DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
RULING PEACE
Col 3:15
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
NIV
Let the joining of Christ rule in my heart, that is what the Greek implies here, let the peace, the joining with Christ rule in my heart. Christ is peace, and at times, because of the many situations I find come my way which could cause anything but peace, I need to remember I am joined with him. Worry is not peace, nor is being anxious or upset over something or someone. Oh sure, I can be concerned, and in fact I should bring my concerns to the throne of God, seeking his assurance, his provision, his guidance. If I do this, even concerns cannot get in the way of the peace of Christ ruling in my heart. The question is of course do I really want his peace to rule, or do I want to rule my own heart? Although I have been called to this joining with Christ, I have been called to peace, I still struggle with who is ruling in my heart. Can I still have some of my own desires? Can I still want to accomplish things for my own self worth? Can I still enjoy my hobbies when I want to? Can I desire to have more things or better things? What does it mean to rule? To govern, to prevail would be how the Greek word is used here and that implies I might have a problem if I do not let Christ govern or prevail in the matters of my inner being, my thoughts and feelings. Now, if I am letting, allowing, submitting to his governing in my thoughts and feelings, this might well be in regards to how I think and react toward the other members of this one body and not so much as to some of my own desires. Or could it be both? Oh sure my desires are not those of wicked and cruel things. True, my desires are not really bad or ugly. I do know Christ and am always aware of his presence in my life. So how could I desire evil? I could not, but the things I want to do, want to have, even though they are not bad things, are still things that I have to make sure Christ is directing, or ruling my thoughts and feelings towards or is at least alright with my leanings. I do know that I am extremely thankful I have Christ in my life, for before he was, I was not in any remote way a person with peace. I also know that if it were not for Christ ruling in my life, I would already be dead and dead in sin, which I cannot even fathom what fate awaited me. I cannot bear to even think of that fate, that end which awaits those who have not accepted Christ’s salvation and his rule. In this context I have peace; I have contentment and joy and am filled with thankfulness.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Bearing
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
BEARING
Col 3:13-14
13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
NIV
Just grin and bear it. Not sure that really is the whole of the story here. Yet the Greek word does imply to put up with. So I simply just have to grin and bear it. I have no other choice but to put up with other people no matter how dumb, stupid, crazy, annoying or frustrating they are. I am jesting of course, or am I. I do think from time to time I get a little not bearing with others. I do think I have the possibility to think I need not have to put up with some of the ways of others. Yet here it is, right in my face. Who do I think I am that I should not put up with others? Do I think more of myself then I should? Here it is, right up front, plain and simple, I must put up with others. That is I really do need to see each other person as the same as myself, which certainly goes hand in hand with the next action of forgiving whatever grievances I may have against anyone. I have to ask myself, do I even have any grievances? I know at times, I may get my feelings hurt by someone. I know at times, I might get a little bent out of shape over how I am treated. I know I might even get a little pain inside when I am ignored. Do those count as grievances? Maybe, maybe not, but I know those feelings are not right, as it indicates I might be thinking more highly of myself then I should. This too would be a cause for not forgiving. If I am able to forgive whatever, then I also am able to put up with. I know in my spirit this is right and just, it is Christ like and pure. Yet I know that in my flesh it is extremely difficult to comply. I certainly need more and more of Christ each day. I definitely need the divine influence upon my heart so that it is him who is reflected to the people around me and not me who is being seen. When I truly remember my position in Christ, a sinner saved by grace, then I am positively able to bear with and forgive. Thank you Lord!
COLOSSIANS
BEARING
Col 3:13-14
13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
NIV
Just grin and bear it. Not sure that really is the whole of the story here. Yet the Greek word does imply to put up with. So I simply just have to grin and bear it. I have no other choice but to put up with other people no matter how dumb, stupid, crazy, annoying or frustrating they are. I am jesting of course, or am I. I do think from time to time I get a little not bearing with others. I do think I have the possibility to think I need not have to put up with some of the ways of others. Yet here it is, right in my face. Who do I think I am that I should not put up with others? Do I think more of myself then I should? Here it is, right up front, plain and simple, I must put up with others. That is I really do need to see each other person as the same as myself, which certainly goes hand in hand with the next action of forgiving whatever grievances I may have against anyone. I have to ask myself, do I even have any grievances? I know at times, I may get my feelings hurt by someone. I know at times, I might get a little bent out of shape over how I am treated. I know I might even get a little pain inside when I am ignored. Do those count as grievances? Maybe, maybe not, but I know those feelings are not right, as it indicates I might be thinking more highly of myself then I should. This too would be a cause for not forgiving. If I am able to forgive whatever, then I also am able to put up with. I know in my spirit this is right and just, it is Christ like and pure. Yet I know that in my flesh it is extremely difficult to comply. I certainly need more and more of Christ each day. I definitely need the divine influence upon my heart so that it is him who is reflected to the people around me and not me who is being seen. When I truly remember my position in Christ, a sinner saved by grace, then I am positively able to bear with and forgive. Thank you Lord!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The Dressing Room
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
THE DRESSING ROOM
Col 3:12-13
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
NIV
If I have in fact rid myself, and put to death the old self, there I stand then naked before the Lord, born again, a new creation, a new self, with nothing left of the old and certainly in need of being clothed. So it is, beginning of the new self, starting right off with compassion. This was absolutely not any part of the old self, that is for certain and I am still trying to find the right size of compassion that fits just right. Why is that so difficult? Why do I feel more compassion for living beings who seem helpless to me, such as animals, and have less for those who could help themselves and don’t? Then in addition to this I must slip on kindness and this has to be toward all, even those who are not kind toward me. Here again, I am trying to find the right size. I find it so difficult not to react to acts of unkindness with the same. To response with kindness, no matter how I am treated, is not an easy task, but I must keep getting dressed. When it comes to putting on humility I think I have been able to find this size and wear it well. Now isn’t that humble? What about self image? Should I not have a good self image? Am I not a child of God? He does not make junk! But humility has to be a part of my clothing. Not to think more highly of myself then I ought to is the right fit. God made everyone else as well and we all are the same in his eyes. Now clothing myself with this gentleness makes me ask; how is that different then kindness? I have to refer to the Greek to find out. Kindness is an action, gentleness in a demeanor. So there I am, asking myself again, what kind of demeanor to I have? Have I been able to find the right fit? But then I come to this last portion of my new clothes, my new self, as least within the portion of this section of God’s divine Word. I must clothe myself with patience, or in the older versions, long suffering. When I see the Greek I understand this to be forbearance or fortitude. I must not grow weary of living my life in the manner which pleases God. It is not so much about being patience with others, as it is about me being patience with myself. Although I should have patience toward others as well, I am more moved here to see I cannot lose patience with myself in my endeavors to live for him. When I fall, he picked me up. When I fail, he forgives me. When I can’t get it right, he encourages me. When I try to do it by myself, he reminds me. I need Jesus to have the right clothing. I need to allow him in the dressing room. I simply need to clothe myself with Jesus. Praise his holy name!
COLOSSIANS
THE DRESSING ROOM
Col 3:12-13
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
NIV
If I have in fact rid myself, and put to death the old self, there I stand then naked before the Lord, born again, a new creation, a new self, with nothing left of the old and certainly in need of being clothed. So it is, beginning of the new self, starting right off with compassion. This was absolutely not any part of the old self, that is for certain and I am still trying to find the right size of compassion that fits just right. Why is that so difficult? Why do I feel more compassion for living beings who seem helpless to me, such as animals, and have less for those who could help themselves and don’t? Then in addition to this I must slip on kindness and this has to be toward all, even those who are not kind toward me. Here again, I am trying to find the right size. I find it so difficult not to react to acts of unkindness with the same. To response with kindness, no matter how I am treated, is not an easy task, but I must keep getting dressed. When it comes to putting on humility I think I have been able to find this size and wear it well. Now isn’t that humble? What about self image? Should I not have a good self image? Am I not a child of God? He does not make junk! But humility has to be a part of my clothing. Not to think more highly of myself then I ought to is the right fit. God made everyone else as well and we all are the same in his eyes. Now clothing myself with this gentleness makes me ask; how is that different then kindness? I have to refer to the Greek to find out. Kindness is an action, gentleness in a demeanor. So there I am, asking myself again, what kind of demeanor to I have? Have I been able to find the right fit? But then I come to this last portion of my new clothes, my new self, as least within the portion of this section of God’s divine Word. I must clothe myself with patience, or in the older versions, long suffering. When I see the Greek I understand this to be forbearance or fortitude. I must not grow weary of living my life in the manner which pleases God. It is not so much about being patience with others, as it is about me being patience with myself. Although I should have patience toward others as well, I am more moved here to see I cannot lose patience with myself in my endeavors to live for him. When I fall, he picked me up. When I fail, he forgives me. When I can’t get it right, he encourages me. When I try to do it by myself, he reminds me. I need Jesus to have the right clothing. I need to allow him in the dressing room. I simply need to clothe myself with Jesus. Praise his holy name!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Rid and Take Off
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
RID AND TAKE OFF
Col 3:7-11
7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.
NIV
There certainly is no wiggle room here at all for any part of my old self to exist within this frame I use here on this earthly kingdom. I cannot get around those words ‘rid yourselves’ in any way. How can I continue to experience this list of behaviors, of thoughts? I cannot, I have to rid myself of them. The question is; have I? When I look at this list I cannot help feel all of those emotions or behaviors are based on being self centered. This simply has to be the very center of all sin. If I have taken off my old self, which I certainly have done. When I think back to how I really was, all the stuff I actually did, how I thought about things and people, I must admit I was a really horrible person, I was an old self. I have taken that self off, but there still remain portions which fight for control of my new self. I think this is when I have to apply this ‘being renewed in knowledge in the image of my creator.’ It is a daily renewal process which must be applied. Each day I must keep my focus on him. I must allow his influence to work in my heart. I know, without question, I am a new self, a being who no longer exists for the earthly kingdom but rather for the heavenly kingdom, the Kingdom of God. Yet war does wage within my being, the old self does not want to be put to death, it wants to live, and rule in my members, thus I must be alert and aware not to allow that to happen. I must always be endeavoring to listen to his voice rather then that of my old self. I cannot walk in those ways, in which I once lived, and although I do not on the outside, I also must not on the inside. I am being renewed
COLOSSIANS
RID AND TAKE OFF
Col 3:7-11
7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.
NIV
There certainly is no wiggle room here at all for any part of my old self to exist within this frame I use here on this earthly kingdom. I cannot get around those words ‘rid yourselves’ in any way. How can I continue to experience this list of behaviors, of thoughts? I cannot, I have to rid myself of them. The question is; have I? When I look at this list I cannot help feel all of those emotions or behaviors are based on being self centered. This simply has to be the very center of all sin. If I have taken off my old self, which I certainly have done. When I think back to how I really was, all the stuff I actually did, how I thought about things and people, I must admit I was a really horrible person, I was an old self. I have taken that self off, but there still remain portions which fight for control of my new self. I think this is when I have to apply this ‘being renewed in knowledge in the image of my creator.’ It is a daily renewal process which must be applied. Each day I must keep my focus on him. I must allow his influence to work in my heart. I know, without question, I am a new self, a being who no longer exists for the earthly kingdom but rather for the heavenly kingdom, the Kingdom of God. Yet war does wage within my being, the old self does not want to be put to death, it wants to live, and rule in my members, thus I must be alert and aware not to allow that to happen. I must always be endeavoring to listen to his voice rather then that of my old self. I cannot walk in those ways, in which I once lived, and although I do not on the outside, I also must not on the inside. I am being renewed
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
To Put To Death
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
TO PUT TO DEATH
Col 3:5-7
5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.
NIV
The question that befalls us here is; since we already died, 2:20 and 3:3, what are we putting to death? It would seem that we, the very being, our center, the heart of man is somewhat different then our earthy nature. Having died and risen with Christ a new being, the old passing away, there still stands a nature that we must put to death. Reading the Greek this verse would suggest that we are to subdue our body that is on earth, Webster sums up the word, nature, as The sum of qualities and traits shared by all human beings.
Is there any difference or are these two the same? Perhaps we might consider our members, our body on earth cannot function without the brain, the thought center, the traits shared by all human beings. Therefore since my spirit died and rose with Christ, I must subdue my body, my thinking. I am a new creature, new babe, a reborn spirit, that must learn, a whole new way of thinking, behaving and responding to the world in which I live, no longer sharing the traits and qualities of all human beings, but rather the traits and qualities of Christ.
The list of those things we are to put to death include in the English:
Sexual immorality
Impurity
Lust
Evil desires
Greed
In the Greek it reads:
Pornia- Sexual immorality defines that well, the root word porn says it all
akatharsia – Impuriy both physical and morally
pathos – a strong desire in the area of passion, lust
epithumia – a longing for what is forbidden, evil desires
pleonexia – immoderate desire for wealth
That is a mouth full at best or should I say worse and I find myself in need to put these things to death. If I am truthful with myself, these traits do exist and perhaps this is the war that wages within. Yet I know it is God who made me, as he did all mankind and he made me with the ability to exercise these traits. But I must put them to death, daily.
COLOSSIANS
TO PUT TO DEATH
Col 3:5-7
5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.
NIV
The question that befalls us here is; since we already died, 2:20 and 3:3, what are we putting to death? It would seem that we, the very being, our center, the heart of man is somewhat different then our earthy nature. Having died and risen with Christ a new being, the old passing away, there still stands a nature that we must put to death. Reading the Greek this verse would suggest that we are to subdue our body that is on earth, Webster sums up the word, nature, as The sum of qualities and traits shared by all human beings.
Is there any difference or are these two the same? Perhaps we might consider our members, our body on earth cannot function without the brain, the thought center, the traits shared by all human beings. Therefore since my spirit died and rose with Christ, I must subdue my body, my thinking. I am a new creature, new babe, a reborn spirit, that must learn, a whole new way of thinking, behaving and responding to the world in which I live, no longer sharing the traits and qualities of all human beings, but rather the traits and qualities of Christ.
The list of those things we are to put to death include in the English:
Sexual immorality
Impurity
Lust
Evil desires
Greed
In the Greek it reads:
Pornia- Sexual immorality defines that well, the root word porn says it all
akatharsia – Impuriy both physical and morally
pathos – a strong desire in the area of passion, lust
epithumia – a longing for what is forbidden, evil desires
pleonexia – immoderate desire for wealth
That is a mouth full at best or should I say worse and I find myself in need to put these things to death. If I am truthful with myself, these traits do exist and perhaps this is the war that wages within. Yet I know it is God who made me, as he did all mankind and he made me with the ability to exercise these traits. But I must put them to death, daily.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Raised from the dead
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
RAISED FROM THE DEAD
Col 3:1-4
3:1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
NIV
I have been raised with Christ! Jesus was put to death upon the cross and his dead body placed in the tomb, yet he was raised from the dead to live once again in the physical form, glorified as it were, yet physical enough for Thomas to put his finger in the wounds, and enough for Christ to fix a meal for his friends. Raised from the dead, and I too have been raised from the dead. The Greek word used here is: sunegeiro
NT:4891 sunegeiro (soon-eg-i'-ro); from NT:4862 and NT:1453; to rouse (from death) in company with, i.e. (figuratively) to revivify (spiritually) in resemblance to:
The word so declares, those who have accepted Christ have been, aroused from death, and are now in the company of Christ. This death I have been aroused from is of a suicidal form. I must put to death my old nature, setting my mind on things above, not on earthy things. Verse 5 gives me the list of those earthy natures I am to put to death which is within me. It is in every sense the way of the world, including the sensual, moral, civil and financial systems that are so prevalent in this world. Clearly I am to live in Christ according to a system that is as far different then those of this world. The question that stares at me is what does that look like? I hear and I have even said, live in the world but not of the world. The Word says it. Killing those desires of the world from within me is the only way. Not that I cannot or will not have some of the things of the world, but I cannot allow myself to lust after them, or to function in the same fashion as the world does. I live under a different system completely, which may seem foolish to those people who do not understand how God functions, but in reality, their way is foolishness to God. His way is always the best way. I am glad I have died and been raised in Christ.
COLOSSIANS
RAISED FROM THE DEAD
Col 3:1-4
3:1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
NIV
I have been raised with Christ! Jesus was put to death upon the cross and his dead body placed in the tomb, yet he was raised from the dead to live once again in the physical form, glorified as it were, yet physical enough for Thomas to put his finger in the wounds, and enough for Christ to fix a meal for his friends. Raised from the dead, and I too have been raised from the dead. The Greek word used here is: sunegeiro
NT:4891 sunegeiro (soon-eg-i'-ro); from NT:4862 and NT:1453; to rouse (from death) in company with, i.e. (figuratively) to revivify (spiritually) in resemblance to:
The word so declares, those who have accepted Christ have been, aroused from death, and are now in the company of Christ. This death I have been aroused from is of a suicidal form. I must put to death my old nature, setting my mind on things above, not on earthy things. Verse 5 gives me the list of those earthy natures I am to put to death which is within me. It is in every sense the way of the world, including the sensual, moral, civil and financial systems that are so prevalent in this world. Clearly I am to live in Christ according to a system that is as far different then those of this world. The question that stares at me is what does that look like? I hear and I have even said, live in the world but not of the world. The Word says it. Killing those desires of the world from within me is the only way. Not that I cannot or will not have some of the things of the world, but I cannot allow myself to lust after them, or to function in the same fashion as the world does. I live under a different system completely, which may seem foolish to those people who do not understand how God functions, but in reality, their way is foolishness to God. His way is always the best way. I am glad I have died and been raised in Christ.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Inside Out
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
INSIDE OUT
Col 2:20-23
20 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: 21 "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? 22 These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. 23 Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
NIV
Could we be spending too much time and effort trying to understand how we should appear to others? Exhausting our energies on following the rules and regulations, the do’s and don’ts of the church to which we belong, seems to be the way of the faith. Yet, I cannot help but think that our Lord would have died in vain, for nothing at all, if we return to the bondage of the law. The scripture surely tells us this manner of living may have the appearance of wisdom, but the converse can only be true, this action, this manner of living can only be that of the foolish. To base one’s life on the human commands and teachings only can lead to a lifestyle of misery and guilt, a life doomed to fail in its dismal attempt to follow the law.
A person cannot achieve a holy lifestyle on the outside, without experiencing that transformation on the inside. These outward attempts cannot restrain the desires that are derived from within. Only an inner cleansing with the Blood of Christ will make a man whole. Only with the indwelling of the Spirit can those desires be overcome. True Christianity is from the inside out. I have to ask myself, has a complete transformation occurred within my being? At times I think so, yet most of the time I know I am still in the transformation process. I am on a journey traveling with my Lord, allowing Him to transform me from within. I have to be vigilant to maintain my willingness to allow Him to do this. I can restrain His efforts by exerting my own will and desires. Lord, help me to allow you free access from the inside out.
COLOSSIANS
INSIDE OUT
Col 2:20-23
20 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: 21 "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? 22 These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. 23 Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
NIV
Could we be spending too much time and effort trying to understand how we should appear to others? Exhausting our energies on following the rules and regulations, the do’s and don’ts of the church to which we belong, seems to be the way of the faith. Yet, I cannot help but think that our Lord would have died in vain, for nothing at all, if we return to the bondage of the law. The scripture surely tells us this manner of living may have the appearance of wisdom, but the converse can only be true, this action, this manner of living can only be that of the foolish. To base one’s life on the human commands and teachings only can lead to a lifestyle of misery and guilt, a life doomed to fail in its dismal attempt to follow the law.
A person cannot achieve a holy lifestyle on the outside, without experiencing that transformation on the inside. These outward attempts cannot restrain the desires that are derived from within. Only an inner cleansing with the Blood of Christ will make a man whole. Only with the indwelling of the Spirit can those desires be overcome. True Christianity is from the inside out. I have to ask myself, has a complete transformation occurred within my being? At times I think so, yet most of the time I know I am still in the transformation process. I am on a journey traveling with my Lord, allowing Him to transform me from within. I have to be vigilant to maintain my willingness to allow Him to do this. I can restrain His efforts by exerting my own will and desires. Lord, help me to allow you free access from the inside out.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Reality
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
REALITY
Col 2:17
the reality, however, is found in Christ.
NIV
Is there such a thing as false reality? If true reality or plainly just reality is found in Christ then everything else is an illusion or a false reality, a shadow of things to come as it states in the first part of the verse. The world I live in is not my reality, yet I spent an enormous amount of time and energy developing my “little corner” of this world. Some People are working and toiling to earn as much income as possible so they might be able to store it up for a day that may never arrive, storing up money in some investment that might well be advancing the cause of the evil one, without even knowing it. Many are spending most of their waking hours in an attempt to achieve success in a field of their choice, with some convinced of a divine appointment to that task. I pray that is not my path. Many people are convinced of their need for constant improvement in their endeavors so they seek out more knowledge from others who profess to know the way to self improvement. All this, struggle of life, could it be a false reality that they seek? Again, I examine my own thoughts, and desires, to test myself and see if I do the same things.
But I know, without any doubt, my true reality is found in Christ, he should be the soul object of my endeavors.
The reality is; this life is temporary and all the things of this life will perish, Christ is eternal and his world, the kingdom of God, will last for every.
Col 3:1-4
3:1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
NIV
These words admonish me to set my mind not on the earthy things, but rather on reality. Should I not attend to the eternal rather then the temporal? Should I not be spending my time, energy and resources engaged in the reality found in Christ? Yes!
Now, it is true, he has created this place, for me, and he has created it with much in which I can find pleasure, and comfort. True, I can enjoy the things, this world has, for it was created by him and for him. But I am not to make this place the reason for my life, but rather I am to make him the reason I live. He is my reality!
COLOSSIANS
REALITY
Col 2:17
the reality, however, is found in Christ.
NIV
Is there such a thing as false reality? If true reality or plainly just reality is found in Christ then everything else is an illusion or a false reality, a shadow of things to come as it states in the first part of the verse. The world I live in is not my reality, yet I spent an enormous amount of time and energy developing my “little corner” of this world. Some People are working and toiling to earn as much income as possible so they might be able to store it up for a day that may never arrive, storing up money in some investment that might well be advancing the cause of the evil one, without even knowing it. Many are spending most of their waking hours in an attempt to achieve success in a field of their choice, with some convinced of a divine appointment to that task. I pray that is not my path. Many people are convinced of their need for constant improvement in their endeavors so they seek out more knowledge from others who profess to know the way to self improvement. All this, struggle of life, could it be a false reality that they seek? Again, I examine my own thoughts, and desires, to test myself and see if I do the same things.
But I know, without any doubt, my true reality is found in Christ, he should be the soul object of my endeavors.
The reality is; this life is temporary and all the things of this life will perish, Christ is eternal and his world, the kingdom of God, will last for every.
Col 3:1-4
3:1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
NIV
These words admonish me to set my mind not on the earthy things, but rather on reality. Should I not attend to the eternal rather then the temporal? Should I not be spending my time, energy and resources engaged in the reality found in Christ? Yes!
Now, it is true, he has created this place, for me, and he has created it with much in which I can find pleasure, and comfort. True, I can enjoy the things, this world has, for it was created by him and for him. But I am not to make this place the reason for my life, but rather I am to make him the reason I live. He is my reality!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Unitd He Stands
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
UNITED HE STANDS
Col 2:9
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form
NIV
What great mystery lies within this verse of scripture? That the great creator of the entire universe, the God who formed man from the dust and breathed the very breathe of life into him, became that same kind of man, in the form of Jesus Christ, the son of God. Included in this mystery lies yet the other of the triune God, how one being can be three distinct different forms, and yet that is exactly what mankind is witness to. Seeing the Son, watching the Spirit descending upon him while hearing the Father Matt 3:16-17 Mark 1:10-11 Luke 3:21-22. Now I am faced here with the union between the divine and human. God in the form of a man, a man that he himself created. For what cause would God, the sovereign creator of all things, need to become the same as what he created? The greatest cause every! This cause was to restore the union which He intended from the beginning between Himself and His creation, which includes me, by becoming the one perfect man which could satisfy His own need for justice. Gods’ justice demands payment, a penalty for disobedience, sin, and this payment or penalty is death, which is opposite to eternal life. It was because of His great mercy and compassion for His creation, for me, that He needed to pay that penalty Himself, in the form of Jesus Christ taking upon Himself all the sin of mankind, all my sin, and experiencing that penalty of death. Jesus Christ, God who created all things, created within a young lady an embryo of his DNA thus being fully human yet also fully God. A mystery not one man may prove or disprove, but must by faith believe. It is beyond my complete comprehension of how this could happen, it does go beyond the realm of science as I know it, yet I believe it with all my heart. I know this because I have experienced firsthand the many mercies of God. He said it, and therefore it is true and I believe it. I am united with Him and I stand.
COLOSSIANS
UNITED HE STANDS
Col 2:9
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form
NIV
What great mystery lies within this verse of scripture? That the great creator of the entire universe, the God who formed man from the dust and breathed the very breathe of life into him, became that same kind of man, in the form of Jesus Christ, the son of God. Included in this mystery lies yet the other of the triune God, how one being can be three distinct different forms, and yet that is exactly what mankind is witness to. Seeing the Son, watching the Spirit descending upon him while hearing the Father Matt 3:16-17 Mark 1:10-11 Luke 3:21-22. Now I am faced here with the union between the divine and human. God in the form of a man, a man that he himself created. For what cause would God, the sovereign creator of all things, need to become the same as what he created? The greatest cause every! This cause was to restore the union which He intended from the beginning between Himself and His creation, which includes me, by becoming the one perfect man which could satisfy His own need for justice. Gods’ justice demands payment, a penalty for disobedience, sin, and this payment or penalty is death, which is opposite to eternal life. It was because of His great mercy and compassion for His creation, for me, that He needed to pay that penalty Himself, in the form of Jesus Christ taking upon Himself all the sin of mankind, all my sin, and experiencing that penalty of death. Jesus Christ, God who created all things, created within a young lady an embryo of his DNA thus being fully human yet also fully God. A mystery not one man may prove or disprove, but must by faith believe. It is beyond my complete comprehension of how this could happen, it does go beyond the realm of science as I know it, yet I believe it with all my heart. I know this because I have experienced firsthand the many mercies of God. He said it, and therefore it is true and I believe it. I am united with Him and I stand.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Lisstening to Who
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
LISTENING TO WHO
Col 2:8
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
NIV
It would seem that as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ who is filled with the Holy Spirit would be a person who would surely be able to read the Word of God and discern the truth within. Yet it would seem a warning here to those believers not to be lead astray by religious leaders that teach something else. The basic principles of this world can not apply to a believer’s way of living. Attaining righteousness through doing good deeds, as expressed by some, only leads to being deceived away from the truth. If I think and act with goodness and kindness toward others I am living a good life, God would approve. If I am tolerant of all faiths, and agree there are many paths to God, I am living with compassion and understanding. This kind of thinking is captive to hollow and deceptive philosophy, the kind of thinking that emanates from the mind of man rather then the mind of Christ. When mankind sets its own rules for living in an acceptable manner, those rules can be defined for self interest and self aggrandizement. The warning here is clear to look only to the creator of all things for what is true and pure and how to think and act in life. The world yells at the top of its voice demanding to be listened to. The humanistic thinking of the world screams for attention, to be the correct method of living. My God speaks in a still small voice, to the spirit within each person. I have to be diligent in this endeavor to elude those philosophies, that screaming, yet not avoiding the people who engage in that thinking, but also not allowing them and their thinking to infiltrate my thinking and belief in Christ. I should be involved with them so as I might infiltrate their thinking with the truth of God and they just might hear that small still voice.
COLOSSIANS
LISTENING TO WHO
Col 2:8
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
NIV
It would seem that as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ who is filled with the Holy Spirit would be a person who would surely be able to read the Word of God and discern the truth within. Yet it would seem a warning here to those believers not to be lead astray by religious leaders that teach something else. The basic principles of this world can not apply to a believer’s way of living. Attaining righteousness through doing good deeds, as expressed by some, only leads to being deceived away from the truth. If I think and act with goodness and kindness toward others I am living a good life, God would approve. If I am tolerant of all faiths, and agree there are many paths to God, I am living with compassion and understanding. This kind of thinking is captive to hollow and deceptive philosophy, the kind of thinking that emanates from the mind of man rather then the mind of Christ. When mankind sets its own rules for living in an acceptable manner, those rules can be defined for self interest and self aggrandizement. The warning here is clear to look only to the creator of all things for what is true and pure and how to think and act in life. The world yells at the top of its voice demanding to be listened to. The humanistic thinking of the world screams for attention, to be the correct method of living. My God speaks in a still small voice, to the spirit within each person. I have to be diligent in this endeavor to elude those philosophies, that screaming, yet not avoiding the people who engage in that thinking, but also not allowing them and their thinking to infiltrate my thinking and belief in Christ. I should be involved with them so as I might infiltrate their thinking with the truth of God and they just might hear that small still voice.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Rooted
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
ROOTED
Col 2:6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
NIV
It is a wonderful thing to watch a freshly planted tree take root and begin to grow and become a strong mature tree that bears its’ fruit in season. This tree stands tall because it sends the roots deep into the soil to extract the necessary nutrients needed for growth. When strong winds blow or extreme heat beats down upon this tree it is not effected because of the deeply sent roots which continue to feed moisture and food to its’ branches.
Here I am encouraged to send my roots deep into Christ,
John 1:1-2
1:1 In the beginning was the Word , and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning.
NIV
The Word of God, the Bible is my source of needed nutrients to stand firm and grow in the ever facing winds and heat of this world and its ways. If I am not firmly rooted in the Word of God, Christ, then I will not be able to withstand the temptations that come my way, and I will be blown over, and just another fallen tree to be gathered up and burned with a heap of others. True I am saved by grace, least any man boast, but I still must continue to live in him, and send my roots deep, so as to be built up in him. He is my source, my strength, my all. I cannot survive without the nourishing flow from His Word. But, praise God, I have that flow, I have all I need to not only survive, but to prosper, and for this I am overflowing with thanksgiving.
COLOSSIANS
ROOTED
Col 2:6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
NIV
It is a wonderful thing to watch a freshly planted tree take root and begin to grow and become a strong mature tree that bears its’ fruit in season. This tree stands tall because it sends the roots deep into the soil to extract the necessary nutrients needed for growth. When strong winds blow or extreme heat beats down upon this tree it is not effected because of the deeply sent roots which continue to feed moisture and food to its’ branches.
Here I am encouraged to send my roots deep into Christ,
John 1:1-2
1:1 In the beginning was the Word , and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning.
NIV
The Word of God, the Bible is my source of needed nutrients to stand firm and grow in the ever facing winds and heat of this world and its ways. If I am not firmly rooted in the Word of God, Christ, then I will not be able to withstand the temptations that come my way, and I will be blown over, and just another fallen tree to be gathered up and burned with a heap of others. True I am saved by grace, least any man boast, but I still must continue to live in him, and send my roots deep, so as to be built up in him. He is my source, my strength, my all. I cannot survive without the nourishing flow from His Word. But, praise God, I have that flow, I have all I need to not only survive, but to prosper, and for this I am overflowing with thanksgiving.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Overflowing With thankfulness
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
OVERFLOWING WITH THANKFULNESS
Col 2:6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
NIV
Have you ever noticed that un-thankfulness go hand in hand with envy? We see in this verse an encouragement to continue to live in him, to be rooted and built up in him which causes us to be strengthened in our faith as well as it causes us to be overflowing with thankfulness. To be thankful to the point that it overflows from within. Each person lives within this world in somewhat of a different set of circumstances. Some have much in the way of material goods, others have little.
Some have much in the way of a loving caring family, others have little. Some have the abundance of choices for education and careers, others have little. In every facet of live we can see an un-level balance which can bring about the opportunity for envy. I think at times I am guilty of envy, when I see those who have so very much more of the material goods of this world then I do. But I also know that I have more then I could ever need. I have an abundance of ‘stuff’ to fill my personal time with. I also consider how many people have so little as compared to what I have. I know all of this is relative. Then I ponder at times, of how so many throughout the world live in absolute poverty and I am ashamed of having any envy at all. God has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams or expectations. When I consider the people He has placed in my life. The incredible blessings I have in the many relationships I am privileged to be a part of, and I see those who live in almost solitude. Those poor souls who do not have the blessings of family and friends to share life with, and how that must feel, it makes me realize even more, how ashamed I am of ever being envious of anyone. I am overflowing with thankfulness to my God and my Savior. And, once again, my thoughts turn to those souls who have not yet believed in Jesus, and if they never do, what awaits them. When I think about them, I am overwhelmed and overflowing with thankfulness because somehow God revealed Himself to me, and forgave my sins, and saved me.
COLOSSIANS
OVERFLOWING WITH THANKFULNESS
Col 2:6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
NIV
Have you ever noticed that un-thankfulness go hand in hand with envy? We see in this verse an encouragement to continue to live in him, to be rooted and built up in him which causes us to be strengthened in our faith as well as it causes us to be overflowing with thankfulness. To be thankful to the point that it overflows from within. Each person lives within this world in somewhat of a different set of circumstances. Some have much in the way of material goods, others have little.
Some have much in the way of a loving caring family, others have little. Some have the abundance of choices for education and careers, others have little. In every facet of live we can see an un-level balance which can bring about the opportunity for envy. I think at times I am guilty of envy, when I see those who have so very much more of the material goods of this world then I do. But I also know that I have more then I could ever need. I have an abundance of ‘stuff’ to fill my personal time with. I also consider how many people have so little as compared to what I have. I know all of this is relative. Then I ponder at times, of how so many throughout the world live in absolute poverty and I am ashamed of having any envy at all. God has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams or expectations. When I consider the people He has placed in my life. The incredible blessings I have in the many relationships I am privileged to be a part of, and I see those who live in almost solitude. Those poor souls who do not have the blessings of family and friends to share life with, and how that must feel, it makes me realize even more, how ashamed I am of ever being envious of anyone. I am overflowing with thankfulness to my God and my Savior. And, once again, my thoughts turn to those souls who have not yet believed in Jesus, and if they never do, what awaits them. When I think about them, I am overwhelmed and overflowing with thankfulness because somehow God revealed Himself to me, and forgave my sins, and saved me.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Without Blemish
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
WITHOUT BLEMISH
Col 1:21-23
21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— 23 if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
NIV
Within the human condition we must face the irrefutable fact we have sin in our lives. Perfection within this state of physical being is impossible, no matter how hard we might try to live a holy and righteous life, we are going to fail. No matter how close our walk with our Lord is, sin, in some form, invades our being. How then can we possibly come into the presence of God? How dare we even to image to step into His holy presence, yet that is exactly what we are to do and in fact do with the assurance of being accepted and embraced by our Lord. This wonderful experience is ours through faith in the death of Jesus Christ. Because of His death on the cross, even in our sad condition of failure, we can stand in the sight of God without blemish and even without accusation. We can stand free from being accused of the sin that continues to beseech our members. The question, of course with the answer, is should we then just determine to continue in sin that God’s grace may abound, God forbid!
However, even with the greatest of our efforts to make ourselves holy and without sin will result in a miserable failure, so we are left with no other course of action then to believe in faith for this condition of being without blemish and accusation. This does carry a condition as declared in verse 23, we must continue in our faith, we must be established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This again is not a command to live a life of effort to be without blemish, but to live without doubt that Jesus Christ died for our sins and through him we have salvation and reconciliation with God. That through Christ and Christ alone we may approach the throne of God.
Therefore there is no room for pride in our life, but rather pride in Christ and His life and death for sinners such as us.
COLOSSIANS
WITHOUT BLEMISH
Col 1:21-23
21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— 23 if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
NIV
Within the human condition we must face the irrefutable fact we have sin in our lives. Perfection within this state of physical being is impossible, no matter how hard we might try to live a holy and righteous life, we are going to fail. No matter how close our walk with our Lord is, sin, in some form, invades our being. How then can we possibly come into the presence of God? How dare we even to image to step into His holy presence, yet that is exactly what we are to do and in fact do with the assurance of being accepted and embraced by our Lord. This wonderful experience is ours through faith in the death of Jesus Christ. Because of His death on the cross, even in our sad condition of failure, we can stand in the sight of God without blemish and even without accusation. We can stand free from being accused of the sin that continues to beseech our members. The question, of course with the answer, is should we then just determine to continue in sin that God’s grace may abound, God forbid!
However, even with the greatest of our efforts to make ourselves holy and without sin will result in a miserable failure, so we are left with no other course of action then to believe in faith for this condition of being without blemish and accusation. This does carry a condition as declared in verse 23, we must continue in our faith, we must be established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This again is not a command to live a life of effort to be without blemish, but to live without doubt that Jesus Christ died for our sins and through him we have salvation and reconciliation with God. That through Christ and Christ alone we may approach the throne of God.
Therefore there is no room for pride in our life, but rather pride in Christ and His life and death for sinners such as us.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Absent and Present
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
ABSENT & PRESENT
Col 2:4-5
5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.
NIV
It seems strange to be able to be away yet be with another person at the same time, a sort of time travel, if you will, a science fiction plot of sorts, and yet here is actually what is happening.
Within the realms of the physical, persons may well be separated from each other by miles of distance, such as from Fairborn Ohio to Beavercreek Ohio to Dunlap Illinois, or Kankakee Illinois or to any other place. These two persons unable to stand face to face, to feel the embrace of the other, to extend the hand of fellowship to the other, yet in quite a different realm they are present with each other. Within the spirit world, the supernatural world of God, these two persons are eternally joined and present with each other. As each person steps into the spiritual presents of God almighty thru prayer, there stands the other.
To each of you whom I love, know that as you knee before the Lord each day, I will be present with you also, that with spiritual hands placed upon you I will be seeking our lord to anoint you with power from on high, and that I will be rejoicing because of your faith in our Lord, demonstrating a powerful belief in the reality of the Kingdom of God. Likewise, I will enjoy your presence as I bow before the Lord God almighty and trust you will be seeking his anointing upon me and that you are delighted in my faith.
COLOSSIANS
ABSENT & PRESENT
Col 2:4-5
5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.
NIV
It seems strange to be able to be away yet be with another person at the same time, a sort of time travel, if you will, a science fiction plot of sorts, and yet here is actually what is happening.
Within the realms of the physical, persons may well be separated from each other by miles of distance, such as from Fairborn Ohio to Beavercreek Ohio to Dunlap Illinois, or Kankakee Illinois or to any other place. These two persons unable to stand face to face, to feel the embrace of the other, to extend the hand of fellowship to the other, yet in quite a different realm they are present with each other. Within the spirit world, the supernatural world of God, these two persons are eternally joined and present with each other. As each person steps into the spiritual presents of God almighty thru prayer, there stands the other.
To each of you whom I love, know that as you knee before the Lord each day, I will be present with you also, that with spiritual hands placed upon you I will be seeking our lord to anoint you with power from on high, and that I will be rejoicing because of your faith in our Lord, demonstrating a powerful belief in the reality of the Kingdom of God. Likewise, I will enjoy your presence as I bow before the Lord God almighty and trust you will be seeking his anointing upon me and that you are delighted in my faith.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Peacemaker
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
THE PEACEMAKER
Col 1:19-20
19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
NIV
Blessed is the God who has created all things, especially us. Here we see such an act of love beyond all love. The God of the Old Testament, who has been accused by many, as the God of wrath, had planned from the beginning and desired from the beginning to have his creation, mankind, at peace with him. This peace came in the form of Jesus Christ, his son, who died on the cross so that the sin which mankind was and still is plagued with, which acts as a formidable wall which keeps mankind from being at peace with God, could be transferred onto Christ. This act of redemption occurred as the ultimate act of love, not wrath. The sin which keeps us from being at peace with God was transferred unto Christ at Calvary. The scripture is clear that without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin Heb 9:22.
Gods’ justice required the penalty be paid, and he paid it himself, such is his love for us, for me. His plan was and still is for me to be able to be at peace with him, which means in peace there is no wrath. I am so overwhelmed by the capacity to be at peace with my God. Even when I disappoint Him I am still at peace with Him because of what Jesus did.
COLOSSIANS
THE PEACEMAKER
Col 1:19-20
19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
NIV
Blessed is the God who has created all things, especially us. Here we see such an act of love beyond all love. The God of the Old Testament, who has been accused by many, as the God of wrath, had planned from the beginning and desired from the beginning to have his creation, mankind, at peace with him. This peace came in the form of Jesus Christ, his son, who died on the cross so that the sin which mankind was and still is plagued with, which acts as a formidable wall which keeps mankind from being at peace with God, could be transferred onto Christ. This act of redemption occurred as the ultimate act of love, not wrath. The sin which keeps us from being at peace with God was transferred unto Christ at Calvary. The scripture is clear that without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin Heb 9:22.
Gods’ justice required the penalty be paid, and he paid it himself, such is his love for us, for me. His plan was and still is for me to be able to be at peace with him, which means in peace there is no wrath. I am so overwhelmed by the capacity to be at peace with my God. Even when I disappoint Him I am still at peace with Him because of what Jesus did.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Created For Him
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
CREATED FOR HIM
Col 1:15-17
15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
NIV
It seems so strange to hear the phrases “I would like to do” “it is my desire” and “I want” in light of this concept of being created by him and for him. How do I justify my own wants and desires for physical pleasures, wealth, security knowledge and recognition when my purpose is clearly defined as being created for him. How do I justify the pursuit of worldly gain, the pursuit of worldly endeavors, careers, professions for the purpose of enjoying a particular lifestyle, in view of this scripture? It is surely true, the having of such is within the will of God, for he has told me he is aware of my needs and I will have them also.
Matt 6:24-7:1
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
NIV
The key to the possession of these “things” is the placing of seeking him first, being created by him and for him.
When I consider the difference between the temporal and the eternal, which has the
COLOSSIANS
CREATED FOR HIM
Col 1:15-17
15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
NIV
It seems so strange to hear the phrases “I would like to do” “it is my desire” and “I want” in light of this concept of being created by him and for him. How do I justify my own wants and desires for physical pleasures, wealth, security knowledge and recognition when my purpose is clearly defined as being created for him. How do I justify the pursuit of worldly gain, the pursuit of worldly endeavors, careers, professions for the purpose of enjoying a particular lifestyle, in view of this scripture? It is surely true, the having of such is within the will of God, for he has told me he is aware of my needs and I will have them also.
Matt 6:24-7:1
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
NIV
The key to the possession of these “things” is the placing of seeking him first, being created by him and for him.
When I consider the difference between the temporal and the eternal, which has the
Monday, July 12, 2010
Qualified
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
“QUALIFIED”
Col 1:12
12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
NIV
In order for a race car driver to run in the race, he first must qualify; he must drive his car successfully around the track under a certain time. In order to obtain a certain position one must meet the qualifications, have the right degree, enough experience and proper credentials. All throughout our lives we find the need to qualify.
How great is our God! It is He and not me who qualifies me to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. How often do I spend so much of my time endeavoring to live a good life? How often I emphasize my part in being holy, on what I must do and what I must not do, almost to a point of pride that my behavior is righteous, holy and pure. Is it not He who has made me holy, He who has set me apart, He who has qualified me to share in the inheritance?
Perhaps I need to focus more on Him, on His being holy, on His power to complete the good work in me, on His actions, His love, His divine grace, His forgiveness, His perfection, His faith and faithfulness. If I make any effort at all to qualify myself am I not depending on flesh rather then on Him? It is not by works that I are saved or qualified, but by faith. The Word tells me when I depend on myself, on my efforts, my flesh I are cursed, but if I depend on Him I are blessed.
My prayer for you this morning is for me and you to completely surrender all of our “self” to Him, to rely completely on Him today.
COLOSSIANS
“QUALIFIED”
Col 1:12
12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
NIV
In order for a race car driver to run in the race, he first must qualify; he must drive his car successfully around the track under a certain time. In order to obtain a certain position one must meet the qualifications, have the right degree, enough experience and proper credentials. All throughout our lives we find the need to qualify.
How great is our God! It is He and not me who qualifies me to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. How often do I spend so much of my time endeavoring to live a good life? How often I emphasize my part in being holy, on what I must do and what I must not do, almost to a point of pride that my behavior is righteous, holy and pure. Is it not He who has made me holy, He who has set me apart, He who has qualified me to share in the inheritance?
Perhaps I need to focus more on Him, on His being holy, on His power to complete the good work in me, on His actions, His love, His divine grace, His forgiveness, His perfection, His faith and faithfulness. If I make any effort at all to qualify myself am I not depending on flesh rather then on Him? It is not by works that I are saved or qualified, but by faith. The Word tells me when I depend on myself, on my efforts, my flesh I are cursed, but if I depend on Him I are blessed.
My prayer for you this morning is for me and you to completely surrender all of our “self” to Him, to rely completely on Him today.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Walking Worthy
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
“WALKING WORTHY”
Col 1:10-12
And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
NIV
What does this mean, to live a life worthy of the Lord? The Greek word used here for worthy is axÃoos which is in an adverb form, defining an action as: to live appropriately. Defining just how we are to live, to live in an appropriate manner as one who is associated with the Lord. As with many earthly organizations people are required to live in a certain way. I am reminded of my time in the Army, where I was required to wear certain clothing, have my hair a certain length and walk and talk in a manner that was befitting my uniform. I had a responsibility to project a certain image as a representative of my country in a foreign land. The projection of this image was only possible if I truly accepted my position, it was very difficult, if not impossible to fake.
As one who has been called into the Army of the Lord, although I am not required to wear a uniform nor a certain hairstyle, I am nevertheless expected to walk and talk in a manner that represents my country, the Kingdom of Heaven, in a foreign land. This walk and talk again is very difficult, if not impossible, to project unless I accept my position, truly accept the position as a child of God, a position in Christ. Then I can in all truth be a person who walks in an appropriate manner which would then please him in every way.
My prayer today is, as I live this day, I will live it worthy, in an appropriate manner, for our Lord, and all that I do today will please Him.
Then I know I will be successful in all that I endeavor today.
COLOSSIANS
“WALKING WORTHY”
Col 1:10-12
And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
NIV
What does this mean, to live a life worthy of the Lord? The Greek word used here for worthy is axÃoos which is in an adverb form, defining an action as: to live appropriately. Defining just how we are to live, to live in an appropriate manner as one who is associated with the Lord. As with many earthly organizations people are required to live in a certain way. I am reminded of my time in the Army, where I was required to wear certain clothing, have my hair a certain length and walk and talk in a manner that was befitting my uniform. I had a responsibility to project a certain image as a representative of my country in a foreign land. The projection of this image was only possible if I truly accepted my position, it was very difficult, if not impossible to fake.
As one who has been called into the Army of the Lord, although I am not required to wear a uniform nor a certain hairstyle, I am nevertheless expected to walk and talk in a manner that represents my country, the Kingdom of Heaven, in a foreign land. This walk and talk again is very difficult, if not impossible, to project unless I accept my position, truly accept the position as a child of God, a position in Christ. Then I can in all truth be a person who walks in an appropriate manner which would then please him in every way.
My prayer today is, as I live this day, I will live it worthy, in an appropriate manner, for our Lord, and all that I do today will please Him.
Then I know I will be successful in all that I endeavor today.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Praying For You
Today I begin a new set of devotions from the letter to the Colossians. I am not sure how this will work exactly but I am simply going to follow the leading of the Spirit and see how and what God has for me within this letter. All scripture is God-breathed and is good for teaching, rebuking, correctly and training in righteousness so, I am looking forward to all of that, except maybe the rebuking part. So here we go.
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
PRAYING FOR YOU
Col 1:9
9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
NIV
How is it possible for one believer not to pray for another? Have we not been called to pray for one another with out ceasing? And here we see a special purpose for praying, that our fellow believer will be filled with the knowledge of God’s will.
How important it is for each believer to have a complete knowledge of the Father’s will, and to have it through spiritual wisdom and understanding. That is to have the sense within, to grasp the deep spiritual truth of the Father’s will, to be connected with God in such a way. Many times we here of married people who have lived with each other in such an intimate way that one is able to finish the other’s sentence, the though, of the other. This is the sense of this spiritual wisdom, to be able to finish the though of God and to understand, to comprehend his will, it’s importance, especially for the direction of our lives.
As I was awaken this morning the Lord impressed this upon me, that I am called to never stop praying for you and I am never to stop asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
As you are preparing for this morning, just know that His will is being accomplished in your life. Seek first his kingdom, share with boldness, stand firm for his Word, declare his will to the people in your life.
I love you
DEVOTION
COLOSSIANS
PRAYING FOR YOU
Col 1:9
9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
NIV
How is it possible for one believer not to pray for another? Have we not been called to pray for one another with out ceasing? And here we see a special purpose for praying, that our fellow believer will be filled with the knowledge of God’s will.
How important it is for each believer to have a complete knowledge of the Father’s will, and to have it through spiritual wisdom and understanding. That is to have the sense within, to grasp the deep spiritual truth of the Father’s will, to be connected with God in such a way. Many times we here of married people who have lived with each other in such an intimate way that one is able to finish the other’s sentence, the though, of the other. This is the sense of this spiritual wisdom, to be able to finish the though of God and to understand, to comprehend his will, it’s importance, especially for the direction of our lives.
As I was awaken this morning the Lord impressed this upon me, that I am called to never stop praying for you and I am never to stop asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
As you are preparing for this morning, just know that His will is being accomplished in your life. Seek first his kingdom, share with boldness, stand firm for his Word, declare his will to the people in your life.
I love you
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Good News
DEVOTION
ROMANS
THE GOOD NEWS
Rom 16:25-27
25 Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, 26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him— 27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. NIV
The end of the letter to the Romans is here and I might add ends with a real mouth full of what appears on the surface to be quite a mystery. A mystery which was hidden for long ages past, that now has been revealed. It actually was there all along, but no one really understood until Jesus actually came and fulfilled all those prophetic writings. Now I have to admit, I am quite glad he did. It is because of the gospel preached by Paul, the Gospel, a good message, according to the Greek, that I am able to be within the Kingdom of God. I am part of all nations who might believe. I am one who does believe and tries me level best, but fails at times, to obey him. The good news, about Jesus was preached to me, as Paul preached it to those Romans, I heard the message tell me I was a sinner, I heard the message tell me the wages of my sin was death, I heard the message about the free gift of God, through Jesus Christ is eternal life. And, as the message told me, I believed in my heart that God raised him from the dead and I confessed with my mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, and I was saved. Now that is at the center of the whole issue of life right there. If I had never believed, if I had never accepted the free gift of God, if I had never believed in my heart God raised him from the dead and confess with my that Jesus Christ is Lord, I would not be saved, I would be a lost person destined to perish. I would not be within the Kingdom of God. I would, in fact, be destroyed fully, that is the meanings of this word perish. I am fully aware both what most people believe as heaven and hell will cease to exist as well, and all there will be is the Kingdom of God, the new city of Jerusalem, on a new earth. Either in or perish, that was my choice. I choose not to perish, but to live. But my choice was made possible by the only wise God and to him be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
ROMANS
THE GOOD NEWS
Rom 16:25-27
25 Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, 26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him— 27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. NIV
The end of the letter to the Romans is here and I might add ends with a real mouth full of what appears on the surface to be quite a mystery. A mystery which was hidden for long ages past, that now has been revealed. It actually was there all along, but no one really understood until Jesus actually came and fulfilled all those prophetic writings. Now I have to admit, I am quite glad he did. It is because of the gospel preached by Paul, the Gospel, a good message, according to the Greek, that I am able to be within the Kingdom of God. I am part of all nations who might believe. I am one who does believe and tries me level best, but fails at times, to obey him. The good news, about Jesus was preached to me, as Paul preached it to those Romans, I heard the message tell me I was a sinner, I heard the message tell me the wages of my sin was death, I heard the message about the free gift of God, through Jesus Christ is eternal life. And, as the message told me, I believed in my heart that God raised him from the dead and I confessed with my mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, and I was saved. Now that is at the center of the whole issue of life right there. If I had never believed, if I had never accepted the free gift of God, if I had never believed in my heart God raised him from the dead and confess with my that Jesus Christ is Lord, I would not be saved, I would be a lost person destined to perish. I would not be within the Kingdom of God. I would, in fact, be destroyed fully, that is the meanings of this word perish. I am fully aware both what most people believe as heaven and hell will cease to exist as well, and all there will be is the Kingdom of God, the new city of Jerusalem, on a new earth. Either in or perish, that was my choice. I choose not to perish, but to live. But my choice was made possible by the only wise God and to him be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Victory
DEVOTION
ROMANS
VICTORY
Rom 16:20
20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
NIV
It has been a long time that Satan has been at the top of his game, trying with all his worth to destroy the kingdom of God. Me, being a part of that Kingdom are fair game for this master thief, this consummate liar, this temper of my mind, soul and body. There is no question he places numerous illusions and make bizarre promises in an all out effort to get me to turn from my course and leave the Kingdom of God to follow after his ways instead. He endeavors to sway me with whatever he thinks I might yield to, in order to prove to God I am not worthy of being in the Kingdom, that God should kick me out as he did Satan. This, I believe is his tactic, his game plan, to make me guilty and thus punishable by God.
But, praise God, Satan fails at this task, true I am actually be guilty, in fact I am guilty, I am a sinner saved by grace. And I have no illusions of now being a perfect human being, without a trace of sin within my being. Sin exists, Satan keeps at it, I fail, but God does not kick me out of the Kingdom, because he, himself, reconciled himself to me, through Christ and Jesus paid that price for me to be able to be in the Kingdom and to stay in the Kingdom. The second part of this statement carries so much meaning and proves of my being in the kingdom. The grace of our Lord Jesus is with me. The “charis” the divine influence upon my heart and it’s reflection in my life is the prove. Jesus has a divine influence upon me, as a member of his body, as a citizen of the kingdom of God. Much in the way a king would have influence over his subjects in an earthly kingdom, with the power of life or death over citizens within his realm, Jesus has influence over me, plus he protects me as his citizen, as his friend, as his servant. His divine influence gives me guidance and brings peace and contentment within my being. What a joy to know he will be with me even unto the end. Satan may try to destroy the Kingdom of God, but he will lose, and I, because of Jesus will win, in fact I am already a winner, because I am not a citizen of this world, but a citizen of the Kingdom of God. This world is not my home, I am just passing through, my treasures are laid up beyond the blue, the Angels beckon me from heavens open door and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore
ROMANS
VICTORY
Rom 16:20
20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
NIV
It has been a long time that Satan has been at the top of his game, trying with all his worth to destroy the kingdom of God. Me, being a part of that Kingdom are fair game for this master thief, this consummate liar, this temper of my mind, soul and body. There is no question he places numerous illusions and make bizarre promises in an all out effort to get me to turn from my course and leave the Kingdom of God to follow after his ways instead. He endeavors to sway me with whatever he thinks I might yield to, in order to prove to God I am not worthy of being in the Kingdom, that God should kick me out as he did Satan. This, I believe is his tactic, his game plan, to make me guilty and thus punishable by God.
But, praise God, Satan fails at this task, true I am actually be guilty, in fact I am guilty, I am a sinner saved by grace. And I have no illusions of now being a perfect human being, without a trace of sin within my being. Sin exists, Satan keeps at it, I fail, but God does not kick me out of the Kingdom, because he, himself, reconciled himself to me, through Christ and Jesus paid that price for me to be able to be in the Kingdom and to stay in the Kingdom. The second part of this statement carries so much meaning and proves of my being in the kingdom. The grace of our Lord Jesus is with me. The “charis” the divine influence upon my heart and it’s reflection in my life is the prove. Jesus has a divine influence upon me, as a member of his body, as a citizen of the kingdom of God. Much in the way a king would have influence over his subjects in an earthly kingdom, with the power of life or death over citizens within his realm, Jesus has influence over me, plus he protects me as his citizen, as his friend, as his servant. His divine influence gives me guidance and brings peace and contentment within my being. What a joy to know he will be with me even unto the end. Satan may try to destroy the Kingdom of God, but he will lose, and I, because of Jesus will win, in fact I am already a winner, because I am not a citizen of this world, but a citizen of the Kingdom of God. This world is not my home, I am just passing through, my treasures are laid up beyond the blue, the Angels beckon me from heavens open door and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Over You
DEVOTION
ROMANS
OVER YOU
Rom 16:18-19
19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
NIV
As I come to the end of this letter to the Romans I am struck with the thought about being full of joy over someone else being obedient to the Gospel, to Christ, to God, or to the Word, whichever it may be. In a world of such self awareness, and so many sermons I here that are focused on my being aware of my own journey with Christ I am seeing here I might be mislead. Now I know I hear about loving God and Loving my neighbor. I know I hear about serving others. I know I hear about spreading the Gospel not just through words but by deeds. I know I hear about doing what is right in the sight of God and all those things, but they still focus in me, I what I am doing for the Kingdom, what I am doing in my obedience to Christ, my journey. The question is, how much do I hear about someone else being obedient and am I full of joy over them? As well as am I concerned about them being wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil? It surely would seem I should be focused on others walk with the Lord as much, if not more so, then my own. Is this a special calling of God upon me or is it a general calling upon all believers? Is it the heart of a shepherd or pastor who is filled with joy over others journey of obedience? Should every believer be so concerned about others they are filled with joy over them as well? It would seem this is a statement by Paul, who was a shepherd, a personal note of his own feeling about those God had place under his direction. I think rather than a general call to all believers to fulfill this kind of concern, it is a specific call to those who are moved by this verse, to those who hear that call from God to look after the spiritual well being of others. To those who are motivated to have that heart which gets filled because of those who God has placed under his care, are living a life of being obedient. I sense that type of joy when someone who God has placed within my influence, tells me of how something I have said, either in a bible study, a sermon or something in my book has enlightened their journey with Christ. Maybe I am a shepherd after all. Oh God help me!
ROMANS
OVER YOU
Rom 16:18-19
19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
NIV
As I come to the end of this letter to the Romans I am struck with the thought about being full of joy over someone else being obedient to the Gospel, to Christ, to God, or to the Word, whichever it may be. In a world of such self awareness, and so many sermons I here that are focused on my being aware of my own journey with Christ I am seeing here I might be mislead. Now I know I hear about loving God and Loving my neighbor. I know I hear about serving others. I know I hear about spreading the Gospel not just through words but by deeds. I know I hear about doing what is right in the sight of God and all those things, but they still focus in me, I what I am doing for the Kingdom, what I am doing in my obedience to Christ, my journey. The question is, how much do I hear about someone else being obedient and am I full of joy over them? As well as am I concerned about them being wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil? It surely would seem I should be focused on others walk with the Lord as much, if not more so, then my own. Is this a special calling of God upon me or is it a general calling upon all believers? Is it the heart of a shepherd or pastor who is filled with joy over others journey of obedience? Should every believer be so concerned about others they are filled with joy over them as well? It would seem this is a statement by Paul, who was a shepherd, a personal note of his own feeling about those God had place under his direction. I think rather than a general call to all believers to fulfill this kind of concern, it is a specific call to those who are moved by this verse, to those who hear that call from God to look after the spiritual well being of others. To those who are motivated to have that heart which gets filled because of those who God has placed under his care, are living a life of being obedient. I sense that type of joy when someone who God has placed within my influence, tells me of how something I have said, either in a bible study, a sermon or something in my book has enlightened their journey with Christ. Maybe I am a shepherd after all. Oh God help me!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Divided
DEVOTION
ROMANS
DIVIDED
Rom 16:17-19
17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. NIV
There are so many voices of smoothness in this world today; it is easy to understand how people may be deceived. The idea here for me is do I listen to any of them? I have to say absolutely not. Yet I have to ask, what makes my thinking correct? I am not so concerned about ignoring the smooth talk of the unsaved world. I will not be distracted from the truth of the Gospel with that type of talk. But what about all the smooth talk of other believers and their arguments about doctrinal issues? There are so many different denominations who all believe their particular brand of Christianity is the right one. Does all this cause divisions among the body of Christ? I surely think so. Do I cause divisions? I may, but if I listen to them and agree I believe I would be in violation of the truth. I suppose it would be even worse if I internalized this division. I must watch out for those who would endeavor to cause a division within myself over the truth with teachings which do not line up with the truth I have learned through my own studies as guided by the Spirit. Now, I ask myself if that is some form of spiritual pride, and I answer with a resounding No! I do know I will not be moved by great oratory and arguments using portions of the scriptures to substantiate some doctrine or theological position which differs from the truth I have learned. Yet I cannot help but feel too many people have done just that. They have allowed themselves to be convinced into some form of thinking by some smooth talking individual. Again, so many denominations, so many divisions among people who claim to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. So many, but do I dare think they are intent on serving their own appetites? I have to admit those smooth voices which flood the airways, seeking super large crowds which produce super large sums of money for lifestyles that equal that of the rich and famous are certainly who the scriptures talk about here. I have not and will not be deceived by them. I will not be divided. I am united with my Lord.
ROMANS
DIVIDED
Rom 16:17-19
17 I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. NIV
There are so many voices of smoothness in this world today; it is easy to understand how people may be deceived. The idea here for me is do I listen to any of them? I have to say absolutely not. Yet I have to ask, what makes my thinking correct? I am not so concerned about ignoring the smooth talk of the unsaved world. I will not be distracted from the truth of the Gospel with that type of talk. But what about all the smooth talk of other believers and their arguments about doctrinal issues? There are so many different denominations who all believe their particular brand of Christianity is the right one. Does all this cause divisions among the body of Christ? I surely think so. Do I cause divisions? I may, but if I listen to them and agree I believe I would be in violation of the truth. I suppose it would be even worse if I internalized this division. I must watch out for those who would endeavor to cause a division within myself over the truth with teachings which do not line up with the truth I have learned through my own studies as guided by the Spirit. Now, I ask myself if that is some form of spiritual pride, and I answer with a resounding No! I do know I will not be moved by great oratory and arguments using portions of the scriptures to substantiate some doctrine or theological position which differs from the truth I have learned. Yet I cannot help but feel too many people have done just that. They have allowed themselves to be convinced into some form of thinking by some smooth talking individual. Again, so many denominations, so many divisions among people who claim to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. So many, but do I dare think they are intent on serving their own appetites? I have to admit those smooth voices which flood the airways, seeking super large crowds which produce super large sums of money for lifestyles that equal that of the rich and famous are certainly who the scriptures talk about here. I have not and will not be deceived by them. I will not be divided. I am united with my Lord.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Joining
DEVOTION
ROMANS
JOINING
Rom 15:30-33
30 I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. 31 Pray that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints there, 32 so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed. 33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen. NIV
How many times do I pray for others during their time of struggles? Times of difficult situations and times of pain and suffering are a part of every believer’s life. To think because I am a child of God, I will always live in a bed of roses is simply stupid thinking. I have had my struggles, but God has always been there to see me through and therefore I must conclude he is always there to see other believers through their times of struggles as well. So I have to ask, what is the point of others praying for me, or me praying for them? God already knows when I or they are going through a struggle and he is there comforting, encouraging, sustaining, providing, and guiding through those times. So why bother praying, is the question in my little brain. Perhaps it is the sense of community created by praying for each other. Perhaps it creates a bond, a forming of the body of Christ, all parts functioning to serve and be served by all other parts. Certainly God can act without my praying for someone. He also can act without them praying for me. But he does desire for me to do just that, to pray for someone who is going through a struggle. He desires for me to be a part of their life and for them to be a part of mine. Prayer brings me closer to them. Yet I also have to see, a certain amount of transparently needed here. Instead of keeping things inside, not sharing those struggles, I have to; they have to be open and forthright about having difficulties. All too often, the false front, consent smile and “Praise the Lord” fill the community of believers and hinder the bond of praying for each other. I am guilty of this, of that I am sure. Does admitting struggles show a lack of faith? Is that what I am afraid of? Is it a form of spiritual pride, not wanting others to think I lack faith? Or is it truly a sign of great faith in our God to have others joining me in my struggle by praying for me? I think so. Does it also bring God the glory in the answer? I know so! Does that not refresh everyone? I am sure of it. It comes down to joining.
ROMANS
JOINING
Rom 15:30-33
30 I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. 31 Pray that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints there, 32 so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed. 33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen. NIV
How many times do I pray for others during their time of struggles? Times of difficult situations and times of pain and suffering are a part of every believer’s life. To think because I am a child of God, I will always live in a bed of roses is simply stupid thinking. I have had my struggles, but God has always been there to see me through and therefore I must conclude he is always there to see other believers through their times of struggles as well. So I have to ask, what is the point of others praying for me, or me praying for them? God already knows when I or they are going through a struggle and he is there comforting, encouraging, sustaining, providing, and guiding through those times. So why bother praying, is the question in my little brain. Perhaps it is the sense of community created by praying for each other. Perhaps it creates a bond, a forming of the body of Christ, all parts functioning to serve and be served by all other parts. Certainly God can act without my praying for someone. He also can act without them praying for me. But he does desire for me to do just that, to pray for someone who is going through a struggle. He desires for me to be a part of their life and for them to be a part of mine. Prayer brings me closer to them. Yet I also have to see, a certain amount of transparently needed here. Instead of keeping things inside, not sharing those struggles, I have to; they have to be open and forthright about having difficulties. All too often, the false front, consent smile and “Praise the Lord” fill the community of believers and hinder the bond of praying for each other. I am guilty of this, of that I am sure. Does admitting struggles show a lack of faith? Is that what I am afraid of? Is it a form of spiritual pride, not wanting others to think I lack faith? Or is it truly a sign of great faith in our God to have others joining me in my struggle by praying for me? I think so. Does it also bring God the glory in the answer? I know so! Does that not refresh everyone? I am sure of it. It comes down to joining.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Sharing
DEVOTION
ROMANS
SHARING
Rom 15:23-24
23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to see you, 24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to visit you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.
NIV
I know all scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so I may be thoroughly equipped for every good work, because the word says so in 2 Tim 3: 16-17. So want can I get here? It appears simply the plans of Paul regarding his desire to visit those believers in Rome. I do have to ask myself, if I long to see others? I do have to ask myself if when I do see them, do I enjoy their company? What type of assistance were they suppose to give him? Am I supposed to assist others on their journey? Are others supposed to assist me on my journey? What kind of journey, physical or spiritual? It certainly appears there is some sort of interdependence between them. A weaving of souls so to speak, a set of living stones being built into the temple of God. I think this is what it is all about within the words here. Before I was saved I thought of myself as an island, I did not need anyone nor wanted anyone to need me. I was alone and without others and I liked it that way. But God would not have me be like that, as he does desire me to be a part of his plan. I should desire to be with others, to enjoy their company, to assist, and here I will use spiritual, journey. Although I do believe there may be some I should assist on their physical journey. How I do that, I am not sure in this culture, but it still may be my responsibility to assist. Then I also must be willing to accept others helping me along my journey as well. Giving and receiving, living a life as part of the body of Christ, with personal relationships built upon the Word. This is it; this is want I must be doing. It is still difficult to be like that completely, as it appears I should be. I have to admit I am not always thrilled at the prospect of being with others, I do enjoy the solitude of my own mind, perhaps more then I should. Am I selfish with myself, not really wanting to share me with others, or wanting them to share themselves with me? I have to think about this more. So I may need some of that rebuking part, or correcting part about these verses.
ROMANS
SHARING
Rom 15:23-24
23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to see you, 24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to visit you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.
NIV
I know all scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so I may be thoroughly equipped for every good work, because the word says so in 2 Tim 3: 16-17. So want can I get here? It appears simply the plans of Paul regarding his desire to visit those believers in Rome. I do have to ask myself, if I long to see others? I do have to ask myself if when I do see them, do I enjoy their company? What type of assistance were they suppose to give him? Am I supposed to assist others on their journey? Are others supposed to assist me on my journey? What kind of journey, physical or spiritual? It certainly appears there is some sort of interdependence between them. A weaving of souls so to speak, a set of living stones being built into the temple of God. I think this is what it is all about within the words here. Before I was saved I thought of myself as an island, I did not need anyone nor wanted anyone to need me. I was alone and without others and I liked it that way. But God would not have me be like that, as he does desire me to be a part of his plan. I should desire to be with others, to enjoy their company, to assist, and here I will use spiritual, journey. Although I do believe there may be some I should assist on their physical journey. How I do that, I am not sure in this culture, but it still may be my responsibility to assist. Then I also must be willing to accept others helping me along my journey as well. Giving and receiving, living a life as part of the body of Christ, with personal relationships built upon the Word. This is it; this is want I must be doing. It is still difficult to be like that completely, as it appears I should be. I have to admit I am not always thrilled at the prospect of being with others, I do enjoy the solitude of my own mind, perhaps more then I should. Am I selfish with myself, not really wanting to share me with others, or wanting them to share themselves with me? I have to think about this more. So I may need some of that rebuking part, or correcting part about these verses.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Talking and Walking
DEVOTION
ROMANS
TALKING AND WALKING
Rom 15:18-21
18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and miracles, through the power of the Spirit. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. 20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation. 21 Rather, as it is written: "Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand." NIV
As I get to this ending part of this letter to the Romans it is filled with personal notes and greetings from Paul and I am wondering of what I can glean for myself and my journey with the Lord. Then it dawns on me, he is talking about a physical journey, yet I am on, or should be on both a spiritual and a physical journey as well. I have been sent, as has everyone to someplace and not for my purpose but rather for the purpose to lead others to obey God by what I say and do. But the thought here which really strikes a chord in my heart is the part about not speaking of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me. Does this mean us all, I should not engage in the trite small talk, the banter of everyday life? I know we waste an awful amount of time talking about foolishness, myself included of course. I digress, I guess keeping myself from the point of having been sent. I am where I am because God desires for me to lead others to obey him by what I say and do. I said that, but got off track and now am back on to this point. Although the waver was worth it and has value also, I think I really need to focus on this task more. Is preaching, teaching and writing the fullness of my calling to lead others. That is what I say, but what about what I do? Back to not just talking the walk, but walking the talk, I think. Do I walk the talk? By my actions, my life, my doing, do I lead others to obey Christ? Is the power of signs and miracles through the power of the Spirit a part of my life? Is it evident? I have to say to myself, I think so. Having supposed to be dead from my heart attack, and not because of the miracle of God, I think displays some evidence of that. Living by faith still another. I think I could count some ways, but will refrain. Do I encourage others to obey God? I certainly hope so. That is want I do believe my calling is. I just want to walk it as much as I talk it. For this I need the power of the Spirit more and more for life does bring alone many ways to get distracted from this walk, this journey both spiritual and physical.
ROMANS
TALKING AND WALKING
Rom 15:18-21
18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and miracles, through the power of the Spirit. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. 20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation. 21 Rather, as it is written: "Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand." NIV
As I get to this ending part of this letter to the Romans it is filled with personal notes and greetings from Paul and I am wondering of what I can glean for myself and my journey with the Lord. Then it dawns on me, he is talking about a physical journey, yet I am on, or should be on both a spiritual and a physical journey as well. I have been sent, as has everyone to someplace and not for my purpose but rather for the purpose to lead others to obey God by what I say and do. But the thought here which really strikes a chord in my heart is the part about not speaking of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me. Does this mean us all, I should not engage in the trite small talk, the banter of everyday life? I know we waste an awful amount of time talking about foolishness, myself included of course. I digress, I guess keeping myself from the point of having been sent. I am where I am because God desires for me to lead others to obey him by what I say and do. I said that, but got off track and now am back on to this point. Although the waver was worth it and has value also, I think I really need to focus on this task more. Is preaching, teaching and writing the fullness of my calling to lead others. That is what I say, but what about what I do? Back to not just talking the walk, but walking the talk, I think. Do I walk the talk? By my actions, my life, my doing, do I lead others to obey Christ? Is the power of signs and miracles through the power of the Spirit a part of my life? Is it evident? I have to say to myself, I think so. Having supposed to be dead from my heart attack, and not because of the miracle of God, I think displays some evidence of that. Living by faith still another. I think I could count some ways, but will refrain. Do I encourage others to obey God? I certainly hope so. That is want I do believe my calling is. I just want to walk it as much as I talk it. For this I need the power of the Spirit more and more for life does bring alone many ways to get distracted from this walk, this journey both spiritual and physical.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Glory in Christ
DEVOTION
ROMANS
GLORY IN CHRIST
Rom 15:17
17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.
NIV
A short and to the point verse which is a personal observation of Paul about himself, and so how do I work with this in regards to myself? Do I glory in Christ in my service to God? That would seem to be the opposite of glorifying self in my service to God. I often feel a little awkward when people tell me, “that was a good sermon” or “great lesson” “you’re a great teacher” or something like that. I think it would be a lot like applauding the pastor after a sermon. I really feel funny when I hear the congregation applaud the choir after a special number. These people are glorying in Christ in their service to God. It is a ministry and why do we applaud them, I always thought you applaud an entertainer. So here I am, with a ministry of teaching, preaching and writing in service to God. What I do is because of the calling from God to do those things, and the empowering of the Holy Spirit to do them. I have nothing in and of myself, it is all of and from him. Therefore there should be no applause, no words of praise for me, but rather for God. For what he has done for me, and is doing in me and what he is doing through me. I understand my position, I am a sinner saved by grace. I am not worthy of any words of praise. I simply am doing what I have been called to do. Even that, my obedience cannot be praised for it is because the Spirit empowers me to be just that. If I were left to my own devices, it would be just that my vices, not my obedience. Praise God, he is able to complete the work in me he began! Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.
ROMANS
GLORY IN CHRIST
Rom 15:17
17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.
NIV
A short and to the point verse which is a personal observation of Paul about himself, and so how do I work with this in regards to myself? Do I glory in Christ in my service to God? That would seem to be the opposite of glorifying self in my service to God. I often feel a little awkward when people tell me, “that was a good sermon” or “great lesson” “you’re a great teacher” or something like that. I think it would be a lot like applauding the pastor after a sermon. I really feel funny when I hear the congregation applaud the choir after a special number. These people are glorying in Christ in their service to God. It is a ministry and why do we applaud them, I always thought you applaud an entertainer. So here I am, with a ministry of teaching, preaching and writing in service to God. What I do is because of the calling from God to do those things, and the empowering of the Holy Spirit to do them. I have nothing in and of myself, it is all of and from him. Therefore there should be no applause, no words of praise for me, but rather for God. For what he has done for me, and is doing in me and what he is doing through me. I understand my position, I am a sinner saved by grace. I am not worthy of any words of praise. I simply am doing what I have been called to do. Even that, my obedience cannot be praised for it is because the Spirit empowers me to be just that. If I were left to my own devices, it would be just that my vices, not my obedience. Praise God, he is able to complete the work in me he began! Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.
Convinced
DEVOTION
ROMANS
CONVINCED
Rom 15:14-16
14 I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another. 15 I have written you quite boldly on some points, as if to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. NIV
Here is something I think I should get a total grip on. I must ask myself this question. Am I full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct others? If I were asked this question by another and forced to answer, I would have to say perhaps in part. I truly am not sure I am full of goodness. Now I surely have some goodness in me, after all I do have Christ. But to say I am full of goodness, that might be a stretch. I also know that I do have some knowledge. I have studied the scriptures for years, I have taken time to examine Hebrew and Greek words to enhance my understanding, but again I am not sure I could claim that I am complete in my knowledge. I have much to learn, far more then I have already learned. Then again knowledge is simply knowledge, putting into practice is the difficult part I struggle with. Trying to apply knowledge to my everyday life and my relationship with those around me is most difficult at best. The last of these three is competent to instruct and again I have to say to myself, although I do that, I instruct others in the Word, I am not confident of my competence. All of these, I am completely, totally, one hundred percent dependent on my Lord and Savior for. He is full of goodness, complete in knowledge and extremely competent to instruct. I have to look and rely in him for all of that. I can only hope I am open to his work in me. I have told others, and I tell myself daily, it is him who does all things for me, in me and through me. This is want I am convinced of.
ROMANS
CONVINCED
Rom 15:14-16
14 I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another. 15 I have written you quite boldly on some points, as if to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. NIV
Here is something I think I should get a total grip on. I must ask myself this question. Am I full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct others? If I were asked this question by another and forced to answer, I would have to say perhaps in part. I truly am not sure I am full of goodness. Now I surely have some goodness in me, after all I do have Christ. But to say I am full of goodness, that might be a stretch. I also know that I do have some knowledge. I have studied the scriptures for years, I have taken time to examine Hebrew and Greek words to enhance my understanding, but again I am not sure I could claim that I am complete in my knowledge. I have much to learn, far more then I have already learned. Then again knowledge is simply knowledge, putting into practice is the difficult part I struggle with. Trying to apply knowledge to my everyday life and my relationship with those around me is most difficult at best. The last of these three is competent to instruct and again I have to say to myself, although I do that, I instruct others in the Word, I am not confident of my competence. All of these, I am completely, totally, one hundred percent dependent on my Lord and Savior for. He is full of goodness, complete in knowledge and extremely competent to instruct. I have to look and rely in him for all of that. I can only hope I am open to his work in me. I have told others, and I tell myself daily, it is him who does all things for me, in me and through me. This is want I am convinced of.
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