Flattery

OK, it's been a while since I've posted. I have done some posting on other blogs, but nothing substantial in over four months. Well, this morning as I was reading, a verse struck me that I just had to blog about.

He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.

Daniel 11:32 (ESV)

I realize that I am living outside of the historical context of this prophecy, but nevertheless, I am challenged by it. There is a stark and even dangerous choice presented here and I want to examine that closely.

"...seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant..." This seems to me to be a two-way street. Depending on which translation each half of this comes first sometimes. Violating the covenant may lead to being seduced by flatteries. Being seduced by flatteries may lead to violating the covenant. It's easy to let a simple "Atta boy!" or "Good job" cause your head to swell, isn't it? Let a little pride slip in and it drives a wedge between you and God. It's even easier to swell up with pride if you've already turned your heart away from God. It's one thing to accept kind words of edification, it's another thing entirely to be seduced by them.

...but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action Stand firm and take action sound really good don't they? I think I will stand firm and take action. Isn't that great? Yes it is, thank you! Who's going to stand firm and take action? The people who know their God! This one isn't a two-way street. Standing firm and taking action will not necessarily lead you to knowing God. But, knowing God will lead you to standing firm and taking action. Knowing God is the key to this.

¹O LORD, you have searched me and known me! ²You know when I sit down and when I rise up;

    you discern my thoughts from afar.

³You search out my path and my lying down

    and are acquainted with all my ways.

⁴Even before a word is on my tongue,

    behold, O LORD,

    you know it altogether.

⁵You hem me in, behind and before,

    and lay your hand upon me.

⁶ Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;

    it is high; I cannot attain it.

Psalm 139:1-6 (ESV)

Know God and stand firm and take action or violate the covenant and be seduced by flatteries. The choice shouldn't be that hard. At times it's harder than it should be. Our circumstances may change even though God does not. It's real easy to get distracted. God doesn't change. He causes all things to work together for the good of those that love Him and are called according to His purpose. Know God. Stand firm. Take action. Know God. Know God.

Perhaps kind of quiet this week...

I don't know how much I'll be blogging on this blog this week. However, my other blog Brock Family Bible Study will be active this coming week. We have been working through "Training Hearts, Teaching Minds" by Starr Meade in our family devotions for a while, but this week with one of my two boys away at Cub Scout camp, we'll be studying my other son's favorite verse during our devotion time. It's been fun for me to be digging into the Greek (I am in know way a Greek scholar but I can use e-sword and online tools to dig into the meaning).

My Refuge

My soul finds rest in God alone;
      my salvation comes from him.

Psalm 62:1 (NIV)

OK, I haven't blogged in about a week. I've still been doing my daily reading, but my routine has been a little off this week and I haven't blogged. Perhaps today, I'm getting back in the habit.

Psalm 62 is a favorite of mine. Back in 1996 there was an afternoon where I sat down with my Bible open and my guitar. By the time the afternoon was over, I had written three songs. One of them, "You Are My Refuge" was inspired by Psalm 62.

You Are My Refuge

© 1996 Kevin Lee Brock

My soul finds rest in You alone
My salvation comes from You
You alone are my Rock
You are my fortress, I will not be shaken

I will trust in You forevermore
I will pour my heart out to You
You are my refuge

Waiting

I waited patiently for the LORD;
      he turned to me and heard my cry.

Psalm 40:1 (NIV)

As I was reading this morning, I could almost hear the gentle bassline of U2's "40" in my head. Far better, I suppose, to hear that song since it's based on this Psalm than to hear Tom Petty's "The Waiting" in my head. Waiting is hard sometimes (OK, now I'm starting to hear Mr. Petty). Waiting can be a lot of things:

• passive - just sitting around waiting for something to happen
• active - getting the house cleaned while waiting for guests to arrive
• fearful - just wait until your father gets home
• hopeful - waiting for Jesus to return
• patient - as we read here in Psalm 40
• impatient - like my cat when she's waiting to be fed in the morning
• without unknown expectations - waiting for the iPhone to come to Verizon
• with known expectations - waiting until COB on a Friday knowing that the weekend is nigh

David is actively, hopefully, patiently waiting with known expectations for the Lord. David knows the Lord will hear him and will answer his prayer. And He does. God has been paying attention and is actively listening to David's prayer. Forget about everyday and one more yard. This is how I want to wait.

A little abundance

Better is the little that the righteous has
      than the abundance of many wicked.

Psalm 37:16 (ESV)

David sounds like Solomon here. This quote here could have easily been in Proverbs. It's better to righteous than to be rich. I know this to be true - I've got an abundance of stuff to prove it. ;-)

Seriously, God cares more about what's in your heart than how much stuff is in your home. With all of the stuff in my home, maybe I need to be concerned with my heart too. What does all of the stuff say about my heart? Has my stuff become my idol? Do I need to clean house and clean my heart? Are decluttering and repentence interrelated? Get the heart in order and then get the house in order?

For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
      but the LORD upholds the righteous.

Psalm 37:17 (ESV)

Together

Glorify the LORD with me;
      let us exalt his name together.

Psalm 34:3 (NIV)

I will glorify the LORD. I will exalt His Name. Nope, that's not what it says here. Not that it's bad to say that. But here David has a few key words to remember: "with me," "let us," and "together." Though having a personal praise and worship time is a great thing, we should not forget to worship God with others. It says in Hebrews 10:25 "Let us not give up meeting together..." If it's Sunday morning and you just don't feel like going to church, don't reach for the TV remote, reach for the car keys. Don't focus on what's going on in your life - focus on who God is. Together with your brothers, sisters, family, and friends glorify the Lord and exalt His name!

Unfailing Love

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him

Psalm 33:1 (NIV)

As I was reading this morning, Psalm 33 sounded familiar. Of course, I've read it many a time (at least once a year), but this was different. Oh, yeah I thought to myself. I wrote a song based on this years ago. So here it is (at least the lyrics, I don't have it posted online anywhere that I recall). As for how it sounds, I always thought it sounded like Triumph from the early 80s (although I could never sing like Rik Emmett.

Unfailing Love

Your Word is right, Your Word is true
You are faithful in all You do
You love righteousness and justice
The earth is full of Your unfailing love

Chorus:
I will sing to You Lord
It is fitting to give You praise
I will praise You with this instrument
I will sing of Your unfailing love

By Your Word, You made the heavens
The stars by the breath of Your mouth
For You spoke and it came to be
You commanded and it was

Repeat Chorus

Bridge:
You look down from Your heaven
And see all those who live on earth
Your eyes are on those who fear You
Whose hope is Your unfailing love

For You, oh Lord, are my hope
In You will my heart rejoice
May Your unfailing love rest on me
As I put my hope in You

Repeat Chorus

What is He due?

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.

Psalm 29:2 (ESV)

The Lord is due glory. To what are you giving glory? We should worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness. What is masking His holiness in your life that is keeping you from worshipping Him? Anything that distracts you from worshipping God as He should be is an idol. Are you glorifying idols and not worshipping God? Does your family come before God? Your job? Your possessions? The thing you just added to your Amazon wishlist? Give glory to God alone. He alone is worthy of your worship and praise!

To See His Face

One thing I ask of the LORD,
      this is what I seek:
      that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
      all the days of my life,
      to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
      and to seek him in his temple.

Psalm 27:4 (NIV)

A busy morning today and I never got around to blogging. I was up early to spend some time in the Word (as usual) and to get myself ready to head up to church for rehearsal and to play in the worship band today. Both of my sons wanted to go along with me so I had to keep them on task in getting ready. I had a wonderful time at church today: the Word was preached, the worship singing was good (and the band pretty good), a few families that we're friends with celebrated a family member's baptism today. All in all, a good day with God's people. Oh, to have more days like this!

Still Waters

¹The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
²He makes me lie down in green pastures.
      He leads me beside still waters.
³He restores my soul.
      He leads me in paths of righteousness
      for his name’s sake.

Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV)

As the crow flies, I live about 30 or so miles South of where a 3.6 magnitude earthquake shook the Washington, DC area yesterday morning. I was already awake and in the kitchen and heard the dishes rattle. Several folks I work with, who live within a mile or two of the epicenter, were awakened by the earthquake. The Lord is my shepherd; It wasn't much of an earthquake really although locals who aren't much used to earthquakes were a little shaken up by it. I shall not want. Some people thought a tree had fallen in their yard. He makes me lie down in green pastures. Some people thought it was thunder from a typical Washington area summer thunderstorm. He leads me beside still waters. It was over pretty quickly. He restores my soul. There were no injuries or property damage directly attributable to the earthquake. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. All-in-all, yesterday was just a typical summer day except the heat and humidity wasn't the primary topic of conversation.

For what it's worth, my wife and kids slept through it ;-)

Words and Thoughts

¹³Keep your servant also from willful sins;
      may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless,
      innocent of great transgression.
¹⁴May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
      be pleasing in your sight,
      O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 19:13-14 (NIV)

Psalm 19 is one of my favorites. From the description of how the heavens proclaim God's glory to ode to God's Law to the humble prayer at the end. This prayer is the desire of my heart and I couldn't express it any better than David did.

The Lord Lives!

The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock, and exalted be the God of my salvation

Psalm 18:46 (ESV)

In Psalm 18, David is praising God for delivering him. God is alive and vividly so (no sleepily so as I am at the moment). God is his refuge. God is his salvation. God is to be exalted above all else. Our circumstances may change but God does not. Regardless of our circumstances, what David proclaims about God is always true. So, tired or not, I will exalt the God of my salvation!

Burning For You

¹⁸Many of those who believed now came and openly confessed their evil deeds. ¹⁹A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.

Acts 19:18-19 (NIV)

Paul was in Ephesus and many people were coming to faith in Christ. They weren't just simple "Ok, I'm a Christian. Now what?" conversions. No, the people were renouncing their old lives. Confessing the evil that they used to do. Taking the tangible signs of their old lives and burning them. Think about those books they burned. A drachma was about a days wages. Based on the 2008 average salary (as reported on the Social Security Admistration website) that translates to over 5.6 million dollars! Can you imagine a group of people coming to faith in Christ and destroying 5.6 million dollars worth of stuff just because it was an evil influence in the sinful life they used to lead? Honestly, comfortable materialistic American that I am, I can't imagine it. Why not? Why should such a radical conversion seem so strange to me? What from my sinful life would I be willing - and even eager - to burn to show the difference Christ has made in my life?

Has Anything Changed?

Everyone lies to his neighbor;
      their flattering lips speak with deception.

Psalm 12:2 (NIV)

David is lamenting to God in Psalm 12. As I read verse 2, I thought about how much that sounds like the world today. Read the newspaper or watch the news. Read some of the news/political/gossip sites on the internet. How much of it is about people being deceptive? How much of it is people saying "you need to be tolerant" while they are really thinking "I don't like what you think and I hate you because of it"? Too much if you ask me. I take comfort in what David took comfort in.

And the words of the LORD are flawless,
      like silver refined in a furnace of clay,
      purified seven times.

Psalm 12:6 (NIV)

Excellent!

O LORD, our Lord,
      how majestic is your name in all the earth!
      You have set your glory
      above the heavens.

Psalm 8:1 (NIV)

Jehovah, our Sovereign Ruler! Your excellence and beauty are over all the earth! In this Psalm, David is effusive in his praise for his heavenly Father. He should be. I struggle to find words to praise my heavenly Father. It's good that it's OK to take what is said about Him in His Word and use it to praise Him. How excellent is He!

A Great Way To Start The Day

In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
      in the morning I lay my requests before you
      and wait in expectation.

Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

How do you start the day? Like David, do you start the day in prayer? Do you make your requests known to God? Do you wait expectantly for His answer? You can. How do you start your day?

A Gentle Rain

¹ Blessed is the man
      who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
      or stand in the way of sinners
      or sit in the seat of mockers.
² But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
      and on his law he meditates day and night.
³ He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
      which yields its fruit in season
      and whose leaf does not wither.
      Whatever he does prospers.

Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV)

I'll admit it: my lawn doesn't look that good. We haven't gotten much rain this summer and my lawn has gone into defensive mode and most of it has turned brown. The one patch where we put sod down has been watered daily in hope that it will root and look good in a while. Parts of that patch of lawn look OK, others not so much. But today, I don't need to run the sprinkler. It's raining. It's been a gentle rain for a while, but now it's picked up and it's pretty heavy.

Psalm 1 tells us that the man who delights in the word of God is like a tree planted by a stream. That tree has a daily supply of the water it needs to live. You don't have to run the sprinkler to keep it nourished.

I am thankful that I've had the discipline to read God's Word daily. It's an indispensible part of my morning. I know it's made a difference in how I live my life. Hopefully, my lawn is the better for it.

Seeing God

⁵ My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. ⁶ Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes."

Job 42:5-6

At the end of his ordeal, Job finds himself a changed man. He has seen God and he has seen his own unrighteousness which leads him to repentence. Truly seeing God should always lead us to repent of our sin. It's a shame that we spend so much of our lives just hearing about God and not truly seeing God. Open the eyes of my heart, Lord... I want to see You... to see You high and lifted up...

I should just shut up

"I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth.

Job 40:4 (NIV)

God has given Job a chance to state his case. Job wisely humbles himself. He recognizes how unworthy he is to approach God. He realizes that he's said too much and that he should never opened his mouth to accuse God in the first place. I can relate. How many times have I said "did I say that out loud?" or "ok, I'm just going to shut up now" or even "me and my big mouth." When God is disciplining me, the only words out of my mouth should be "Yes, Lord." Like Isaiah, I cry "Woe to me... I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips..." (Isaiah 6:5a) Fortunately, what the seraph did for Isaiah temporarily when he touched his lips with the coal, Jesus has done permanently for me when he died on the cross. "your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." (Isaiah 6:7b) Because of Jesus, I can approach God. But it shouldn't be me speaking because Jesus is advocating on my behalf. I'll just shut up and let Him do the talking.

Oh Yes, God Speaks!

Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. He said:

Job 38:1 (NIV)

God is finally answering Job and it's not in a still, small voice. God is answering Job out of a storm - a tempest, a whirlwind. It wasn't just a little summer storm. The Weather Channel was probably there covering the story. The National Weather Service had probably issued a severe thunderstorm warning and perhaps even a tornado watch. And God was speaking through it. Do you suppose God had Job's attention? I know with a storm like this, I'd be heading for cover. God's voice speaking through it would probably stop me in my tracks. In verse 3 God tells Job to "Brace yourself like a man." In other words hold on tight. If I'm in Job's shoes, God has my complete attention. Now, I have never heard God speak through a storm like Job did here, but I read His word every day. He speaks to me daily. Do I brace for His word like He tells Job to brace himself? I should. His word is powerful. Forget thunderstorms, there should be a divine storm warning every time I open my Bible. Brace yourself. God is speaking!

God Speaks

For God does speak—now one way, now another— though man may not perceive it.

Job 33:14 (NIV)

What was that you said? I've uttered that phrase more than once. Probably a few times everyday. I probably wasn't paying attention to whoever was speaking to me. Maybe the TV was too loud. Maybe I was too involved in something on Facebook. Maybe I was tired and drifting off. Maybe I was driving and paying attention to traffic. There's many reasons why I may not have been listening to someone who was speaking to me. God speaks to us. He speaks in different ways. Sometimes, like He demonstrated to Elijah, it's in a still, small voice. Do we even notice? Are there things in our lives that are distracting us from hearing the voice of God? Are we even listening? I probably should be...

Times of plenty, times of lack

For what is man's lot from God above, his heritage from the Almighty on high?

Job 31:2 (NIV)

Job still recognizes God as the Almighty and provider. Even in his loss, he doesn't sit around thinking about what was lost that he earned for himself. He recognizes that all he has and all he will leave comes from God. Perhaps it's my arrogance or my level of comfort that makes me think Wow, I just got a raise. Let me go out and reward myself with a new guitar. I need to constantly remember that all that I have doesn't come because I've got a great job, but it has come because God has provided it for me. In my times of plenty and in my times of lack, all that I have has come from God. And... it is good.

Why You Dirty Little Rat

With a strong hand, God grabs my shirt.
      He grips me by the collar of my coat.

Job 30:18 (NLT)

I have a picture in my mind of a black and white film noir gangster movie. The heavy has the little guy grabbing his shirt collar and lifting him into the air and saying "you dirty little rat." That's how Job sees God handling him. God may be lifting Job up, but I think it's more for Job's protection. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

Wisdom and Understanding

And he said to man,
      'The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,
      and to shun evil is understanding.' "

Job 28:28 (NIV)

Who needs wisdom and understanding? Job did. I do. The fear of the Lord = wisdom. Do I fear the Lord? Do I have proper respect for Him? Do I hold Him in awe? Shun Evil = Understanding. Do I shun evil? Or do I let it slide when I see evil on TV? Or on the internet? Or in the newspaper? Or in my life? Do I need wisdom and understanding? Yes, I do. Fear the Lord. Shun evil. OK.

How Faint The Whisper

And these are but the outer fringe of his works;
      how faint the whisper we hear of him!
      Who then can understand the thunder of his power?"

Job 26:14 (NIV)

Wow. This verse paints such a beautiful word picture. To me, it's a vivid reminder that we can only grasp a fraction of God's greatness. Though I've seen God work in mighty ways - it's only a small part of all that He has done. Though I've heard Him speak to me - it's only a faint whisper and small part of what He's said. Though I recognize His power - I cannot fully grasp the complete awesomeness of His power. Though I only see the fringe of His works, I want to see more. Though I only hear the faint whisper, I want to listen and hear more. Though I only hear the thunder of His power, bring on the storm!

Doing What He Pleases

But he stands alone, and who can oppose him?
He does whatever he pleases.

Job 23:13

Despite all of his grumblings, Job still recognizes God's sovereignty. He may not be very happy about it, but he still recognizes it. Whatever God wants to do, He does. We need to remember this. We cannot remember this without also remembering His character - His good, holy, just character. We know that this same God that does what He pleases also is the same God as in Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Halitosis

My breath is offensive to my wife;

Job 19:17a (NIV)

Job, in his distress and complaining, in his struggling with God, became offensive to his wife. Yes, she was the one who told him to "curse God and die." In all of his struggle, he had changed and become a stranger to his wife and she didn't want to be around him. What happened to the man I married? She might have thought she would have been better off if he had died. Then her kinsmen-redeemer would take care of her instead of this burned out, broken down shell of a man. Redemption - that's what she wants - not having to listen to Job cry out to God what have I done?. She repeats to herself I can't take it anymore over and over again. Job's alienation from God and his subsequent alienation from his wife illustrate our need to have somebody draw us closer to God and to each other. Job goes on in verse 25 to say "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth." (Job 19:25) Job recognizes his need for redemption. I know that my redeemer has walked this earth and died on the cross for my sins and will one day rule and reign on this earth. I cannot be more glad that I too can say "my redeemer lives!"

You've Got A Friend In Me

²⁶ When he [Saul] came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. ²⁷But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.

Acts 9:26-27 (NIV)

You really can't blame the disciples. If the story took place today, they would have been watching CNN and seeing how this Saul fellow was going around and locking up their fellow believers. Let him come in and meet us? I don't think so! It's a trap, I know it, it's a trap! But Barnabas believed in the work God was doing through Saul. He supported Saul and brought him to the apostles. Because they knew Barnabas to be a man of good character, they were willing to trust him. I wonder if there's anyone I need to be Barnabas to. Is there anyone I know who might not be welcome into the local fellowship that I've seen what God is doing in their lives? Is there anyone that I can support and help them establish their foundation in a family of faith? I need to be on the lookout for a Saul I can be Barnabas to.

But God, I really don't want to...

¹³"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. ¹⁴And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

¹⁵But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.

Acts 9:13-15 (NIV)

Ananias was sent to Saul to heal him. He didn't particularly want to go. Saul had a bad reputation with those following Christ. Of course, God had other plans. How many times have I protested to God? How many times have I said "God I don't want to." Far too many. Ananais obeyed, the Church grew and the world was blessed. I should obey too...

Deep and Wide

⁷"Can you find out the deep things of God?
    Can you find out the limit of the Almighty?
⁸It is higher than heaven—what can you do?
    Deeper than Sheol—what can you know?
⁹Its measure is longer than the earth
    and broader than the sea.

Job 11:7-9 (ESV)

As Job is listening to his three friends, he gets some good advice and he gets some not-so-good advice. His friend Zophar is helpful here in reminding Job of the ifiniteness of God. I hate to say it, but this is something that I need to be reminded of. How often do I try and put God in a box? How often does my doubt and unbelief limit what I think God can do in my life? I need to be reminded of His depth. I need to be reminded that He has no limit. There is nothing I can do to limit God. It is good that God is beyond limit. It is good for me to remember that!

That's A Good Question

"Indeed, I know that this is true.
But how can a mortal be righteous before God?

Job 9:2(NIV)

Job, even though he thought himself to be without sin, poses a good question in his second defense. He realizes God's righteousness and man's sinfulness. He goes on later to wish their was an arbiter, recognizing his need for a savior. I am thankful that I have come to that same conclusion. I am a sinner and cannot on my own be righteous before God. But God sent His Son to die on the cross for my sin and to be that arbiter between God and me. I am thankful that Jesus' righteousness has been imputed to me. I am thankful for my need for a savior and that need has already been met in Jesus!

Show Me Where I Have Been Wrong

"Teach me, and I will be quiet;
show me where I have been wrong.

Job 6:24 (NIV)

Job's friends had come to him to help him figure out what he had done wrong to deserve all of the adversity that had come upon him. In his first response, Job is kind of upset. He thinks he's been punished to excess. Yet, in all of his complaining, he does stumble upon a little humility. He does want to be shown what he has done wrong. He doesn't really expect his friends to be able to do so, but if they will, he will be quiet and listen. This is a good attitude to happen. Do I ever want to be shown where I'm wrong? Not really. Yet, reality is I'm a sinner. I do wrong far more than I should. Do I want to listen if someone tells me that I've done wrong? No. However, I should accept God's grace and be humble and listen quietly when someone cares enough to show me where I've done wrong.

Blessings and Curses

and said:
"Naked I came from my mother's womb,
and naked I will depart.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."

Job 1:21 (NIV)

His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"

Job 2:9 (NIV)

ברך barak is an interesting word. I'm not saying so because etomologicly it is probably derived from the same root as the first name of the President. I am saying so because it appears in both verses that I've cited here. In the first verse, it is translated "blessed" (KJV) or "praised" (NIV) and in the second it is translated "curse." Suppose the two meanings were flipped. OK, I doubt Matt Redman would have had quite such a big hit with "Cursed be the name of the Lord," although I can imagine that more than a few people would be singing along silently in their minds. But what about Job's wife. "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Bless God and die!" That kind of makes me think You've fought the good fight. Well done! Now enjoy your eternal reward! Of course context is what brings about the translations we have here. Job 1:22 says Job did not sin and thus blessed seems to be the proper translation. Job 2:10 tells us how Job thought his wife was foolish and thus curse seems appropriate. What we say and how we say it is important. Sometimes what we say can be taken in a way completely different that what we intend. Examine your heart and your words before you speak. How are you going to barak somebody today?

Much to learn

For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?"

Esther 8:6 (NIV)

Haman the Agagite was defeated, but the plan he set in place for the destruction of the Jews was still in place. Esther was distraught. She approached the king once again. He extended his sceptre to her once again. She pleaded for her people.

There are times that I think I should be more like Esther. She was bold in approaching the king over and over again. She had true compassion and love for her people and did not want to see evil befall them. Do I find myself being bold like Esther? Does my heart truly break over the suffering of those around me? I can only answer these questions by hesitating and mumbling "sometimes." There is a lot of Christ's character seen here in Esther. There is much for this forty-something man to learn from this young queen.

Pride

When Haman entered, the king asked him, "What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?"

Now Haman thought to himself, "Who is there that the king would rather honor than me?"

Esther 6:6 (NIV)

Thanks to the movie One Night With The King, every time I read Esther and passages about Haman, I see Gaius Baltar from Sci-Fi Channel's Battlestar Galactica. James Callis played both roles splendidly. Because I recognized him from one of my favorite TV shows, it made the part of Haman even more memorable to me.

Haman was an enemy of the Jewish people. He had risen to the top of the heap of advisers to King Xerxes. He was quite proud of himself. When the king sought to honor someone, he turned to Haman. Haman, of course, thought the king wanted to honor HIM and thus recommended the honor that he wanted. Haman was crushed when he found out it was his enemy Mordecai who the king wanted to honor and was humiliated as he had to honor Mordecai.

Imagine if you were up for an Academy Award. Not only were you up for the award, but all of the press are saying that you are a shoe-in for the award. Your bitter rival is up for the same award, but nobody saw that movie and the few who saw it hated it. You actually saw that movie, too, and definitely thought there was no way your rival would win the award. You have your acceptance speech all planned. You call the Academy and ask that since it's such a prestigious award you would like to present it. They agree. You're up on stage beaming with pride and in your best Shakespearan drama voice you say "The Award goes to..." You open the envelope... You see your rival's name. In front of a worldwide TV audience of 99 million you're supposed give the award to your rival, but you don't move because you're in shock. That's probably a little like how Haman felt. He was devestated.

⁸Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. ⁹Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. ¹⁰Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

James 4:8-10 (NIV)

Do You Know It All?

Since it was customary for the king to consult experts in matters of law and justice, he spoke with the wise men who understood the times

Esther 1:13 (NIV)

King Xerxes was one of the most powerful kings of his day. He's been in the background as I've read through Ezra and Nehemiah. He moves to the foreground here in Esther. He's one of the most powerful men in the world and his queen doesn't respect him. I'm sure the 24-hour news channels and gossip websites of his day were all over this story. Scandal in the first degree! He knew exactly what to do... talk to his counselors and seek their advice.

Sometimes I think I know exactly what I should do. I think I may understand a situation perfectly and the right course of action is obvious. Sometimes I think it may be obvious that the Bible says... and I should take a specific course of action. But sometimes I don't see the whole picture. Sometimes I don't see how other situations that I may not be aware of are influencing the situation I'm looking at. Sometimes, I may forget that there are other passages in the Bible that speak to the situation I may be in - not just the one that I interpret to mean what I like. I am thankful to God that there are others in my life who can speak into my life without my feeling threatened: my wife - who sees the big picture differently than I do; other men in my church who have walked with the Lord longer than I have and have seen God work in ways that I haven't; even men who have walked with the Lord less time than I have but God has still blessed them with experiences, knowledge, and wisdom that I don't posess. Seeking wise counsel is a good thing. I trust that God will guide me to the right counsel when I need it.

The Wages of Sin

When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened.

Acts 5:5 (NIV)

We don't usually get to see death as a direct result of sin, but it does happen. Death first entered the world because of original sin. Scripture has many examples of immediate death as a result of sin. Ananias and Sapphira is one such example. Ananias realized he had been caught in his sin and fell down and died. Scripture doesn't mention what was going through his head in between when he gave the money and when Peter called him his misrepresentation of how much he was giving. Was he smug in thinking that he got away with it? When Peter started to speak was Ananias thinking "Oh rats, he figured it out"? Was he cocky? Was he fearful? Did he even realize that he had been found out before he dropped dead?

The weight of carrying sin around can be heavy. The fear of being found out can be paralyzing. Rather than fearing being found out, it is far better to remember 1 John 1:9.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9 (NIV)

Putting It In Writing

"In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders, our Levites and our priests are affixing their seals to it."

Nehemiah 9:38

The wall was rebuilt and the Israelites were recounting God's faithfulness in all that He had done for them. They declared publicly that they were commiting to God. Then, they put it in writing and making it official. By putting it on paper, affixing their seal to it, they were attempting to show how serious they were about their commitment. If they faltered, someone could pull out the paper and remind them of their commitment. If they wanted to break their commitment, you could look at the seal on the document and realize that it cannot be broken. They could be held accountable to their commitment. There's no seal on my blog. No physical signature on it either. Back on May 4, 2010 I committed to blogging on my daily Bible reading as a means to engaging more deeply with what I have been reading. I am amazed at how God has blessed me and how much more I have gleaned from what I was reading. I've been convicted in areas I'm falling short. I've been edified and encouraged to grow in some areas. I feel like I've gotten to know some of the Old Testament saints better and been encouraged as I've read of their repentence. Most importantly, I've gotten to know God better. That has been my ultimate goal and it remains so. So, don't look for my signature or my seal, but here in writing for all to see is my commitment.

Reading the Law

³ He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.

⁶ Ezra praised the LORD, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, "Amen! Amen!" Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.

Nehemiah 8:3,6 (NIV)

Nehemiah and his crew had finished rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. To celebrate, they had Ezra the priest bring out the book of the Law and read it to the people. It wasn't a boring speech or a sermon that no one was paying attention to. The people listened attentively and when Ezra was finished they praised, they lifted their hands and they shouted "Amen!" and they worshipped!

This isn't always how I respond to hearing the Word of God. Haven't I seen God's faithfulness? Haven't I seen God do great things? Don't I know how true His Word is? Aren't I moved by His Word? Why shouldn't I respond to hearing or reading His Word by worshipping? I may refrain from shouting "Amen" only in the interest of not waking my wife and kids but I shouldn't refrain from responding to His Word in worship.

Praying In Adversity

They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, "Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed."

But I prayed, "Now strengthen my hands."

Nehemiah 6:9 (NIV)

When times got tough while rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem, Nehemiah prayed. When his enemies taunted him, Nehemiah prayed. When the enemies taunted and tried to get under his skin and make him think he and his workers would get weak, Nehemiah prayed that God would strengthen his hands. It all seems so simple. When times get tough: pray. When you don't have the strength to carry on: pray that God wil strengthen you. It's all so straightforward. All I have to do is remember... OK, that part is sometimes hard...

Remembering Who We Pray To

⁴ When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. ⁵ Then I said:

"O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, ⁶ let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you. ⁷ We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.

Nehemiah 1:4-7 (NIV)

Nehemiah prayed earnestly to God. In doing so, he demonstrates a few things about God that we need to keep in mind when we're praying to God.

• He humbles himself. Before even opening up his mouth, Nehemiah humbles himself through mourning and fasting. I don't want to prescribe specific methods here, but humbling yourself before God before you open your mouth - good idea!
• He remembers God's majesty. He recognizes God lives in heaven. He recognizes God is awesome.
• He remembers God's faithfulness. God keeps His covenants. He is faithful.
• He remembers God's attentiveness. He knows God hears him. He knows God sees what's going on.
• He remembers God's forgiveness. He confesses his sin and the sins of the people to God. Would he do so if he didn't trust in God's forgiveness.

Too often, my prayers are simply Dear God, thank You for what You've done for me. Here's my prayer list. Grant me Your blessing. I love You, God. Amen. If I take time to humble myself and to remember the God to whom I am praying, how much richer would my prayers be? How much easier would it be for me to hear His voice? Nehemiah has reminded me. Now I need to remember.

Less Than We Deserve

¹³ "What has happened to us is a result of our evil deeds and our great guilt, and yet, our God, you have punished us less than our sins have deserved and have given us a remnant like this. ¹⁴ Shall we again break your commands and intermarry with the peoples who commit such detestable practices? Would you not be angry enough with us to destroy us, leaving us no remnant or survivor? ¹⁵ O LORD, God of Israel, you are righteous! We are left this day as a remnant. Here we are before you in our guilt, though because of it not one of us can stand in your presence."

Ezra 9:13-15 (NIV)

Doesn't that just capture the essence of grace? God has "punished us less than our sins have deserved." That's something I need to remember every day. I may sin in ways that are completely acceptable to the world around me and it is still sin in the eyes of God. Certainly Ezra understands here what Paul says in Romans 6:1 "What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?" "No" is Paul's emphatic answer. "No" is Ezra's answer. Ezra knew it was by the grace of God that he could stand before God in repentence. Paul knew that it was through the grace of God as manifested in the death of Christ on the cross and being united with Christ that he could stand before God in repentence. It is that same grace that allows me to write here that I have been punished less than I deserve. Should I go on sinning to experience more of God's grace? No, the grace He has given me is sufficient that I should be amazed by it and treasure it the rest of my life!

Study, Do, Teach

For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.

Ezra 7:10 (ESV)

Ezra was a priest, scribe, and prophet. I appreciate how this verse describes his heart. He was diligent at studying Scripture. Awesome. But that was not enough. He did what God's Law said to do. Great! But even that was not enough. He taught others. Because of his faith in God, he diligently sought the heart of God as revealed in His Law. He sought to please God by obeying His Law and by teaching it to others. May God be glorified as I too study His Word, obey His Word, and teach it to others!

Do You Love Me?

¹⁵When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"

"Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."

Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."

¹⁶Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"

He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."

Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."

¹⁷ The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."

Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.

John 21:15-17

Three times, Jesus asks Peter "do you love me?" All three times the question is phrased slightly different. Three times, Peter responds "yes Lord." Three times Jesus responds - each time slightly different in it's own right. Do you love me more than these? Do you love me? Do you have affection for me? With each question, the intensity of the love seems to lessen and Peter seems to become discouraged. When contrasted with Jesus' instructions back, there is no need to be discouraged. Do you have affection for me? Feed my sheep. Nourish your brothers. Care for the spiritual wellbeing of my people. Do you love me? Tend my sheep. Shepherd my people. Oversee my people. Take care of all of their needs. Do you love me more than these? Feed my lambs. Nourish the young believers. Nourish the children.

All of us who call ourselves Christians have a responsibility to take care of God's people regardless of how committed we are. As our love for Jesus grows, our commitment to serving Him and serving His people should deepen. Feed, tend, nourish. Not starve, hurt, cut off. Love. Feed. Love. Tend. Love. Feed. Do it today. Do it tomorrow. Do it every day.

My Lord and My God!

Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"

John 20:28 (NIV)

Thomas wasn't there when the other disciples first saw Jesus after His resurrection. They told him about it it and he was skeptical. And then boom, Jesus appeared again and Thomas believed. Actually, it was a week later. A week later. Just one more time for emphasis. A week later. Can you imagine what Thomas must have been feeling during that week. All of these other folks that Thomas had been close to for the years of Jesus' ministry had seen Jesus in the flesh after the resurrection. He hadn't. Whatever it was the Thomas had been doing that day when he wasn't there with the other disciples must not have seen as important now. The other disciples had seen Jesus alive and he hadn't. If I had been in his position my skepticism at first would have turned into doubt which after a week probably would have turned into utter despair. Thomas may have felt confident with his skepticism at first, but a week later he may have felt like Charlie Brown on the ground after Lucy pulled the football away from him. AUGH! Perhaps he was thinking "Why has everyone else had this blessing and I have not? What's wrong with me?" So, he stuck close to the other disciples. If Jesus appeared again, he wasn't going to miss it. They were togehter in the room. The doors were locked. Jesus appeared. Jesus looked at Thomas and spoke to him. He knew the skepticism and doubt. Come on, stick your finger in there. It's really me! After a week of hungering to see Jesus again, the doubt had vanished. After a week of longing to see Jesus again, there He was. After a week of doubt and despair, Thomas' hope was realized. I can imagine that Thomas didn't just say those words once. I can imagine that he bowed before Jesus repeating over and over "My Lord and my God. My Lord and my God. My Lord and my God." I can imagine that Thomas was weeping tears of joy as He did so. "My Lord and my God. My Lord and my God."

I find it easy to put myself in Thomas' shoes. Why has everyone else around me gotten this blessing and I haven't? I can feel the skepticism, doubt, and despair. I can feel the longing to really see Jesus. I can feel the fear. I can feel the pain. But there Jesus is. I can feel the peace. I too bow and worship. My Lord and my God. My Lord and my God. My Lord and my God.

Threatening Words

¹⁹Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." ²⁰Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek. ²¹So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Do not write, 'The King of the Jews,' but rather, 'This man said, I am King of the Jews.'" ²²Pilate answered, "What I have written I have written."

John 19:19-22 (ESV)

The Jewish leaders came to Pilate to have Jesus killed telling him that by calling Himself King of the Jews, Jesus was an enemy to Ceasar. After speaking with Jesus, Pilate called Him the King of the Jews. The Jewish leaders didn't want to hear this since it threatened their roles as leaders of the people. They certainly didn't want to admit that they were wrong about Who Jesus was. These very words threatened the core of their existence. Yet, Pilate stuck to them. In my mind I can see Pilate played by Jack Nicholson with the expression on his face the same as in A Few Good Men when he delivered the line "You want the truth? You can't handle the truth." Pilate, not counting himself as a believer, is saying "I wrote what I wrote. I don't care if you're threatened by it. Deal with it!"

Truth be told, even today, there are proclamations about Jesus that are threatening. Savior we can sometimes handle, but Lord? You mean I'm giving up control of my life? That's sometimes a tough one. A good teacher. Yes, of course He was a good teacher. "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him." (John 3:36) That's a little tougher. If there are words about Jesus or from Jesus that we feel threatened by, we need to ask what is it that threatens us? Then we need to deal with it. As you read what God has written about His Son, picture Him saying "What I have written I have written." Why, because HE DID!

Who can be against me?

And his servants said still more against the LORD God and against his servant Hezekiah.

2 Chronicles 32:16 (ESV)

Sennacherib king of Assyria had come against Hezekiah king of Judah. He had laid seige against Jerusalem. He was not mereley coming against Hezekiah, he was coming against God. Sennacherib accused Hezekiah of lieing to his people. Hezekiah didn't believe Sennacherib's lies. He trusted in God to deliver his people. God did. In 2 Chronicles 32:8, Hezekiah reminded his people, "With him is an arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles." Perhaps Hezekiah had taken a peek into the future and read Romans 8:31 "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Perhaps Hezekiah just knew who God was and that He doesn't change. Either way, I know and when I see people coming against God and my beliefs, I can trust in this like Hezekiah did!

I Saw You With Him

²⁵As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, "You are not one of his disciples, are you?"

He denied it, saying, "I am not."

²⁶One of the high priest's servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, "Didn't I see you with him in the olive grove?" ²⁷Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.

John 18:25-27 (NIV)

They pressed Peter again and he denied Jesus again. Then an eyewitness stepped forward and IDed Peter. He denied Jesus a third time. Jesus had been right that Peter would deny Him three times. The cock crowed. Peter was busted. Maybe Peter feared that he too would be crucified with Jesus. Maybe Peter feared that this last guy was going to try an-ear-for-an-ear on him. Nevertheless, Peter feared. Things were spinning out of control even though Jesus told him this would all happen - and that it had to happen.

When things start to spin out of control am I apt to do the same thing as Peter and deny Jesus? Maybe not verbally, I'm probably more apt to do it in my actions. But if I truly believe God is sovereign and in control, why should I fear? Why should I fall short in my belief? Why should I deny? When I believe that God is sovereign, I can be confident in Him and I shouldn't deny Him. When I deny Him, it shows my unbelief. I believe! Help my unbelief!

That Was Easy

"You are not one of his disciples, are you?" the girl at the door asked Peter. He replied, "I am not."

John 18:17 (NIV)

Peter told Jesus he would not deny Him. Peter defended Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemene. Peter followed Jesus as He was taken to the high priest's house. He gets there and finds a crowd. You're His discple she says to him. He emphatically says "NO!" Now, I'm not a Greek scholar, but from what I've read of the Greek definitiions of the words in question, it's pretty clear that Peter was pretty clear about saying no. He didn't mumble "nah." He didn't avoid the question. He answered and his reply was clear: "NO!"

How quick am I to deny Jesus? If I were in a hostile environment and questioned if I knew Jesus, I don't think that I'd be like Peter with a quick emphatic answer. I'd probably mumble and equivocate a little and then perhaps pretend I didn't hear the question. How would I feel about it after the fact? I'll be pondering that today...

Slippery Slopes

And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not with a whole heart.

2 Chronicles 25:2 (ESV)

Amaziah, king of Judah, lived on a slippery slope. As we follow his kingship through 2 Chronicles 25, we can see how it deteriorates as he becomes less and less obedient to God. At the beginning of the chapter, he is doing well. He cleans house and seems raring to go. In verses 5-10, Amaziah amasses an army - an army that's too big. A prophet comes and rebukes him and Amaziah repents. He's gone now from doing right to being corrected and doing right. All is not so bad. Then Amaziah strikes down the Edomites and starts worshipping their gods. God gets angry at Amaziah and sends a prophet to rebuke him. This time, Amaziah refuses to listen. The story continues and Amaziah is defeated, captured, and his kingdome is plundered.

I need to be constantly on guard so that my life does not wind up like Amaziah's. I can be pretty good about starting out well. But with every sin, it seems to become harder and harder to repent. With every sin, it seems that my way seems better to me than God's way. With every sin, it seems that the world's way seems better than God's way. I know God's way is best. I know He wants what's best for me. When I am on the slippery slope descending into muck and mire, may I cry out to the Lord rather than enjoying the mud bath. May I cry out and know that He will lift me out of the pit, set my feet on a rock, and give me a firm place to stand.

To Keep You From Falling Away

"I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away.

John 16:1

Jesus continues preparing His disciples for their ministry after His death. He is telling them this so that they will not fall away. The Greek word translated fall away here is skandalizō (σκανδαλίζω) from which our English work scandalize is derived. Jesus doesn't want the disciples to be scandalized, to be entrapped, to be tripped up, to be enticed to sin or apostasy. He wants them to remain faithful. If we want to remain faithful, we should pay careful attention to Jesus words. We should read His word daily, since we may daily encouter things that may tempt us to fall away. We should memorize and meditate and cherish His word in our heart so that we may always draw upon His word when we need it.

A Harsh Epitaph

He was thirty-two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. And he departed with no one's regret. They buried him in the city of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.

2 Chronicles 21:20 (ESV)

"And he departed with no one's regret." How would you like to see that on your tombstone? That was Jehoram - son of Jehoshaphat. Do suppose there was cheering at his funeral - not because he had lived a great life, but because he was finally dead? Jehoram did some pretty evil things while he was king. He died an agonizing death. That's not what I want. When I die, I want people to say I was a man after God's own heart. I want people to miss me when I'm gone. I want to get to heaven and hear "well done my good and faithful servant." I fear that on my own efforts my departure will be closer to Jehoram's than I would care to admit. With God's help and for His glory, may I live a life better than that.

Comforting Words

"Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.

John 14:1 (ESV)

As Jesus approached the end of His earthly ministry, He began to focus more on preparing His disciples for their continuing ministry. They were beginning to sense impending doom as Jesus had warned them in John 13 of His betrayal and Peter's denial. Here in John 14, He gets them to focus. He doesn't want them to be troubled or agitated or restless (ταράσσω). He tells them to believe (πιστεύω) in God and believe in Him. They need to be confident in Him, to trust in Him, to have saving faith in Him. Instead of being troubled they can be confident in Him. He goes on to reassure them that He is the way to the Father and that the Holy Spirit will come to them. He reassures them of who He is, who God is, and who the Holy Spirit is. They need not be restless, they can trust in Him. In the midst of the busy-ness of my life, I too should not be troubled. I can trust in Him. So be it!

He is still faithful

⁷ At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said to him: "Because you relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Aram has escaped from your hand. ⁸ Were not the Cushites and Libyans a mighty army with great numbers of chariots and horsemen? Yet when you relied on the LORD, he delivered them into your hand. ⁹ For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. You have done a foolish thing, and from now on you will be at war."

2 Chronicles 16:7-9 (NIV)

In 2 Chronicles 14, Asa, king of Judah, and his army face an enemy three times larger than themselves. They depend on God and the enemy is defeated. Here in 2 Chronicles 16, Asa finds himself at war with Israel. Instead of turning to the Lord for help, he turns Ben-Hadad king of Aram. Victory follows. However, God is not happy. Asa is busted for not turning to God for help. Ouch.

I have many times seen great victory in my life when trusting in God. Yet, like Asa, I find myself apt to place my trust elsewhere. How easily I forget what God has done for me. I need to remind myself of God's faithfulness. I need to rehearse the testimonies of what God has done for me in my life. I need to preach the Gospel to myself each and every day. When the next battle comes, I need to turn first to God and not to my own understanding or to other men.

Jesus Washed Judas' Feet, Too

Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you."

John 13:10 (NIV)

I've always been touched by the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet giving them an example of humble servanthood. This act of servanthood to the men who have stuck with him throughout His ministry even though Jesus knows His death on the cross is imminent is simply beautiful... even if I don't fully understand everything about it. Reading some commentaries have helped. I hadn't fully appreciated the two Greek verbs at use here. One meaning take a bath. One for washing hands and feet. Taking a bath signifying salvation. Through the disciples' faith in Christ, they have been made clean. Except for Judas. Nowhere does it say that Jesus didn't wash Judas' feet. He knew Judas would betray Him. He knew Judas did not have faith in Him. Yet, He still washed Judas' feet. It's one thing to love and serve those who love you. It's amazing to me to contemplate that Jesus extended the same service and love to the one who would betray Him. The text does not mention Judas' reaction. It also doesn't say whether the disciples knew who Jesus was talking about here (at least at that time). The text in no way implies that Jesus didn't was Judas' feet, so we must believe that He did so. Then He told His disciples to do likewise (v 14) and they would be blessed by it (v 17). If you knew that someone was going to betray you, would you still be a servant to them? I think that I just might struggle with that. May my heart be changed by Jesus' example and may I be willing to do as He did.

Praise From Men

⁴²Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; ⁴³for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.

John 12:42-43 (NIV)

They would not confess their faith. They knew Jesus. They actually saw Him do His miracles. They walked with Him. They may have even talked with Him. They believed in Him. But, they would not confess their faith in Him. Wow. They feared what the Pharisees might say. They feared what their neighbors might say. They wanted to please people more than they wanted to please God. What about me? I confess my faith before other believers. Others around me at work and at home know of my faith. But do I really confess my faith before all those around me? How would my life look different if I truly was not afraid of what others would think? I pray that my faith would be seen in my life and God would be glorified in it.

Wisdom and Knowledge

Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?

2 Chronicles 1:10

God told Solomon to ask for anything he wanted and he would receive it. Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge. He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead God's people. As king, he was to lead God's people and he wanted wisdom and knowledge to be able to do so. Solomon had been brought up the son of a king and he probably had a pretty good education. However, to face the task of leading the people, he was humble and turned to God to help him lead the people. I've been at my current job for a long time and at least according to those I work with, I'm pretty good at it. However, in my job as well as in everything else in my life, I must daily humble myself before God and ask for wisdom and knowledge. If I start to think that I can do it on my own, I am being a fool. May I be like Solomon and depend on God for wisdom and knowledge and thereby bring glory to Him.

Full hands

Who then will offer willingly, consecrating himself today to the LORD?"

1 Chronicles 29:5 (ESV)

David, in his final acts before his death as he turns over his throne to Solomon and charges Solomon with building the temple, gives from his own gold and silver to the "building fund" for the temple. Then he challenges the people to join him in the giving. Looking into the Hebrew behind the words translated "consecrate himself" brought about an interesting word picture. I usually think of consecrate as "to make or declare sacred; set apart or dedicate to the service of a deity..." but the Hebrew word male' implies "2) to consecrate, fill the hand". This immediately made me think of my seven year old son. "Son, can you help me unload the groceries from the car?" "Not now Dad, my hands are full." Usually when I get a response like this from him, his hands aren't really full - there's probably room for him to carry a loaf of bread or some English muffins in addition to the toys that he had in the car as we went to the store. Now me, at the time, I've probably got three or bags (thank God for bags with handles) with a box of Bisquick or something shoved under each arm (OK, maybe I'm exagerating a little). What would it look like if I gave to God with full hands? Sure today, the tithe check will go in the offering basket. I'll spend several hours up at church playing in the worship band giving of my time and talents. But are my hands full? Am I giving abundantly where my hands are truly full and can't hold any more? May I today give with my hands a little fuller than they were before.

Jesus Wept

Jesus wept.

John 11:35 (ESV)

John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the Bible. Two words. Jesus wept. I recall a time when it was said "Real men don't cry." Jesus did. He was the ultimate man. Don't try and rationalize or anything. When you look at the Greek, dakruo it specifically means to shed tears. This Greek word was used exactly once in the New Testament - right here in John 11:35. Do you suppose the specific word choice is significant? I do. Jesus was saddened by the death of Lazarus - even though He knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead. Jesus was moved to shed tears. The love He felt for Lazarus was real. The sadness He felt was real. The tears He shed were real. The connection He had to Lazarus and Mary and Martha was real. Jesus wept. Do you?

Do You Believe This?

²⁵Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, ²⁶and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?"

John 11:25-26 (ESV)

Lazarus had died. Martha came to Jesus and confessed that she knew that if Jesus were there, Lazarus would not have died. She wasn't nagging. If You'd only been here, this NEVER would have happened. Where the heck were You? No, she recognized His power. She knew what He could do. Jesus began to draw her out. "Your brother will rise again." Yes, Jesus, I know that. He'll rise on the last day. I know that. She recognized Jesus power to heal the sick - the living. She knew that Jesus had power over life. But what about death? Jesus knew He was going to die on the cross. His disciples were beginning to realize that Jesus was going to be killed. Thomas suggested to his fellow disciples that they go and die with Jesus. "Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live." Jesus has power over life AND death. "Do you believe this?" Do you have faith in this? Do you trust this? Are you willing to commit to this? Martha, He's saying, You know Who I really am. You've seen what I can do. I am telling you that I can do more than you know. How are do you respond right here, right now?

I know the end of the story. Lazarus is raised from the dead. Jesus goes on to die on the cross. He dies for my sin. The curtain in the temple is torn in two. Through Jesus, we have access to God's holiness. Jesus is raised from the dead. Death cannot stop Jesus. Oh death, where is your sting? But the question that I am confronted with is the same question Jesus posed here to Martha. "Do I believe this?"

Humility and Legacy

For David said, "Solomon my son is young and inexperienced, and the house that is to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent, of fame and glory throughout all lands. I will therefore make preparation for it." So David provided materials in great quantity before his death.

1 Chronicles 22:5 (ESV)

¹²Only, may the LORD grant you discretion and understanding, that when he gives you charge over Israel you may keep the law of the LORD your God. ¹³Then you will prosper if you are careful to observe the statutes and the rules that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed.

1 Chronicles 22:12-13 (ESV)

David accepted with humility that he was not to build a temple for God. However, he did not put it out of his heart. He prepared for Solomon to build the temple both in materials and in preparing Solomon himself. David started putting into place the people who would build the temple and the materials to be used in building the temple. He prayed for wisdom for Solomon. Foremost, he charged Solomon to "keep the law of the Lord your God." What great humility David had. He very easily could have acted like a little kid and sulked and said If Solomon's going to build the temple then he's going to have to do it himself - I'm not going to help him! But no, David did everything in his power to set Solomon up to succeed in his task! David, as a father, earnestly desired to see his son bring glory to God and he prepared his son to do so.

As a father of two young boys, I too want to see them bring glory to God. Personally, I have not been given a vision of something that I won't accomplish for God that one of my sons will, but that doesn't matter. Yes, I have been trying to provide materially for their future success. More importantly, I have been doing what I can to prepare them spiritually. I read God's word daily not only for my own benefit, but also to set an example for my sons. I read God's word to them daily. I teach them daily as we have our family devotions.

I know how Solomon's story ended. He did build the temple. He was known as the wisest man in the world. He was immensely wealthy. He wrote Proverbs, Ecclesiates, Song of Solomon, and some of the Psalms. But he was enticed by foreign women. His heart turned to foreign gods. Ultimately his disobeyed the commandment "You shall have no other gods before me."

I don't know how my sons' stories will turn out. But I know that God knows what He's doing. We've been studying this for the last few weeks in our family devotions. May God continue to nurture in me a humble spirit earnestly seeking to prepare my sons to bring glory to God. May He change their hearts and grant them understanding so that they will have no other gods before Him.

Humility when God's plans are different

Go and tell my servant David, 'Thus says the LORD: It is not you who will build me a house to dwell in.

1 Chronicles 17:4 (ESV)

Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and said, "Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?

1 Chronicles 17:16

David wanted to build a temple for God. A place where God would dwell and would sit in judgement of His people. A place where the other nations would be able to see how great God is. But that is not what God wanted. God wanted to establish David and his house - his lineage. It would be from David's line that Jesus would be born. God was more concerned with His overall plan of redemption than with a temple. David was humble in his acceptance of God's plan. David knew that he was not worthy of how God was blessing him. He knew God's surpassing greatness and was concerned that God's name would be magnified. May I be as aware of how great God is and be aware of His plans even when they differ from my own. May I be as humble before God and as concerned for His glory as David was.

Hardness of Heart

³³"If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." ³⁴They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?" And they cast him out.

John 9:33-34 (ESV)

The Pharisees continued their investigation of Jesus healing the man born blind by questioning the man himself. Back in verse 16, the Pharisees were clear that they felt Jesus was not from God. Yet here this man whom they saw as a sinner (and of course he was, but it wasn't because of sin that he was born blind) is telling them that Jesus was from God! How dare he. The Pharisees were so set in their ways that they could not accept Jesus being from God. Yet the man born blind realized it and believed Jesus was from God. When Jesus revealed Himself to the man born blind, the man believed that Jesus was the Messiah and worshipped Him (v 38).

Are there ways that I am so hard of heart or so set in my ways, that I cannot see Jesus for who He truly is? I would love to say no, but I would imagine that is not completely true. Do I find myself set in my expectations of what Jesus will do in my life that I fail to see ways that Jesus is working that is different from what I am expecting? Am I so set in my expectations that my peripheral vision is suffering? Yes, I wear progressive no line bifocals for my normal vision, but is my spiritual vision suffering too? The truth is I need me eyes opened freshly every day to see what God is doing in my life.

Heavenly Father, open my eyes. Keep me from becoming blind to what You are doing in my life. Help me be like the man born blind who now could see and be eager to see what You are doing in my life. For Your glory. Amen.

Unbelief

Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.

John 9:3 (ESV)

Jesus healed a man born blind. His neighbors didn't really believe it was the man who had been born blind. It's him. No it's not - it's somebody who looks like him. They wanted an investigation into the matter so they took the man before the Pharisees. The Pharisees made a big deal out of the fact that Jesus healed the man on the Sabbath. Some of them didn't believe a man of God would do work on the Sabbath. Others believed that a sinner couldn't do such a miracle. "And there was a division among them." They didn't want to believe that the man was born blind. They queried his parents. Yes, it's him. He was born blind.

The neighbors and the Pharisees didn't want to believe in what Jesus had done. Jesus didn't fit their picture of what a man of God was supposed to be. They kept looking for explanations so that they could rationalize their disbelief. Mistaken identity. Charlatan working on the Sabbath. He wasn't really blind to begin with. He's a sinner. Their arguments wouldn't stand. Yet, they couldn't believe in the mighty work Jesus had done. They failed to see God's work in the situation.

Where is it that it fail to see God's work in my life? Where do I rationalize away the divine and look for other explanations? Am I like the Father in Mark chapter 9?

²¹And Jesus asked his father\cf1 , "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. ²² And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." ²³ And Jesus said to him, "'If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes."²⁴ Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!"

Mark 9:21-24 (ESV)

Jesus, I know that I often sell You short in my life. I beleive! Help my unbelief!

Breach of faith

"So Saul died for his breach of faith..." (1 Chronicles 10:13 ESV)
Yes, I understand the wages of sin is death. Yes, I know the stories
of Annanais and Sapphira and the story of Uzziah - sin; drop dead; end
of story. Saul didn't drop dead immediately after his sin. It is
clear that he died - a battle injury not quite killing him so he fell
on his own sword to finish the job - BECAUSE of his sin. I like how
the ESV puts it "a breach of his faith". How important is it that we
keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith?
I'd say there are life and death consequences!

The truth will set you free

³¹To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. ³²Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John 8:31-32 (NIV)

The truth will set you free. That's one of those truths that I hold on to. The truth will set you free. Period. Well, no, not exactly. If you hold to my teaching... Wait a minute. We have to do something before the truth sets us free? We can't just wily-nily be doing what we want and have the truth set us free? Nope. Not gonna happen. Jesus said we must hold to His teaching. That means we must know His teaching. The verb translated "hold to" here is menō which means to remain, abide, sojourn, tarry. We must be actively living in His Word. It must be an active part of our lives. We should be reading it every day. We should be letting it affect every area of our lives. We should let it influence every decision we make. We should be clinging to it. THEN we will be His disciples. THEN we will know the truth. THEN the truth will set us free. Are you free?

Did you notice who wasn't there?

When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."

John 8:7 (NIV)

They brought a woman accused of adultery to Jesus wanting Him to tell them it was OK to stone her. Did you notice who wasn't there? The Washington Post wasn't covering the story. Nor was the New York Times. Not CNN, MSNBC, or FoxNews. Not Huffington Post or DrudgeReport. Not Gawker. Not TMZ. Nope, our mainstream media completely missed out on this story. But did you see story on such-and-such about so-and-so? I'll send you the link. Ha, I can't believe what they've done! They deserve what's coming to them! Let him who is without sin... My sin? What do you mean? I'm just relaying something I saw on... It wasn't me saying anything in the first place. Shouldn't you be reproving the MSM for reporting salacious stories like this? What? How many fingers are pointing back at me? Come on, give me a break. There's a speck in your eye! Don't you know that! You expect me to get it out for you? Forget it! I'm not going to help you! (I can't because of this darn log in my eye.)

Who is Jesus?

⁴⁰On hearing his words, some of the people said, "Surely this man is the Prophet."
⁴¹Others said, "He is the Christ."
Still others asked, "How can the Christ come from Galilee? ⁴²Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?" ⁴³Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. ⁴⁴Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.

John 7:40-44 (NIV)

The people were arguing who Jesus was. They didn't know everything about Jesus and how He fulfilled the prophecies that they were questioning. People are still arguing over Jesus today. "He was a good man." "He was a good teacher." "He was a prophet." How can I, having been elightened by the Holy Spirit, reveal to those around me who He really is?

Cleaning House

I wrote yesterday of Josiah's responsive heart as he humbled himself before the Lord in repentence after the book of the covenant was discovered in the temple. 2 Kings 23 continues the story and shows how Josiah's responsive heart translated into actions. Perhaps there's something I can learn from what he did.

• He let everybody know. Josiah didn't stop at just himself reading the word. He had the book of the covenant read to all of the people. He knew this was important and was something that he had to share with others.
• He renewed his commitment to God. In verse 3 we see that he renewed the covenant "to follow the LORD and keep his commands, regulations and decrees with all his heart and all his soul." Repentence doesn't just stop at confession, it requires change and commitment.
• He cleaned house. Josiah had the priests remove everything from the temple that was dedicated to foreign gods. They didn't stop at just the temple, they went throughout the land tearing down anything that was dedicated to foreign gods. They weren't just throwing things out - things were "smashed" and "desecrated". Josiah was serious and not concerned with political correctness.
• He didn't throw the baby out with the bathwater. In verses 17 and 18, we read of Josiah encoutering the tomb of a prophet who was a man of God and had prophesied of the cleansing Josiah was doing. Josiah realized that his tombstone could be left intact.

Josiah was serious about cleaning the kingdom of all that was dedicated to foreign gods. He knew that a holy God demanded His people be holy also. He sought to remove all that wasn't dedicated to God and still to retain and preserve all that was dedicated to the true God.

Heavenly Father, help me to know when I need to clean house. Help me to be strong and diligent in removing all that is not dedicated to You. Help me also to preserve and cultivate all in my life that is dedicated to You. For Your glory. Amen.

Responsive Hearts

Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD.

2 Kings 22:19 (NIV)

Josiah was young when he became king. The kings before him didn't seek God. The people had turned away from God. They had forgotten the word of God... until it was found when they were renovating the temple. Josiah read it and realized how far the people had strayed from God. He humbled himself. He wept. He repented. The fruit of his repentence was that he didn't see the disaster God was to bring upon the people.

I haven't gone a long time without reading God's word. I read every day. In the morning on my own. At night with my kids. How do I react when I read the word and realize how far I have strayed from God? It's been a while since I've wept. I don't know that I've ever torn my clothes (at least on purpose). I'm pretty quiet with my repentence. I just need to make sure that I'm quick with my repentence when I find myself confronted by my sin.

Heavenly Father. Thank You that Your Word exposes my sin. Thank You that as I confess my sin You are faithful to forgive my sin and cleanse me from my unrighteousness. Help me to be responsive when convicted of my sin and to humble myself and turn to You. For Your glory. Amen.

Feed Me!

Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.

John 6:26 (NIV)

They tracked Him down. They realized He was no longer where He had fed them and they went looking for Him. They found Him. They hadn't understood the miracle. They were hungry AGAIN. Feed me, Jesus, feed me! "I am the Bread of Life" He said. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" they said. Their stomachs were empty. They didn't understand He cared for their souls. When was the last time Jesus filled you up? Did the experience fill you or did you taste and see that the Lord is good? Were you left craving for that next meal or were you craving more of Jesus? A few hours later, did you find yourself heading to Five Guys to fill you up or can you declare like David in Psalm 63

¹ O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water.

² I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.

³ Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.

⁴ I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.

⁵ My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you.

Psalm 63:1-5 (NIV)

What are you afraid of?

So, what ARE you afraid of? Snakes? Heights? Falling off ladders? Crowds? Men walking on water in the middle of the night?

¹⁹When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified. ²⁰But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." ²¹Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

John 6:19-21 (NIV)

The disciples had just had a busy day. They had fed 5,0000 men with just a little bit of food and then had to clean up the mess. Cleaning up after a family of four after dinner is enough work. Cleaning up after 5,000... I personally can't imagine it. The disciples must have been exhausted. They got in the boat to head to their next destination. Jesus stayed behind. A long day. Feeding a lot of people. Cleaning up after those people. Then rowing three and a half miles. Ugh! When will this day be over. What's that over there? Is that a ghost out over the water? The disciples were terrified. The Greek word phobeō is the word from which we derive our word phobia. They were scared. They were perhaps acting a little irrationally. What did Jesus tell them. "It is I. Don't be afraid." Jesus got in the boat with them. Boom. They reached their destination. Keep your eyes on Jesus - not on your circumstances. Let Him in your boat. Be not afraid. What, I ask again, are you afraid of?

Diligent Study

³⁹You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, ⁴⁰yet you refuse to come to me to have life.

John 5:39-40 (NIV)

In this passage Jesus is telling the people that the Scriptures point to Him. Despite all of their diligent study, they have failed to see the object of the Scriptures. They've read their Bibles, studied their commentaries, listened to their sermons and yet they haven't realized it's all about Jesus. They want eternal life. They read the Scriptures to point them to eternal life. Yet, they don't come to Jesus for eternal life. They are missing the point completely.

How often do I miss Jesus when I'm reading the Scriptures. How often do I, when I'm reading one of the "boring" passages in the Old Testament, fail to see that it's pointing to Jesus? At least I can say "not all the time." I do see Jesus in the Old Testament. By God's grace I can. Thank God!.

Dear God, I know that the Old Testament testifies to Jesus. Open my eyes that I might see Him proclaimed in Your Word. Help me to take that and proclaim to others so that they may see Him too. For Your glory, Amen.

Driving

The lookout reported, "He has reached them, but he isn't coming back either. The driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi—he drives like a madman."

2 Kings 9:20 (NIV)

I don't have a fish on the back of my car. Nor do I have a "No God no peace, Know God know peace" bumper sticker or anything like that. I don't particularly want the person to know that I'm a Christian. I don't want them to think "The driving is like that of a Christian - he drives like a madman." I get cut off almost every day by cars with fish on them. I see cars with Christian bumper stickers blow by me on the highway when I'm already noticably over the speed limit. Seeing people who display their Christianity and drive like maniacs offends me. Maybe I'm offended because I do the same thing. That's why I don't have a fish on my car. Maybe, instead of being offended, I should drive in such a way that honors Christ. At least until I hear that traffic report that lets me know it's going to take more than an hour to get home. OK, even after I hear that traffic report that lets me know it's going to take two hours to get home.

Heavenly Father, help me to drive in such a way that it brings honor to You. Help me not to drive in a way that dishonors You. Help me to LIVE in a way that brings honor to You. Amen.

Because of His words

And because of his words many more became believers.

John 4:41 (NIV)

Jesus had spoken to the Samaritan women at the well and she believed because He had told her everything she had ever done. Many of her fellow Samaritans beleieved because of her testimony and they came out to listen to Jesus. It wasn't just the woman's story that led them to believe. They listened to Jesus. His words. His heart. Himself. Jesus, the Word that was from the beginning and came into the world. Jesus, the Word that was with God and was God. His Word.

Like the talk He had with two disciples on the road to Emmaus, this is another one of Jesus' speeches that isn't recorded in the Bible. He gave testimony to who He was and the Samaritans believed. Just like on the trip to Emmaus where He showed how the Old Testament pointed to Him. Yet, neither of the speeches are included in the Bible. Have you ever thought about how, if these speeches were included, you would understand Him better and be able to tell people about Him better? I have. I'd love to have those words in front of me. I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Wouldn't I be more effective in my ministry if I could just point people to these speeches. Wouldn't my life be richer? I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Ok, so maybe I don't need those speeches. What Jesus said about himself is fairly clear. I need to take Him at His word and I need to take His word to those around me.

Jesus, thank You that Your Word changes people's hearts. Thank You that it is powerful and it accomplishes what You set it out to do. Help me to share it with others who need to be changed by it. Amen.

Don't I deserve something?

Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said to himself, "My master was too easy on Naaman, this Aramean, by not accepting from him what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him."

2 Kings 5:20 (NIV)

Naaman had come to Elisha to be healed of leprosy. Elisha told him to wash himself in the Jordan River seven times and he would be healed. Naaman, after some initial protest whining whether his rivers back home were good enough, did as Elisha said and was healed. Naaman offered Elisha a gift. Elisha declined. Shortly after Naaman had left to return home, Gehazi decided to exploit Naaman's generosity and returned with gifts. Elisha knew, busted Gehazi, and Gehazi got what he deserved - leprosy.

It's a good thing I'm not like Gehazi. After all, he didn't actually do anything to help Naaman. Me, I read my Bible everyday - to myself and to my children. I'm discipling my children. I go to church every week. Men's Bible study every Tuesday. I serve in my church. Surely I deserve something for all of this.

The Bible is clear that I DO deserve something. "For the wages of sin is death" it says in Romans 6:23. Yes, I deserve something. Eternal separation from God. Death. Hell. That's what I deserve. Romans 6:23 continues "but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." It's a gift. I don't deserve it. Grace. That's what it is. The grace of God. I'm not entitled to it. Nevertheless, I have received it and I am glad.

Heavenly Father, I thank you that I haven't gotten what I deserve. Unlike Uzziah or Ananais or Sapphira, I haven't been struck dead upon my sinning. Thank You that you sent Your Son into the world so that anyone who believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life. Help me to remember that it's a free gift from You and not anything that I can boast in. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You.