has the resources to do something about it. So let us enlist His aid, so to speak, and then enlist in His service.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 08)

2012-01-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 20-22

“I learned to not grasp things too tightly because it hurts so much when God pulls your fingers apart.”
- Corrie Ten Boom

Abraham would probably say the same thing. After waiting so long for the birth of his son Isaac, it seemed quite natural to hang on to him. Genesis 22 begins by saying “God put Abraham to the test” and such a test it was! Not the kind you’d ever choose to go through for yourself.

It was a test of obedience. “Early the next morning” (vs. 3), Abraham set out to do what God had said. There were no arguments, no pleading, no hesitation. The account plods inexorably forward right up the point where Abraham raises the knife. A little set of trusting eyes were on him the whole time but all the eyes of heaven were watching too.

It was a test of faith. Abraham didn’t come easily to this point. The Bible never indicates that he’d doubted like Sarah but he’d certainly wondered and asked his own questions (e.g. Gen. 15:8; 17:17). Yet when the moment arrived he didn’t waver. He told the servants to wait “while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you” (Gen. 22:5). He didn’t know that, except by faith. God had told him to sacrifice his son. The writer of Hebrews clarifies it by telling us that “Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead” (Heb. 11:19). If God really did want him to slay his son then He would just have to resurrect him afterwards. Abraham was sure he would come back down off that mountain with his son. What faith!

It was a test of love. The angel of the Lord says, “Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” (Gen. 22:12). The “fear of God” is not a state of terror or panic. It is a sense of reverential awe. Apprehension is replaced by loving trust for you recognize God’s awesome power and sovereignty.

Abraham’s faith that God would provide the solution (Gen. 22:8.14) brought about yet another reinforcement of the Promise at the close of the chapter. It’s instructive to track the pronouns used by the angel of the Lord in what he says to Abraham. You can’t escape the conclusion that, in fact, the angel of the Lord is the LORD Himself. Did Abraham recognize that voice? After all, he’d heard that angel of the Lord speak before back in chapter 18.

New Testament: Matthew 8

Dealing with disease, demons, and death - all in a day’s work, if you’re the Master. No wonder He was tired and sleeping in the boat (8:24). It seems that everywhere He turned there was another challenge, another urgent request, another need to be met.

Most of the events in this and the next chapter take place in what has been called “the Evangelical Triangle”. Not that the Evangelicals invented it. It’s the region along the northeastern shore of the Sea of Galilee where the Evangel - the good news of the Gospel - was first sounded out. Capernaum is soon to become Jesus “own town” (9:1) and the center of His Galilean ministry. The warm springs that come into the lake near Tabgha/Heptapegon were a gathering place for fishermen. They were among the first that He called to follow Him. That makes sense. If you have warm springs, you have algae. Algae attracts fish. Fish attract fishermen. Jesus told them, “Come and I will make you fishers of men.”

The spot was also a good choice because of the political borders. While smack in the middle of “Jewish Galilee” it was on a major route that led to all points north. That’s why Matthew the tax collector was there (9:9-13). He could bank some big dividends off the tolls and border taxes the Romans wanted him to collect. Capernaum was an important Jewish town, somewhat separated from “Galilee of the Gentiles” but still on a thoroughfare.

Peter’s mother-in-law lived there in what becomes known as “Peter’s house” (did he inherit it?). That is a focal point for some of Jesus’ ministry. Less than a block away was the town synagogue, an impressive structure that dominated the center of town, not far from the sea shore. It was later destroyed and covered over with a magnificent white limestone building but even the black basalt original was large and impressive in its time. Several of Jesus’ miracles take place in or near it.

Even the local political authorities knew and respected Jesus. The centurion from Capernaum (8:5-13) demonstrated great faith and saw his servant healed as a result. Matthew leads us through a flurry of activity in this chapter (Mat. 9) but one small item should stand out. When the leper comes to Him and says, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean,” Jesus does more than say, “Of course, I’m willing.” He reaches out and touches the man. Do you realize what that means? Nobody touches a leper. They’re required to shout “unclean” and keep away from public places. But Jesus reached out and touched him.

Aren’t you glad He’s willing to touch uncleanness? What hope would there be for us otherwise?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 07)

2012-01-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 18-19

Everything about this encounter (Gen. 18) is strangely exciting. One of the three visitors must have stood out, for Abraham switches back and forth (in the Hebrew original) between singular and plural pronouns. They seemed to know things that happened behind closed doors. Abraham, an almost-100 year old man, scurried back and forth to detain them a bit longer and hear whatever word from the Lord they might have for him.

He wasn’t disappointed. One more time he heard the words of the Promise:

Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him. For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just, so that the LORD will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him." (Gen. 18:18-19)

Even after the men left, Abraham was in the presence of the Lord (Gen. 18:22). The Hebrew text says clearly that “the Lord remained standing before Abraham” but ancient Jewish scribal tradition just couldn’t accept such terminology and, in an extremely rare instance, inverted the text to read that Abraham remained standing before the Lord. However, they forgot to fix it in vs. 33 where we’re told that, following the encounter, the Lord left and Abraham was left standing there.

Was Abraham’s mouth left hanging open? He had just bartered with God. He must have had a sense of “I can’t believe I just did that.” His holy boldness was astonishing. Take a closer look at this. The “three men” of Genesis 18:2 become “two angels” in Genesis 19:1. That third Person was in fact “the angel of the Lord” and the Second Person of the Trinity! Abraham is going to hear and recognize His voice again in just a couple more chapters. From Mount Moriah, Abraham will hear Him say:

Abraham! Abraham! ...Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son. I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me. (Gen. 122:11-18)

Now, wouldn’t you like to hear the Lord speak like that?

New Testament: Matthew 7

It’s the most quoted verse of the Bible - by unbelievers! “Judge not, that ye be not judged.” (Mat. 7:1). Men are lovers of darkness rather than lovers of light (Jn. 3:19-20) and, for that reason, they look for a dark place to hide their sin. If they can find someone else’s “bigger” sin, they like to get close to it so their own sin won’t be so apparent in the light. This twisted logic leads them even to quote Scripture to cover their own sin.

But look again at the passage. The intent of this first paragraph of Matthew 7 is for us to judge ourselves. Rather than picking out the speck of sawdust in another’s eye, we’re to pull the whole log out of our own. Why is it so difficult for us to recognize our own problems but so easy to identify those of others?

Here are some steps to take towards solving this problem:

Ask God to give you a clear view of yourself. Read His Word to obtain the standard and hear His voice. Let Him show you just how sinful you are.
Be very sensitive to family members who know you well and see you every day in every situation. Read their reactions to you. Be observant but ask them questions too. How am I doing in _______? What do you see about me that needs to be corrected?
Write out some goals. Keep some kind of record so you can measure progress. Write down both failures and successes so you can be reminded and can detect patterns.
Get into an accountability group of some kind. It shouldn’t be a large group - maybe just one or two trusted friends that have the same spiritual interests and goals similar to your own. Make yourselves responsible to each other. Ask tough questions and pursue answers beyond the superficial responses we’re so apt to give.
Pray again. Pray regularly. Ask God to prompt you and to help you deal immediately with areas of sin as soon as they come up.
Create some conditioned responses and practice them until they become habits. When a certain thought or activity begins to move across your screen, use it to trigger a correct response. For example, the moment an impure thought begins, pray for that person immediately. “Lord, help her to come to know and love you and to keep herself pure for her husband and for you.” It’s amazing how quickly that prayer will dissipate impure thoughts!

God wants you to be successful in this and He will help you. Do you want it yourself?

THE LORD SPOKE (January 06)

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 15-17

It’s very painful to see how our sin affects the lives of others. When we do wrong, others may hurt for it - sometimes for generations to come.

Such was the case of Abraham. Though he had just heard the Lord speak to him (Gen. 15) in startling ways, he listened to his wife’s unwise counsel (Gen. 16) and brought about untold suffering that, to this day, has affected billions of other people! God Himself had appeared to Abram and reaffirmed His covenant. The terms were not unclear - they were just too much to believe. How could such a thing be? That was Abram’s question exactly (Gen. 15:8).

Every time God answered Abram’s question, He added to the marvel of the Promise. In him (Abram) all the families of the earth would be blessed (Gen. 12). His descendants would outnumber the stars of the sky (Gen. 15). They would possess the Land forever (Gen. 17). God puts His own name on the line in this promise (Gen. 22).

To his eternal credit (literally!), Abram believed God (Gen. 15:6). His faith was counted as righteousness and his example has been made the standard by which we too are evaluated:

What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." ...Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness - for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. (Rom. 4:3,20-24)

At age 86 Abram stumbled. For the next 13 years he probably thought he was pulling things together pretty well. But then at age 99 God straightened him out again and corrected his thinking in no uncertain terms. No more bailing twine repairs. No more patch-up jobs with duct tape. No more jerry-rigged fixes. It was God’s way or the highway. Abraham was told clearly that the Promise would apply through Isaac alone (Gen. 17:19-21). Abram (“exalted father”) became Abraham (“father of a multitude”) and God made a major course correction in his life.

Abraham went up from that moment a different man. He had heard the Lord speak again and he believed.

How about it? Do you believe God? Do you have the faith of Abraham?

New Testament: Matthew 6

Private religion! You’d think most people would prefer to keep their inner faith more-or-less private. And they do. Some people are very uncomfortable talking about their faith. But the crazy fact of religious life is that in some areas we sort of like to flaunt it. We’re tempted to show off our religion at times. Somehow, we want someone to take notice of our piety in certain areas.

Jesus hits three such areas hard in His sermon: our giving, praying, and fasting. For some reason, we’re tempted to show off in these three categories.

Giving (6:1-4): Our Lord warns us to do this in secret. If we trumpet our generosity it becomes worthless. The shallow praise of men is all we’re going to get for there is “no reward from [our] Father in heaven”.

Praying (6:5-15): Vain repetitions won’t get higher than the ceiling. God listens to the inner heart. Long and elaborate prayers may impress some (usually they don’t!) but you’ll go home again carrying your load of sin.

Fasting (6:16-18): What is it about suffering that makes it more bearable if only someone else knows what we’re going through and will empathize with us? But who says fasting is about suffering? Is not the purpose to sharpen our spirit and senses so we can commune with God? Again, if we concern ourselves with impressing others by our fasting, that’s all we’ll ever get out of it.

Ultimately, the objective of all such private religion is to increase our stock in eternity. The Father rewards genuine piety and we “lay up treasure in heaven” when our motivation is found in God alone. Indeed, He will share that space with nothing and no one else. Being proud of our religious duties is like putting money in a sack with holes - it all leaks out before we get it to the bank. The only currency God recognizes is genuine, humble, quiet piety.

Full allegiance brings full assurance. And, it has the promise of His bountiful supply. There is no need or purpose in worrying about tomorrow. The Master of the Universe takes note of our every want - both needs and desires - and He has promised to care for us. So, Jesus asks repeatedly (6:25-34), “Why do your worry?” Indeed.

Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart,
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance now and always;
Thou and Thou only first in my heart,
Sovereign of heaven, my treasure Thou art.

High king of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 05)

2012-01-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 12-14

There are three basic kinds of covenants found in the Bible. One may be called a Parity Covenant. It is made between equals. Two kings or two commoners enter a mutual agreement (see Gen. 21:27; 26:31; 31:44-54; etc.). Participants might call each other “brother”. This format would, for obvious reasons, never apply to any covenant between man and God.

One that would though, is the Suzerain-Vassal Covenant. It is a conditional promise based on the vassal’s faithfulness to the king. The sovereign demanded loyalty in exchange for his protection (see Josh. 9:6,8; Josh. 24; Ezek. 17:13-18; Hos. 12:1). It was a covenant made between a greater and a lesser and its primary characteristic was the conditional clause, “If you will..., then I will....” Participants would be known as “lord” and “servant” or even “father” and “son”.

A similar kind of treaty between non-equals is known as the Royal Grant Covenant but, in this case, there is no conditional clause. It constitutes a flat-out promise by a greater to a lesser (see I Sam. 8:14; 22:7; 27:6; Est. 8:1). It often involved a grant of land or some other benefit as the result of exceptional service and was often passed down to the servant’s heirs, but only if they continued in their father’s footsteps.

This provides the clue for understanding the Abrahamic Covenant. First mention is here in Genesis 12:1-3 and it is unequivocally a Royal Grant. Six times God says, “I will” and there is not conditional stipulation in His promise to Abraham. Likewise in its repetition and amplification in Genesis 15:9-21, there is no hint of “If you will..., then I will....” God flat-out promises Abraham that He will bless him.

However, when we get to Genesis 17, a condition is placed upon Abraham’s descendants. They must “keep the covenant” and the outward sign of their total commitment was circumcision. In a way very similar to the Davidic Covenant (see Ps. 89:30-37!), the condition was not attached to the promise itself but only to the individual participants. In other words, God would fulfill His promise no matter what, but the benefits to individual participants would depend upon their spiritual condition.

Now, since we Gentiles have been grafted into this Abrahamic Covenant (see Rom. 9-11), apply that thought to our situation and relationship to God. Food for thought!

New Testament: Matthew 5

The first impression when hearing the words, “you have heard it said...but I say to you” is that there is a contrast between the two statements. It sounds like Jesus is saying, “The common thinking is _______, but that’s all wrong. I want to tell you that really it should be ________.”

But that’s not it at all. If you look closely at the six times this terminology is used in Matthew 5, the Lord never denies the truthfulness of the first, well-known statement. In effect He says, “You’ve heard it said _______. Well, I want to tell you it’s all of that and more besides!” It’s not a contrast at all. It’s like a major addition on top of what was the conventional wisdom in all six cases.

That should have been clear enough from His words in 5:17-18.

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

We speak of verbal inspiration... this could be called letteral inspiration! Yod (“jot”) is the smallest Hebrew letter and the “tittle” (KJV) is the smallest stroke that differentiates between some of the look-alike Hebrew letters. That’s how far the fulfillment of Scripture goes. That’s why Jesus says our righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.

By the way, there’s that Greek word πληρὸω (playro’o) for “fulfill” again. Jesus’ relationship to the Law was “to fill it full” or “flesh it out”. Remember Paul’s words: “the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ” (Gal. 3:24). Jesus’ words provide an answer to the charges of His critics that His teaching was an attack on the Law and the Prophets. Instead He has authority to explain the real meaning of the Law (vs. 17). In doing so, He reveals the terrible lie in the Pharisees’ claim to righteousness (vs. 18-20). His examples show that God demands righteous thinking as well as righteous acts. Righteousness is a matter of the heart and not only behavior (vs. 21-42). By insisting on “perfection” Jesus reminds us that true righteousness is actually found only in being like God (vs. 43-47).

THE LORD SPOKE (January 04)

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 9-11

One of the basic rules of hermeneutics (Bible interpretation) is known as “the law of first mention”. It goes something like this: the first mention of something in the Scriptures is especially significant and sets the stage for how it is to be understood in the rest of the Word of God.

The law is applicable here in Genesis 9 for the subject of capital punishment. This is the first mention of that subject and provides us with a significant “defining moment”:

And for your lifeblood I will surely demand an accounting. I will demand an accounting from every animal. And from each man, too, I will demand an accounting for the life of his fellow man. "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man. (Gen. 9:5-6)

The institution of human government is packed into that brief phrase “by man shall his blood be shed” and capital punishment is a fundamental element thereof. The ultimate penalty is that basis for every lesser punishment. The justification given for capital punishment is that man has been made “in the image of God”.

In murdering another human being, the man who does so not only does violence to that individual but also demonstrates his utter contempt for God. It constitutes a failure to recognize the Creator’s sovereignty. The purpose of capital punishment is not the reformation of the criminal. Other potential murderers may be turned from their evil intent but for this criminal there is no further opportunity for reform. Neither is the purpose of capital punishment the protection of society. The damage has already been done. Although the retardation of violent crime may be a side benefit, it is not the purpose of capital punishment.

The purpose is to vindicate God’s sovereignty! Capital punishment is just that. It is punishment. The crime has been committed and justice is demanded. The nature of the crime is such that no repair or restitution can be made, so the punishment is equally final. It’s not an issue of the sanctity of a human life. It involves the sanctity of a holy God.

New Testament: Matthew 4

Three times the Devil tempted Jesus in the desert and in all three cases he started with an “if”. But he framed the sentences differently. The first two times the Greek syntax should be understood as “If, as is the case, you are the Son of God....” The final phrase of the previous chapter (3:17) had just established, in God’s own words, that Jesus was His son. The Devil knew it well and knew better than to question that fact. So he framed his temptation in such a way as to get Jesus to misappropriate His authority as the Son of God.

But the third temptation does not follow the “if, as is the case” structure. A different word is used for “if” and it carries more of the sense of “if only you would”. Satan is saying, “If, just for a moment, you would bow down before me....”

All three temptations were very real to the Lord. In one sense, the very destiny of the cosmos hung in the balance. Had He taken the bait, all subsequent history would have been different. He was “subject to weakness” and was truly tempted in all points” (Heb. 5:2 & 4:15).

Three times over, Jesus was strengthened by God’s Word and faced the Devil with Scripture. He resisted and the Devil slunk away. He made himself scarce. He skedaddled. If we will face him in the power of the Lord, he’ll do the same (Jas. 4:7; I Pet. 5:6-9). Hiding God’s Word in your heart is the secret!

It was the beginning of great things. First, the angels came and ministered to Him (wouldn’t you love to have been one of them?!) And He began to preach. Oh, how He preached. The power of His preaching changed the entire course of history. When He began preaching in Matthew 4, fishermen left their nets and tax collectors left their account books. Large crowds began to follow Him (Mat. 4:25) and the common people heard Him gladly (Mk. 12:37). In fact, you are reading this today because of His preaching.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 03)

2012-01-03T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Genesis 6-8

Hen and hesed. Two different Hebrew words are both sometimes translated as “grace”. In neither case does our English word fully express the meaning adequately. There is some synonymous overlap between the two, but there are also some differences.

hen = favor, grace, charm. This word occurs 69 times in the OT and is most often translated “to find favor/grace in the eyes of”, usually related to charm, beauty, or pleasing actions. The majority of the occurrences are not theological but some appear to be (e.g. Gen. 6:8; Ex. 3312; Zech. 12:10).

hesed - kindness, loving-kindness, mercy, steadfast love, loyalty, love, unfailing love. The semantic range is much broader. When the Scriptures speak of the hesed of God, it is often related to his covenant and is frequently paired with emet (“truth”), rahum (“mercy”), or hannun (“grace”).

The word used in Genesis 6:8 for Noah is hen: “Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” Noah’s life was distinctly different from his contemporaries. The description of man’s depravity was given a few verses earlier in unequivocal terms: “The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time.” (Gen. 6:5, emphasis supplied).

In stark contrast, Noah is described as “a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God” (Gen. 6:9). None of this implies sinless perfection but it certainly sets Noah in a class apart. Earlier (5:22), Enoch had also been described as one who “walked with God”.

Noah’s daily life was characterized by a faith and communion with the Lord that made a difference in the way he lived in a wicked world. He was “found righteous” in his generation (Gen. 7:1) which the author of Hebrews attributes to his faith. That’s the key! Righteous living is the result of genuine belief in God. Righteousness is not the result of some innate goodness on our part. It is itself a gift from God (Eph. 2:8). It’s all of grace!

By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. (Heb. 11:7)

New Testament: Matthew 3

The forerunner’s job was (1) to clear the way, (2) to prepare the way, and (3) to get out of the way. John the Baptist cleared the way for the Messiah by preaching that the kingdom of God had come. He emphasized the need to repent and believe. The kingdom of God (Matthew prefers to speak of “the kingdom of heaven” because of his Jewish audience) was a present reality and a future hope. That’s the “already...not yet” aspect with which we still grapple. Many received John’s testimony and believed. Great crowds followed him and even the highest leadership, both religious and political, took notice.

John’s preaching of the kingdom also prepared the way for Jesus’ own preaching. Matthew alone mentions this theme 50 times and the other Gospel writers make their contributions. John also prepared the way by publically recognizing Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (Jn. 1:29; c.f. vs. 36). After the Lord’s baptism John affirms, “I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God” (Jn.1:34). Mighty strong words for any Jewish person to proclaim! How could he? He heard with his own ears the very words spoken from heaven (Mat. 3:17) when God said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Finally, John got out of the way so that the Messiah’s work could be accomplished. Repeatedly he had to tell folks, “I am not the one” (Mat. 3:11; see Jn. 1:19-27). He directed all attention to the Christ and was faithful in making Him known. As Isaiah prophesied, his was “a voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” (Mat. 3:3, from Isaiah 40:3). We’re all prone to toot our own horn but John gave a great example that applies well to our own job of evangelism (= make Christ known):

clear the way - We need to clear obstacles from the path - both those that our hearers raise and some that we tend to create ourselves.
prepare the way - Lay down the groundwork. Build a solid scriptural foundation. Someone else may come along and build upon it after you.
get out of the way - Make sure you’re not the central figure or the main topic of discussion. It’s not about you. Keep self out of sight so eyes can be fixed upon the Savior.

John did a good job. You can too.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 02)

2012-01-02T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament - Genesis 3-5

It’s the not in the Devil’s tale. When he told Eve, “You will not surely die”, Satan was practicing the final stage in his devilish plan. It begins with DOUBT (“Did God really say...?”). Then he moves to DISTORTION. He twists God’s words. He puts a different spin on what God has said and then he swoops in with outright DENIAL. God said, “you will surely die” (Gen. 2:17) and the Devil says, “you will not surely die” (Gen. 3:4).

That’s a bold contradiction of God’s Word. If the Devil had started with that, it’s quite possible that Eve would have detected it. But he began slowly and used the same kind of deception that he uses on us. It usually begins with small doubts left unanswered.

When God confronts the man and the woman, their response is also all too typical. God asks Adam what he’d done and Adam responds at first, “the woman made me do it” (Gen. 3:12). When He asks Eve the same question, she begins with, “the snake made me do it” (Gen. 3:13). To err is human - to blame it on someone else is even more human.

But in both cases, what follows next is of utmost importance. When confronted, Adam and Eve both concluded, “and I ate it”. Had they not done so all hope would have been gone. Paradise would have been lost but not regained. Had there been no acknowledgment of sin, there could be no redemption. God brought them to repentance. That’s what Paul says in Romans 2:4. It is “God’s kindness [that] leads you toward repentance”.

That’s an important truth for us to recognize. Even our repentance is the result of God’s mercy and grace in drawing us to Himself.

II Peter 3:9 - The Lord is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
II Corinthians 7:9-10 - ...Your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended.... Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation....
II Timothy 2:25 - ...God will grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth....

Keep reading that last one for it ties it back to Genesis 3. “God will grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (II Tim. 2:25-26)

New Testament - Matthew 2

One of the reasons that Matthew’s gospel is placed first in our New Testament line-up is the link he provides to the Old Testament and messianic prophecies. More than any other, he takes a direct quote from an Old Testament text and applies it to Jesus. In fact, he has a favorite formula to introduce such quotes; “this happened in order that it might be fulfilled, that which the prophet spoke....”

But sometimes Matthew’s use of the Old Testament presents a challenge. There are cases where he makes an application that we might call “novel” and would be uncomfortable doing ourselves. Here in chapter two we have examples of four distinct ways in which Matthew handles the Old Testament.

(1) a literal prophecy with a literal fulfillment (vs. 5-6, quoting Micah 5:2) - The syllogism here is tight. This is perhaps the most satisfying kind of quote we find in Matthew, or anywhere else for that matter.
A. The OT says the Messiah will _____.
B. Jesus did _____.
Therefore: Jesus is the Messiah.

(2) a literal prophecy with a typical fulfillment (vs. 15, quoting Hosea 11:1) - This is the hardest kind. If you read Hosea’s text you’re prone to wonder, “where did he get that?” But Matthew employs his quotation formula here too. (See below.) We would probably be more careful about such “interpretations” but this comes under inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Israel’s experience in Egypt provided an illustration of an event in the life of the Son of God.

(3) a literal prophecy with an application (vs. 17-18, quoting Jeremiah 31:15) - In its context, this fulfillment was not readily apparent. Matthew’s application is unequivocal.

(4) a summation of prophetic content with a literal fulfillment (vs. 23) - No specific text can be found for this. But notice two things: it is what was said by all the prophets (plural) and it is what was said by the prophets. Much prophecy took place that was never written down.

Perhaps our understanding of these hermeneutical practices may be helped by a better understanding of the word that Matthew uses for “fulfilled”. The Greek word (πληρὸω, playro’o) might be best translated as “filled full”. For example, it’s the word used to express what happens when the priest’s incense fills the Holy of Holies, when fish fill the net, when sorrow fills the heart, and when the wind filled the house on Pentecost, and when Satan filled Ananias’ heart. In terms of fulfillment of Scripture, the meaning of πληρὸω can be “to fill it full” or “flesh it out”. That would give it more of a sense of illustration or application, rather than a direct prophetic fulfillment.

While important, don’t let technicalities ruin your enjoyment of these texts! Jesus is the fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies. But He is also the One who fills your heart full as you read the Scriptures and recognize His presence there and in your life.

THE LORD SPOKE (January 01)

2012-01-01T05:00:00.002-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament - Genesis 1-2

The emphasis of the first two chapters of Genesis is not how the world began. It’s really about how the PLAN began. The abbreviated description and apparent focus on the earth (as opposed to the sun) does not betray a simplistic scientific knowledge. It is the result of a theological focus on man. It is the beginning of God’s explanation of man’s uniqueness and His design to save him.

Of all creation’s treasures rare
Not one compares in worth with man;
In God’s own image he was made
To fill a place in His great plan.
- Branon

God’s determination to make man in His own image sets him apart from all the rest of creation. In fact, God specifically says that all the rest of creation is to be subject to man (Gen. 1:28-29). He is given dominion over it and allowed to exploit and enjoy it to the full extent. This is not a blanket permission to waste or despoil it in any way. However the plants, animals, and other elements exist for man’s use, not vice-versa.

This involves a grave responsibility, illustrated by God’s placement of Adam in the Garden of Eden with the command “to work and take care of it” (Gen. 2:15). Man is charged with the responsibility to govern the earth under God’s sovereignty.

God created man to work. This may be only part of God’s purpose for man but it is an essential part of understanding why and how He made man. Our work involves:

partnership with Him - God Himself works and part of our being created in the image of God involves productive labor.
service to others - Our work will generally benefit ourselves but God did not put us each in egocentric circles. He placed us in families and various other societal relationships.
self-fulfillment - When we work we fulfill God’s purpose for us and this give us a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Genesis cuts quickly to the chase. Within a very few verses, the reader is plunged into the thick of the story of man’s creation, fall, and restoration. The PLAN of redemption is not long in unfolding but it’s a story that lasts for all eternity. It was planned before the foundation of the world and will last even when time shall be no more.

New Testament - Matthew 1

What’s in a genealogy? Most of us don’t worry over much about reconstructing our whole chain of family history but we’re pretty glad if some member of the family has done that work for us. We especially like it if there are some pictures to go with it. It’s fun to look at great, great grandpa and grandma. Why is Charlie wearing a dress? Didn’t they ever smile back then?

Genealogies had a far different value in Bible times. Besides being a pre-photography age when each of those names had to carry some kind of mental picture, the lists also served as an important memory aid in a culture based on oral tradition.

That’s how Matthew’s genealogy worked. It’s what is sometimes called a telescoping genealogy because it is comprised of three sets of fourteen generations. In order to keep that numerical balance, a few generations were skipped. Why fourteen? Twice seven - the number of perfection? Maybe. The numerical value of the name of David? More likely. That seems to be the clue embedded in Matthew 1:17. The genealogy links David back to Abraham, and the Messiah back to David - an important emphasis throughout the whole book.

More than any other, Matthew is intent to prove Jesus’ messianic claims. His genealogy is certainly meant to do that though he is precise in the detail he gives when speaking of Mary in 1:16. He uses a feminine pronoun (English: “of whom”) to indicate that Jesus was not “begat” like everybody else on the list. Interestingly, five women are mentioned: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. For different reasons, each one raised eyebrows at the town water hole - go back and read their stories. For different reasons, each one factored into the Messianic hope and deserved mention on this list. For different reasons, each one is remembered for great faith in God’s plan.

Are genealogies boring to read? Most of the time. But one thing to consider on this one is the marvelous out-working of a divine Plan which culminated “in the fullness of time” in the birth of our Savior.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 31)

2011-12-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Malachi 1-4

When would you find yourself turning to the book of Malachi? This “little” book packs a big message. Not only is it the known source for three or four key biblical topics (divorce, tithing, Messiah’s forerunner), it is chock full of memorable statements. Consider for example:

Mal. 1:5 - “Great is the Lord - even beyond the borders of Israel.” That message has reached the uttermost parts of the earth - all the way to America. Look at it on the globe. We’re just about as far away as you can get from the land of Israel but the word has come even to us.
Mal. 1:6-7 and Mal. 3:7-8 - “But you ask...but you ask....” With this rhetorical device, Malachi slams the people’s self-righteous complacency and lets them see just how foolish is their position.
Mal. 1:8 - God says, “Try offering your scuzzy junk to someone else. Don’t give me your left-overs.”
Mal. 2:1-2 - How about it? Have you “set your heart to honor the Lord”? Is it a passion of your life?
Mal. 2:10,11,14,15,16 - “Guard yourself in your spirit and DO NOT BREAK FAITH” (with one another, with your spouse, with God Himself).
Mal. 2:16 - God says, “I hate divorce!” Need anything else be said on this subject? Apparently yes, judging by over 50% of our society. And our churches are no better. It’s quite obvious - we love divorce today. Do we not listen to God?
Mal. 3:1 & 4:5 - John the Baptist (“my messenger”) and Elijah are both promised as forerunners of the Messiah - one for His first advent and the other for His second advent. The first prophecy was fulfilled literally. The second one will be also.
Mal. 3:10 - The one matter in which God says, “Put me to the test” (something we’re generally quite good at) is in our giving! Have you “proved God” in this area? Do you give to the point you make Him take notice?
Mal. 3:16 - Forget Santa’s silly list. God Almighty keeps a written record of those who fear and honor Him. Is your name on that list?
Mal. 4:1,5 - The Day of the Lord is “great and dreadful” (today we’d probably say “awesome”) and it is coming.
Mal. 4:2 - Here’s an anchor for your soul: “the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings”.

The last book of the Bible is certainly not the least!

Proverbs 31

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. (Prov. 31:10)

As you go down through the remainder of this chapter verse-by-verse, you can compile quite a list of godly character traits:

Prov. 31:11 - trustworthy
Prov. 31:12 - devoted
Prov. 31:13 - industrious
Prov. 31:14 - enterprising
Prov. 31:15 - conscientious
Prov. 31:16 - initiative
Prov. 31:17 - energetic
Prov. 31:18 - productive
Prov. 31:19 - diligent
Prov. 31:20 - generous
Prov. 31:21 - dependable
Prov. 31:22 - creative
Prov. 31:23 - supportive
Prov. 31:24 - resourceful
Prov. 31:25 - content
Prov. 31:26 - wise
Prov. 31:27 - meticulous
Prov. 31:28 - loyal
Prov. 31:29 - respected
Prov. 31:30 - spiritual
Prov. 31:31 - praiseworthy

Such a wife is a rare treasure. The initial question, “who can find” such a one (Prov. 31:10) does not imply impossibility. A wife like this is a wonderful gift from God. He can and does produce such godly character.

Men, it’s worth looking for these qualities and it’s certainly worth trying to build up your wife in these areas, encouraging and praising her progress. It is, in part, what is meant by “presenting her as radiant” (see Eph. 5:25-27).

Ladies, it’s worth striving for. Did you ever see the button that had the initials: “T.G.H.N.F.W.M.Y.” on it? It stands for “Thank God, He’s not finished with me yet.” Wear it with humility - and with thankfulness for what He can do!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 30)

2011-12-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Zechariah 11-14

“When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.” Zechariah tells us that when the Lord comes to Jerusalem “all the holy ones [will be] with him” (Zech. 14:5). That great “Day of the Lord” is described in impressive detail here at the end of Zechariah’s prophecy. He repeats the phrase “on that day” a total of 16 times in the last three chapters. Consider some of the events that he tells us will happen:

Zech. 12:3 - all the nations of the earth will be gathered against Jerusalem
Zech. 12:4 - horse and rider (= military transport?) will be immobilized
Zech. 12:6 - governments and human leadership will crash and burn
Zech. 12:8 - God Himself will protect Jerusalem
Zech. 12:9 - God will destroy all those who attack Jerusalem
Zech. 12:11 - all will weep upon realizing how they’ve rejected the Messiah up to that point
Zech. 13:1 - a spiritual cleansing will take place
Zech. 13:2 - idols and the very spirit of impurity will be banished
Zech. 13:4 - false prophets will be shut up and shamed of themselves
Zech. 14:4 - the Messiah will come to Jerusalem, specifically to the Mount of Olives
Zech. 14:6 - there will be no light on that day - a day without daytime or nighttime
Zech. 14:8 - living water will flow out of Jerusalem
Zech. 14:9 - the last king standing will be the Lord Jehovah
Zech. 14:13 - panic and plague will strike all those who oppose Him
Zech. 14:20 - everything and everyone will be dedicated (made holy!) to the Lord
Zech. 14:21 - there will be no more unbelief in any quarter

That represents pure joy to the saint who is ready to meet the Lord. Though times may grow difficult and though we may have to wait yet awhile more, the future is bright. God’s promises are sure.

Proverbs 30

What is his name and the name of his son?
Tell me if you know! (Prov. 30:4c)

That which precedes this question clearly describes attributes of God. Only God “gathers the wind”, “wraps up the waters”, and “establishes the ends of the earth”. Only deity goes up to heaven and comes down. But does God have a son? Is Jesus in the Old Testament?

That’s certainly the universal contention of the New Testament. Check out Matthew’s formulaic phrase: “This happened in order that it might be fulfilled, that which the prophet spoke....” Examine the many Old Testament quotes in the New Testament which relate to the Messiah. Analyze the syllogistic preaching in the book of Acts:

Major Premise: The Messiah would be or do such-and-such.
Minor Premise: Jesus was or did such-and-such.
Conclusion: Jesus is the Messiah.

Yes, there’s no question in the New Testament that God has a son and that His name is Jesus. But, does the God of the Old Testament have a son? Is Jesus in the Old Testament?

At least three times the Old Testament specifically says that God has a son:

Psalm 2:7,10-12 - I will proclaim the decree of the Lord: “You are my Son...therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son....
Isaiah 9:6 - To us a son is given...and he will be called...Mighty God.
Proverbs 30:4 - What is his name and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!

Not one of those can be successfully refuted. Each one clearly speaks of God’s Son. Only one would be sufficient to establish the truth. After that, the many New Testament references all fall into place. We can say with expectant Simeon, “My eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” (Lk. 2:30-32).

THE LORD SPOKE (December 29)

2011-12-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Zechariah 8-10

The Lord promises to bless Jerusalem. There was an immediate promise for Zechariah’s day (fulfilled) but this passage builds to fantastic heights by the end of the book (still unfulfilled).

This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I am very jealous for Zion;
I am burning with jealousy for her.”
This is what the Lord says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem.
Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth,
and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain.”
(Zechariah 8:2-3)

It seemed marvelous at that time (Zech. 8:4-6). It seems marvelous today when you walk the streets of Jerusalem and see what God has done in our day with regard to the return of the Jewish people to the city of Jerusalem. Once again “men and women of ripe old age sit in the streets of Jerusalem with cane in hand” and “the city streets are filled with boys and girls playing there”. Why should it seem marvelous in our eyes if God is in it?

But you ain’t seen nutin’ yet. The King is coming! We had a glimpse of it in His triumphal entry (Zech. 9:9; Mat. 21:5; Jn. 12:15) but there is a dispensational gap in Zechariah 9:10. Only part of the prophecies about Messiah were fulfilled in His first advent. He will yet return to “proclaim peace to the nations”. In His second advent, “His rule will extend from sea to sea”. “Then the Lord will appear over them” (Zech. 9:14).

Here are the basic elements of Old Testament biblical theology once again:

PEOPLE - Zech. 10:6 - “the house of Judah...the house of Joseph”
PROMISE - Zech. 10:6 - “I will strengthen...I will restore...I will answer them”
PRESERVATION - Zech. 10:8 - “I will redeem them”
POSSESSION - Zech. 10:9 - “they will return”
PRINCE - Zech. 9:9 - “your king comes to you” (quoted as messianic in Mat. 21:5 and Jn. 12:15)

Proverbs 29

“Vent your rage!” So say some psychology books. But not the Bible. One who does so is termed a “fool” and unworthy of trust.

A fool gives full vent to his anger,
But a wise man keeps himself under control. (Prov. 29:11)

A fool shows his annoyance at once,
But a prudent man overlooks an insult. (Prov. 12:16)

A fool is “hot-headed and reckless” (Prov. 14:16) and “a quick-tempered man does foolish things” (Prov. 14:17). For this reason he “stirs up dissension” (Prov. 15:18) and “commits many sins” (Prov. 29:22). We are instructed:

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man,
Do not associate with one easily angered,
Or you may learn his ways
And get yourself ensnared. (Prov. 22:24-25)

Is the only alternative to venting your rage, holding it in? Not at all! It needs to be dealt with properly and that is by obtaining a calm spirit from the Lord. By submitting to Him in our thoughts and emotions, we can overcome our tendency to be hot-headed, quick-tempered, and short-fused. Listen to the collected wisdom of Scripture on this:

Ephesians 4:31-32 - Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Psalm 37:8 - Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret - it leads only to evil.
Proverbs 19:11 - A man’s wisdom give him patience. It is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Colossians 3:5,8 - Put to death therefore whatever belongs to your earthly nature.... Rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.

Now do it!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 28)

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Zechariah 4-7

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty. (Zech. 4:6)

In Zerubbabel’s day, when men thought of might and power they didn’t think of Zerubbabel or the Israelites who had returned to Zion. They thought of Cyrus and the Persians. Or Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians. Or Sennacherib and the Assyrians. Or maybe, if they dreamed of past glory, they thought of David and Solomon. But Zerubbabel?

The remnant that returned in Ezra and Nehemiah’s day was so small they had to draw lots to determine who would live in Jerusalem. In order to guarantee a sufficient population in the capitol, they had to designate inhabitants among those who returned from Babylon who would be required to take up residence. Hardly sounds like might and power.

We’re so caught up with might and power - from pickups to football teams. It’s a driving theme of America. It’s what has been severely shaken recently in the corporate world because of looming economic stress. It’s what we just watched at several levels being played out in an election campaign.

But Zechariah says not by might or power! Our reliance is to be on the Spirit of God. How exactly do you go about that? How do you reject other forms of might and power to follow Him?

STOP - It begins with stopping to take stock of where you are and what you’ve been doing. Are you trying to fix things in your own strength? Do you tend to make your plans and organize your resources and... and... and then pray?

LOOK - The place to find answers and direction is in the Scriptures. Since it was the Spirit that inspired them, it’s there that you will find His instructions. Look deeply into the Bible.

LISTEN - As you read Scripture, listen for the voice of God’s Spirit. Listen hard enough so you will hear His “still, small voice”. Listen with your ears and listen with your heart. In other words, don’t just be aware of what He says (listening with your ears), do it! You must obey - or listen with your heart.

Proverbs 28

What should be our attitude towards the law and questions of political right and wrong? Does our day-to-day civil life matter? Is God concerned with civics? Proverbs 28 would indicate that the answer is “yes”. It has much to say to both law-makers and law-keepers.

Law-Makers

Rapid change of leadership is the result of lawlessness (Prov. 28:2) and should be! If you don’t maintain public order, may you be toppled from power, and that, right soon.
Your laws should favor the poor (Prov. 28:3) for God is their Maker and is watching your attitudes. You dishonor Him when you oppress the poor and He will dishonor you (see Prov. 14:31).
Allowing the continuation of bad laws (or no laws) will come back to bite you (Prov. 28:10).
Measures must be taken to disfranchise, defrock, and depose evil men who find their way into power (Prov. 28:12). What would you do with a roaring lion or a charging bear? They must be stopped (Prov. 28:15).
Resistance to tyrants is obedience to God. It’s impossible for any individual to rule alone - he must have tacit if not active support to succeed.

Law-Keepers

If you keep the law, you have nothing to fear (Prov. 28:1). This is what Paul spelled out in detail elsewhere: “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.” (Rom. 13:3-4)
Not keeping the law yourself amounts to support for law-breakers and evil men for they will take comfort in your example (Prov. 28:4). The best way to resist lawlessness is to keep the law yourself for this builds a society based on law.
The first step towards civil law and justice is a proper knowledge of God (Prov. 28:5). This comes from His word. The Bible ought to be a part of everyman’s curriculum. It should be taught in our schools (or we should change our schools!).
“A companion of gluttons” is a glutton too. This terminology is used in contrast to one who keeps the law (Prov. 28:7) because he does not exercise self-control.
How can you talk to the God of perfect justice if you cherish injustice in your heart (Prov. 28:9)?
If you live under evil magistrates in a democracy, let your voice be heard. If you don’t live where you have a voice, protect yourself by righteous living and ask God to overthrow them (Prov. 28:28).

That ought to be enough to keep Congress in session for awhile.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 27)

2011-12-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Zechariah 1-3

Haggai was a “fire and brimstone” prophet. He thundered at the people’s complacency for four months (Hag. 1:1; 2:1,10) in 520 BC. Like a spent comet, he quickly flamed off the stage of history. Zechariah, on the other hand, was the wizened counselor type of prophet. He ministered as both priest and prophet for over 40 years.

So which prophet was right? Which had the better approach? Which was more effective in his ministry? The answer is, “Both!” We absolutely need both kinds. We need both messages. We need preachers who thunder at us and we need grand-fatherly advise. Both have their place in revealing God’s Word and purposes to us. Both can place us along side God’s standard to see how well we measure up.

Zechariah twice uses the figure of a measuring line at the beginning of his book (Zech. 1:16; 2:1). Picking up on the imagery of Jeremiah (Jer. 31:38-40) in his great prophecy of the New Covenant, Zechariah sees a measuring line stretched over Jerusalem. First the Lord (Zech. 1:16) and then an angel (Zech. 2:1,3) explain to Zechariah that God is taking measure of the city, sizing it up for His blessing. Though there are places where the idea of measuring something serves to show how it falls short, here the picture is of pouring out mercy and blessing and making sure there’s space enough to hold it all.

As Zechariah sees the Jerusalem of his day, recently rebuilt, he is given a greater vision of Jerusalem of the end times. God will “again choose Jerusalem” (Zech. 2:12). This speaks of a yet future time when the city will be inhabited by God’s chosen people and will rise to prominence once again. Has that happened yet?

The Jewish people are returning to the Land and they have claimed Jerusalem as their capital (they’ve never claimed any other!) but the world doesn’t recognize that claim. Official, and nearly universal, opinion is that it should be an international city under U.N. auspices, according to a decision made on November 29, 1947. Never mind that the nations didn’t show up in Jerusalem’s time of distress in either 1948 or 1967. They waited for the outcome of those two wars and then whined when it didn’t go the way they expected. The Jewish people have every right to Jerusalem. Others “have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it” (Neh. 2:20).

Haggai give us a clue to when this will finally be resolved. “The desired of all nations will come” (Hag. 2:7) to inhabit Jerusalem. Zechariah adds that the Lord “will remove the sin of this land in a single day” (Zech. 3:9). The Temple will be rebuilt and “the glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house” (Hag. 2:9). Messiah’s kingdom will eclipse Solomon’s for He will live among us (Zech. 2:10-12). Emmanuel!

Proverbs 27

What price for a friend? One who sticks closer than a brother is a priceless treasure. He can be trusted because he’ll tell you the truth in love (Prov. 27:6). Or, as Solomon says it a few verses later, “the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel” (Prov. 27:9).

Where do you find such a friend? Don’t you wish there was some kind of store or on-line site where you could shop for one? But how could you afford it? No, they don’t come that way. To find a friend, you have to be a friend (Prov. 18:24, KJV - the NIV opted for a very different reading here!). That involves the following:

stop boasting about yourself (Prov. 27:1-2)
cut out the provocation (Prov. 27:3)
curb your anger (Prov. 27:4a)
deal with your jealousy (Prov. 27:4b)

Then work on some positive character traits that foster friendship:

openness and transparency (Prov. 27:5)
honesty and trustworthiness (Prov. 27:6)
truth and sincerity (Prov. 27:9)
loyalty and devotedness (Prov. 27:10)

And, here are some activities that Solomon recommends for setting a friendship in stone:

help him look further down the road (Prov. 27:12)
stand by him in need but help him stand on his own (Prov. 27:13)
give him some space (Prov. 27:14)
don’t harp on things (Prov. 27:15)

Solomon sums it up with these words:

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. (Prov. 27:17)

Aren’t you glad God made us that way?!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 26)

2011-12-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Haggai 1-2

It’s a principle of life! In every part of Scripture we are commended to put the Lord first. Whether it’s our time, talent, or treasure - He is to have the first fruits. Before any other considerations we are to give to Him. The reason for this is not that He needs it. What a silly thought. We need it ourselves!

Haggai’s message to Israel was exactly the same. The people had provided first for themselves (Hag. 1:4). They laid aside for their own basic needs of food and clothing (Hag. 1:6). They even made some investments and put some into savings. They built their own houses (Hag. 1:9). But God blew it all off (Hag. 1:9). Because the people did not honor Him first, he sucked the wind right out of their sails.

They ended up without enough to eat or drink and their clothing proved to be inadequate. Their investments didn’t pan out (Hag. 1:9), their crops failed (Hag. 1:10-11), and their livestock didn’t produce (Hag. 1:11). Whatever they put their hand to failed to turn a profit (Hag. 1:11). God has ways to melt down our every effort to stockpile things for ourselves. You can’t save enough for a rainy day if God commands it to rain on you. He doesn’t ever do that capriciously but He does know how to get our attention.

From the very moment the people corrected their ways and started to take care of the Lord’s work first (Hag. 2:18-19), from that very moment, things began to change. What they had for themselves was not only adequate, it began to multiply. Their labor and investment produced wealth.

Five times in this short book (Hag. 1:5,5; 2:15,18 [2x]), we’re told to “give careful thought” to this. Have you?

Proverbs 26

A veritable rogue’s gallery. That’s what Proverbs 26 is. Hezekiah’s editors (see Prov. 25:1) gathered here a collection of Solomon’s proverbs on fools, sluggards, gossips, and madmen. Be careful! It’s like walking through the hall of distorted mirrors at a circus. You might see yourself in some of these reflections and it won’t be pretty.

The metaphors used in this chapter are also very colorful. The variety and sources of these word pictures communicate as well with John Ploughman as with any erudite saint:

like snow in summer or rain in harvest (Prov. 26:1)
like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow (Prov. 26:2)
like a lame man’s legs that hang limp (Prov. 26:7)
like a stone in a sling (Prov. 26:8)
like a thornbush in a drunkard’s hand (Prov. 26:9)
like an archer who wounds at random (Prov. 26:10)
like a dog returns to its vomit (Prov. 26:11)
like a door that turns on its hinges (Prov. 26:14)
like one who seizes a dog by the ears (Prov. 26:17)

Take a closer look at the selection of proverbs that deal with gossip and quarreling. Solomon compares it to wood on a fire or charcoal on embers (Prov. 26:20-21). Gossip is sure to fuel the flame of a quarrel. When gossip is removed, a quarrel dies out. Strife is kindled by rehashing it. Stir it up a little and the flame comes back. The best way to let it die down is to separate the hot coals from each other. Of course, you can pour some water on it but that will produce billows of steam, smoke, and ash. Cleaning up that mess will make you wish you hadn’t . Does that apply to the latest quarrel you’ve been involved in?

As to the latest quarrel you haven’t been involved in, Solomon says, “Don’t!” That’s as dumb as pulling a mad dog’s ears (Prov. 26:17).

THE LORD SPOKE (December 25)

2011-12-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Zephaniah 1-3

It’s a good thing it ends like it does. After two and a half chapters of fierce wrath, Zephaniah says:

The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with his love,
He will rejoice over you with singing. (Zeph. 3:17)

Being himself a fourth-generation descendant of King Hezekiah (Zeph. 1:1), Zephaniah was familiar with the Judean court and all the hot political issues of his day. He sounds a lot like Isaiah and Amos in that regard. He was a contemporary of Jeremiah, Nahum, and Habakkuk, and prophesied in the days of good king Josiah (640-609 BC).

His message of severe punishment of the surrounding nations (Zeph. 2:1-15) included Jerusalem (Zeph. 3:1-8). The inescapable Day of the Lord (Zeph. 1:14-18) would be bitter and bring wrath, distress, anguish, trouble, ruin, darkness, gloom, and blackness (were there any words left in his thesaurus?).

But God would not leave Himself without a remnant (Zeph. 3:12). He never does. And, He never abandons His chosen people. The day would come when He would take away the punishment and turn back the enemy (Zeph. 3:15). The Day of the Lord begins with the darkest night but turns to dawning and noon-day bright.

“At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home.
I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth
when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes,” says the Lord.
(Zeph. 3:20)

Though judgment of sin is certain and there is a point at which all hope is lost, that point only comes after the opportunity to repent has been spent. God offers forgiveness to the repentant sinner always. Like the father of the prodigal son, he comes out on the road to meet us. Quoting the psalmist, the writer of Hebrews warns us:

“Today, if you hear his voice,
do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion....”
See to it, brothers, than none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart
that turns away from the living God...
so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.
(Heb. 3:7,12,13)

Proverbs 25

Another chapter on the tongue?! We must really need this instruction. Indeed, we do. Though Proverbs 25 has several other proverbs included, the predominant theme has to do with how we use our mouth - for good or ill.

Prov. 25:2 - Some things are better off left unsaid. There’s a time when it’s best not to tell all.
Prov. 25:6-7 - Don’t toot your own horn. Even if it’s a good horn. Better that someone else should discover that melody independently.
Prov. 25:9-10 - You may never regain a good reputation if you reveal a confidence. Who would trust you?
Prov. 25:11 - Saying the right thing in the right way at the right time is a work of art.
Prov. 25:12 - Listen to wise words, even when they hurt. Especially when they hurt. A rebuke will improve you more than anything else, if you listen.
Prov. 25:13 - How refreshing is a message conveyed accurately, faithfully, and dependably. Like a cool breeze on a hot day.
Prov. 25:14 - Talk is cheap. Be sure you put your money where your mouth is.
Prov. 25:15 - A soft word is more effective than a hard one. Both can break but one is more repairable.
Prov. 25:18 - Might as well just shoot me! If I can’t trust your words, it makes it hard to live with you at all.
Prov. 25:20 - There’s a time for jollity but make sure it matches the occasion. Silly words can sting more than you ever intended.
Prov. 25:23 - A man with a clever tongue will be remembered next time. People will shy away from such a one.
Prov. 25:24 - Like an angel (always up in the air, harping on something), a contentious wife will drive you up the wall.
Prov. 25:25 - Remember your friends far away and write them an encouraging note today.

No wonder James says “the tongue is a fire” - it can produce wonderful warmth or withering heat. “With the tongue we can praise our Lord and Father [its highest use], and with it we curse men who have been made in God’s likeness [totally incongruous]” (Jas. 3:9).

Solomon give us lots to work on!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 24)

2011-12-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Habakkuk 1-3

The Assyrians were notoriously cruel but the Babylonians were ruthlessly cunning (Hab. 1:6) The Babylonians had a well-greased war machine that could sweep in with amazing speed and devastating efficiency.

Habakkuk, like everyone else, was afraid of them. He was a contemporary of Jeremiah and probably lived long enough to see the arrival of the Babylonians (597 BC) and the initial fulfillment of his own prophecies. He probably began his ministry in the days of Josiah (640-609 BC) but we don’t know much more about him. The apocryphal book, Bel and the Dragon, tells how he took care of Daniel in the lions’ den but it’s pure legend.

He did leave us some memorable statements:

Hab. 1:4 - “the law is paralyzed...justice is perverted”
Hab. 2:4 - “the righteous will life by his faith”
Hab. 2:14 - “the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord”
Hab. 2:20 - “the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him”
Hab. 3:2 - “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy.”

With his heart pounding at the coming of the Babylonians, Habakkuk expresses a magnificent testimony of faith and...

REST in the Lord (Hab. 3:16),
REJOICING in Him (Hab. 3:17), and great
RELIANCE upon Him (Hab. 3:17).

Even when all human hope appears to be gone, with Habakkuk we can say:

The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
He enables me to go on the heights. (Hab. 3:17)

Proverbs 24

Our excuses aren’t going to sound any more convincing than those of people who lived in the early 1940's. Today there is ample and convincing evidence to show that what Hitler was doing to the Jews was common knowledge long before the end of the war. Contrary to what we were told when growing up, our leadership had detailed information of the extermination of millions.

And we do too. In our day, millions of babies are being murdered - horribly crushed and ripped to pieces. Mothers and doctors are the vile perpetrators of this crime but we are no better because of our silence.

We’re not given the context of Solomon’s words here in Proverbs 24, but the application to abortion cannot be far wrong:

Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done? (Prov. 24:11-12)

If you need persuading, try googling something like “anti-abortion” and look for the video results. Warning: the graphic images will stay with you for a very long time afterwards. They will haunt you. Maybe they’ll even make you want to do something to stop this horrible crime.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 23)

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Nahum 1-3

That which Jonah longed for was accomplished in the days of Nahum, some 150 years later. Jonah wanted to see Nineveh judged for her sins, which were many. Instead, God brought about the repentance of Nineveh through Jonah’s preaching. At least temporarily. In his own words to God, Jonah didn’t want to preach to them because he “knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity” (Jonah 4:2). He wanted God to rain down fire and brimstone on Ninevah and He didn’t. Instead, He let them repent and then He forgave them.

But God’s patience has a limit. He is “slow to anger” (Nah. 1:3) but look out when He does finally take vengeance! The very earth trembles. He controls all the elements. At His command, even rocks shatter. Just read Nahum 1:3-6!

If you go there today, Nineveh is a tangle of weeds and broken down stones. The only evidence of life to be seen is the goat droppings scattered over the surface or an occasional lizard that scurries past. For three full chapters, Naham describes what happens when the Lord says, “I am against you” (3:5). Nineveh was crushed and has been only a vague memory for the last 2600+ years. People clapped for joy when Nineveh fell (Nah. 3:19).

Judah, though afflicted for her own sins (Nah. 1:12 - the NIV inserts are helpful here), stands in stark contrast. She will be restored (Nah. 2:2) to God’s favor and her former splendor. In fact, it’s happening today before our very eyes. The growth and development of modern Israel is the beginning of the fulfillment of just such prophecies. There’s a long road ahead. She has still not repented and received her Messiah but that too is part of the prophecies.

We may be sure the Lord will do it because He has promised. And herein lies the message for us. Just as God has promised to bless Israel, He will receive and bless those who trust in Him and follow his Word. Or, as Nahum says it:

The Lord is good,
a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him.... (Nahum 1:7)

Proverbs 23

Back in the story of Samuel when he discovered and anointed Jesse’s youngest son, we’re told that “the Lord looks on the heart” (I Sam. 16:7). David was “a man after God’s own heart” (I Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22), one “who enjoyed God’s favor” (Acts 7:46) because his heart was right with God. He wrote, “You have filled my heart with greater joy” (Ps. 4:7).

Throughout the Bible, the heart represents the center of human emotions, thoughts, motivation, courage, and actions. Solomon warns:

Above all else, guard your heart,
For it is the wellspring of life. (Prov. 4:23)

Here in Proverbs 23 we have several key references to the heart from which we can learn much to give us direction on our way:

Prov. 23:12 - “apply your heart to instruction” - There must be a conscious effort on our part. Apply means “to employ diligently or with close attention” (Webster). This is not something to approach lackadaisically.
Prov. 23:17 - “do not let your heart envy sinners” - Again, this instruction calls for conscious effort. Since it’s natural to envy that which appears to be successful, we must consciously exert an effort in the opposite direction. The second half of the verse is instructive here: “always be zealous for the fear of the Lord”.
Prov. 23:19 - “keep your heart on the right path” - This means choosing the right forks in the road and saying no to tempting rabbit trails. It means choosing your company carefully (Prov. 23:20) and not trading your birthright for a mess of pottage (Prov. 23:22-23).
Prov. 23:26 - “give me your heart” - The second half of this verse and what follows tells us that the heart bone is connected to the eye bone. A significant part of giving our heart to the Lord has to do with what we allow our eyes to see! Guard the eye-gate carefully if you wish to be a man after God’s own heart.

Where’s your heart today?

Search me, O God,
And know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior,
Know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be
Some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin
And set me free.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 22)

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Micah 6-7

He has shown you, O man, what it good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8

Why should we “act justly and love mercy”? Of course, one answer, perhaps the first, is “because God says so”. But God is never arbitrary or capricious in what He says. He never throws out commandments just “because I said so”. He doesn’t treat us with a “shape-up-or-ship-out” commander’s bark. Instead, He entreats us with “submit to my Spirit” and a reminder of the Creator’s mark upon us. He made us in His own image and tells us to follow His way, to think His thoughts, to be like Him. He is just and merciful. That’s good reason for us to be.

Micah’s message is a case in point. First of all, he reminds us that God has shown us the good way. At every turn, he acts justly and loves mercy. That’s the message of all the prophets. Though we, like Israel, have sinned, God has always dealt mercifully with us. He longs for us to return to Him and He’s the God of the second chance (e.g. Jonah). He comes out to meet us when we return (e.g. the Prodigal Son).

Look at the close of Micah’s prophecy. “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. You will be true to Jacob, and show mercy to Abraham, as you pledged to our fathers in days long ago.” (7:18-20). So, how can we not “walk humbly with our God” (6:8)?

Great God of wonders! All Thy ways
Are matchless, Godlike and divine;
But the fair glories of Thy grace
More Godlike and unrivaled shine,
More Godlike and unrivaled shine.

Who is a pardoning God like Thee?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Or who has grace so rich and free?

In wonder lost, with trembling joy,
We take the pardon of our God:
Pardon for crimes of deepest dye,
A pardon bought with Jesus’ blood,
A pardon bought with Jesus’ blood.

Who is a pardoning God like Thee?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Or who has grace so rich and free?

Proverbs 22

Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it. (Prov. 22:6)

Don’t take comfort from this verse unless you interpret and apply it correctly. It does not say that every man will come back to his senses if you be sure to take him to Sunday School when he’s little.

Somehow we have gotten the mistaken notion that it’s normal for a child to get out and stretch his wings and sew a few wild oats at some point. But if we’ve been good in his basic training, he’ll eventually come back to his senses, return to the nest, and be a decent person after all.

You can’t get that from Proverbs 22:6. Hebrew grammar is necessary to understand it properly. One of the ways to indicate a possessive in Hebrew is to attach a pronominal suffix to the noun being so defined. That’s how it is here. “Way” is a noun with a first person, masculine, singular, pronominal suffix attached to it. Quite literally it should read “train a child in that child’s way”. In other words, you need to know your child well so that instruction can be properly matched to him and his needs. You need to understand “his way” - his personality, his capacity, his learning style, his needs.

No two children are the same. There’s often a major difference between a first-born and the last baby of the family. Boys are different from girls. Some children are naturally artistic and some are not. You need to understand each child so that your instruction can be properly fitted to his way. Then, you can take comfort in the promise of this verse. If you have properly understood and nurtured that child, it’s not likely that he will stray far from the path.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 21)

2011-12-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Micah 4-5

Do you have a hard time following a Jewish God? There is no other! His name is not “Allah”, nor is it “America”. His name is Jehovah (perhaps better pronounced “Yahweh”). He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He is the God who chose Zion, “to make His name dwell there forever” (Ps. 68:16; 76:2). He is the God who not only chose Israel, but also is in control of the nations.

Both Micah and Isaiah received a nearly identical prophecy at this point:

In the last days the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and peoples will stream to it. Many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. (Micah 4:1-3; c.f. Isaiah 2:1-4)

Though the Jewish theme is strong in this book (e.g. “Zion” appears 8x in chapters 3-4), so is the international theme. Take note for instance of all the references to the nations (goyim in Hebrew) and the peoples (amim) of the earth just in these two chapters:

Mic. 4:1 - peoples will stream to the Temple
Mic. 4:2 - many nations will come
Mic. 4:3 - He will judge between many peoples...and nations
Mic. 4:5 - the nations may follow their gods, BUT...
Mic. 4:11 - many nations are gathered against you
Mic. 4:13 - you will break to pieces many nations
Mic. 5:7,8 - the remnant of Judah will be in the midst of many peoples
Mic. 5:15 - God will take vengeance on the nations

Whether they acknowledge Him or not, He is both in control now and will direct all the affairs of men in the future. He is the all-powerful Creator and King of the earth.

So, why should you have a hard time following a Jewish God? There is no other!

Proverbs 21

The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord;
He directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.
(Prov. 21:1)

You’ll read that verse differently if you live in a democracy or a dictatorship. It might be harder to trust it if you’re living under an oppressive regime, but it’s no less true. Everything in Scripture confirms that God is sovereign over the affairs of men. All affairs. All men.

Whether or not we can determine God’s purposes is not the question. Gratifying it is to be able to see and understand what He is doing at the moment. But it is not our ability to perceive that determines the virtue or propriety of a series of events. Precisely because He knows all things - He knows the beginning from the end of everything - precisely because of that, He is able to direct the outcome of every series of events.

But have you stopped to think about that? How does He know the outcome of every event? It’s because the event is a certainty; it’s not left up to chance. It has been determined beforehand. Who or what determined it? Certainly not chance, or it wouldn’t be certain! Certainly not someone or something else because then that someone or something would be greater than God. No, God knows the certainty of all things because He has determined all things.

In that light, the heart of the king is a very small thing. Of course (!) God can give it the direction He purposes. Just ask Nebuchadnezzar. He thought he was a king with clout until God humbled him. Nebuchadnezzar concluded:

...that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of man.... His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Dan. 4:32,34-35)

THE LORD SPOKE (December 20)

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Micah 1-3

To start with, he ministered during the same time as the great Prophet Isaiah. Then there was the story of Tiglath-Pileser and the sack of Samaria by the Assyrians. Now they were back. King Hezekiah was facing them in Judah and all the headlines were filled with Sennacherib and the siege of Jerusalem. Who could ever forget the front-page pictures of 185,000 dead bodies outside (!) Jerusalem’s walls? And if you’re talking about grabbing people’s attention and getting a hearing, Hosea’s on-going saga made it hard to compete.

So who would listen to little ol’ Micah, nestled away in the Shephelah hills? Who’d even heard of Moresheth Gath (Mic. 1:1,14)? But with a word from the Lord burning inside, he begins his prophecy by saying:

Hear, O peoples, all of you,
Listen, O earth and all who are in it.... (Mic. 1:2)

His initial prophecies come to pass quickly. Samaria is made “a heap of rubble” (Mic. 1:3-7). The Judean towns get it next (Mic. 1:8-16). Here’s that story in Sennacherib’s own words:

As for Hezekiah the Judahite, who did not submit to my yoke: [I destroyed] forty-six of his strong, walled cities, as well as the small towns in their area, which were without number, by leveling with battering-rams and by bringing up siege-engines, and by attacking and storming on foot, by mines, tunnels, and breeches, I besieged and took them. 200,150 people, great and small, male and female, horses, mules, asses, camels, cattle and sheep without number, I brought away from them and counted as spoil. [Hezekiah] himself, like a caged bird I shut up in Jerusalem, his royal city. From “Sennacherib’s Prism” (c. 689 BC)

Micah next turns his guns on the politicians (Mic. 3:1-4) and the clergy (Mic. 3:5-7). In both cases God will refuse to answer their phony cries for help (Mic. 3:4 and Mic. 3:7). In desperation the false prophets will tell Micah, “Stop talking that way!” (Mic. 2:6).

In the end Jerusalem, just like Samaria, will become “a heap of rubble” (Mic. 3:12; c.f. Mic. 1:6) and they already knew what that looked like. Even harder to think of and worse than they wanted to imagine, the Temple Mount would become “a mound overgrown with thickets” (Mic. 3:12). That destruction was temporarily averted in the days of good king Hezekiah but it too came to pass.

. . . . . . . .

Only by peeking ahead to the next chapter can we find hope. “In the last days” the situation will be reversed. Then all Israel will stream to Jerusalem. In fact, we’re told that “many nations” will come to hear “the word of the Lord from Jerusalem” (Mic. 4:1-2). Others may do as they please but “we will walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever” (Mic. 4:5).

Proverbs 20

Does the Bible condemn all consumption of alcoholic beverages? No, it does not. But it does condemn all drunkenness at all times under any circumstances.

It’s because drunkenness is a form of losing self-control or, as our passage today says, “whoever is led astray by [alcoholic beverages] is not wise” (Prov. 20:1). Proverbs associates drunkenness with gluttony, which leads to poverty (Prov. 23:20-21); with woe, sorrow, and strife (Prov. 23:29-30); and with lawlessness and injustice (Prov. 31:4-5). It leads to no good!

From the first instance of drunkenness (Gen. 9:21), when Noah drank wine and lost his self-control, ugly sin was the result. He lost more than just his self-control. He lost his family. Isaiah describes the ugliness that results from being “befuddled with wine” (Isa. 28:7-8). The drunkard “staggers around in his vomit” (Isa. 19:14). With the loss of self-control goes self-respect and also the respect of others.

The New Testament is unequivocal in its condemnation of drunkenness and places it alongside some of the “worst” sins:

Galatians 5:19-21 - Drunkenness is put in the same category with sexual immorality, idolatry and witchcraft, and orgies. “Those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Ephesians 5:18 - Getting drunk on wine “leads to debauchery” which Webster defines as “corruption of fidelity”.
Romans 13:13 - “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.”

Given the deceptive power of drink, if you have any weakness in the area of self-control (and who doesn’t?), teetotalism is not a bad policy.

Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. [KJV = “make no provision for the flesh”] (Rom. 13:14).

THE LORD SPOKE (December 19)

2011-12-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Jonah 1-4

He was the original “Chicken of the Sea”. He tried hard to run from God and was almost successful but when God called Jonah back, he was given a second chance (Jonah 3:1). Aren’t you glad He’s the God of the second chance?

Do you like simple outlines? Try this one:

Chapter 1 - God said, “Go!”
Chapter 2 - Jonah said, “No.”
Chapter 3 - God said, “Oh?”
Chapter 4 - God said, “So!”

Actually, Jonah gets three chances in this book and he doesn’t do so well even after his first lesson. The turning point came in the belly of the great fish. Engulfed, with seaweed wrapped around his head (Jonah 2:5), and swimming in gastric juice, Jonah finally “remembered the Lord” (Jonah 2:7). In his own words, the lesson he learned was:

Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs. (Jonah 2:8)

But only days later he’s found clinging to a worthless weed! Because the vine God provided (Jonah 4:6) to shade his head was eaten by a worm and withered (Jonah 4:7), Jonah went into a major pout. In response to God’s rhetorical question, he goes even further: “I’m angry enough to die.” Over a weed!

How can we be so blind? Do you think that, in God’s eyes, we are often guilty of sins every bit as silly as Jonah’s? Where would we be if He wasn’t the God of the second chance?

Thank you Lord for putting up with me. Sometimes, I make myself sick. How can you love me so? Thank you for listening to my petty whining, my endless vanities, for clinging to worthless things that keep me from knowing your grace. Thank you for giving me another chance. Please help me trust you as I should and to be consistent and faithful in my walk with you. I love you, Lord!

Proverbs 19

Are you a drip?

Sometimes the man in your life can be a real dud and it seems like you have to harp on some things or they’ll never get done. (By the way, most of this applies both ways in terms of gender - the ladies don’t have a monopoly here.)

Solomon compares a quarrelsome wife with a constant and annoying drip (Prov. 19:13). It’s background noise that not only won’t go away but that soon dominates all consciousness and becomes obnoxious. In contrast, he says that “a prudent wife is from the Lord” (Prov. 19:14b). Similarly, in the previous chapter, Solomon tells us, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord” (Prov. 18:22). The context of the Proverbs 19:14 statement is what you might inherit from your parents. But, even in an arranged marriage, they can’t give you a prudent wife - that is something that must come from the Lord. Only He can give you a good wife - the one who is just right for you.

Back in Proverbs 12:4, we were told that “a wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.” So the question is, “A wife of noble character, who can find?” (Prov. 31:10). You need to look over and pick one as well as you’re able, but ultimately you can’t see into the future and present appearances may be deceiving. She may look like a gem now but turn out to be a jerk later.

Here’s the good news: God delights to take broken things and fashion and reshape them into something better than new. Remember, “a prudent wife comes from the Lord”. He’s not bound by any sequencing or by any time constraints. He can do His work now just as well as yesterday and it doesn’t matter in the least if the vessel is broken in half or smashed to a thousand bits. He can make it better than new.

That should be an encouragement to the man who thinks he’s ended up with a drip as well as to the wife who really wants to be a crown. But it’s no less true for the husband who’s a major jerk and needs to experience some major change in order that he might have a radiant bride once again.

In both cases, the answer will be found in a vital relationship with the Lord.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 18)

2011-12-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Obadiah

His name means “servant of the Lord”. His prophecy could fit two possible events in Israel’s history: (1) the time of Elisha when the Philistines and Arabs invaded Jerusalem (II Kings 8 & II Chronicles 21), or (2) the time of Jeremiah when the Babylonians sacked Jerusalem (II Kings 25 & II Chronicles 36). On both occasions Edom sat quietly by (gloated?!) while Jerusalem was destroyed. The striking similarities between the book of Obadiah and chapter 49 of Jeremiah might be an argument for the latter but we don’t have enough identification for Obadiah to be certain. It was a common name.

The book follows the pattern of a “Covenant Lawsuit” (called a riv in Hebrew):

Summons (vs. 1)
Arraignment (vs. 2-7)
Indictment (vs. 8-9)
Case (vs. 10-14)
Sentence (vs. 15-16)
Vindication (vs. 17-21)

Unlike the many judgment passages concerning Israel, this one doesn’t conclude with a promise of restoration. Edom was not given any hope. Edom’s destruction was sure and Edom never saw another day.

“In that day” has messianic overtones. One of the results of “the day of the Lord” (vs. 15) is that deliverance will come from Mount Zion (vs. 17). Mount Zion will be the seat of government (vs. 21) and “the kingdom will be the Lord’s”. This was the same vision seen by the Apostle John in the last book of the Bible:

The kingdom of the world
has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ,
and he will reign for ever and ever....
We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty,
the One who is and who was,
because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign.
The nations were angry; and your wrath has come.
The time has come for judging the dead,
and for rewarding your servants the prophets and your saints
and those who reverence your name, both small and great -
and for destroying those who destroy the earth.
(Revelation 11:15-18)

Proverbs 18

God gave us one mouth and two ears. That should give us some idea of the proportionate use we should make of both. Proverbs 18 has a lot to say about both talking and listening. What should we learn from it?

Talking

Prov. 18:2 - “A fool...delights in airing his own opinions.” He thinks “Everyone is entitled to my opinion.” But doesn’t stop to ask if they want it or not. Better to be quiet and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.

Prov. 18:4 - “The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a babbling brook.” Do the deep waters refer to profundity or obscurity? The adversative “but” in the NIV is supplied and does not seem accurate here. The two halves of the verse are not linked by any conjunction in the Hebrew original so these seem to be parallel statements. A good man’s words are deep and bubble up a wealth of wisdom.

Prov. 18:6-7 - “A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing and his lips are a snare to his soul.” Your words can be a treasure or they can be a trap. They can save you or they can swamp you. Use your mouth to make peace not war and you’ll avoid strife and bitterness.

Prov. 18:20 - “From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.” Just as a farmer enjoys the crops he planted, so should a man reap a good harvest if he plants well with his words.

Prov. 18:21 - “The tongue has the power of life and death....” James says it better than any words we could add here: With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? (Jas. 3:9-11)

Listening

Prov. 18:13 - “He who answers before listening - that is his folly and his shame.” It seems so patently true and logical. Why don’t we do it? “Stop, look, and listen!” is wisdom for much more than just train tracks.

Prov. 18:15 - “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out.” This takes it a step farther. We need to seek out wisdom by listening for it and to it.

Prov. 18:17 - “The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him.” Yet another step - don’t be content with the first answer. Listen beyond that. Get a second opinion. And a third.

The tongue has the power of life and death. And the ears have the power of light or deafness. Use the tongue sparingly and the ears generously and you’ll find yourself headed down a good path.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 17)

2011-12-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Amos 7-9

When God is silent it’s awful! It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes it’s His only way to get our attention. Having pled with us in so many ways, He resorts to silence and the heavens shut up like brass (Deut. 28:23).

I Samuel 28:6 - After turning away for so long, when Saul finally inquired of the Lord, He “did not answer him”.
Ezekiel 7:26 - Sunk in sin, Israel “will try to get a vision from the prophet” but it will be only silence and “calamity upon calamity”.
Ezekiel 20:1-3 - Because they waited so long, “‘I will not let you inquire of me’, declares the Sovereign Lord.”
Micah 3:4,7 - Crying out will do no good for “he will hide his face from them because of the evil they have done.” He won’t answer.

In Amos’ day it was even worse. God says, “I will fix my eyes on them for evil and not for good” (Amos 9:4). Because of he nation’s sin, He says, “I will destroy it from the face of the earth” (Amos 9:8a). But He cannot forget His covenant. He cannot because He will not. In the next breath He says, “yet I will not totally destroy the house of Jacob” (Amos 9:8b).

Because of His promise to David, there will be a restoration.

In that day I will restore David’s fallen tent.
I will repair its broken places, restore its ruins,
and build it as it used to be.... (Amos 9:11)

The word for David’s “tent” is sukkah, or “hut”. It is a reminder both of David’s humble beginnings and of the sorry estate to which His kingdom or dynasty had fallen. This messianic promise is then followed by a glorious description (vs. 13-15) where one season runs into the next with no interruption, indicating unparalleled prosperity for Israel. Previous predictions of destruction (Amos 5:9), dearth (Amos 5:11), and deportation (Amos 5:27) are all reversed and the book concludes with the promise that Israel will “never again be uprooted from the land” (Amos 9:15).

P.S. This last promise constitutes an absolute proof that Amos’ prophecy is yet future.

Proverbs 17

Choose the better way! Don’t be content with just a good thing - go for the best. Solomon has given several recommendations in this category in recent chapters, adds a couple here in chapter 17, and several more in what follows. Take a look:

Prov. 15:16 - Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.
Prov. 15:17 - Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.
Prov. 16:8 - Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.
Prov. 16:19 - Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
Prov. 16:32 - Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.
Prov. 17:1 - Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.
Prov. 17:12 - Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly.
Prov. 19:1 - Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse.
Prov. 21:9 - Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Prov. 21:19 (c.f. Prov. 25:24) - Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered wife.

Martha did well to serve the Lord but Jesus said “Mary has chosen what is better” (Lk. 10:42).

Good, better, or best. Which will it be?

THE LORD SPOKE (December 16)

2011-12-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Amos 4-6

What a sad refrain. Five times the chorus is repeated, “...yet you have not returned to me, declares the Lord” (4:6,8,9,10,11). Israel had grown complacent (6:1) and careless about her relationship to God. She went through her religious duties perfunctorily but there was no life there. Sound familiar?

REPENTANCE HAD BEEN AVERTED - One of God’s purposes in sending affliction is to force us to our knees and bring us back to Himself. Though they were hungry (vs. 6), thirsty (vs. 8), decimated by plague (vs. 9), dying (vs. 10), and suffering cataclysmic calamity (vs. 11), they didn’t repent and respond to God’s mercy. So He says, “Prepare to meet thy God” (4:12). There comes a point after which there is no more remedy.

JUSTICE HAD BEEN PERVERTED - “You oppress the righteous and take bribes and you deprive the poor of justice in the courts” (5:12). Israel had it exactly backwards - she loved evil and hated good. But God says, “Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts” (5:15). His message is good for us today also: “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-ending stream!” (5:24). When our sense of justice is perverted we don’t even recognize anymore how far off the track we’ve gotten. God calls us back with the amazing reminder: He “reveals his thoughts to man” (4:13). Therefore, if we seek Him we will live (5:4,6). Our sense of justice and right-living will be restored and we can please Him once again.

PRIDE HAD BEEN EXERTED - It’s sure to turn God’s stomach every time. He cannot countenance pride. He abhors it wherever it is found (6:8) and has promised to judge it. When it rears its ugly head, which is often, He is committed to strike it down. It was the first sin and it’s the most common sin on every man’s list. Consider what God has to say about it:

Leviticus 26:19 - “I will break the pride of your power”
Proverbs 8:13 - “the fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way”
Proverbs 16:18 - “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
Proverbs 29:23 - “a man's pride shall bring him low”
Daniel 4:37 - “those that walk in pride he is able to abase”
Obadiah 3 - “the pride of thine heart hath deceived thee”
I John 2:16 - “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”

Father, forgive us for our pride and help us to fix our eyes on You. We gratefully acknowledge You as sovereign over all and cast ourselves upon You. Thank you for revealing Yourself to us - and for revealing our sinfulness to us too. Apart from You, there is no life worth living. Don’t let us forget.

Proverbs 16

“Love God and do as you please.” So said Augustine. His statement is quite similar to Proverbs 16:3 which tells us to “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” If we truly love God and commit our every activity to His scrutiny and approval, we won’t want to do anything that displeases Him.

James is sometimes cited as an argument against making big plans on our own. True, it’s a thing that can be done in the flesh but James doesn’t say, “don’t plan”. He says, “Plan!” but do it with the honest preface of “if it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that” (Jas. 4:15). If God can lead us in the doing He can just as certainly lead us in the planning!

So the key is to so love God and desire that His will be accomplished, that our own plans and actions will willingly conform to His direction. Our thoughts will be His thoughts and our plans will be according to His plan. Then our actions too will be in conformity with His will. If we truly love God, we can do as we please for our pleasure will always be to please Him.

Oh! to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer,
This is my constant longing and prayer;
Gladly I’ll forfeit all of earth’s treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.

Oh! to be like Thee, oh! to be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;
Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.

Oh! to be like Thee, full of compassion,
Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,
Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,
Seeking the wand’ring sinner to find.

Oh! to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,
Holy and harmless, patient and brave;
Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,
Willing to suffer, others to save.

Oh! to be like Thee, Lord, I am coming,
Now to receive th’ anointing divine;
All that I am and have I am bringing,
Lord, from this moment all shall be Thine.

Oh! to be like Thee, while I am pleading,
Pour out Thy Spirit, fill with Thy love,
Make me a temple meet for Thy dwelling,
Fit me for life and Heaven above.

Thomas O. Chisholm

THE LORD SPOKE (December 15)

2011-12-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Amos 1-3

Tevya the milkman in Fiddler on the Roof puts it so well. After considering all the suffering of the Jewish people, he turns his eyes toward Heaven and asks, “Would you mind choosing someone else for awhile?”

Amos quotes God as saying to Israel, “You only I have chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins” (3:2). With choice comes challenge. With favor comes firmness. With privilege comes responsibility. Being “God’s chosen people” has not always been easy. In fact, it never has. But the burden that comes with the blessing is worth it. The rights that come with the responsibility are a reward.

God’s purpose in choosing Israel was that they might be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). In the first two chapters, Amos identifies six nations surrounding Israel and pronounces God’s judgment upon each one for not responding to that light. But then Amos turns the spotlight on Judah (2:4-5) and Israel (2:6-16) and similar judgment is delivered because “they have rejected the law of the Lord” (2:4) and did not listen to His prophets (2:11).

God takes greater interest in His own children. He will hold all accountable but His relationship with His chosen ones is a passion with Him. He delivers them from the house of bondage (2:10; 3:1), gives them prophets as His special messengers (2:11; 3:7), and shepherds His people Israel (3:12; see also Jeremiah 31:10 and Psalm 80:1).

You only punish those you care about. So, when God punishes Israel (3:14), He is declaring His love for her. “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11; see also II Corinthians 4:17).

It was (and is) true for Israel. It’s still true today. So consider this, if God’s hand is heavy upon you now, it’s because He cherishes you and wants you to come back to Himself.

Proverbs 15

Proverbs 15 makes a notable contribution to our understanding of discipline:

vs. 5 - “A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”

vs. 10 - “Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.”

vs. 12 - “A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.”

vs. 31 - “He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise.”

vs. 32 - “He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.”

Who wants to be disciplined? The emphasis of these proverbs is not that one likes to be disciplined. What is condemned here is that you should “hate”, “resent”, or “ignore” discipline.

What you need to want are the results that come from a disciplined life. He who “heeds” or listens to correction will attain the balance desired in life. The results are “wisdom” and “understanding” (or what Solomon calls “prudence” in Prov. 15:5). To hate correction will cancel out this benefit. Since discipline will come whether you heed it or hate it, it’s best that you receive the good that is intended. Be careful to learn the lessons that discipline is intended to teach you.

Better yet is to discipline yourself than that you should fall under discipline from the hand of God. By saying “no” to excesses, to inconsistencies, to laziness, to secret or open sins, to temptations, to desires of the flesh and not of the spirit, to indulgences, or to any other activity that detracts from your movement towards Christ-likeness - that is the way of wisdom.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 14)

2011-12-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Joel 3

Most agree that it’s the same as the Kidron Valley on the east side of Jerusalem. It is called “the Valley of Jehoshaphat” (“the LORD judges”), because Jehovah will sit in judgment there. To the east of Jerusalem the Mount of Olives, which is actually a small chain rather than a single promontory, provides a natural grandstand looking down into the Kidron since the two run parallel to each other and to the Old City wall for over a mile. It amounts to ringside seating for the events depicted here.

When will this take place? Verse one locates the time as “in those days”. These are still future because God promises that thereafter “never again will foreigners invade” Jerusalem (vs. 17). The time is further identified as “the Day of the Lord” (vs. 14). Yet another hint comes from verse 18, “a fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house” which needs to be linked to the prophesies of Ezekiel 47 and Revelation 22.

Who will be judged? All the nations of the earth (vs. 2, 11,12).

Why will they be judged and for what? The way each nation has treated Israel will be the basis for judgment (vs. 2,19). Another part of the Abrahamic Covenant will finally be fulfilled - “whoever curses you I will curse” (Gen. 12:3). In a striking reversal of the millennial conditions (see Isaiah 2:4 and Micah 4:3), plowshares will be beaten into swords and pruning hooks into spears (vs. 10) and “the Lord will roar from Zion” (vs. 16) so that even the earth and sky will tremble.

God will not let the nations “get away with it” forever. He has promised or, as Joel says, “the Lord has spoken” (vs. 8).

Current historical note:

Some of this judgment will not wait until the final Day of the Lord. God quickly removes His hand of blessing from the individual or from the nation that mistreats His people. Witness the once mighty nation of Germany - mighty enough to attempt world domination twice in thirty years - as it struggles today. Witness the once vast United Kingdom as it has traitorously turned away from its own Balfour Declaration and become a struggling island. Witness the United States as we have grown infatuated with Arab oil and open to listen to Muslim terrorist arguments to “justify” their violent opposition to Israel. Now we are struggling. Witness the Obama Administration as it pressures and repeatedly forces Israel’s hand while growing ever closer to the Palestinian Authority. It is increasingly charmed by Islam and oblivious to what is happening in Iran at an alarming speed. God has written “Ichabod” over all these. Are you listening Ahmadinejad?

Proverbs 14

“I love hard work. I could sit and watch it all day.” So says the wag who is best defined as a lazy man - someone of whom the book of Proverbs has much to say.

Here in Proverbs 14:23 we’re told, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” The same idea was expressed back in Proverbs 10:4 in these words, “Lazy hands make a man poor but diligent hands bring wealth.”

Keep in mind that wealth is calculated in more than just cash or material goods. Though that is at least part of the emphasis here, it’s certainly not all. Foolish choices can dissipate your wealth no matter how hard you work. Along with the hard work you must practice the principles of godly living as taught in this book. This is not a blanket promise or some health-and-wealth gospel.

Why is hard work good for us? Why is it profitable, even beyond obtaining material things?

It’s how God made us. He gave us strength and the ability to produce.
It’s the means by which we can be productive and find meaning in life.
It’s the means by which we can provide for those we love and who depend on us.
It’s our way of being creative. Like our Creator, we can make things beautiful. We can’t create ex nihilo (out of nothing) as He can, but creativity is part of the image of God in us. It’s one way to fulfill His purpose in us.
It fills our days with meaningful activity. Life without work would quickly become a meaningless void.
It is the proper use of the body and strength that God gives us. These are tools meant to be used.

By God’s design, work is in itself a thing of fulfillment. Worthwhile work, productive work, creative work is a thing of joy and beauty. It is one very good means of giving glory to God by functioning the way He intended.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 13)

2011-12-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Joel 1-2

“This is that.” So said Peter on the Day of Pentecost when he quoted Joel’s prophecy. “This is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel” (Acts 2:16).

And yet, several parts of Joel’s prophecy did not take place on the Day of Pentecost. Though there were many signs and wonders on that day, the sun did not turn to darkness nor the moon to blood. Did Peter get it wrong?

No, Joel prophesied the things that would happen “before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord” (Joel 2:31). That day would be introduced by a great out-pouring of the Spirit of God (Joel 2:28,29) but it was to be an extended event. Notice, for example, that he says, “I will pour out my Spirit in those days” (Joel 2:29).

Like any Hebrew day, the counting of time begins with the evening and moves to the morning. Since Genesis 1 and 2, “the evening and the morning” constituted a day; each day began at sunset, not sunrise as we commonly count a day. Just so, “the Day of the Lord” as portrayed in Scripture will begin with darkness and doom. Only after the divine wrath and judgment is spent will the sunrise of divine blessing begin. If you read carefully all the passages that deal with the Day of the Lord you’ll see both aspects but the ordering of the events is not always clear because each individual passage has its own emphasis.

But, back to Peter and Pentecost.... He quite naturally thought of Joel’s prophecy when he saw the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit that was taking place on that day. It was a first step in what we understand to be a telescoping prophecy and fits quite well with the “already...not yet” emphasis of the New Testament.

Of greater import, at least to Gentile believers ever since the Day of Pentecost, is the way Peter applies the “all people” and “everyone” of Joel’s prophecy (Joel 2:28,32). He relates this to “all who are far off” (Acts 2:39). This is a clear reference to non-Jews who have been brought into the New Covenant (see Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews 8). Paul also does this in Romans 11:11-24 and Ephesians 2:14-18.

The words of this blog would not be written and you would have no interest in reading them if it were not for Joel’s prophecy: “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). The fulfillment of that began on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and continues to the present moment. We still await the further unrolling of the Day of the Lord, but it too will surely come.

Proverbs 13

“Spare the rod and spoil the child.” (Samuel Butler)

It might surprise you to find out that this phrase doesn’t come from the Bible. Actually, the scriptural statement is stronger yet. Solomon says that if you spare the rod you hate your child (Prov. 13:24). Few people would admit to such a thing but the truth of the matter is born out in that child’s life later. Why is it that Scripture equates this with hating your child? Here are four possible explanations:

1) You don’t love the child enough to do something serious about his character formation. Character is not just the good you do, it is also the bad that you don’t do. It is something that must be taught.

2) You don’t love the child enough to help him break bad habits that will eventually grow into worse things in the future. Little things grow with time. A spanking today may save a jail term later.

3) You don’t love the child enough to help him learn how to function in society. Self-absorbed, self-indulgent, and self-seeking behavior must be brought under control early on or it becomes unmanageable. There’s not much that is uglier than an adult who acts with childish selfishness.

4) You don’t love the child enough to teach him how to submit to authority. A lack of respect or obedience to authority will only get worse if unchecked. Ultimately this will result in serious resistance to God’s authority in other areas of his life for God is the highest authority.

Take careful note of the rest of what Proverbs has to say about this matter:

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him. (Prov. 22:15)
Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. (Prov. 23:13-14)
The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother. (Prov. 29:15)

THE LORD SPOKE (December 12)

2011-12-12T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Hosea 12-14

Like the flourish at the end of a symphony, Hosea’s prophecy rises in a great crescendo of spiritual metaphors. Much like Beethoven, Hosea employed triads - groups of three variations on a theme that then synthesize and build to the next theme. Consider, for example:

Hos. 13:3 - like mist, like dew, like chaff...like smoke
Hos. 13:7-8 - like a lion, like a leopard, like a bear...like a lion
Hos. 14:5-6 - like dew, like a lily, like a cedar...like an olive tree
Hos. 14:7-8 - like grain, like a vine, like wine...like a green pine tree

The last movement of Hosea’s symphony restates the theme which he has been emphasizing ever since the Conductor called for the first note:

You must return to your God;
maintain love and justice,
and wait for your God always. (Hos. 12:6)

The parallel counter-theme of Israel’s pride is also repeated in the closing strains of music. Her fruitfulness comes from God (Hos. 14:8) but her sins have been her continual downfall (Hos. 14:1).

When I fed them, they were satisfied;
when they were satisfied, they became proud;
then they forgot me. (Hos. 13:6)

Like the finale when every instrument is employed and every part is driving toward the conclusion, Hosea brings it all to bear on his theme one last time with magnificent force.

Who is wise? He will realize these things.
Who is discerning? He will understand them.

The ways of the Lord are right;
the righteous walk in them,
but the rebellious stumble in them. (Hos. 14:9)

Isn’t it time for us to make a little melody in our hearts for the Lord (Eph. 5:19)? Doesn’t He have every right to expect some harmonic praise from us? Could we not produce some pleasing music that would rejoice His spirit? So be it!

Proverbs 12

A measured response. That’s the MO of a prudent man. He doesn’t fly off the handle, go off half-cocked, or blow up in your face. Instead, he counts to ten, takes a deep breath, or cools his heals.

A fool shows his annoyance at once
But a prudent man overlooks an insult. (Prov. 12:16)

It boils down to a question of control - self-control. That’s how Solomon expresses it later in the book:

A fool gives full vent to his anger,
But a wise man keeps himself under control. (Prov. 29:11)

It is wise counsel to slow down and think before you speak. Counting to ten before giving a hasty reply may seem like a gimmick of sorts but it has the advantage of being quite effective. Those few moments allow you to think and adjust your verbal response if not your mental attitude. It is, in fact, the first step to self-control. If it results only in pent-up feelings, it won’t help anything. Merely putting a cork in it will only increase the pressure and lead to a worse explosion. But pausing to reflect and to adjust your attitude will soon begin to have the desired effect - greater self-control.

It also works well in our relationship to God. Rather than blaming Him, or expressing our disappointment in the way He’s running His world, or in some other way reacting thoughtlessly, just pause a little and reflect. He has the distinct advantage over us of knowing every thought. That’s why we pray...

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. (Ps. 139:23)

But that thought process is itself the path of resolution for as He shows us our wrong-thinking we may ask Him to correct it. The result is that our heart is changed. Our attitudes are corrected and it’s increasingly less likely that our mouth will spew out vileness.

Or, as Jesus said, “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Lk. 6:45)

THE LORD SPOKE (December 11)

2011-12-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Hosea 10-11

William Foxwell Albright excavated it in the 1920's. King Hussein was building another Jordanian palace on top of it until the Six Day War put a stop to that. The modern day king of Jordan was attempting to make a political statement by building over the top of the palace of King Saul - the first king of Israel. Today Gibeah is a pile of ruins overrun by goats, grubby children, and occasional archaeology students.

And why did Saul pick Gibeah? Because he was of the tribe of Benjamin and Gibeah was a chief town in their tribal allotment. It also occupied a very strategic position on the main N/S road through the central hill country. Sometimes called “the Way of the Patriarchs” because they traveled so often on it, the route narrows dramatically just north of modern day Jerusalem and all traffic is forced through “the Gibeah Funnel”. Since Jerusalem was still just a little Podunk Center belonging to the Jebusites, Saul’s choice of Gibeah really did make a lot of sense. From its commanding height you can see a full 360 degree view on the heart of the country and it dominates the Central Benjamin Plateau.

Had you been there in the days of the judges, you would have witnessed one of the ugliest events recorded in all of Scripture. The story of the Levite and his concubine and the subsequent civil war which resulted in the decimation of the tribe of Benjamin is told in Judges 19-21. Because the tribe of Benjamin had defended the degenerate town of Gibeah, God wiped it out, leaving only 600 males to reconstitute the tribe. Three times the Prophet Hosea recalls the horrible degradation of Gibeah:

Hos. 5:8 - “Sound the trumpet in Gibeah.... Lead on, O Benjamin.”

Hos. 9:9 - “They have sunk deep into corruption as in the days of Gibeah. God will remember their wickedness and punish them for their sins.”

Hos. 10:9 - “Since the days of Gibeah [some 700 years before!] you have sinned, O Israel, and there you have remained. Did not war overtake the evildoers of Gibeah?”

The warning probably meant more to Israel than it does to us but consider the following lessons that we can draw from these texts:

Don’t follow the wrong trumpet and identify with the wrong side. The Benjamites did have a lot in common with the inhabitants of Gibeah but they should have flatly rejected their vile sin and joined the civil war against them not with them. Instead, they got themselves into a position where they defended evil.
Don’t let yourself sink ever deeper into sin. Stop it. Stop it now! Yes, you can do something about it. You won’t get away with blaming someone or something else. You won’t be able to stand before the Throne and use any of those excuses.
Get involved in spiritual warfare. If you don’t you’ll be overtaken by war. Either way, you’re in a war so why not choose the right side and make your life count?

Proverbs 11

He who puts up security for another will surely suffer,
but whoever refuses to strike hands in pledge is safe. (Prov. 11:15)

When the finances of individuals or the economy of a nation are built upon borrowing, they will result in tremendous loss of freedom. If allowed to continue, inflation and bankruptcy will eventually bring about God’s judgment. The consequences are certain.

Consider this matter of co-signing:

It is a dangerous form of lending. In reality, you are pledging whatever assets you have against the debt of someone else because he was not considered a good risk on his own assets. He is borrowing the money but asking you to stand behind the loan.
Scripture everywhere condemns the practice. Take a look at Proverbs 6:1-5 which says: My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.
Your partnership encourages the one taking the loan to live beyond his means. It discourages him from waiting for God to supply his need.
You could lose everything that you have (see Prov. 11:15; 17:18; 20:16; 22:26-27; and 27:13).
You may be violating the Lord’s command to give to those in need.

Co-signing actually involves a double jeopardy loan and is not wise. Don’t do it!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 10)

2011-12-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Hosea 7-9

Hosea was a master of metaphor. By using dozens of similes, metaphors, and extended metaphors, he packs his prophecy like a can of sardines. His word pictures come tumbling out like a crowded elevator discharging its contents on every floor. Consider, for example just these in chapter seven:

Hosea 7:4 - “like an oven whose fire the baker need not stir”

There’s no need for shifting the logs or adding more kindling because the coals are hot and the fuel keeps rolling into the heat in such a way that the flame continues to blaze. But then it just goes out in lifeless smoke. We, like Israel of old, always seem to sustain our own consumption. We blaze for a short while and then go out. We keep smoldering until all the substance is spent and only cold ash is left.

Hosea 7:8 - “[like] a flat cake not turned over”

Done to seeming perfection on one side but still yucky goo on the other. We often have a “presentable” side that we let others see, but God knows what’s behind it and it’s disgusting. The fine appearance doesn’t fool Him because he doesn’t look on what’s on the outside.

Hosea 7:11 - “like a dove easily deceived and senseless”

Blundering into a net, unconscious of the trap, naiveté personified. Even our meager experience should have supplemented our common sense. But we mindlessly carry on, oblivious to the dangers around us until it’s too late.

Hosea 7:16 - “like a faulty bow”

Undependable because it sends the arrow astray; unreliable because it never seems to hit the target, unsafe even, because you don’t know what it might hit. It will snap the inside of your bow arm and take the skin off. Or it may crack if you pull the string back too far. It can’t bear pressure.

But the contrast is so pleasant. When God found Israel “it was like finding grapes in the desert...like seeing the early fruit on the fig tree” (Hos. 9:10). How refreshing Israel was to the Lord when she came willingly before Him in submission, love, and obedience. He delights in His own. He desires just that sort of relationship with us. We too can put a smile on the face of God if we will but love and serve Him. Like the dawning of a new day He fills our hearts with the sunshine of His love. Like listening to Handel’s Messiah, our hearts swell with the fullness of His grace. Like the woman at the well, our cup is filled in unexpected ways.

Proverbs 10

Integrity. It’s a character quality not commonly found in our society today. Webster defines it as “an unimpaired condition” or “the quality or state of being complete or undivided”. The word comes from the Latin, integritas, which means “complete”, “whole”, or “entire”. The word is used frequently in Scripture, particularly in the wisdom literature. Here are a few such instances:

Job 2:3 - Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason." (Note his wife’s words in 2:9 - "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!")

Psalm 7:8 - Judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High. (Can you pray that way?)

Psalm 25:21 - May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you.

Psalm 41:12 - In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever.

Proverbs 10:9 - The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Proverbs 11:3 - The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

Proverbs 13:6 - Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

A man (or woman) of integrity is a man of principle. He keeps his word. He never cheats or defrauds. Never steals. Never covers up. Integrity, by definition, characterizes everything he does, not just part. In the process of preparing for the Temple, David made an important statement about integrity (I Chronicles 29:17): I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity.

What does God see in your heart?

THE LORD SPOKE (December 09)

2011-12-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Hosea 4-6

But “is it safe?” wonders Susan. Mr. Beaver’s response is, “You mustn’t press him. He’s wild, you know, not like a tame lion.”

“And now,” said Aslan presently, “to business. I feel I am going to roar. You had better put your fingers in your ears. And they did. And Aslan stood up and when he opened his mouth to roar his face became so terrible that they did not dare to look at it. And they saw all the trees in front of him bend before the blast of his roaring as grass bends in a meadow before the wind.

The Lion shook his mane and clapped his paws together (“Terrible paws,” thought Lucy, “if he didn’t know how to velvet them!”).

C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

How much that sounds like Hosea’s cry: “Come let us return to the Lord, He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds” (Hos. 6:1). Our understanding of God must have a proper balance between His mercy and His wrath, between His love and His anger, between His restorative grace and His destructive fury. He’s not a tame Lion. He’s not a slippery judge who can be bought off. He’s not a doting grandfather, willing to overlook “little sins”.

Hosea does tell us more of what God desires from us: For I desire mercy [hesed], not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings (Hos. 6:6). The Hebrew term, hesed, is often translated “grace” and is most often used in the Old Testament as an attribute of God. Actually the semantic range is very great - love, mercy, loving-kindness, forgiveness. Here it’s used as a desired attribute of man and placed in contrast with “sacrifice”. The Hebrew poetic parallelism of the verse helps us here. The second half of the verse refers to “acknowledgment of God”. That’s a common theme in Hosea’s prophecy:

“There is no faithfulness, no love, no acknowledgment of God in the land.” (4:1)
“A spirit of prostitution is in their heart; they do not acknowledge the Lord.” (5:4)
“Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him.” (6:3)
“For I desire...acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” (6:6)
c.f. 2:8, 20; 4:6

So, how exactly do/should we acknowledge God?

You must begin with knowing Him. That, of course, begins with conversion but goes oh so far beyond that. It means to really get to know Him. It means thinking His thoughts.
That comes from knowing Scripture. His thoughts have been given to us in written form. We must do more than just consider them. We must read them, meditate on them, internalize them, and make them a constant part of our own thinking.
That means we must set aside time on a regular (daily!) basis to do just that. Do you have a habit of reading God’s Word? Is it something that you can’t do without? If you miss it, even one day, do you feel the loss? Is there a hunger in your soul?
That makes it necessary to have a plan, to set the alarm just a little earlier, to have a favorite spot where all the necessary accouterments are handy (Bible, paper, pen, basic Bible study tools, good lighting, comfortable chair, cup of coffee, etc.).

Don’t just think about it. Do it. Do it now!

Proverbs 9

Election day has arrived. After all the campaigning it has become increasingly clear that there is a large gap between the two candidates. The public really does have a clear choice between Wisdom and Folly. Both have had a high degree of visibility throughout the campaign (Prov. 9:3,14).

Folly mounted a campaign based on mud-slinging and lies (Prov. 9:13-18). She’s good at publicity (Prov. 9:14) and knows how to get her message out but it’s very important to read between the lines and examine her platform more carefully. Her campaign slogan was “Sweet and Delicious” (Prov. 9:17) but all the evidence points to “Death and the Grave” (Prov. 9:18). Her most effective appeal is to the unthinking electorate (Prov. 8:16).

Wisdom, on the other hand, has a platform set in stone (Prov. 9:1). She also appeals to the simple folk (Prov. 9:6) but even those with a higher level of education find opportunity for genuine advancement and improvement (Prov. 8:9). Her entire campaign has been based on one primary idea, expressed so well by her theme: “A Knowledge of the Holy One” (Prov. 9:10).

Rarely has an election been so clearly drawn. You know when you mark your ballot that you’re casting a vote for Right or Wrong.

• • • • •

Polling Station Survey: Significant numbers of those who have already voted have indicated that their choice went to Folly. However, there is every reason to believe that Wisdom will emerge victorious. There is evidence of “a great multitude” assembling at Wisdom’s campaign headquarters (Rev. 19:1,6) and we’ve been informed that a vast army of followers is amassing even now for the victory procession (Rev. 19:14f).

Stay tuned for the acceptance speech and inaugural ceremony. We’ve been able to obtain a partial copy of the script of the day:

Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!
For the wedding of the Lamb has come,
And his bride has made herself ready. (Rev. 19:6-7)

THE LORD SPOKE (December 08)

2011-12-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Hosea 1-3

The two prophesied at almost the same time. The introductory verses of Isaiah and Hosea both mention the same kings - Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. Since both ministered to the southern kingdom of Judah, the main difference was that Hosea hailed from the northern kingdom (Israel) and therefore mentions “Jehoash, king of Israel”. His ministry began shortly after that of Amos who spoke of God’s judgment coming upon the northern kingdom. He represented God to the people for nearly 40 years and probably wrote his book in Judah some time after the fall of Israel.

Of great interest (and worthy of some serious research!) is the similarity of content between the two prophets. Though God used them in very different ways, compare the message of Hosea 2 with Isaiah 61 in terms of the key terms of Old Testament biblical theology.

Hosea 2

PRINCE (Messiah) - use of “I” throughout
PROMISE (Covenant) - “I will make a covenant for them” (vs. 18)
PRESERVATION (Salvation) - “I will betroth you to me forever” (vs. 19-20)
POSSESSION (Land) - “I will plant her for myself in the land” (vs. 23)
PEOPLE (Israel) - “I will say to those called ‘Not my people’, ’You are my people’” (vs. 23)

Isaiah 61

PRINCE (Messiah) - Jesus read from this section (vs. 1-5) in the synagogue of Nazareth (Luke 4:16-21) and said it was written about Himself
PROMISE (Covenant) - “I will...make an everlasting covenant with them” (vs. 4-9)
PEOPLE (Israel) - “all who see them will acknowledge that they are a people the Lord has blessed” (vs. 6,9)
POSSESSION (Land) - “they will inherit a double portion in their land” (vs. 7)
PRESERVATION (Salvation) - “he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness” (vs. 10)

The next several chapters of Hosea will be depressing. Judah’s sin is brought forcefully to her attention again and again. Yet, sandwiched in at chapter 3 is one of the most amazing promises of the Old Testament:

For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol. Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the Lord their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the Lord and to his blessings in the last days. (3:4-5)

Proverbs 8

Wisdom is personified in Proverbs 8. The entire chapter is written as if it is her campaign speech just before the elections in chapter 9. She’s running against “Folly” and it’s a close race.

Not that they both have the same to offer. The two are as different as day and night. But the constituency to which they both appeal is leaning towards Folly. The voting public has a tendency toward sin so what Folly has to offer has the advantage of being flashy and catches the public’s fancy rather easily. Folly has many quick fixes and immediate pleasures to promise and she is a sly politician who knows well how to package her presentation for maximum effect.

Wisdom, on the other hand, has the rare distinction of being an honest politician (Prov. 8:4-8). What she has to offer is presented with a long-range vision. No lies about how easy her program is going to be. In fact, she promises it will be costly (Prov. 8:10-11) and take some time to implement. It will require discipline and some significant effort (8:32-36). It is based on thorough research and a wide base of excellent counsel (Prov. 8:14). It has a long history (Prov. 8:22-23) and a good record in the field (Prov. 8:15-16). The dividends are clearly defined, as it is the path to arrive at that goal (Prov. 8:17-21).

Clearly, what Wisdom has to offer is the better program (Prov. 8:35-36). Why would anyone vote for Folly? Her program is self-destructive and guaranteed to fail because of internal defects and inconsistencies.

Vote for Wisdom!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 07)

2011-12-07T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 12

This is the first use in the Old Testament of the term “everlasting life” (Dan. 12:2). Daniel tells us that everyone will rise, “some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt”. Progressive revelation comes into play here. Previously, the resurrection was not given a great deal of attention. Beginning with Job, the hope of resurrection was clearly stated (Job 19:25-27), but little development was given, particularly with regards to the resurrection of the unjust. The concept is fully developed in the Gospels with some additional input from other parts of the New Testament. For example:

Matthew 25:46 - “then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life”
John 5:29 - “those who have done good will rise to live and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned”
Acts 24:15 - “there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked”
Romans 2:7-8 - “To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.”
Galatians 6:8 - “The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

Many balk at the idea of eternal security but it’s embedded in the very term “everlasting life”. If it’s everlasting, then it can’t ever end. And, if you can now have it, then you have eternal security! The question is, of course, do you now have it? John’s writings give full expression to this truth:

John 3:15-16 - “everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:36 - “whoever believes in the Son has eternal life”
John 6:47 - “he who believes has everlasting life”
I John 5:11 - “God has given us eternal life and this life is in his Son”
I John 5:13 - “I write these things to you who believe so that you may know that you have eternal life”

You can know it! It’s not an uncertain thing that you can’t be sure about until you get to heaven. If you believe the truth about Christ and the words that He spoke, you may be sure of your eternity with Him.

But, back to Daniel.... There is equal certainty that others will also be resurrected who will face judgment, shame, and everlasting contempt. There are two important steps for you to take right now:

Examine your own heart and life. Do you believe God’s Word on this? Have you placed your faith in Jesus Christ alone to forgive your sin and give you peace with God?
Tell others. Tell it far and wide. Start with your immediate family but don’t stop there. Let the whole world know that God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Proverbs 7

Sexual sin. Just like the temptation itself, this subject matter keeps coming back in this book. It almost seems like God knew we would need continual reinforcement.

Two very helpful concepts for resisting and avoiding sexual sin are illustrated repeatedly here in Proverbs 7.

BOUNCE - Bounce your eyes away from temptation and don’t let them bounce back. You can’t always avoid seeing it (although there is a lot you can do in this area too), but you can avoid staring at it or letting your eyes go back to feast on it.

Don’t “go down the street near her corner” (Prov. 7:6-9). For the most part, you know exactly where the temptation is hiding, so don’t “walk in the direction of her house”.
Recognize the telltale signals (Prov. 7:10-13) - the impudent face, the coarse joking, the suggestive clothing - and turn away! (Note to the ladies: Do you dress like a prostitute? If it isn’t for sale, you shouldn’t advertise it.)

HEDGES - Create helpful fences (like the Israelites around Mount Sinai) to keep yourself a safe distance away from temptation.

Memorize Scripture (Prov. 7:1-5). The reminder of God’s words hidden in your heart will “keep you from the adulteress”.
Dedicate your senses and the enjoyment thereof to the Lord (Prov. 7:14-21). Notice how she enticed him with sight (“I came out to meet you” and “colored linens from Egypt”), sound (“persuasive words” and “smooth talk”), smell (“I have perfumed my bed”), taste (“fellowship offering at home” = meat from the sacrifice which the person who offered it was allowed to eat), and touch (“kissed him”, “linens from Egypt”, and “drink deep of love”).
Make a list of her victims and think about them frequently (Prov. 7:24-27). Look at the broken bones that strew the path to her house; smell the dead corpses. Consider the messed up lives of those who’ve gone before you. “Her house is a highway to the grave.”

THE LORD SPOKE (December 06)

2011-12-06T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 11

There’s a turning point in Daniel 11:36. From that point on, Daniel’s prophecy concentrates on the Antichrist at “the time of the end” (Dan. 11:35). Up to Daniel 11:36, the sheer quantity of prophetic detail given has led many to say the book was written after the facts, i.e. it’s history written as though it were prophecy. To be sure, the amount of detail and degree of specificity is noting any soothsayer would ever attempt. Modern “prophets” would never venture into so many variables; they prefer to speak in vague generalities that either cannot be verified or that would admit any number of possible “fulfillments”.

The history of the Ptolemies and Seleucids is complicated enough as history, much less as prophecy. Only God could be the source of such amazing historic detail in advance. Keep in mind that the OT standard for prophetic accuracy was 100% (Dt. 13:1-5). Anything less was to be followed by execution! There are well over a hundred prophetic details ordered chronologically in the first 35 verses of Daniel 11. Who would risk such minutia? The margin for error is simply too great. Especially if your life counted on it!

The second half of the chapter (Dan. 11:36-45) depicts a king of the end times. The details no longer fit Antiochus Epiphanes, who has been the subject since Daniel 11:21. At Daniel 11:35 the prophetic camera jumps forward to “the time of the end”. This king is described in verses 36-39 and then his rush to the apocalyptic finish line is foretold in verses 40-45. After that, you must fast forward to Revelation 19 to view the rest (see especially Dan. 11:19-20).

One question still debated by many is that of the Antichrist’s ethnic origin. Because he rises out of the sea (Rev. 13:1) this has often been taken as a reference to his Gentile origin. However, Daniel 11 gives two other descriptive phrases that are best understood as indicators of his Jewish background:

Daniel 11:37a - “he will show no regard for the God of his fathers” (KJV)

Many later translations have “gods of his fathers” here but the word is elohim, the normal Hebrew plural term for God and translated that way in hundreds of other cases throughout the Bible. True, it could be translated “gods” but the added phrase “of his fathers” is not commonly used in a polytheistic sense. It usually indicates the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Daniel 11:37b - “he will show no regard...for the one desired by women”

This messianic phrase only makes sense in a Jewish context, especially in the same breath with “the God of his fathers”. In what possible way could this term fit a Gentile Antichrist?

This Jewish man will throw in his lot with “a foreign god” (Dan. 11:39) who is described as “a god unknown to his fathers” and a god of force or power (see Jn. 12:31; II Cor. 4:4; and Eph. 2:2). God has not left us without a witness. We could wish for more, but Daniel‘s prophecy is unequivocal - this Antichrist will “come to his end, and no one will help him” (Dan. 11:45). As dark as the future of this earth looks, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Proverbs 6

Sluggard! The mere name makes you cringe a bit. It sounds like some ugly, oozing creature. No spine. Clammy to the touch.

Beginning here in Proverbs 6, Solomon has a lot to say about the sluggard:

Proverbs 6:9-11 - his love of sleep robs him of all initiative; with eyes wide shut he has stumbled into the snare of poverty; maybe he’ll do something about it when he stops yawning

Proverbs 10:26 - undependable, he’ll leave you feeling like vinegar on your teeth or smoke in your eyes

Proverbs 13:4 - never satisfied, yet he refuses to work to improve his own lot

Proverbs 15:19 - too lazy to remove the obstacles from his own path

Proverbs 19:24 - not enough initiative to follow through on things; always leaves the job half done

Proverbs 22:13 - imagining the worst and inventing excuses for his own inaction

Proverbs 24:30-31 - undisciplined and disorganized, unproductive and penalized as a result (Not the repetition of 6:9-11 in 24:33-34. What goes around, comes around, like a sad refrain.)

Proverbs 26:13-16 - repeating the “lion in the road” and the “hand in the dish” descriptions, this longer proverb adds that he’s always got a reason (“wise in his own eyes”) and is quite willing to repeat it over and over (“like a door on its hinges”) as long as you don’t make him get out of bed

Going back to Proverbs 6:6-8, we find one of God’s smallest creatures shows more sense than a sluggard and sets the example:

Go to the ant, you sluggard;
Consider its ways and be wise!
It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,
Yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.

Time to get up and do something worthwhile?!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 05)

2011-12-05T05:00:00.002-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 9-10

Daniel’s prayer (Dan. 9:4-19) was generated from the Word of God and governed by the will of God.

It was generated by the Word of God as he was studying Jeremiah’s prophecy (9:2) and Moses’ Law (9:11,13). Jeremiah had written 50+ years earlier and Moses 900+ years. By comparing Scripture with Scripture, Daniel had come to some clear insights and some strong convictions. His prayer is characterized by humility (9:3), worship (9:4), confession (9:5-15; notice the frequent use of “we”), and petition (9:16-19). That his prayer was governed by the will of God is seen in 9:3 where he tells us that he “turned to the Lord God” to plead Israel’s case. He recognizes that her own sin had brought about the current disaster (9:12) in fulfillment of God’s word but he reminds God of His “covenant of love” (9:4) and then pleads for God’s mercy (9:18). Daniel’s prayer begins with a right perspective, is saturated with reverent praise, and concludes with a righteous petition - that God’s honor would be restored in Jerusalem (9:16).

What follows is one of the greatest dispensational prophecies of the entire Bible. It is replete with a timeline that invites you to draw it out in chart form, with details of beginning and ending events for each phase, with covenants and identifiable people (s) to whom they apply, even with a gap that awaits a specific event to restart the prophetic clock ticking. Those who say it has already been fulfilled, foolishly ignore Christ’s own reference to this yet-future prophecy (Mat. 24:15). Those who try to “redefine” (and explain away) every messianic prophecy of the Old Testament will have a hard time squirming out of this one since it specifically mentions Messiah, “the Anointed One” (9:26). Those who want to lump together all the end time events into one general resurrection and amorphous return of the Lord will have to bury their heads a little deeper in the sand and ignore (again) the clear words of Scripture.

Does prophecy confuse you? It shouldn’t. Its purpose is to reveal. Try a little harder and dig a little deeper. One of the Holy Spirit’s main jobs is to “guide you into all truth”, particularly with regard to “what is yet to come” (Jn. 16:13). The result will be that, like Daniel (10:18,19), you will be strengthened and encouraged. Yes, he was initially left speechless and feeling helpless (10:15-16). It can take your breath away (10:17). But when we seek God’s help in the spirit and with the dedication of Daniel, He will answer our prayers (9:23; 10:12).

Proverbs 5

When it comes to the temptations of sexual sin, we need all the help we can get and this chapter and the next (Prov. 5 & 6) provides it.

To start with, we must pay attention to wisdom (Prov. 5:1-2). That begins right here with this book. Read Proverbs regularly until you begin to think God’s thoughts. If you “bind them on your heart” they will guide you, watch over you, and speak continuously to you (Prov. 6:21-22).
Don’t listen to the world’s advice and philosophy in this area (Prov. 5:3-4). It “drips honey” but is “bitter as gall”. It presents itself as smooth but it will cut you deeply and then leave you alone and bleeding. In contrast, “the corrections of discipline” received from Scripture will keep you from sin and are the way to know and experience real life (Prov. 6:23).
Keep out of those paths (Prov. 5:5-6). Just don’t go there! It’s a crooked trail and doesn’t lead anywhere good. Don’t let yourself go that direction - it will destroy you. In the end it will reduce you to a worthless crust of bread - not even the birds will pick at it (Prov. 6:26).
Think carefully of how much you’ll lose (Prov. 5:7-14). You’ll come to the end of your life bankrupt. Your wealth will be gone, your health will be broken, and your reputation will be worthless. Chances are better than good that you’ll have an STD to go with it. It’s a fire and it will burn you - be sure of it (Prov. 6:27-29).
Be content with what God has given you (Prov. 5:15-20). In fact, develop and delight in that. It’s pure and properly measured out exactly right for you. It will bring deep and lasting satisfaction if you will cultivate it as God intended. It’s all the difference between lust and love (Prov. 6:32).
Remember always that God is watching you (Prov. 5:21-23). He loves you and cares deeply that you follow His way. Don’t let sin trap you, bind you, and destroy you. Keep your Fathers commands (Prov. 6:20).

To do otherwise is “a great folly”!

THE LORD SPOKE (December 04)

2011-12-04T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 7-8

Until you get to the book of Revelation, there are not very many descriptions of God’s throne room. None are more vivid that this one in Daniel’s vision:

As I looked, thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened..... In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. (Dan. 7:9-10,13-14)

It’s the first reference to the Messiah as “the son of man”. That was the name preferred by Jesus himself; it is used 81 times in the Gospels, always by Jesus. When Peter made his great confession (Mk. 8:29), “You are the Christ/Messiah”, Jesus immediately juxtaposed it with what the Son of Man would have to endure (Mk. 8:31). The fact that John related the revelation he received with that of Daniel, is clearly evidenced by the repetition of “I saw...one like a son of man”. There follows then the only description in the Bible of Jesus’ physical appearance. Though we have a few hints in the Gospels, this is the most complete portrait found in Scripture:

...and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,” dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. (Rev. 1:13-19)

Because the Son of God became a son of man, He qualifies as our mediator. Do you long to see Him? These two verbal pictures will give you plenty of food for thought until then.

Proverbs 4

Above all else, guard your heart,
For it is the wellspring of life. (Prov. 4:23)

Jesus elaborated on this when He said: “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Lk. 6:45)

So, how do you store up good things in your heart? Solomon gives us ten tips here in Proverbs 4.

by paying attention to instruction (vs. 1-2)
by laying hold of good words (vs. 3-4)
by pursuing wisdom (vs. 5-6)
by paying any price to obtain understanding (vs. 7-9)
by listening to wise counsel (vs. 10-13)
by avoiding the paths of the wicked (vs. 14-17)
by following the light of righteousness (vs. 18-19)
by keeping your talk pure (vs. 24)
by fixing your eyes on the right things (vs. 25)
by maintaining your feet on the straight path (vs. 26-27)

There are literally hundreds of references to the heart scattered throughout Scripture. You can have a proud heart, a deceitful heart, a false heart, an evil heart, a rebellious heart, a hard heart, or a stony heart. You might experience anguish of heart, bitterness of heart, a fearful heart, or sorrow of heart. It could leave you faint-hearted, half-hearted, heavy-hearted, or slow of heart. You heart might be troubled, broken, or hardened.

On the other hand, you can have a merry heart, a pure heart, a good heart, a glad heart, a prudent heart, a stout heart, a true heart, a tender heart, or a cheerful heart. You might be upright in heart, lowly in heart, wise in heart, and have singleness of heart or gladness of heart. You could be sound of heart or subtle of heart. Best of all, you can have a heart after God’s own heart.

Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from Thy presence;
Take not Thy holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation;
And renew a right spirit within me.
Keith Green

THE LORD SPOKE (December 03)

2011-12-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 6

First there was the whole thing with Nebuchadnezzar (Dan. 1-4). Then Belshazzar (Dan. 5). Now Darius (Dan. 6). Was Daniel getting tired of this wicked king business?

Then, there was the matter of the wise guys. Oops...the wise men. In this case all the “royal administrators, prefects, advisers, and governors” (vs. 7) got together in their jealous opposition to Daniel. That’s pretty impressive. All those enemies and not one could find anything wrong with Daniel. They had to create an outlandish law to get him to break it (6:5,7).

Do you think they slept well that night? “We finally got Daniel put away. Now maybe we can get on with our wickedness and deception.” If so, not the next. Twenty-four hours later, positions had changed and they were on their way to talking to Daniel’s God themselves. They were about to give account to their Creator.

Daniel seems so calm through the whole affair. In fact, the most nervous person in the crowd is King Darius. Do you suppose he was aware of the stories of Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar? He should have been. As their successor, he surely must have known what came of their royal administrations. Is that reflected in his proclamation (vs. 25-27)?

There’s only one real God.
Every other kingdom is temporary.
We better follow Him.

Pretty simple but we didn’t learn much. The prayer we’d really like to hear is Daniel’s, somewhere between verse 16 and verse 21. Wouldn’t you like to eavesdrop on the conversation between Daniel and the angel throughout that night. With the background sounds of purring kittens, Daniel must have been asking lots of questions. Questions like...

How much longer will this go on?
When will we get to go back to Jerusalem?
This government is so messed up - what’s going to happen to us?
Will I live to see the Messiah?
What does the future hold?
Tell me more about God.

Do you suppose that’s where he received some of the information that fills the second half of his book?

Proverbs 3

Proverbs 3 contains several “do nots” that will greatly assist you in your pursuit of wisdom. They will help you “win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man” (Prov. 3:4).

vs. 3 - do not forget my teaching - There needs to be a conscious plan (like a daily Bible reading chart) and a disciplined approach to the study of Scripture for this to happen. We tend to forget all too easily.

vs. 7 - do not be wise in your own eyes - Keep reading. “Fearing the Lord and “shunning evil” go hand-in-hand and they’re closely related to our attitude toward wealth. Honor God in this area and He will give you health, nourishment, and abundant supply.

vs. 11 - do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke - Our heavenly Father knows best. His discipline is always intended to improve and strengthen us. His rebukes are course corrections that bring us back to straight paths.

vs. 21 - do not let [sound judgment and discernment] out of your sight - Those paths will take us safely through the many pitfalls that crowd the way. The sound judgment that comes from active training in God’s Word will strengthen our ankles and keep our feet from tripping.

vs. 27 - do not withhold good from those who deserve it - There follows a quick series of examples to illustrate how this might be applied (not the four additional “do nots” in vs. 28-31). It brings to mind the repeated instructions in Paul’s letter to Titus. We need to be...

Tit. 2:14 - eager to do what is good
Tit. 3:1 - ready to do whatever is good
Tit. 3:8 - careful to devote ourselves to doing what is good
Tit. 3:14 - learn to devote ourselves to doing what is good

Don’t let those who abuse the idea of good works, rob you of this biblical truth. Good works are not instrumental but they are evidential. Or, as James would say it, good works won’t get you into heaven but you won’t be in heaven without good works for they are the proof of genuine faith (Jas. 2:14-26).

This then is the way of wisdom and it is pleasing to both God and man.

THE LORD SPOKE (December 02)

2011-12-02T05:00:00.002-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 5

“The hand-writing on the wall.” Since this occasion in Daniel 5, it has become a proverbial statement to indicate the inevitable outcome of certain activities if pursued without due consideration. The new king of Babylon had committed himself to a lifestyle and course of action that was headed for certain trouble. If he’d paid attention in history class, he should have known that.

Belshazzar, who’s name means “Bell, protect the king!” was in need of some major protection. Though he was the son of Nebuchadnezzar (vs. 22, the Hebrew term could mean “descendant” in this context), it is apparent that Nebuchadnezzar didn’t pass his own lessons very far down the line. The spiritual lessons of chapter 4 didn’t make it to chapter 5.

There were several people in that banquet hall who did remember. Instead of reveling, they should have been repenting. All the “wise men” owed their very lives to Daniel and to previous lessons like that recorded in chapter 2. Most of the party-goers had seen or at least heard of the events of chapter 3. For sure, the humiliation of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter 4 - their king eating grass like an animal - was fresh in their memory. What part of “pay attention” didn’t they understand?

To make matters worse, Belshazzar thought his wealth and power could buy peace and tranquility. Like Peter with Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:20), Daniel’s response to the offer of money is “keep your filthy lucre” (see Dan. 5:17). He then proceeds to repeat the history class that Belshazzar had disregarded with such impunity (5:18-21). Before the bell rings, Daniel draws the conclusion and drives home the application:

You must acknowledge that the Most High God is sovereign (vs. 21; c.f. 4:17,25,32).
He will not tolerate pride (vs. 20,22). Did you get that? HE WILL NOT TOLERATE PRIDE.
You must humble yourself and honor God “who holds in his hand your life and all your ways” (vs. 23).

Would you like to borrow Belshazzar’s notes from that history class you missed? Or, are you going to pay attention in class yourself?

Proverbs 2

Wisdom (following God’s way) will save you from the ways of wicked men (Prov. 2:12f) and from the ways of adulterous women (Prov. 2:16f). Victory is promised to the one who sets his course by God’s compass. The Lord has given His word that He will be a shield and protection for those who are faithful in walking in His way (Prov. 2:7-8). That’s a mighty promise!

The beginning of Proverbs 2 gives us some descriptive and prescriptive instruction on just how to do this:

vs. 1 - We must accept His words and store up His commands. This indicates teachability and the intent to obey. Without this attitude of openness, instruction is not effective.

vs. 2 - We must turn our ear and apply our heart to His Word. This calls for mental discipline. There must be active effort on our part. We must turn toward and stay focused on His instruction.

vs. 3 - We must call out for it and cry aloud for His truth. This shows how very important is a prayerful dependence upon Him. We need to verbalize our heart-felt confidence in Him alone to keep us in His path.

vs. 4 - We must look for and search for His treasures. It takes diligent perseverance to dig it out. Some are laying on the surface and quite easy to find, but the rich veins go down deep. We need to dig deeper.

It brings rich dividends. God’s way is pleasant and secure and so much better than what the world has to offer. Taste and see that the Lord is good.

For wisdom will enter your heart,
And knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
Discretion will protect you,
And understanding will guard you. (Prov. 2:10-11)

THE LORD SPOKE (December 01)

2011-12-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 4

Nebuchadnezzar was corrupted by his vanity (vs. 4-27) but then he was corrected through insanity (vs. 28-33). Here’s a breakdown of the chapter:

Nebuchadnezzar’s Proclamation (vs. 1)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Praise (vs. 2-3)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Prosperity (vs. 4-8)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Privilege (vs. 9-12)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Pride (vs. 13-18)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Presumption (vs. 19-22)
Nebuchadnezzar’s Punishment (vs. 23-27)
Nubuchadnezzar’s Punishment Delayed (vs. 28-30)
Nubuchadnezzar’s Punishment Delivered (vs. 31-33)

Finally (vs. 34), he...

Looked Up - “raised his eyes toward heaven”
Woke Up - his “sanity was restored”
Spoke Up - he “praised the Most High”

The grace of God was demonstrated...

in giving the dream at all
in providing a prophet like Daniel to interpret it
in the prophetic warning to repent
in spite of the rejection of the warning
in the humbling of Nebuchadnezzar (I Pet. 5:5-7)

Conclusion: (five thoughts about God’s discipline for you to consider)

He’s God and you’re not.
God’s discipline lasts until we learn the lessons He wants to teach us.
God’s discipline has the purpose of our restoration.
God’s discipline is not spiteful - it comes at the time and in the dose that we need.
God’s discipline is not something you want to experience. Better is to obey.

Proverbs 1

How do you “acquire a disciplined and prudent life” (Prov. 1:3)? A good starting place is right here in this book. These proverbs were written for exactly that purpose.

What does discipline have to offer? A little farther into the book (Prov. 6:23), Solomon will tell us that it is the “way to life”. Because it brings correction, it sets a proper course and helps to keep us on track. Discipline in one area of life helps us to develop discipline in other areas. Contrariwise, indiscipline in one area can encourage it in others. That’s why we teach our children to make their beds in the morning. It sets a pattern throughout the day. That’s why the Army concentrates on discipline - it breeds character.

What happens to those who ignore or turn away from godly discipline? “Fools” are they who do so (Prov. 1:7). They will be easily enticed by sin (Prov. 1:10) and will be overtaken by calamity (Prov. 1:26). Disaster will sweep over them and they will ultimately be destroyed (Prov. 1:27,32). But it is God’s grace that leads us “to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age” (Tit. 2:11-12).

One of His most excellent means of doing so is this book of proverbs - collected wisdom to show us the paths of life.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done;
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,
Our Father’s full giving has only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power has no boundary known unto men;
For our of His infinite riches in Jesus,
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

Annie Johnson Flint

THE LORD SPOKE (November 30)

2011-11-30T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 3

“Don’t even bother tunin’ the fiddles; we ain’t bowin’.”

The three lads had just seen and heard a miraculous divine intervention (Dan. 2). They were ready for this. When wicked King Nebuchadnezzar (how could he be so blind again already?) started building the infamous statue in the Plain of Dura, it was like deja vu all over again. Steeled by their friend Daniel’s resolve, they were ready to take their stand. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were pre-determined not to bow.

Do you have that kind of resolve? Are you prepared to stay strong when fiery trials come your way? You probably won’t face any furnaces but those people at the office can sure turn up the heat. You may not be bound with ropes but they can sure get you tied up in knots. It may not be as hot as what the three Hebrews faced but they can make your ears burn seven times over. In order to face such a test, you’ll need the same strength that we find here in Daniel 3.

Make sure your strength is in the Lord, not in yourself or some other undependable source (“the God we serve is able to save us”, vs. 17). You must begin with that Grip - anything less will slip.
Anchor your soul on that and then hold your ground, come hell or high water (“even if He does not...we will not serve your gods”, vs. 18). You can be sure that the prince of hell will do his best to put your resolve to the test. When the Devil comes knocking, resist him in the strength of the Lord.
Be prepared for it to get worse (“these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace”, vs. 23). Satan won’t be happy. He won’t give up easily. But he is a defeated foe and you can trust in the victory that God will provide. It will get worse before it gets better.
Maintain your walk with the Lord and watch all the troubles fall down dead in their tracks (“four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed”, vs. 25). All the troubles? Yes. They will still be there but God is far bigger than the biggest of them and, riding His shoulders, you are above them too. He gives the grace to overcome.
When you come out the other end, be prepared for a greater ministry and greater blessing from the Lord (“so [they] came out of the fire...then the king promoted [them]”, vs. 26,30). If you’ve faced and overcome that trial in the strength of the Lord, He will lift you up and allow you to be used again, and again.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego - three young men a long way from home. It would have been a lot easier to just be quiet and ride the situation through without resistance. But then, we wouldn’t be reading about them 2,600 years later. Do you have a testimony that will last that long?

Psalms 149-150

Though He allowed men in the Old Testament to construct a Temple to represent His presence, God made it clear from the start that He did “not dwell in a house” (II Sam. 7:6). It was instead, “a place of rest for the ark of the covenant” and “the footstool of our God” (I Chron. 28:2). In truth, God’s sanctuary is “his mighty heavens” (Ps. 150:1). This is WHERE God should be praised.

The psalm goes on to tell us WHY God should be praised - “for his acts of power...for his surpassing greatness” (Ps. 150:2). There is none like Him!

The middle of the psalm (Psalm 150:3-5) tells us HOW we should praise God and the whole orchestra is involved. Eight different kinds of musical instruments are mentioned and they include a variety of wind, string, and percussion instruments. Tucked in the middle of the band is “dancing”. Is that alright?

The psalm concludes - in fact, the whole book concludes - with WHO should praise God. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” (Ps. 150:6). That’s pretty inclusive.

Now thank we all our God, with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things has done, in Whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers’ arms has blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.

O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us;
And keep us in His grace, and guide us when perplexed;
And free us from all ills, in this world and the next!

All praise and thanks to God the Father now be given;
The Son and Him Who reigns with Them in highest Heaven;
The one eternal God, whom earth and Heaven adore;
For thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore.
Martin Rinkart

THE LORD SPOKE (November 29)

2011-11-29T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 2

Lessons Learned in Daniel 2

Nebuchadnezzar - You think you’re in control of things? Your money and your power is meaningless. You better find a more solid foundation to build your life on than that. And, you need to pick better friends. Stop listening to all the “yes” men you’ve gathered around you - in fact, get rid of them entirely. Look for a genuine person who walks with God and can give you the kind of advise you need. The test will be that he is willing to confront you and tell you the bad news, so don’t chew his head off when he does.

Arioch, commander of the king’s guard - When you find a person who really hears the voice of God, you’d do well to listen to him. Daniel has led you to truth twice now. Stick with him! Don’t you want to know more about His God? He obviously knows how to discern between right and wrong and he’s demonstrated great courage. You’ve never let anyone get away with such things before but it’s because you’ve never met anyone like Daniel before. This one is for real. Find out some more from him.

“Wise Men” of Babylon - You don’t get it, do you? You can’t fake it forever. Someday your deception will catch up with you and you better know where to go for a reality check. Try Daniel! Instead of hounding him, you need to listen to him and learn from his example. What makes you think you can use spiritual things for personal gain? Have you no fear of God? Do you really think He’s going to let you get away with it? Maybe you can keep Nebuchadnezzar fooled (though even that’s doubtful), but you can’t fool God. You’re lucky to have a second chance. Wise up!

Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego - Good choice! That friend of yours is one-of-a-kind. Stand by him. Encourage him. Follow his example yourselves. God has been good to give you each other and such a friend as Daniel in your exile. Times are bad and it looks like they will probably get worse before they get better so learn from this experience and remember it in the future. There are a lot of things worse than dying and not following the Lord is one of them. Be strong and keep your eyes on Him. While you’re at it, don’t let Daniel out of your sight either. He’s a friend worth following.

Daniel - May your tribe increase! You took a huge risk but you did the right thing. Thank you for your courage and example to all of us. It was going to happen to Nebuchadnezzar anyway - he only got what he deserved - but your holy temerity showed us how to handle a situation like this. Thank you for trusting the Lord and not being afraid to speak up even though it could have cost you your life. We need more like you. By the way, thanks for what you’re doing with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego too. They’ve been watching you and may be called upon to take a similar stand some day so your example has been a strength to them. Oh, and don’t worry about those other wise guys. They’re bad but God will take care of them. Just keep doing what’s right and He’ll protect you. It will be worth it all when you get to Glory. Have you every thought about writing down your experiences so others can benefit from them?

Psalms 147-148

“Would you mind choosing someone else for awhile?” said Tevya the milkman. God’s choice of Israel as His special people did bring special privilege but it brought even greater responsibility. The bar was raised for them.

One of the privileges, mentioned here in Psalm 147, was the revelation of the Scriptures to and through them.

He revealed his word to Jacob,
His laws and decrees to Israel.
He has done this for no other nation.... (vs. 19-20)

You have the Bible in your hands right now because of the Jewish people. Every single human author of Scripture was Jewish, and that included both the Old and New Testaments. (The only possible exception was Luke, who was a proselyte and therefore considered Jewish also.) They were careful to preserve it, contrary to the JEDP theorists and the deuteronomistic “historians”. All the evidence is that they faithfully collected and kept it intact. Their over-zealous rabbis led them to add grievously to it but never to change it. It’s still possible to obtain the pure Word of God because He preserved it for us through the Jewish people. “He has done this for no other nation.”

The beginning of the psalm mentions another work of God in relation to the Jewish people:

The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
He gathers the exiles of Israel.
He heals the brokenhearted
And binds up their wounds. (vs. 2-3)

He “builds up Jerusalem”. Teddy Kollek did that. He “gathers the exiles of Israel”. Theodor Herzl did that. But He also “heals the brokenhearted”. Who does that? Who else understands our frame and knows that we are dust? Because we’ve been grafted in, we too delight to do what the psalmist commands, “Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God...” (vs. 7).

Who can cheer the heart like Jesus,
By His presence all divine?
True and tender, pure and precious,
O how blest to call Him mine!

All that thrills my soul is Jesus,
He is more than life to me;
And the fairest of ten thousand
In my blessed Lord I see.

Every need His hand supplying,
Every good in Him I see;
On His strength divine relying,
He is all in all to me.
Thoro Harris

THE LORD SPOKE (November 28)

2011-11-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Daniel 1

To survive in a foreign land, you need...

(1) companions (vs. 6-7) - From day one, God did not make us to stand alone. We function best in groups of two or more. The team concept is well established throughout Scripture (e.g. Jesus and his disciples; Paul and his ministry teams in Acts) and is a principle wisely followed on the mission field. Daniel and his friends were stronger because they had each other.

(2) convictions (vs. 8) - These are an anchor for the soul when “doubts and fears assail”. You better have them before you need them because they’re not easy to acquire on the battlefield. They come from a steady walk with the Lord, grounded in His Word.

(3) courage (vs. 12) - Trials will come; that’s never in question. Will your anchor hold? The courage and will to go on comes from strong convictions and grows in direct proportion to your relationship with the Lord, for He is the only legitimate source of life-sustaining courage.

(4) consistency (vs. 15) - Dependable, persistent, steadfast, undeviating, true, unfailing, responsible, constant, faithful, tried-and-true, stable, trustworthy - sounds like someone you’d want as a friend, doesn’t it? God also is pleased with these character qualities.

(5) confidence in God - Underlying the whole chapter, this is the secret of success! If we trust in man or in ourselves, we will probably fail. Confidence in the Lord will be rewarded every time.

The book of Daniel is not a “missionary text” but it certainly has some applications. Even the qualities which Nebuchadnezzar looked for in choosing the Hebrew servants (1:4) are very similar to any missionary manual you might pick up on the subject of qualifications for foreign service. Thankfully, God does make many notable exceptions at this point and has found ways to use many supposedly unqualified servants. Nevertheless, like Daniel and his companions, a good missionary candidate should have...

youthful vigor
good health and physical condition
a congenial, out-going personality
a high IQ
a solid general education
an ability to learn quickly and to adapt to new circumstances
specific training for the task at hand
a grasp of the language and literature (= culture!) of the people he’s working with

In missionary service, perhaps the primary qualification is a willingness to go. Daniel and his friends didn’t volunteer for their “foreign service” but, once in Babylon, they didn’t look back. Sure, they longed for home but they dedicated themselves to the task at hand. Will you?

Psalms 145-146

The hallelujah chorus has started. All the psalms from 146 through 150 begin and end with “Praise the Lord”. Every aspect of creation, using every kind of instrument, at every time and occasion, during every moment of life is called to praise the Lord. Here in Psalm 146, the psalmist proclaims he’ll continue to do so for as long as he lives (Ps. 146:2).

He praises God as CREATOR (vs. 6). The Maker of heaven and earth is steadfast and secure. He is our helper so our home is in Him. Because He “remains faithful forever” we have nothing to fear. Unlike every other prince (vs. 3) or object of trust, His Spirit never departs. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His plans are eternal and unfailing.

He praises the Lord as LIBERATOR (vs. 7). Because God “loves the righteous”, He “upholds”, “sets free”, and “lifts up” those who honor Him and put their trust in Him. He “sets prisoners free”. Whatever it is that binds you - a sin-marred past, a guilty conscience, a debilitating habit - He is able and desiring to liberate you if you’ll but ask Him.

He praises Jehovah as PROVIDER (vs. 8-9). The Lord delights in the weak and the needy - the “oppressed”, “hungry”, “prisoners”, “blind”, “bowed down”, “alien”, “fatherless”, and “widow”. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills and He will surely care for you.

O God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal home.

Under the shadow of thy throne,
Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting, thou art God,
To endless years the same.

Isaac Watts

THE LORD SPOKE (November 27)

2011-11-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Ezekiel 46-48

Here’s a hot fishing tip for the Millennium! Get yourself a spot on the NW shore of the Dead Sea.

Ezekiel describes a miraculous river which flows out of Jerusalem, coming from under the threshold of the Temple (47:1). As it flows east it cuts to the south side of the altar and exits the Temple compound south of the closed eastern gate (47:2). After 1500' it is flowing at a depth of 4-5 inches. Without tributaries, the flow increases dramatically as it drops. By 3000' it’s already 20" deep; by 4500' it’s up to 40"; and by 6000' it’s too deep to wade across anymore. The drop in elevation from Jerusalem is dramatic, about 3700' in 15 miles.

Today the course of this river would take it through a barren wasteland for the most part. Except for a some seasonal watercourses and a few small springs, there is little water to be found in the Judean Desert and vegetation is scarce, found in small pockets near the water. But Ezekiel’s river is bordered by “a great number of trees” (47:7). They will be plentiful and will produce a variety of fruit and medicine throughout the year (47:12).

The water of the Dead Sea will “become fresh” whenever it comes in contact with the crystal flow. Today the salt and mineral content of the Dead Sea is such that nothing lives in its waters. But this miraculous stream will heal the salty waters. En Gedi (“spring of the goat”) is a well known oasis on the west shore but En-Eglaim (“spring of the two calves”) is unknown. Its probable location is somewhere on the east shore, such that the whole north end of the lake will become fresh water while the south end (“the swamps and marshes” of vs. 11) will remain salty. P.S. Salt will be needed for the sacrifices at the Temple (43:24).

This river was “seen” by several others in Scripture:

David in Psalm 36:8 - “your river of delights”
the sons of Korah in Psalm 46:4 - “there is a river whose streams make glad the city of God”
Joel in 3:18 - “a fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house and will water the Valley of Acacias”
Zechariah in 13:1 & 14:8 - “living water will flow out from Jerusalem...the river of the water of life”

Now compare this river with John’s vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21-22. He describes a river there which,

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. (Rev. 22:1-2)

Beautiful to imagine! Hard to wait to see it, huh?

Psalms 143-144

...My soul thirsts for you like a parched land. (Ps. 143:6)

Frequently in Scripture, the analogy that is used to express our longing for God is that of thirst. Living, as he did, and tending his flocks in the barren Judean wilderness, David knew something of parched land. No doubt there were many times he longed for some refreshing stream in the baked countryside.

When David brought together the various psalms to compose the Psalter, the first one he chose for Book II was from the sons of Korah and begins with these words: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Where can I go and meet with God?” (Ps. 42:1-2)

David himself wrote: “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” (Ps. 63:1)

The prophets often picked up on the same theme. Isaiah said: “They will neither hunger nor thirst, nor will the desert heat or the sun beat upon them. He who has compassion on them will guide them and lead them beside springs of water.” (Is. 49:10) and “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters...” (Is. 55:1).

Jesus completed that invitation when He said: “Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst.... He who believes in me will never be thirsty.... If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” (Jn. 4:14; 6:35; 7:37-38)

The promise is repeated with great joy by the hosts of heaven in Revelation 7:15-17 where it says, “never again will they thirst...for the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water.”

All my life-long I had panted
For a drink from some clear spring,
That I hoped would quench the burning
Of the thirst I felt within.

Hallelujah! I have found Him
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings,
Through His blood I now am saved.

Poor I was, and sought for riches,
Something that would satisfy,
But the dust I gathered round me
Only mocked my soul’s sad cry.

Well of water, ever springing,
Bread of life so rich and free,
Untold wealth that never faileth,
My Redeemer is to me. (Clara T. Williams)

THE LORD SPOKE (November 26)

2011-11-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Ezekiel 44-45

Ezekiel 44:23a - They are to teach my people the difference between the holy and the common....

The requirements sound like a resumé of the laws found elsewhere (Ex. 19-24; Lev. 11-15; Deut. 4-11), just slightly notched up. True, the priests were held to a different standard (Ezek. 44) but nearly all the individual requirements are found elsewhere and applied to every Israelite. The substance of God’s righteous expectations didn’t vary greatly between priest and people. There were a few items which set the priests apart but the moral principles were applicable across the board.

In a very similar sense, the New Testament requirements for a pastor/bishop/elder in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 are found scattered in many other texts with application to all believers. It seems to be the qualifying nature of the combined list that sets it apart. Some will quibble over the terminology of “requirements”, “qualifications”, or “characteristics” but that seems to miss the point. Because of their role as spiritual leaders, God holds them to a higher standard.

Both the priest in the Old Testament and the pastor in the New are held accountable for the spiritual state of others. “They are to teach my people the difference between the holy and the common” (Ezek. 44:23a). James warns us, “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly (Jas. 3:1). Teaching others means you better know it first yourself.

Because, by their example, they could so easily lead others astray, God required the priests to be different. It’s not that certain sins are excusable for laymen. It’s that they were unacceptable for spiritual leaders. You’ve heard it said, “like father, like son”? Well, it’s also true, “like priest, like people”. Of the wicked sons of Eli (I Sam. 2:12-17) it was said, “they had no regard for the Lord” (I Sam. 2:12). The result is that people concerned with righteousness will be discouraged and may grow disheartened in their pursuit of God. Those unconcerned with righteousness will grow colder yet or be confirmed in their godless living. For the spiritual leader it means double-jeopardy - for his own sin and for those he encourages others to commit by his poor example.

God’s spiritual leaders must teach His people the difference between the holy and the common.

Psalms 141-142

Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. (Ps. 141:3)

Someone has said:

If your lips you would keep from slips,
Five things observe with care:
To whom you speak, of whom you speak,
And how and when and where.

But there might be some danger in thinking you can do it alone. For success in this endeavor, be sure to do this:

If your tongue you’d keep from wrong,
One thing be sure to do:
Commit your way to God above,
His grace will see you through.

Here are some selected Proverbs that might help you in your use of the tongue:

10:18-19 - He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.

11:9,12-13 - With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor.... A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.

12:19,22 - Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.... The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.

13:3 - He who guards his lips guards his soul, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.

15:1,4 - A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.... The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

16:23-24,28 - A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.... A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.

17:27-28 - A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered. Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.

18:2,6-7,13 - A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.... A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul.... He who answers before listening - that is his folly and his shame.

20:19 - A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.

THE LORD SPOKE (November 25)

2011-11-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Ezekiel 42-43

What good is a temple without the presence of God? Ezekiel saw the glory of God departing to the east (11:2) and now, in vision and audition, he sees it return (43:4). God’s glory is always on the move in Ezekiel (3:23; 9:3; 10:4,18; 44:4). Its sound is “like the roar of rushing waves” (43:2; compare Rev. 1:15; 14:2; 19:6). The temple plan, so intricately described in chapters 40-42, is blessed now by the return of the Shekinah with a radiance like that of a rainbow (see 1:28).

But as beautiful as was the building, the architectural focus is on the altar (43:13-27). Over 20' tall, it took a pyramidal shape with three stacked layers of decreasing size. The top level is called the “altar hearth” (43:15; literally, “the mountain of God”, harel). From its surface (called “the lion of God”, ariel, in 43:15,16) projected four horns. These offer asylum for the accused person (Ex. 21:12-14) and are where the blood of the sacrifices will be sprinkled. Unlike previous altars, this one will have stairs leading to its top (40:17; compare Ex. 20:26).

No ark or mercy-seat is mentioned in this temple because propitiation for sins has been accomplished once-and-for-all at the death of Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (Jn. 1:29). The reason for the altar and the sacrifices that will be carried out on it is not to take away sin (Heb. 10:4 tells us they could never do that) but to look back at the supreme Sacrifice which solved the sin problem once and forever. They will serve as a memorial of His death and the solution for sin which God accepted on our behalf.

Alas! and did my Savior bleed,
And did my Sovereign die!
Would he devote that sacred head
For sinners such as I?

Was it for crimes that I have done,
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! Grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!

Well might the sun in darkness hide,
And shut its glories in,
When God, the mighty maker, died
For his own creature's sin.

Thus might I hide my blushing face
While his dear cross appears;
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt mine eyes to tears.

But drops of tears can ne'er repay
The debt of love I owe.
Here, Lord, I give myself away;
'Tis all that I can do.

Isaac Watts

Psalms 139-140

You’d think a king would be able to hide away if need be. Surely a sovereign could obtain secrecy. But David knew from experience that his sin could not be hidden. He’d found out the hard way the truth of Moses’ words: “you may be sure that your sin will find you out” (Num. 32:23).

But David’s relationship with the Lord was such that he invited God’s scrutiny and asked Him to reveal even his unperceived sin. The purpose was that he might then walk “in the way everlasting”. Like bookends, Psalm 139 has this thought at the beginning and at the close:

O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.... Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps. 139:1-2,23-24)

It takes a genuine relationship with the Lord and a strong desire to please Him to pray such a prayer. Those words inspired J. Edwin Orr to write the words to the well-known song, Cleanse Me. Think through each stanza carefully and then sing it as your own prayer to God.

Search me, O God, and know my heart today,
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free.

I praise Thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill Thy Word and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify Thy name.

Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self and pride;
I now surrender Lord - in me abide.

O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee;
Send a revival, start the work in me.
Thy Word declares Thou wilt supply our need;
For blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead.