The Lord's Good Plan

"He was oppressed and treated harshly,

yet he never said a word.

He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.

And as a sheep is silent before the shearers,

he did not open his mouth.

Unjustly condemned,

he was led away.

No one cared that he died without descendants,

that his life was cut short in midstream.

But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people.

He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone.

But he was buried like a criminal;

he was put in a rich man's grave.

But it was the LORD's good plan to crush him

and cause him grief.

Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,

he will have many descendants.

He will enjoy a long life,

and the LORD's good plan will prosper in his hands."

Isaiah 53:7-10 NLT

There are at least a hundred cases in the United States of innocent people who have been wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to death row.  It's heartbreaking to see how their lives have been stolen from them and it's equally as infuriating to think that the justice system failed them so outrageously.  With all the checks and balances in place, this kind of injustice should never occur in a free country, yet it does more often than can be imagined.

Such wrongful death suits are nothing new, however.  Over two thousand years ago a similar case involving a humble Jewish teacher occurred in Roman-occupied Israel.  By all accounts this man spent his time helping others, giving them a new lease on life and showing them wonders never before seen.  He turned the religious system on its head, shaking up the status quo and calling out the hypocrisy found deep within the hearts of its leaders.  With all the good this carpenter's son from Galilee accomplished, he stepped on the wrong toes and thus was sentenced to death, death on a cross.

As infuriating as it is to see that an innocent man gave His life in such a brutal way, it amazes me to realize it was all a part of the Lord's good plan.

Offering.  The once perfect world is now tainted, corrupted and broken by the sin that came through Adam's disobedience (Romans 5:12).  Because of the wickedness of man, relationship with God is impossible.  His holiness cannot abide with such immorality as is found in His image bearers.  Thus He instituted the offering as a way to find forgiveness (Exodus 29:10-14).  So His people continuously laid their animal sacrifices on the altar as a way to find pardon for their transgressions (Leviticus 17:11).  But it was a temporary clemency at best, and only lasted until the next offense was committed, perhaps on the way home from the temple (Hebrews 10:1-3).  

Then came the permanent and eternal solution to this problem of sin.  Jesus Christ agreed to enter into the realm of men, becoming one Himself and presenting His own life as an offering for the transgressions committed by all for all time (Hebrews 7:27, 1 Peter 2:24).  His one perfect sacrifice proved to be enough to satisfy the justice of His Father, and His blood secured the forgiveness for all who repent and believe (Hebrews 10:10-12, 9:22).  Now I can be made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ and His sin offering given on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21).  I can now find forgiveness from God for as many times as needed (1 John 1:9)!

The brutal, unjust death of an innocent Man on the cross of Calvary was all a part of the Lord's good plan to deliver permanent forgiveness to those who turn away from sin and trust in Jesus.

Gateway.  The town I grew up in was dubbed "The Gateway to Mt Rainier" since visitors to the scenic national park must travel through the small village before heading up into the hills to enjoy the recreation found there.   While this designation may have had a small influence on the local economy, the description made more of a sentimental impact on the hearts of those who took pride in the looming mountain's visual impact on the surrounding area.  The presence of the snow-covered peak made quite an impression and appeared on many logos and signs as the town's defining landmark.

Similarly, Jesus described Himself as a gateway of sorts, but not to a scenic park.  Instead, He is the only way through which one can enter into eternal life.  He is the door that leads to an everlasting kingdom with wonders untold (John 10:9-10).  By turning away from my desire to control my life my way and instead placing it all in His hands, I can discover what it is to have peace with God and hope for tomorrow.  No longer do I fear death, failure, or the future, for my destiny is secure.  By faith I have entered into the family of God and look forward to a place in His heavenly home (John 14:2-3).

The unspeakable death of an innocent Man transformed Him into a gateway through which all who repent and believe can find an eternal, satisfying life.

Victory.  The air itself is oppressive in this world, filled with particles that send the respiratory system into revolt.  Pain and suffering mark it's boundaries and all taste the agony of living in this broken world.  At the end of it all, each man must face death, and the inevitable looms as a dark and unwelcome phantom, striking dread in the hearts of mankind.  I live in a world marked by fear and oppression.

When Jesus gave His life on the cross, He proclaimed victory over sin and death.  While the world remains in a broken state, there is now a way to live in it without becoming tainted by it.  Through repentance and faith in Jesus, I can find peace despite the fact that there is so much to fear.  I can be freed from the shackles that bind me to my flesh that always leads me to destruction and instead walk in liberty as I find the new way of living in tandem with His indwelling Spirit (Galatians 5:16-26).  And as I do, I find victory over sin and the end of my life no longer is thought of with great dread (1 Corinthians 15:57, Romans 8:37).  Instead, I look forward to the reward that lies beyond as I stand firm on the promises of God.

The horrible death of an innocent Man delivered by faith victory for me over sin and death.

It seemed wrong, unjust and harsh: This Man, wrongly accused and condemned to death on a cursed cross.  Yet if I look a little closer, I discover it was all a part of God's good plan.  And as such, the sacrifice of Jesus became a sin offering that was permanent and eternal, delivering forgiveness to all who repent and believe, and served as a gateway to an everlasting, satisfying life, showing itself as the mark of victory over sin and death.  In these ways, the worst-ever scenario was revealed as the Lord's good plan.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God enough to put my life in His hands.

When do I trust more in my own effort instead of in what Jesus has already done?

How do I doubt my complete forgiveness found in Christ?

     

Who to Trust?

"Do not put your trust in princes,

in human beings, who cannot save.

When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;

on that very day their plans come to nothing.

Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,

whose hope is in the LORD their God."

Psalm 146:3-5 

It's election season!  As we delve into another long period of mud slinging, broken promises and hopeful anticipation, let's carefully consider whom we should entrust with this job of leading our country, of changing policy for the better, of directing the course of our future.  

Often, I place my faith in people who make confident and optimistic claims of their ability to create a better world in which we live.  I wonder about the direction this country is headed and wonder which candidate I should entrust with my vote, hoping against all hope that this time will be different, that this politician will truly live up to his lofty promises, that this man or woman will shake up the status quo and get things done.  

It's easy to place my trust in someone who makes wonderful pledges, has a sincere heart and a good plan, thinking if we don't elect the right person all will be lost.  Or is my trust better served in another place?

Help.  There is only so much man can do to help his fellow man.  He can claim to be trustworthy, but he will always change his mind on some point as his perspective changes throughout his life, letting down many people in the process.  Humans also tend to make lofty arguments about their ability to judge judiciously, giving everyone a fair shake.  I wonder, though, if it's even possible for any created being to think and act impartially 100% of the time.  We can also have the best of intentions to provide for all who are in need, but man is only man, after all, and will fail to deliver at some point.

If I place my hope in mankind, politician or otherwise, I will be let down.  Man is here today and gone tomorrow; what impact can mere humans make on their own?  Therefore, trust that is placed in the Lord our God, maker of heaven and earth, is a trust well-placed.  I will never be sorry that I placed my confidence in Him to uphold "the cause of the oppressed and [give] food to the hungry."  (Psalm 146:7)

As election season approaches, may I remember to choose a candidate wisely yet remember that God is the only One who can truly help in a way that makes a lasting difference.

Liberation.  People gather to protest.  Thugs take the opportunity to loot and wreak havoc.  Commentators and self-appointed spokespeople give their opinions.  Still, people remain imprisoned by their own destructive lifestyles, blinded by ignorance, and toppled off their pedestal by foolishness.  Is there anyone who can save us from ourselves?

Only God is able to set free those who are bound by sin and the consequences of destructive choices.  Only God can open up the eyes of the arrogantly unknowing.  Only God has the ability to place all things in proper order, giving deference to those who humble themselves before Him (v 7b-8).

As election season approaches, may I remember to choose a candidate wisely yet remember that God is the only One who can liberate us from our foolish ways.

Protection.  It's hard to see the vulnerable taken advantage of:  Widows suffer.  Orphans long for a loving home.  Single moms do the best they can.  Leaders rise up, making claims of passing laws to protect their rights, dispersing funds to help their plight, and forming committees to study how best to preserve lives.  Still, while their efforts are appreciated, there is only so much man can do on his own.

If I think that man is the one who is my best chance at protecting the mentally ill who suffer, or the alien who came with the hope of a better life only to be taken advantage of, or the homeless who are at the end of their rope, I'll be disappointed time and time again.  While those who follow Jesus are called to take up the cause of such as these, it is only through the power of a loving God that anyone is able to accomplish anything of worth.  It is God who is the ultimate Protector, who watches over the weak and upholds the cause of the vulnerable.  Therefore, I'd best align myself with Him and join in where He is already at work.

As election season approaches, may I remember to choose a candidate wisely yet remember that God is the only One who can protect the helpless.

As politicians make grand speeches and deliver inspirational messages, its easy for me to jump on their bandwagon, believing they will be the one who can bring about the change we so desperately need.  Unfortunately, if I place all my trust in man I will be let down.  Therefore, I'd be wise to trust in God who is the only One who can truly help, liberate and protect.  He is my great Hope, and I will never be disappointed when I place my faith in Him!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God enough to believe He is my only hope.

When do I get caught up in a politician's promises, hoping they will give us a better tomorrow?

How am I foolishly giving man the confidence that only God can handle? 

Love Warns

"We give thanks to you, O God;

we give thanks, for your name is near.

We recount your wondrous deeds.

'At the set time that I appoint

I will judge with equity.

When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants,

it is I who keep steady its pillars."

Psalm 75:1-3

It is coming.  Whether I want it or not, judgement is coming.  Even if the world is not ready, the time will come when each must stand before the Lord and give an accounting of choices made, words uttered, lives lived (Romans 14:12).  

With such a sober inevitability as this, to be judged by a just Judge, it is time to warn others.  True love does not stand by and let people continue living as if there will be no consequences for their sin (1 Corinthians 13:6).  God's brand of love warns others of the judgment that is to come.  As Jesus demonstrated, love says, "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near." (Matthew 4:17 NLT)

Love does not stand by quietly, but love warns.

Promotion.  It's hard to be a writer and not be ambitious.  In order to get the word out about what I write, I must promote.  The world says to extol my own virtues and pump myself up, while God wants me to let Him do the lifting.  Only God can give success and without His favor, there will be no measure of achievement.  It's a lesson I am learning, slowly.

The world sends a message that is contrary to God's best for me.  It says that I must go after what I want if I am to reach my goals and live a meaningful life.  God meant it to be different than this.  He doesn't want me focused on me and what I want, but on Him and what He wants.  When it's all about my life, my goals, my purpose, I am naturally quite self-centered and will never feeling content with whatever level I reach.  Why?  Because nothing is ever enough.  

Only God can satisfy my deepest desires, and only He can bring fulfillment to my searching heart.  Even if I became the most popular writer in the world, it would not mean a thing apart from God.  He is the treasure I run after.

Love warns of the emptiness in running after selfish dreams that lead to self-promotion.  Only God can promote.

Placement.  I tend to want to put prideful, haughty people in their place, taking them down a few notches when they spout their arrogant words.  It bugs me when someone acts as if they are so good that they can tell everyone what to do, as if they know what is best for me or anyone else.  The trouble with my attempts at chastening another is that sometimes I am that prideful, haughty person.  It is true; only God can humble a man (Daniel 4:37).

It comes naturally to my flesh for my feathers to be ruffled.  When I try to take matters into my own hands and attempt to put someone in the place I think they need to be, I am forgetting that God is the only One who knows what it takes for each person to be humbled.  For some, it is an illness.  For others, it is the loss of a job or position of importance.  For a few, it is a broken marriage or other relationship.  Whatever it takes, God will do it in order to reconcile them to Himself.

Love warns of the reality that God is in the business of reconciliation, and sometimes that comes through the rude and harsh wake-up calls of life.

Justice.  It will be perfect and just.  There will be no question it is what is owed.  It may seem harsh or too strict, but only God is righteous.  Judgement is coming.

Nothing will get past God.  He will not look the other way when it comes to all the ways of man that offend Him.  Only the blood of Jesus will cover sins and provide a measure of protection against His righteous wrath.  God's love does not allow for man to come to the judgment seat unaware.  He wants all to be saved from the serious consequences of sin (1 Timothy 2:4).  How will they know the truth of what is to come if they are not told (1 Peter 4:5-6, 2 Timothy 4:1-5)?  

Love warns of the coming judgment, and that it is perfectly just and true with no means of escape save one:  Jesus Christ!

Our only hope is Jesus.  The world must be told.  If they are never warned, they will face the harsh reality of a judgement before the Just Judge that will bring eternal consequences to bear.  Love does not let any go forth unaware, but desires that everyone know the truth of the Gospel and be given a chance to repent so as to escape the death sentence all sin demands.  Love does not idly stand by and let people live a life of selfish ambition in ignorance of God's attempt at reconciliation or of their eternal demise.  Love warns!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can stop using love as an excuse to not address the sin problem in this world and instead discover the boldness of God's brand of love to warn others of what is to come.

How am I idly sitting by while people all around me are destined for eternal suffering?

When is my fear of offending someone keeping me from saving them from something much worse than hurt feelings?

Justice is the Lord's

"It may be that the LORD will look on the wrong

done to me,

and that the LORD will repay me

with good for his cursing today."

2 Samuel 16:12 ESV

This is not the way a king should be treated.  David's men were ready to defend their friend and God-appointed ruler of Israel against this man who taunted him.  Wasn't it bad enough that his son Absolom was attempting to steal the throne away from him?  Now this man named Shimei was bold enough to curse the name of the rightful king as they fled Jerusalem, not even letting them escape in peace.  Instead, this bitter, angry man kept pace with them, throwing dirt in the air, hurling stones and giving David a piece of his mind.  Obviously, as a supporter of the former king Saul, Shimei would not let David forget his past. (2 Samuel 16:5-14)  Interestingly, instead of rising up in arms against Shimei, David lets it go, allowing the man to vent as they traveled. David decided to let God be the judge.  

Today, we live in a world driven by personal rights.  People will die fighting to defend their liberties and do whatever it take to protect their good name.  God, however, is the one true Judge.  Only He knows what is fair.  Therefore, I can have the same attitude as David did instead of being so easily offended, letting God decide who deserves what.

Heart

It seemed good enough to me.  I had never been to a powerlifting meet before entering my first competition, but I thought my squats were up to par.  Imagine my surprise, then, when the head judge scratched me from the competition, concluding that my lifts were not performed to standard.

It's easy for me to be my own judge and jury, using my own sense of right and wrong to form an opinion about my actions.  Only God knows the true state of my heart, separating the selfish ambition from the humble obedience, the decisions made out of fear from the acts of faith, the anxious spirit from the mind at rest.  If I rely on my own judgement, I'll give a poor assessment.

Therefore, I am wise to simply trust God instead of depending on my own faulty line of reasoning, submitting myself to Him in all areas of my life.  When I do so, the path He has marked out for me to travel will become clear.  (Proverbs 3:5-6)

It is also important that I seek God's opinion of my motives and impulses, inviting Him to explore my heart thoroughly.  As I let Him examine my inner-most thoughts and desires, He will determine what is driven by fleshly desires, where I am self-centered and anxious or how I am offending Him.  Only then will I know the true state of my heart.  (Psalm 139:23-24)

Once I have a more godly perspective of myself, I can seek God's restoration.  Only He can redirect my desires, making them line up more closely to His.  Only He can generate a passion within me for pleasing Him instead of myself.  Only He can change my drive, replacing my craving for self-satisfaction with a longing to do His will. (Psalm 51:10)

While it may be easy for me to give myself a pass, only God can determine the true state of my heart.

Fairness

"It's not fair!"  If I've heard it once, I've heard this cry of so-called injustice a thousand times.  Children and youth have a way of seeing the world from a purely selfish point-of-view.  Unfortunately, the years have not necessarily made me any wiser than they when it comes to judging the world objectively.

Only God knows what His children truly need at any given time.  While I might think circumstances are too harsh, His wise perspective reveals the need for a sober wake-up call.  When I judge a period of one crisis after another to be too much, He determines it is exactly what I need to learn to depend upon Him for my strength.  Even if I think I can't wait another minute for relief, God's perfect sense of timing tells a different story.

Therefore, I can rely on my Father to give me exactly what I need just when I need it.  Keeping this truth in mind helps when I'm facing the harsh that seems so undeserved, or the difficult that I judge as too much, or the hurting that I've determined is beyond what is reasonable.  If I am to walk by faith, believing that God has my best interest at heart, I must trust Him enough to accept what He allows into my life, knowing that He will use it to transform me into the image of His Son.  (Romans 8:28-29)

This life, then, is not so much about getting what I think I deserve.  Instead, it is about receiving what I need.  In place of focusing on my own comfort and rights, I must realize God is constantly in the process of molding and purifying me.  While it is easy to get caught up with the worldly practice of defending my reputation, I can replace that pursuit with a quest for God's name to made well-known through the circumstances of my life. 

Living in a world that encourages me to defend my rights warps a godly perspective that let's God decide what is necessary.

Glory

"I can't tell God how to get His glory."  These words were all the more astounding considering out of whose mouth they were coming.  My friend had lost her daughter in a cruel and violent way.  In the midst of her suffering as she searched for answers, she came to the aforementioned conclusion:  God knows how to best get His glory.

When the Lord delivered His people out of the hands of harsh, Egyptian slave masters, He could have done it swiftly and surely, supernaturally providing a way out for the nation of Israel.  Instead, He chose to send Moses to appeal to the Pharaoh, performing signs and enacting plagues.  By the time the whole ordeal was over, all the people of the earth knew the might and sovereign power of the God of Israel.  (Romans 9:17)

In the same way, God chooses to work in ways mysterious to me in order to make much of His name.  I don't always appreciate His greatness when things go smoothly and cleanly.  When I'm at the end of my rope, however, out of options and at a loss as to how to proceed, I often discover the might of His hand as He delivers me through the storm.

If I were completely equipped and able to accomplish the impossible task set before me, how would God get the credit for my success?  Therefore, He often gives me much more than I can handle so I must rely on Him, setting Him up for gaining the credit for all He has done.   When people observe the outcome, they will be quite sure that such a feat could not be accomplished by mere human hands.

What if I enjoyed good health all the days of my life?  Most people would assume I took good care of my body and tired hard to avoid harmful substances.  Consequently, God might find it necessary to allow disease or chronic pain into my body, giving me a chance to rely on His strength.  When people observe the peace of my heart in the midst of the storm, they will know such serenity is not human-generated but can only come from the Lord. (Matthew 5:14-16)

People will know the Lord is my God and realize His greatness when they witness the fruit of His presence in my life.

I naturally am compelled to seek out my own best interest, especially when the going gets tough.  If I take a lesson from David, however, and give God the job of sitting as judge, I am acknowledging that only He knows my honest intentions, understands what is truly fair, and knows how best to get the credit for the good He generates.  Therefore, I would be wise to live my life as if true justice belongs to the Lord.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can stop trying to defend myself and instead let God choose what is right for my situation.

How do I spend so much time defending myself that I fail to see God's hand at work all around me?

When do I steal God's glory by trying to avoid suffering?

Not What it Seems

"The men said,

'This is the day the LORD spoke of when he said to you,

"I will give your enemy into your hands

 for you to deal with as you wish."'

Then David crept up unnoticed

 and cut off a corner of Saul's robe.

Afterward, David was conscience-stricken

for having cut off a corner of his robe."

1 Samuel 24:4-5

It couldn't have been more perfect.  His enemy, the man who had been hunting him down like a lion stalks his prey, was finally delivered into his hands.  Unbeknownst to this persistent huntsman, his target hid in the shadows, watching his every move.  Surely this was God's providence, delivering Saul into David's hands.  Finally, David could put an end to this nonsense once and for all, killing the man who seemed to have lost his mind to anger and was obsessed with an evil intent to kill the young man he once loved. (1 Samuel 24)

It is easy to see the circumstances unfolding before me and assume that God is giving me a chance for revenge, or justice, or to defend my rights.  If I pay attention to His leading, however, I will come to the same conclusion as did David.  This man after God's own heart knew that "the battle belongs to the Lord" (1 Samuel 17:47) and that the Lord would rather His people demonstrate His mercy, love and forgiveness to a world bent on our destruction. (Hosea 6:6)

Mercy

The people pushed Him to the point of breaking, constantly doubting His provision, questioning His goodness, and wondering where He had gone, leaving them to suffer in solitude. (Exodus 16:3, 32:7-8)  In reality, God always gives His people what they need, is intent on lavishing His love upon them, and never leaves them nor forsakes them. (Ephesians 1:3, 2 Peter 1:3, 1 John 3:1, Deuteronomy 31:6)

Even though I am just like the Israelites, showing myself to be unfaithful to the God who loves me, His mercies are new every morning.  He doesn't ever give up on me even though I often give up on myself.  He never throws in the towel as if to say, "Forget it!  She's never going to trust me enough to let me give her what I want.  I'm tired of her wishy-washiness!"  He doesn't give me what I really deserve.  (Psalm 103:5)

As His child by faith in Jesus Christ, He is grooming me to exhibit these same character traits of Christ. (Romans 8:28-29)  Therefore, when I am wronged, I can extend mercy.  When my flesh cries out to enact revenge, desiring to feel whatever satisfaction I may think will come out of getting back at those who hurt me, He has another path for me to follow.  His indwelling Spirit enables me to choose mercy over revenge.

When it seems God is setting me up to take vengeance upon those who hurt me, I must realize He desires for me to instead show His mercy.

Love

From the beginning they were nothing but trouble.  They refused to do as He commanded.  His most beautiful masterpiece constantly gave Him heartache.  In fact, the sin of mankind made His image bearers out to be His enemies.  Still, He demonstrated His great love for His wayward children by sending His own Son to live a wanderer's life and die a criminal's death.  (Romans 5:8,10, 1 John 3:16)

There is no greater love than the love God showed me by giving His precious Son as a sacrifice for me.  He sent His own down to become sin, suffering greatly as a result, so that I could taste freedom. (2 Corinthians 5:21) In order to give me a chance at life, He allowed His Son to taste death.  

How, then, can I even consider my own rights?  Jesus gave up all so that I could live an abundant life, yet I often am obsessed with so much less. (John 10:10) I get caught up in defending my privileges, what I think I deserve.  I focus too much on how I'm being treated by those around me.  I lose sight of my eternal hope and instead hone in on my temporary troubles. 

Since Jesus gave all out of love, I can likewise extend His brand of love to others.  When my flesh clings to all the ways I've been wronged, His love calls me to forget.  When it is so easy for me to seek my own best interests, His love calls me to do what most helps others.  When I naturally feel a bit of satisfaction to see someone get what I think they deserve, His love calls me to show compassion for their suffering. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

When it seems God is setting me up to defend my rights, I must realize His love demands a loving response.

Forgiveness

He could not forgive such an offense.  Due to His perfectly just nature, He cannot simply extend grace and mercy, overlooking His sense of justice.  He is not able to let things slide, even out of love.  The only way God could forgive the darkness of my sin is through the blood sacrifice of His perfect Son. (Hebrews 9:22)

It is easy for me to think that God forgives me because He loves me.  Yes, He does love me beyond measure.  But it goes against His sense of justice to simply overlook how I have offended Him and continue to do so.  My sin keeps me from God. (Isaiah 59:2) 

It is only through the cleansing blood of Jesus that my sins are covered so such a holy and just God is able to look upon me with love. (1 John 1:7) Through faith in Jesus, then, I am able to boldly approach the throne of grace to receive the grace and mercy I need. (Hebrews 4:16)

With such a rich heritage of forgiveness bought for me through the costly sacrifice of Christ, I am able to extend this forgiveness to those around me. (Ephesians 4:32) Instead of seeking my own brand of justice, I can let it go, allowing the blood of Jesus to cover the offense that wounds me so deeply.  In the place of going after what seems fair to me, I can turn away from the hurt and pardon the crime committed against me.  When I am tempted to carry out a sentence I have deemed as appropriate, I can instead put my hurt in God's hand and forgive those who seek to destroy me.  

When it seems God is setting me up to defend justice, I must realize the price He paid to empower me to forgive.

There are many times when circumstances seem to be working in my favor, giving me a chance to seek revenge, defend my rights or demand justice.  A closer look at God, however, reveals a nature that demands quite the contrary.  Instead, He desires for me to extend mercy, love and forgiveness as a way to show the world that He is the Lord my God, proving that things are not always as they seem.  

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can stop going by what I perceive and instead follow God's lead.

When do I let my flesh lead me to revenge?

How can I let go of the hurt that is developing a bitter root in my heart?

Beautiful Feet

"I am not ashamed of the gospel,

because it is the power of God

for the salvation of everyone who believes:

first for the Jew,

then for the Gentile."

Romans 1:16

An institute of higher learning that sets itself apart in many ways is Cornell University.  One of the most interesting differences is that it does not affiliate itself with or endorse any particular religious beliefs. While most Ivy League schools were founded by a particular church, this institution of higher learning prides itself on its culture of inclusiveness which welcomes and embraces many religious views including Buddhism, Hinduism, Humanism, Islam, as well as several denominations of Christianity.

In its quest to provide a diverse and welcoming environment, this university has chosen to stand for nothing, instead accepting all beliefs as truth.  It seems this attitude is a common one found in our modern culture.  Everyone is very supportive of alternative lifestyles, a variety of faiths and the right to think freely, but if I were to make a statement of fact that betrays my belief in an ultimate truth and a single, distinct Truth-giver, I am labeled as a narrow-minded extremist.

It is easy to see how I could feel reluctant to share the gospel of Jesus Christ which runs counter to the accepting nature of the society in which I live.  When I come to terms with the fact that the gospel is offensive in it's exclusive nature yet holds the power to save, I will no longer be ashamed.

Sin

As twenty-first century humans, we like to think of ourselves as basically good.  Nowhere is this more evident than in the work of Ray Comfort who has created a video called "180"  in which he talks with people on the street, leading them into a discussion about their need for Jesus.

    As people answer his questions, they realize they are not as good as they think they are.   Human nature dictates that we hold a higher opinion of ourselves than we ought, scoring ourselves pretty high on a "good/bad" scale.  As Ray vividly portrays, our judgement does not stand compared to God's, and its ultimately His that matters.

The Bible is clear when I read in Romans 3:23 that everyone sins and not one of us meets God's standard of perfection that is necessary to gain eternal life.  If I want to make it into heaven based on my own merits, I am helpless to succeed.

If I continue on in Paul's letter to the believers living in Rome, I find that my sin earns death.  The consequence of me breaking any one of God's rules and falling short of His benchmark is death. (Romans 6:23)  The payment that is required for me offending God by not perfectly following His law is my life.  Because of my sin, I am on death row.

The world teaches me, however, that I am basically good.  I remember an effective demonstration my pastor used during a sermon when I was a new believer.  He held up two pieces of paper; one creme-colored and the other grey.  In comparison to the darker paper, the lighter one looked pure white.  This is how it is when I compare myself to others or to my own standard: I come out looking pretty pure. 

God, however, holds His own set of criteria.  When I compare myself to His holy, perfect standard, which my pastor portrayed by holding my creme-colored paper against a pure white one, I look dinghy and unclean.  Next to God, I'm not good enough. (Psalm 130:3)

Without a clear understanding of my sinful nature, I will not see my need for a Savior.

Justice

It's easy to talk about God's love nature: He loves me, He desires for me to live in relationship with Him, there is nothing I can do to lose His love.  Love is a beautiful thing.

This, however, is not the only side of God to consider.  While it is the most pleasant and popular, love is only part of who God is.  He is also a perfectly just God. (Psalm 7:11)  He demands blood to be spilled in order for grace to be given through the atonement of my sins.  (Leviticus 17:11)

I have a friend who is of the Muslim faith who couldn't understand why I wouldn't charge for an afterschool program we offered in our home.  When I explained that God had led us to offer it for free, she replied, "Well, with all the good you do in the community I'm sure He would overlook your doing it your way just this once."  This is a common way of thinking, but it goes against God's holy nature. 

God cannot arbitrarily dismiss my sins anymore than a judge sitting on a bench can let a murderer go free simply because he wants to extend grace and give the man another chance.  There must be some sort of punishment according to the law of the land. Even more so with God, there must be a penalty paid for my sin according to His just nature.  He doesn't pass judgement out of spite, bitterness or disappointment.  Instead, a sentence is handed down simply due to God's sense of justice.

Grace, therefore, is not possible without blood being spilled to account for each sin.  Scripture reveals that, "the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." (Hebrews 9:22)  Just as the angel of death only passed over the homes in Egypt whose doorways were covered by the blood of a lamb without blemish, so I can only avoid the death my sins deserve because of the blood of the Perfect Lamb; Jesus. (Exodus 12:23)

Each sin must be accounted for with blood according to God's holy nature: Either my blood, or Jesus' blood.

Jesus

The girl kicked her feet with all her might, but still her head kept sinking down below the surface of the murky lake.  She had gone there with her family to escape the summer heat, but had ventured too far from the shallow area.  Suddenly, the ten-year-old found herself in water that was above her head.  Without the knowledge that comes from taking a swimming lesson, she thrashed her arms and legs, hoping to stay afloat.  Unfortunately, all her efforts accomplished was to fatigue her muscles and panic her heart.

This girl needed a savior.  There was no way for her to save herself.  Thankfully, a nearby swimmer was paying attention and came to her rescue, saving the girl from certain death.  In the same way, I am completely incapable of solving the dilemma my sin and God's sense of justice creates.  I can't be good enough, no matter how hard I try, and God is unable to go against His just nature.  Who will save me from this body of death?  (Romans 7:24)

Thanks be to God for Jesus Christ my Lord! (v 25)  He took the punishment for my sins so that I have the hope of eternal life with Him!  (Romans 5:8, John 3:16)  In fact, salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)  My good effort cannot save me, Buddha cannot save me, Muhammad cannot save me, meditation and a quest for peace cannot save me.  Jesus is my only hope for salvation against God's wrath.

Jesus himself said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)  God teaches exclusiveness, not inclusiveness.  His compassion drives me to seek out those who are lost and share the reality of God's nature and the Good News of His plan of salvation that comes to those who believe.

Jesus is the only One who can save me from the sin to which I am bound and the punishment God's just nature requires.

Living in a world of inclusive diversity breeds trepidation and trembling within many-a-heart.  God, however, "has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)  With these gifts, I can impart the truth to those who are looking for it by sharing the reality of sin, the full nature of God that requires the shedding of blood, and the miracle of a Savior in Jesus Christ.  Then my feet will be considered beautiful as I bring this good news to those who seek it. (Isaiah 52:7)

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will let go of the fear that keeps me quiet and say the words that can set the captives free.

When do I let the harshness of the message of the gospel keep me from sharing it for fear of stepping on toes?

How does the culture of inclusiveness seem more loving than the true love Jesus demonstrated on the cross?

It's All About Him

"It is not because of your righteousness or your integrity that you are going in to take possession of their land;

but on account of the wickedness of these nations, the LORD your God will drive them out before you,

to accomplish what he swore to your fathers, 

to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Understand, then,

that it is not because of your righteousness

that the LORD your God is giving you this good land to possess,

for you are a stiff-necked people."

Deuteronomy 9:5-6

It was hard endure. . . the screeching, off-pitch voice attempting to sing, "Unchained Melody" or "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" during the audition phase of American Idol.  Inevitably, as the performer stands beaming before the judges waiting for his praise and ticket to Hollywood, his face becomes crestfallen as he realizes the panel didn't like his performance.  His shock turns to anger as he hears the opinions of the industry professionals telling him the opposite of what everyone else has been telling him; "You can't carry a tune."  

It was painful to see his bursting bubble. . . a bubble that had been formed through the well-meaning attempts of others to boost his self-esteem.  Unfortunately, the poor fellow was completely unprepared for the reality of the world.

We are living in a time when developing high self-esteem is promoted as essential to living a happy well-adjusted life.  Fortunately, studies are now showing that the opposite is actually quite true.  

As parenting expert John Rosemond says, "Today's typical parent seems to think his/her child is the only fish in the pond worth noticing, which is really too bad for his/her child.  It's bad for all of us, actually, because the research also finds that the higher a person's self-regard, the lower his regard for others. (It is also noteworthy that high self-esteem puts the individual at high risk for bouts of severe depression." 

This proclivity toward self-importance is not peculiar to today's world.  It is human nature for me to think first of myself and to assume the world revolves around me.  Something or Someone has to bring me back around to a more humble point of view.  

In the same way, God had to remind His people over and over again that they existed because of Him, not the other way around.  And we are still getting that mixed up today!

His Justice

One of the most common phrases I hear the kids whine in our afterschool program  is, "That's not fair!"  I usually respond with, "Well, life's not fair."  A human's sense of justice is so different from God's.  

I think of Uzziah, the poor fellow who was simply trying to steady the ark of the covenant as the oxen stumbled while pulling the cart carrying the holy load when God struck him down on the spot, killing him instantly.  No fair!  I think, he was only trying to help!  

But David had completely disregarded the instructions from God on how to transport the special box that held the ten commandments, a sample of manna and Aaron's staff.  Instead, it was carried in the same way people would transport a common household idol, a false god.  David failed to take God's commandments seriously and teach his people how to handle His holy articles, carrying the ark with poles on the shoulders of consecrated men from the tribe of Levi. 

A man lost his life that day in a way that seemed unfair and harsh.  But God's, "works are perfect, and all his ways are just.  A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he."  (Deuteronomy 32:4)  

When I see things happening around me that seem unfair, I must keep this in mind:  God is perfectly just.  

We are all at the mercy of God's justice.  Thankfully, He doesn't do anything out of spite or malice, but simply out of His sense of fairness.

I can trust God with my life because everything that happens is in accordance with His justice.

His Promise

"I promise I will never leave you!"  I hear these types of impossible promises being made by people all the time.  Parents vow to always be there for their children, but an unexpected tragedy forces them to break that promise.  A man assures his wife that he'll never drink again, then a stressful day drives him back to the familiar comfort of the bottle.  Politicians are known for promising one thing in order to get elected, then finding out it's not so easy to carry out their idealistic plans and consequently go back on their word.  

Promises are hard for humans to keep.  God, however, never struggles with fulfilling all of His promises.  

One of His foundational promises was first given to Abraham as recorded in Genesis 12.  He commanded Abraham to leave his country and go to a land He would later show him.  Then he said, "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you. . . and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."  (v 2 and 3)

This blessing ended up being fulfilled in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.  "By His wounds we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)  I now have the blessing of cultivating a relationship with my Father in heaven and the hope of living with Him for all of eternity through faith in Jesus Christ and belief in what He did for me on the cross.  Anyone can receive this blessing through a simple, child-like faith. 

The impact of that one promise on my life is enormous.  No longer am I bound to the futility of trying to work my way to heaven by doing good.  Instead I can rest assured that the blood of Jesus covers all of my sin, making me appear to God as if I were pure and sinless.

Since I have been extended this great gift of grace and am free from the judgment of God that my sins deserve, I can pass that grace on to others, cutting them a break instead of constantly thinking I need to hold them to my standards.  

Experiencing the depth of undeserving love that flows from God to me through his Son, I can love others in ways they don't deserve.  

My life and my hope comes as a fulfillment of the promise God made to Abraham thousands of years before.    

His Choice

I live in God's creation.  He made up all the rules.  He decided how things were going to work.  He picked out all the colors.  It all belongs to Him.  As He reminded his people when they became too big for their britches, ". . .every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills."  (Psalm 50:10)

Who am I to complain about where He placed me, how He put me together, or who makes up my family?  As God told us through the prophet Isaiah, "Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'He did not make me'? Can the pot say of the potter, 'He knows nothing'?" (Isaiah 29:16)

God has plans that have nothing to do with me.  He decides what role each one of His creation will play in His production.  He chose Pharaoh as a vehicle for the demonstration of His power and glory at the cost of his very life.  On the other hand, he chose Jacob as his favored one from the time before he was formed in his mother's womb.   Both were used by God.  One was shown mercy, one was not.  This is God's choice.   

If you are reading this blog, God is calling you to Himself.  Those who God is showing mercy to are drawn to Him, wanting to learn more about Him and desiring to grow closer to Him.

As one of God's chosen, I can rest assured that my position in God's family is as a result of His plan, not as a result of my fitness or worthiness.  

It is easy for me to fall into the pattern of this world and to focus on my welfare, my plans and my happiness.   In reality, I am at God's mercy and His actions have nothing to do with me.  Instead, He acts according to His justice, His promises, and His plan.  

Giving God His rightful place humbles me as I learn to accept all He has for me today!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God to act in a way that He sees as best.

When do I think life is unfair?

How can I trust God when things seem to be falling apart?