March 4
“But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.” (John 1:12–13, NLT)
A husband and wife pack their luggage for a trip. They plan to be gone a month. They have worked toward this month for several years. They are excited. Tomorrow, they will be departing to Brazil. There, they will be meeting with the director of a home for orphans. The couple has worked with the director to adopt a child. The couple found their way blocked to adoption in the United States. They had friends who were Brazilian and decided to look in Brazil for a child to bring back to the United States. A child was selected at the orphanage for the couple to bring home. Money was transferred to the orphanage and to various agencies to facilitate the process. Background checks were completed. Health screenings for the child were done. Now, they were going to embark for Brazil, meet with the child, and spend a month learning the culture of Brazil. They went through these two years of hard work and trouble to find a child to love, to care for, and to complete their family.
Ever since human beings were created, another type of adoption has been occurring. It is a spiritual adoption. God has chosen from the beginning of the world to adopt human beings into HIS family, to be with them, and to one day bring them home to Heaven. In the same way the couple looking to adopt the Brazilian child are excited at the possibility of adding a beloved child to the family, God enjoys when a person is adopted into the Heavenly Kingdom. Luke 15:10 tells us that even the angels rejoice over each sinner that repents. A person who is willing to be adopted into the Kingdom of God brings about joy in Heaven.
God loves that you desire to be part of His family. God’s angels rejoice with your presence in the Holy Family of God. Other Christians will find comfort in knowing you are in the fold. It is a beautiful thing to be an adopted child of God.
Jason made a mess out of his life. Though growing up in a Christian family, he rejected God and faith while in college. He became a socialist and atheist. He saw Christians as weak individuals who were afraid to think for themselves. During the next two decades, Jason was married and divorced twice. Though well off, he often found himself feeling empty inside.
Jason’s best friend growing up was Charlie. Charlie was getting married and asked Jason to be his best man. Though happy for his best friend, Jason was not happy to be going back home. The thought of staying for even a few days “in the boondocks” made him depressed. He didn’t look forward one bit to the festivities. He especially didn’t look forward to the wedding in a church. However, his love and respect for his best friend lightened his mood just a bit.
The entire weekend of the wedding went very well. Upon reflection, Jason felt really glad he came to the wedding. He was surprised that coming back to hometown and back into the church didn’t cause any undue bother. Listening to the wedding rites and scriptures sincerely warmed his heart. It felt like he was coming home to something deeper. Shocked at this revelation, Jason realized that part of his depression and sadness was because his spiritual life was missing or dead. When he returned to the big city, Jason sought out a church to visit. Upon finding a good one a mile away, he became more and more involved. Today, Jason is very close to God. His church friends are a big part of his life. When he is at church, he feels a connection to God. He feels part of a spiritual family.
In the scripture for today, we are given a glimpse of Jesus’ mission to the world. To “all who believed and accepted” Jesus, God gave the “right to become children of God” (John 1:12). Believing and accepting Jesus gives one the right to be part of God’s family. This spiritual family is not based on one’s birth, but from a relationship with the divine. The faithful are adopted into God’s family and given a spiritual home. One day, they will also find a home in Heaven.
How does it feel to have a relationship with God? How does it feel to be part of the Heavenly family? Do you feel close to your Heavenly Father, or has there been some distance lately? Jesus died to bring you home to God the Father. He was sent on a mission for your soul. That’s how much God wants you in the fold.
Ever since human beings were created, another type of adoption has been occurring. It is a spiritual adoption. God has chosen from the beginning of the world to adopt human beings into HIS family, to be with them, and to one day bring them home to Heaven. In the same way the couple looking to adopt the Brazilian child are excited at the possibility of adding a beloved child to the family, God enjoys when a person is adopted into the Heavenly Kingdom. Luke 15:10 tells us that even the angels rejoice over each sinner that repents. A person who is willing to be adopted into the Kingdom of God brings about joy in Heaven.
God loves that you desire to be part of His family. God’s angels rejoice with your presence in the Holy Family of God. Other Christians will find comfort in knowing you are in the fold. It is a beautiful thing to be an adopted child of God.
Jason made a mess out of his life. Though growing up in a Christian family, he rejected God and faith while in college. He became a socialist and atheist. He saw Christians as weak individuals who were afraid to think for themselves. During the next two decades, Jason was married and divorced twice. Though well off, he often found himself feeling empty inside.
Jason’s best friend growing up was Charlie. Charlie was getting married and asked Jason to be his best man. Though happy for his best friend, Jason was not happy to be going back home. The thought of staying for even a few days “in the boondocks” made him depressed. He didn’t look forward one bit to the festivities. He especially didn’t look forward to the wedding in a church. However, his love and respect for his best friend lightened his mood just a bit.
The entire weekend of the wedding went very well. Upon reflection, Jason felt really glad he came to the wedding. He was surprised that coming back to hometown and back into the church didn’t cause any undue bother. Listening to the wedding rites and scriptures sincerely warmed his heart. It felt like he was coming home to something deeper. Shocked at this revelation, Jason realized that part of his depression and sadness was because his spiritual life was missing or dead. When he returned to the big city, Jason sought out a church to visit. Upon finding a good one a mile away, he became more and more involved. Today, Jason is very close to God. His church friends are a big part of his life. When he is at church, he feels a connection to God. He feels part of a spiritual family.
In the scripture for today, we are given a glimpse of Jesus’ mission to the world. To “all who believed and accepted” Jesus, God gave the “right to become children of God” (John 1:12). Believing and accepting Jesus gives one the right to be part of God’s family. This spiritual family is not based on one’s birth, but from a relationship with the divine. The faithful are adopted into God’s family and given a spiritual home. One day, they will also find a home in Heaven.
How does it feel to have a relationship with God? How does it feel to be part of the Heavenly family? Do you feel close to your Heavenly Father, or has there been some distance lately? Jesus died to bring you home to God the Father. He was sent on a mission for your soul. That’s how much God wants you in the fold.
March 8
“…Paul advised them, saying, “Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” But the centurion paid more attention to the pilot and to the owner of the ship than to what Paul said.” (Acts 27:9b–11, ESV)
In the scripture above, the apostle Paul was traveling back to Rome under guard. He had been arrested for his faith. On one leg of the voyage by ship, Paul sensed that the captain and those in charge of the shipment were taking dangerous risks. Just before a shipwreck, Paul warned the sailors and his captors that they were sailing into dangerous waters at the wrong time of the year. I’m sure Paul not only knew the seas to some extent, but God was giving him insight. He made sure to warn those in charge, but to no avail. Acts 27:11 says that “the centurion paid more attention to the pilot and to the owner of the ship than to what Paul said.” This resulted in the ship running aground and breaking up. By not paying attention to the Apostle Paul, those in charge made serious mistakes. Thankfully, with Paul’s help and God’s guidance, no lives were lost as all aboard swam to an island and were saved.
As I read this scripture, I began to see how the centurion charged with Paul’s care “paid more attention” to one group than to Paul. Within a short time, however, the centurion changed his tune. He noticed that Paul was right about a lot of things and that Paul’s God knew a whole lot about what was coming their way. In the end, the centurion was even convinced to save Paul and the other prisoners aboard the doomed ship. It was apparent to the centurion that God’s power resided in Paul. The centurion was resolved to pay attention to Paul’s instruction.
How well do you pay attention to things that God is doing around you? Do you give your full attention when God speaks? Are you apt to listen to the wrong voices or pay attention to the wrong people?
The story is told of Franklin Roosevelt, who often endured long receiving lines at the White House. He complained that no one really paid any attention to what was said. He often felt that people were more in tune to pomp and display than to what was being said or done. One day, during a reception, he decided to try an experiment. To each person who passed down the line and shook his hand, he murmured, "I murdered my grandmother this morning." The guests responded with phrases like, "Marvelous! Keep up the good work. We are proud of you. God bless you, sir." It was not till the end of the line, while greeting the ambassador from Bolivia, that his words were actually heard. Nonplussed, the ambassador leaned over and whispered, "I'm sure she had it coming." Roosevelt then smiled, tipped his head, and winked.
Like Roosevelt, I’m sure God has moments when HE wonders if anybody is really listening. God can send powerful events, and they are passed off as the luck of the draw or an unlucky accident. God may change a life, and nobody notices the changed soul. God causes miracles every day and people don’t even notice, because they don’t take the time to pay God any attention.
During a critical surgery on an unborn fetus, the doctor was focusing on many things simultaneously. He was listening to the heart monitor of both the baby and mother. He was focusing on the surgery needing to be done. He watched for blood pressure spikes or drops as the surgery progressed. With so much going on, the doctor didn’t at first notice the little hand of the baby clasping at his finger. Then, it hit him. He gasped at the beauty and wonder of that moment. When he mentioned what had happened to the nurse standing next to him, she responded, “Oh, they do that all the time” as if it was a usual occurrence in time. It was a miracle. A picture was taken to commemorate that moment.
Take time to pay attention to God’s voice and to those sent by God into your life. Pay attention to the miracles going on around you. God can offer warnings when you most need them. God may need your attention in order to save a soul in a crucial moment. God may need you to say the perfect thing at the perfect time. You can’t do that if you aren’t even paying attention!
As I read this scripture, I began to see how the centurion charged with Paul’s care “paid more attention” to one group than to Paul. Within a short time, however, the centurion changed his tune. He noticed that Paul was right about a lot of things and that Paul’s God knew a whole lot about what was coming their way. In the end, the centurion was even convinced to save Paul and the other prisoners aboard the doomed ship. It was apparent to the centurion that God’s power resided in Paul. The centurion was resolved to pay attention to Paul’s instruction.
How well do you pay attention to things that God is doing around you? Do you give your full attention when God speaks? Are you apt to listen to the wrong voices or pay attention to the wrong people?
The story is told of Franklin Roosevelt, who often endured long receiving lines at the White House. He complained that no one really paid any attention to what was said. He often felt that people were more in tune to pomp and display than to what was being said or done. One day, during a reception, he decided to try an experiment. To each person who passed down the line and shook his hand, he murmured, "I murdered my grandmother this morning." The guests responded with phrases like, "Marvelous! Keep up the good work. We are proud of you. God bless you, sir." It was not till the end of the line, while greeting the ambassador from Bolivia, that his words were actually heard. Nonplussed, the ambassador leaned over and whispered, "I'm sure she had it coming." Roosevelt then smiled, tipped his head, and winked.
Like Roosevelt, I’m sure God has moments when HE wonders if anybody is really listening. God can send powerful events, and they are passed off as the luck of the draw or an unlucky accident. God may change a life, and nobody notices the changed soul. God causes miracles every day and people don’t even notice, because they don’t take the time to pay God any attention.
During a critical surgery on an unborn fetus, the doctor was focusing on many things simultaneously. He was listening to the heart monitor of both the baby and mother. He was focusing on the surgery needing to be done. He watched for blood pressure spikes or drops as the surgery progressed. With so much going on, the doctor didn’t at first notice the little hand of the baby clasping at his finger. Then, it hit him. He gasped at the beauty and wonder of that moment. When he mentioned what had happened to the nurse standing next to him, she responded, “Oh, they do that all the time” as if it was a usual occurrence in time. It was a miracle. A picture was taken to commemorate that moment.
Take time to pay attention to God’s voice and to those sent by God into your life. Pay attention to the miracles going on around you. God can offer warnings when you most need them. God may need your attention in order to save a soul in a crucial moment. God may need you to say the perfect thing at the perfect time. You can’t do that if you aren’t even paying attention!
March 11
“I loathe my life; I will give free utterance to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul.” (Job 10:1, ESV)
“Perhaps the wound is old. A parent abused you. A teacher slighted you. A mate betrayed you.… And you are angry.
Or perhaps the wound is fresh. The friend who owes you money just drove by in a new car. The boss who hired you with promises of promotions has forgotten how to pronounce your name.… And you are hurt.
Part of you is broken, and the other part is bitter. Part of you wants to cry, and part of you wants to fight.… There is a fire burning in your heart. It’s the fire of anger.…
And you are left with a decision. “Do I put the fire out or heat it up? Do I get over it or get even? Do I release it or resent it? Do I let my hurts heal, or do I let hurt turn into hate?” …
Unfaithfulness is wrong. Revenge is bad. But the worst part of all is that, without forgiveness, bitterness is all that is left.” (Max Lucado, Grace for the Moment, p. 380)
I want you to know that bitterness is a common malady among those who refuse to forgive. After being hurt, it can sometimes take hours or days or weeks or even years to forgive someone who you believe is responsible. The longer unforgiveness and hatred last, the better chance you will be left with bitterness. The longer you hold a grudge, the more probable you will be left bitter and resentful. For today, I want you to consider if you have any vestiges of bitterness swirling around in your heart or soul or mind. If you do, it is a deadly demon.
I met George more than thirty years ago. He had a generous mindset. He was quick with wit and loved God. But George had one huge glaring problem in his spiritual life. He held a long-standing grudge with his neighbor. The neighbor had borrowed an expensive piece of farming equipment, but then damaged it. The neighbor returned the equipment with the damage and even tried to cover it up. Then, when George tried to use the equipment the next time, it failed out in the field and had to be towed back and repaired. It literally cost George several thousand dollars to fix the damage. When George asked his neighbor if he had damaged it, the neighbor got upset and angry, denying any responsibility. For several years, the two didn’t speak. They both held a grudge. For George, the neighbor had shown carelessness and disrespect and deserved everything bad.
Several years passed and George’s neighbor did well financially. The neighbor had a piece of land that was bought by a big corporation for a large sum of money. The more his neighbor grew wealthy, the more George hated it. It even got to the point that George asked me and God, “It isn’t fair! He cheated me, and what did God do? God blesses him. Being good just doesn’t seem worth it to me, is it!?” Through the years, George became more and more bitter. At times, he would burst into anger and yell at his wife. When George’s son got sick, George became even more bitter and resentful. At that point, he was angry at his neighbor, at God, and even got angry at me when I told him to forgive and let it go. He didn’t talk to me for several months.
What George did not realize was that the longer he held on to that bitterness, the more it would eat at his heart and soul. It would disturb his mind. It would erode his inner peace. The more George kept his bitterness, the more his soul became unsettled. Was his several thousand-dollar loss worth years of bitterness? George didn’t see it that way. He only saw the neighbor’s slight. He didn’t see the resulting damage caused by his own bitterness and resentment.
When you fight against God or fail to forgive or fail to let things go to God long enough, bitterness is the result. Bitterness will damage your soul, erode relationships, cause emotions like jealousy and envy to stir. It will lead to arguments and strife and even war. Bitterness is borne when a person is unable to let go of something God wants banished from one’s soul. It is further fortified when a person refuses to forgive or show grace. It becomes overwhelming when one’s emotions begin to feed on the past offense. Bitterness kills you from the inside out.
When the prophet Job began to suffer from calamities in his life, he was stunned. As he lost children to death, he was shocked. When his crops and flocks were lost, he grew angry and resentful. Job had been faithful to God! Why had God allowed this! What Job did not know was that Satan was behind all the losses. Satan was convinced that Job’s love of God was conditional, based on success and wealth only. God was sure of Job’s faith. When Satan killed and stole what Job treasured most in life, Satan was convinced that Job would give up his faith in God. During this awful period of Job’s life, the scripture for today was used to capture his feelings. While Job was suffering his losses, he expressed that he “loathed his life” (Job 10:1). He also confessed that bitterness had captured his soul.
Don’t let bitterness take hold in your soul. If it does, you will “loathe life”. Life will become difficult, even unbearable. Bitterness takes away your joy in life. To get rid of it, you need to find the source of its corruption, the root of bitterness. If you want to get rid of bitterness, it is best to find that root or source. Search your soul. Is there someone (including yourself!) whom you have not forgiven? Is there a grudge you are holding tightly? Are you jealous or envious of someone? Do you resent some past slight? Is there a sin that is playing with your mind? To weed out that bitterness, you are going to have to go to places that might feel uncomfortable. You might have to search those dark thoughts and work through your repressed memories. Then, confession and repentance and God’s grace will save your soul and open you up to healing. As long as the bitterness is there, healing will flee from you. Peace in your mind will not last.
I wish I could say that bitterness is not common in our world. That would not be true. Bitterness is a scourge, a pandemic. It destroys spiritually healthy individuals and can permanently damage a soul. Keep your soul free from bitterness. Otherwise, you will feel just like the prophet Job in the scripture today. You will hate waking up in the morning. You will hardly be able to live with yourself or your thoughts.
Or perhaps the wound is fresh. The friend who owes you money just drove by in a new car. The boss who hired you with promises of promotions has forgotten how to pronounce your name.… And you are hurt.
Part of you is broken, and the other part is bitter. Part of you wants to cry, and part of you wants to fight.… There is a fire burning in your heart. It’s the fire of anger.…
And you are left with a decision. “Do I put the fire out or heat it up? Do I get over it or get even? Do I release it or resent it? Do I let my hurts heal, or do I let hurt turn into hate?” …
Unfaithfulness is wrong. Revenge is bad. But the worst part of all is that, without forgiveness, bitterness is all that is left.” (Max Lucado, Grace for the Moment, p. 380)
I want you to know that bitterness is a common malady among those who refuse to forgive. After being hurt, it can sometimes take hours or days or weeks or even years to forgive someone who you believe is responsible. The longer unforgiveness and hatred last, the better chance you will be left with bitterness. The longer you hold a grudge, the more probable you will be left bitter and resentful. For today, I want you to consider if you have any vestiges of bitterness swirling around in your heart or soul or mind. If you do, it is a deadly demon.
I met George more than thirty years ago. He had a generous mindset. He was quick with wit and loved God. But George had one huge glaring problem in his spiritual life. He held a long-standing grudge with his neighbor. The neighbor had borrowed an expensive piece of farming equipment, but then damaged it. The neighbor returned the equipment with the damage and even tried to cover it up. Then, when George tried to use the equipment the next time, it failed out in the field and had to be towed back and repaired. It literally cost George several thousand dollars to fix the damage. When George asked his neighbor if he had damaged it, the neighbor got upset and angry, denying any responsibility. For several years, the two didn’t speak. They both held a grudge. For George, the neighbor had shown carelessness and disrespect and deserved everything bad.
Several years passed and George’s neighbor did well financially. The neighbor had a piece of land that was bought by a big corporation for a large sum of money. The more his neighbor grew wealthy, the more George hated it. It even got to the point that George asked me and God, “It isn’t fair! He cheated me, and what did God do? God blesses him. Being good just doesn’t seem worth it to me, is it!?” Through the years, George became more and more bitter. At times, he would burst into anger and yell at his wife. When George’s son got sick, George became even more bitter and resentful. At that point, he was angry at his neighbor, at God, and even got angry at me when I told him to forgive and let it go. He didn’t talk to me for several months.
What George did not realize was that the longer he held on to that bitterness, the more it would eat at his heart and soul. It would disturb his mind. It would erode his inner peace. The more George kept his bitterness, the more his soul became unsettled. Was his several thousand-dollar loss worth years of bitterness? George didn’t see it that way. He only saw the neighbor’s slight. He didn’t see the resulting damage caused by his own bitterness and resentment.
When you fight against God or fail to forgive or fail to let things go to God long enough, bitterness is the result. Bitterness will damage your soul, erode relationships, cause emotions like jealousy and envy to stir. It will lead to arguments and strife and even war. Bitterness is borne when a person is unable to let go of something God wants banished from one’s soul. It is further fortified when a person refuses to forgive or show grace. It becomes overwhelming when one’s emotions begin to feed on the past offense. Bitterness kills you from the inside out.
When the prophet Job began to suffer from calamities in his life, he was stunned. As he lost children to death, he was shocked. When his crops and flocks were lost, he grew angry and resentful. Job had been faithful to God! Why had God allowed this! What Job did not know was that Satan was behind all the losses. Satan was convinced that Job’s love of God was conditional, based on success and wealth only. God was sure of Job’s faith. When Satan killed and stole what Job treasured most in life, Satan was convinced that Job would give up his faith in God. During this awful period of Job’s life, the scripture for today was used to capture his feelings. While Job was suffering his losses, he expressed that he “loathed his life” (Job 10:1). He also confessed that bitterness had captured his soul.
Don’t let bitterness take hold in your soul. If it does, you will “loathe life”. Life will become difficult, even unbearable. Bitterness takes away your joy in life. To get rid of it, you need to find the source of its corruption, the root of bitterness. If you want to get rid of bitterness, it is best to find that root or source. Search your soul. Is there someone (including yourself!) whom you have not forgiven? Is there a grudge you are holding tightly? Are you jealous or envious of someone? Do you resent some past slight? Is there a sin that is playing with your mind? To weed out that bitterness, you are going to have to go to places that might feel uncomfortable. You might have to search those dark thoughts and work through your repressed memories. Then, confession and repentance and God’s grace will save your soul and open you up to healing. As long as the bitterness is there, healing will flee from you. Peace in your mind will not last.
I wish I could say that bitterness is not common in our world. That would not be true. Bitterness is a scourge, a pandemic. It destroys spiritually healthy individuals and can permanently damage a soul. Keep your soul free from bitterness. Otherwise, you will feel just like the prophet Job in the scripture today. You will hate waking up in the morning. You will hardly be able to live with yourself or your thoughts.
March 14
“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious,” (1 Peter 2:4, ESV)
The scripture above from 1 Peter reminds us that Jesus was “rejected by men” even while being “chosen and precious” in the sight of God. I find it interesting that this world is so fallen that people cannot see what is important to God. They even “reject” what is deemed precious to God. They downplay the beauty of holy things. They deny what is godly.
If you look at Jesus, the rejections by people and this world occur from the beginning. Jesus had no place in the inn when he was born (Luke 2:7). His life was threatened by King Herod. Jesus’ parents had to flee to Egypt (Matthew 2) when Herod rejected Jesus’ sovereignty. Jesus’ teachings were maligned by the scribes and pharisees. His miracles were even rejected as being borne of Satan. In the end, Jesus’ ultimate rejection by the world was the crucifixion on the cross. The world would rather put Jesus’ to death than listen to the truth. Let’s be honest: everywhere Jesus went He found people who rejected Him. This didn’t stop Him from doing His ministry. It just meant Jesus had to deal with rejection constantly.
As a child, Ryan White was diagnosed as a hemophiliac. This meant that his blood would not clot normally. If he cut his finger while out playing, he could bleed to death if the cut was deep enough. Hemophiliacs are sometimes given a blood transfusion to help with the disease, especially when they have suffered some amount of blood loss. Sometime in his youth, Ryan White had to have a blood transfusion. What he didn’t know until later was that the blood he was given was laced with HIV. Ryan White, at the young age of 13, was diagnosed with AIDS.
In the months and years after his diagnosis, Ryan White suffered all sorts of rejections. People wanted to put him in isolation permanently. Community groups petitioned leaders to forbid him from attending public school. When he played in a playground, children were told by their parents to keep away from him. There was such a stigma with HIV and AIDS that Ryan was denied medical help and even basic human necessities at various times in his life. He had done nothing wrong but suffered rejection over and over.
Rejection will occur to everyone. Some, like Jesus and Ryan White, will face much more rejection than the normal person. You may have suffered greatly with rejection by a family member, a friend, a loved one, a group or an organization. Cyberbullying is common online form of rejection. Shunning is a form of religious rejection and persecution. Almost all High School seniors must learn to deal with rejection letters from colleges. Job seekers will find rejection to their resumes or employment inquiries. In the 1960’s a not uncommon form of name-calling among children in American schools was to be referred to as a “reject”. Yes, children would call other children “rejects” on the playground!
How do you deal with rejection? What methods do you use to cope with the negativity that comes with being rejected?
I was heartbroken to hear yesterday that because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the elderly were turned away at Italian hospitals because of a shortage of beds. When multiple hospitals had to deal with the pandemic, they were forced to choose whom to save and whom to turn away. The elderly were turned away from the hospitals because there was no room left for the sick. I also learned that there were families in the quarantine zones in Italy with a dead person in the home who were told by authorities that they could not pick up the body until further notice. Their pleas for help for their dead loved ones were rejected by emergency services.
Life is full of rejections. However, if you love God, you will never be rejected. God will always notice your true love borne out of a real faith. God never rejects the faithful. Jesus did not reject the sinners who sought to repent. He did not ignore the sick who came for healing. He made time for the seeking soul. Jesus stayed with Zacchaeus, even though he was a tax collector and sinner. Jesus made time to sit with a prostitute who covered His feet with her tears. He even sat at the Passover meal with Judas, hoping that disciple would repent and turn from his sin. Jesus knew what it was like to be rejected. He’d be the first to accept your statement of faith or promise of obedience.
Has your heart been broken by rejection lately? Have you been betrayed by a friend? Do you feel like your faith is ridiculed by others? The faithful have always dealt with rejection by the world. What is nice to know is that God will not reject the faithful. With our God, there is always a willingness to accept your obedience and honesty, to celebrate your faith and true love. How does it feel to be accepted by a loving God at this moment? How does it feel to be considered by God as precious?
If you look at Jesus, the rejections by people and this world occur from the beginning. Jesus had no place in the inn when he was born (Luke 2:7). His life was threatened by King Herod. Jesus’ parents had to flee to Egypt (Matthew 2) when Herod rejected Jesus’ sovereignty. Jesus’ teachings were maligned by the scribes and pharisees. His miracles were even rejected as being borne of Satan. In the end, Jesus’ ultimate rejection by the world was the crucifixion on the cross. The world would rather put Jesus’ to death than listen to the truth. Let’s be honest: everywhere Jesus went He found people who rejected Him. This didn’t stop Him from doing His ministry. It just meant Jesus had to deal with rejection constantly.
As a child, Ryan White was diagnosed as a hemophiliac. This meant that his blood would not clot normally. If he cut his finger while out playing, he could bleed to death if the cut was deep enough. Hemophiliacs are sometimes given a blood transfusion to help with the disease, especially when they have suffered some amount of blood loss. Sometime in his youth, Ryan White had to have a blood transfusion. What he didn’t know until later was that the blood he was given was laced with HIV. Ryan White, at the young age of 13, was diagnosed with AIDS.
In the months and years after his diagnosis, Ryan White suffered all sorts of rejections. People wanted to put him in isolation permanently. Community groups petitioned leaders to forbid him from attending public school. When he played in a playground, children were told by their parents to keep away from him. There was such a stigma with HIV and AIDS that Ryan was denied medical help and even basic human necessities at various times in his life. He had done nothing wrong but suffered rejection over and over.
Rejection will occur to everyone. Some, like Jesus and Ryan White, will face much more rejection than the normal person. You may have suffered greatly with rejection by a family member, a friend, a loved one, a group or an organization. Cyberbullying is common online form of rejection. Shunning is a form of religious rejection and persecution. Almost all High School seniors must learn to deal with rejection letters from colleges. Job seekers will find rejection to their resumes or employment inquiries. In the 1960’s a not uncommon form of name-calling among children in American schools was to be referred to as a “reject”. Yes, children would call other children “rejects” on the playground!
How do you deal with rejection? What methods do you use to cope with the negativity that comes with being rejected?
I was heartbroken to hear yesterday that because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the elderly were turned away at Italian hospitals because of a shortage of beds. When multiple hospitals had to deal with the pandemic, they were forced to choose whom to save and whom to turn away. The elderly were turned away from the hospitals because there was no room left for the sick. I also learned that there were families in the quarantine zones in Italy with a dead person in the home who were told by authorities that they could not pick up the body until further notice. Their pleas for help for their dead loved ones were rejected by emergency services.
Life is full of rejections. However, if you love God, you will never be rejected. God will always notice your true love borne out of a real faith. God never rejects the faithful. Jesus did not reject the sinners who sought to repent. He did not ignore the sick who came for healing. He made time for the seeking soul. Jesus stayed with Zacchaeus, even though he was a tax collector and sinner. Jesus made time to sit with a prostitute who covered His feet with her tears. He even sat at the Passover meal with Judas, hoping that disciple would repent and turn from his sin. Jesus knew what it was like to be rejected. He’d be the first to accept your statement of faith or promise of obedience.
Has your heart been broken by rejection lately? Have you been betrayed by a friend? Do you feel like your faith is ridiculed by others? The faithful have always dealt with rejection by the world. What is nice to know is that God will not reject the faithful. With our God, there is always a willingness to accept your obedience and honesty, to celebrate your faith and true love. How does it feel to be accepted by a loving God at this moment? How does it feel to be considered by God as precious?
March 16
“In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed.” (2 Peter 2:3, NLT)
A month ago, as the Coronavirus began to go out of control in China and was detected in six or seven countries, sales of medical n95 masks began skyrocket. These are specialized medical masks used by medical professionals in places where certain types of viruses, such as coronaviruses, are prevalent. I noticed the price of the masks tripled overnight. However, what shocked me most was the person selling ten masks online for twenty dollars (a normal price before the markups), but in the fine print would charge $100 to ship them to you! Essentially, the buyer would end up paying $12.50/mask, thinking they were paying $2 each plus a small shipping charge. I’m sure a few were taken in by this scam, because in the fine print, it said that if the masks were returned, shipping would not be refunded and they could charge you another $100 to have you ship them back! It was obviously a case of greed and scalping. This week, I’m told that people are doing the same with toilet paper!
Sadly, worldly people will often look for ways to make a dollar, take advantage of another, manipulate another for profit.
In the 90’s, a friend of mine was a missionary overseas. He and his wife worked tirelessly and made very little income. At the time, they received one-tenth of the money each month as an average American. During their year, they would save up their meager income in order to fly back to the United States to see family. They could only afford to fly back home once a year.
In 1998, that missionary and his wife took their hard-earned savings and left for the airport to come home. They were very excited to be visiting extended family after fourteen months in the mission field. On the way to the airport, their vehicle broke down. They had to beg for a ride from a businessman in the town they were stranded. He charged them the equivalent of a month’s salary to drive them to the airport that day! They had no spending money left by the time they finally made it to the States. A few of us took care to get them whatever they needed during their stay, including a few free meals and gift certificates to local businesses. At the time, it shocked all of us that a person in their own country of mission work would take such advantage of them!
It's shouldn’t surprise you that people take advantage of the poor, the defenseless, the stranded traveler, or the needy shopper. However, what always shocks me is how such greediness can be found among people who consider themselves Christian. In the scripture for today, the Apostle Peter described religious people of his day who would “make up clever lies to get hold of your money”. These greedy people were not secular people. They were avowed Christians. In the preceding verses of Peter’s letter, he described them as “false teachers” (2 Peter 2:1), “slanderers”, or liars (2 Peter 2:2). He accused them of “denying the Master who bought them”. Peter saw their commitment to Jesus, who died on the cross, as worthless. Their greedy pandering was offensive to God.
As a Christian, there are many ways that you can utilize money that can be offensive to God. You can hold back on your tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:8-9). You can covet material possessions (Exodus 20:17). You can take material advantage of someone in need (Amos 2:6). I have met Christians who carried on feuds in their church over how money was spent, to whom it was spent, and more. I’ve met other Christians who were so stingy with money at their church that in one case, the pastor’s family was on food stamps! A local church agency here in Wisconsin kept some of their employee’s money after they quit until the state demanded restitution by law! At a Catholic school in Indiana, a treasurer stole money that was raised by children for an overseas mission. At a Christian day care, a parent on the board embezzled a portion of the income. There are so many ways a Christian can disrespect God with money!
In the last half of the scripture for today, it makes clear that God condemns those who misuse money. If you cause others to suffer while making a buck, it doesn’t matter if you are a Christian. Your “destruction will not be delayed”. There are no nice words in our scripture for those who misuse their place in the church for a profit, whose destruction is assured because of the love of money.
Sadly, worldly people will often look for ways to make a dollar, take advantage of another, manipulate another for profit.
In the 90’s, a friend of mine was a missionary overseas. He and his wife worked tirelessly and made very little income. At the time, they received one-tenth of the money each month as an average American. During their year, they would save up their meager income in order to fly back to the United States to see family. They could only afford to fly back home once a year.
In 1998, that missionary and his wife took their hard-earned savings and left for the airport to come home. They were very excited to be visiting extended family after fourteen months in the mission field. On the way to the airport, their vehicle broke down. They had to beg for a ride from a businessman in the town they were stranded. He charged them the equivalent of a month’s salary to drive them to the airport that day! They had no spending money left by the time they finally made it to the States. A few of us took care to get them whatever they needed during their stay, including a few free meals and gift certificates to local businesses. At the time, it shocked all of us that a person in their own country of mission work would take such advantage of them!
It's shouldn’t surprise you that people take advantage of the poor, the defenseless, the stranded traveler, or the needy shopper. However, what always shocks me is how such greediness can be found among people who consider themselves Christian. In the scripture for today, the Apostle Peter described religious people of his day who would “make up clever lies to get hold of your money”. These greedy people were not secular people. They were avowed Christians. In the preceding verses of Peter’s letter, he described them as “false teachers” (2 Peter 2:1), “slanderers”, or liars (2 Peter 2:2). He accused them of “denying the Master who bought them”. Peter saw their commitment to Jesus, who died on the cross, as worthless. Their greedy pandering was offensive to God.
As a Christian, there are many ways that you can utilize money that can be offensive to God. You can hold back on your tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:8-9). You can covet material possessions (Exodus 20:17). You can take material advantage of someone in need (Amos 2:6). I have met Christians who carried on feuds in their church over how money was spent, to whom it was spent, and more. I’ve met other Christians who were so stingy with money at their church that in one case, the pastor’s family was on food stamps! A local church agency here in Wisconsin kept some of their employee’s money after they quit until the state demanded restitution by law! At a Catholic school in Indiana, a treasurer stole money that was raised by children for an overseas mission. At a Christian day care, a parent on the board embezzled a portion of the income. There are so many ways a Christian can disrespect God with money!
In the last half of the scripture for today, it makes clear that God condemns those who misuse money. If you cause others to suffer while making a buck, it doesn’t matter if you are a Christian. Your “destruction will not be delayed”. There are no nice words in our scripture for those who misuse their place in the church for a profit, whose destruction is assured because of the love of money.
March 18
“Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.” (1 John 3:4, ESV)
I do not like the way this verse reads in most Bibles. The reason why is simple. People do not usually know the Biblical definition of lawlessness. The Biblical definition of lawlessness is NOT the normal definition of lawlessness that you have been taught from young on, or even the same as the definition found in ALL English dictionaries. Lawlessness as taught in schools, universities, and from dictionaries is a “failure to follow the law”. When people read the verse above, they think that sin means not following the law of the land, local laws and customs. Many Christians believe if they are “law-abiding citizens” of their country, they follow the meaning of the above verse in the Bible. That is patently false.
The New Living Translation of the Bible expresses this difference in its translation of this verse. It states: “Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God.” (1 John 3:4, NLT). Thus, when the verse above demands you not practice lawlessness, it is meaning not following God’s laws as written down in scripture and understood by the knowledge of God. Thus, the verse above should be translated for present day as “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also goes against God’s laws. Sinning is not following God’s laws.” To you and me, this may seem obvious. You and I are faithful believers in Jesus Christ. We have chosen to follow God’s law and commandments. However, worldly Christians and the world may follow the law of the land, but they usually do not follow the law of God. They may be law abiding citizens of their country, but they are not law-abiding in the eyes of God. They are thus considered “lawless” in the eyes of God.
Daily, you will have to make a conscious effort to follow God’s laws and commandments. You will need to apply God’s rules and way of life to your decisions. To be lawful in the eyes of God means you are willing not only to know God’s laws, but to uphold them in your life and world. This is the expectation of your God.
When Carl died, his family was shocked when the will was read by his attorney. Carl had never informed his family that he had changed his will. Carl left seventy-five percent of his estate to his church. His children had always fought over money, refused to help Carl as he aged, and were not close. Carl was very upset at the way they treated him. Rather than have his family fight over his estate; Carl gave most of his inheritance to his church. The family members all attacked each other at the reading. Then, they all decided to attack the church, suing church in court. Even though Carl’s son was a member of that church, he went along with the family. If he won the lawsuit, Carl alone was going to receive more than $100,000.
The day after the lawsuit was served to the church, Carl’s son stopped at his pastor’s office. He told the pastor that it was “only fair” that the family sue for their “rightful money”. The son “had nothing against the pastor or the church”, but he felt due that money. Just before he left the pastor’s office, the son asked the pastor his thoughts. The pastor only responded, “You are within the law to sue the church, but it is not right in the sight of God.” What the pastor was saying was that the son was may be acting “lawfully” according to society, but he was not being “lawful” in the sight of God. The church would have to pay thousands to defend itself in the lawsuit, not to mention the negativity it would cause in the community.
There is a big difference between following the law like a good citizen and following God’s law like a faithful Christian. Sometimes, the laws of man come in conflict with the law of God. You will have to decide at times which laws you will follow.
There is a psychological condition that has been utilized by doctors for decades. It is called Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD). People who have this disorder have a hard time following the rules. They will reject or fight with authority. Children with this condition often challenge their teachers in school. They will break school rules. When they grow older, they will be the ones who get caught underage drinking or using illicit drugs. In their minds, they view police and government and bosses and laws and rules in a negative light. Sadly, there are Christians who have a similar spiritual condition. They will rebel against God’s authority. They don’t like having to follow the Ten Commandments. They often cause problems for the pastors and leaders in the church. They don’t like to admit when they sin. It is all too easy for them to be guilty of lawlessness using the Biblical definition.
God’s laws were written to help you. They were written to save precious life. They are necessary to follow the will of God. Be careful when you rebel against God’s laws and commands. Sin can so easily warp your thoughts and cause you to resent God’s authority. Sinfulness will get you to explain away your own sin while at the same time acting righteous. Truly righteous Christians follow God’s law. God’s commands preserve life and joy and peace. Human lawlessness damages so much more than souls.
The New Living Translation of the Bible expresses this difference in its translation of this verse. It states: “Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God.” (1 John 3:4, NLT). Thus, when the verse above demands you not practice lawlessness, it is meaning not following God’s laws as written down in scripture and understood by the knowledge of God. Thus, the verse above should be translated for present day as “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also goes against God’s laws. Sinning is not following God’s laws.” To you and me, this may seem obvious. You and I are faithful believers in Jesus Christ. We have chosen to follow God’s law and commandments. However, worldly Christians and the world may follow the law of the land, but they usually do not follow the law of God. They may be law abiding citizens of their country, but they are not law-abiding in the eyes of God. They are thus considered “lawless” in the eyes of God.
Daily, you will have to make a conscious effort to follow God’s laws and commandments. You will need to apply God’s rules and way of life to your decisions. To be lawful in the eyes of God means you are willing not only to know God’s laws, but to uphold them in your life and world. This is the expectation of your God.
When Carl died, his family was shocked when the will was read by his attorney. Carl had never informed his family that he had changed his will. Carl left seventy-five percent of his estate to his church. His children had always fought over money, refused to help Carl as he aged, and were not close. Carl was very upset at the way they treated him. Rather than have his family fight over his estate; Carl gave most of his inheritance to his church. The family members all attacked each other at the reading. Then, they all decided to attack the church, suing church in court. Even though Carl’s son was a member of that church, he went along with the family. If he won the lawsuit, Carl alone was going to receive more than $100,000.
The day after the lawsuit was served to the church, Carl’s son stopped at his pastor’s office. He told the pastor that it was “only fair” that the family sue for their “rightful money”. The son “had nothing against the pastor or the church”, but he felt due that money. Just before he left the pastor’s office, the son asked the pastor his thoughts. The pastor only responded, “You are within the law to sue the church, but it is not right in the sight of God.” What the pastor was saying was that the son was may be acting “lawfully” according to society, but he was not being “lawful” in the sight of God. The church would have to pay thousands to defend itself in the lawsuit, not to mention the negativity it would cause in the community.
There is a big difference between following the law like a good citizen and following God’s law like a faithful Christian. Sometimes, the laws of man come in conflict with the law of God. You will have to decide at times which laws you will follow.
There is a psychological condition that has been utilized by doctors for decades. It is called Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD). People who have this disorder have a hard time following the rules. They will reject or fight with authority. Children with this condition often challenge their teachers in school. They will break school rules. When they grow older, they will be the ones who get caught underage drinking or using illicit drugs. In their minds, they view police and government and bosses and laws and rules in a negative light. Sadly, there are Christians who have a similar spiritual condition. They will rebel against God’s authority. They don’t like having to follow the Ten Commandments. They often cause problems for the pastors and leaders in the church. They don’t like to admit when they sin. It is all too easy for them to be guilty of lawlessness using the Biblical definition.
God’s laws were written to help you. They were written to save precious life. They are necessary to follow the will of God. Be careful when you rebel against God’s laws and commands. Sin can so easily warp your thoughts and cause you to resent God’s authority. Sinfulness will get you to explain away your own sin while at the same time acting righteous. Truly righteous Christians follow God’s law. God’s commands preserve life and joy and peace. Human lawlessness damages so much more than souls.
March 22
“And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors.” (Genesis 45:5–7, ESV)
The words above were spoken by Joseph. Joseph had been sold into slavery. He had suffered through lies, false imprisonment, and cruelty. Through it all, God had a plan. Years after the suffering started for Joseph, God was planning to save Jacob and all his family. To do it, God needed someone in the right place at the right time when a famine came over the land. Using those who sought to hurt Joseph, God put Joseph exactly where he needed to be to save Jacob’s family. When the famine came, God’s plan came fully into action. Jacob and his family were able to move into Egypt, where food had been stored. There, the faithful family of Jacob were saved and protected during difficult times. Joseph explained this well to his family in the scripture above. “God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). The famine lasted for a long time, seven years! Joseph was in the perfect position to save his family and “preserve a remnant on earth, and to keep alive many survivors” (Genesis 45:7). God came through. Joseph fulfilled God’s plan.
During these days of the Coronavirus, another famine has come upon the earth. During this time, you can bet God has more plans to help and save the faithful. It is God’s way. God makes a way. God uses his servants at the right place at the right time to preserve life.
Let me tell you a true story of how God’s plans are helping right now in this moment. During this crucial time of the Coronavirus “famine” hitting our world, it’s good to know that God has made arrangements for faithful people. A few months ago, a local Christian school found out, through my wife’s accounting work, that a person had stolen thousands of dollars from the school. The school, based on love and hope and the desire to teach children, was hurting severely due to the loss of funds. For almost two years, this employee had stolen so much money that the school considered closing. The school’s leaders thought their ministry was a failure. They were not aware of the embezzlement. Through clever manipulation, the employee used her position to embezzle funds. The embezzler left her job figuring she had hidden all her tracks. God had other plans. My wife was hired 9 months ago to fill the position this embezzler left vacant. Laura just happened to get the job at the perfect time. During the previous months, she found all the ways this embezzler had stolen the money. One month ago, the insurance company, convinced of the embezzlement and the police case against the embezzler, wrote out a check for the entire amount stolen. It hit the accounts just as this coronavirus famine hit. Because of the insurance money coming at the perfect time, the school is in great shape to pay the teachers and get the kids the education they need. The insurance money also has helped us to have an income at this crucial time. This insurance money is keeping the school in the black. It is keeping teachers employed. It is feeding families. It is saving lives. God’s timing was perfect in the case of this school.
Throughout this time of famine, as businesses close and people are struck down, look for God to help the faithful. Look for God to watch over you. As in the days of Joseph, God sees the road ahead and makes plans. God is making a way for you right now. No matter what happens, God knows where you are and what you will face. You are not alone. You have a loving God and HIS angels watching over you.
I have no doubt God saw this famine coming. How else would God know to provide for the Christian school as relayed to you in the story above? During the previous years, God has been planning for this famine. God has done things in your life to help during this time. Don’t succumb to fear or despair. Your life is squarely in God’s sights. You are loved.
I could name a dozen other cases I know of personally where God has done something unusual and extraordinary to save and protect the faithful during this very moment in time. I wish I could tell you everything I know. Let’s just say that God has provided in ways you are not even aware. You may have to tighten your belt. You may be prevented from going to worship (churches are closing as part of emergency plans). You may have to eat less and suffer more. You may run out of things. Through it all, just know that God is fully in charge. God has a perfect plan for you. You will be able to do things you never thought possible. You will overcome in great ways. It will be a time when you will feel God is close.
Take time to pray. Let God’s courage fill your heart. Let God’s peace direct your soul. The time of famine has come. Now, let God’s grace and glory protect you. Be faithful. Be strong. Be thankful. Be courageous.
During these days of the Coronavirus, another famine has come upon the earth. During this time, you can bet God has more plans to help and save the faithful. It is God’s way. God makes a way. God uses his servants at the right place at the right time to preserve life.
Let me tell you a true story of how God’s plans are helping right now in this moment. During this crucial time of the Coronavirus “famine” hitting our world, it’s good to know that God has made arrangements for faithful people. A few months ago, a local Christian school found out, through my wife’s accounting work, that a person had stolen thousands of dollars from the school. The school, based on love and hope and the desire to teach children, was hurting severely due to the loss of funds. For almost two years, this employee had stolen so much money that the school considered closing. The school’s leaders thought their ministry was a failure. They were not aware of the embezzlement. Through clever manipulation, the employee used her position to embezzle funds. The embezzler left her job figuring she had hidden all her tracks. God had other plans. My wife was hired 9 months ago to fill the position this embezzler left vacant. Laura just happened to get the job at the perfect time. During the previous months, she found all the ways this embezzler had stolen the money. One month ago, the insurance company, convinced of the embezzlement and the police case against the embezzler, wrote out a check for the entire amount stolen. It hit the accounts just as this coronavirus famine hit. Because of the insurance money coming at the perfect time, the school is in great shape to pay the teachers and get the kids the education they need. The insurance money also has helped us to have an income at this crucial time. This insurance money is keeping the school in the black. It is keeping teachers employed. It is feeding families. It is saving lives. God’s timing was perfect in the case of this school.
Throughout this time of famine, as businesses close and people are struck down, look for God to help the faithful. Look for God to watch over you. As in the days of Joseph, God sees the road ahead and makes plans. God is making a way for you right now. No matter what happens, God knows where you are and what you will face. You are not alone. You have a loving God and HIS angels watching over you.
I have no doubt God saw this famine coming. How else would God know to provide for the Christian school as relayed to you in the story above? During the previous years, God has been planning for this famine. God has done things in your life to help during this time. Don’t succumb to fear or despair. Your life is squarely in God’s sights. You are loved.
I could name a dozen other cases I know of personally where God has done something unusual and extraordinary to save and protect the faithful during this very moment in time. I wish I could tell you everything I know. Let’s just say that God has provided in ways you are not even aware. You may have to tighten your belt. You may be prevented from going to worship (churches are closing as part of emergency plans). You may have to eat less and suffer more. You may run out of things. Through it all, just know that God is fully in charge. God has a perfect plan for you. You will be able to do things you never thought possible. You will overcome in great ways. It will be a time when you will feel God is close.
Take time to pray. Let God’s courage fill your heart. Let God’s peace direct your soul. The time of famine has come. Now, let God’s grace and glory protect you. Be faithful. Be strong. Be thankful. Be courageous.
March 24
[Jesus said, ]“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” (John 15:1–2, NLT)
If you understand the pruning of trees or plants, the verses above will seem perfectly understandable. Gardeners and “vine-dressers” (the word used for gardener in the many Bible versions) have been pruning back vines and plants for thousands of years. However, in recent times, gardening and tilling of the soil and planting have become more art or hobby than necessity. It was not so for centuries. When Jesus spoke these words above, most people understood gardening and planting and harvesting and pruning. They knew the process, because it was a normal part of life. These days, a person can grow up being completely unskilled in planting and harvesting. A person may not know what a pruning shears are used for. However, the concept of pruning is crucial to understanding the verses for today. Pruning will not only inform you of a farming concept, it will speak to a spiritual work being done by God…. maybe even in your life today!
According to the dictionary, pruning is a way to “cut off or cut away dead or overgrown plants or branches to increase fruitfulness and growth”. Pruning is used by gardeners or landscapers often to prepare for new growth. The process culls what is dying or lacking and exposes what is growing. Some plants will never grow unless they are pruned regularly. By cutting back the unfruitful sections of plant, the gardener or landscaper causes new growth in the plant or bush. In the scripture for today, Jesus spoke about pruning. He, however, was using the words to speak of spiritual pruning. Like a landscaper may prune back a bush so it may grow or be sculpted to perfection, God prunes back the spiritually dying or lifeless portions of your life so that you may grow spiritually. Bushes that are pruned will lose a lot of undergrowth. Despite the loss of whole sections of the plant, they will grow healthier when the pruning is done by a professional. In the same way, when God prunes away the sick or dying portions of your spiritual life, HE is promoting your spiritual growth.
What is it like when God prunes your spiritual life? What happens when God spiritually prunes a church?
A congregation in Ohio experienced some hard times in the 1970’s. Over its fifty-year history, the church had grown greatly. However, by the 1970’s it hit some difficulties. There were two families in that church that didn’t like each other. When one voted for something, the other voted against it. Whenever people entered the building, they felt like they had to take sides. Pastors felt hard-pressed to keep the church together. Many whispered of a looming church split. In just ten years during the 1970’s, the church had lost half its members. Then, they called a charismatic pastor named John.
After only being a pastor there for a few months, he called all the members together for a meeting. There, he told them that the church was going to close unless they did three things. First, he urged them to re-commit themselves to Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and live like it. Second, he told them that they were not allowed to fight among themselves any longer. Third, he required all adults to attend his Bible Study classes each Sunday morning. If they didn’t commit to all three measures, the pastor was going to quit. He explained that the church would die unless it took seriously all three measures.
In the month after Pastor John's ultimatum, dozens quit the church. The two families took sides. However, in the end, the church vowed to accept his terms. The members faithfully followed all three measures. The church grew from less than a hundred to over five hundred in attendance at worship. They began to reach out with inspiring missions. Their pastor began to teach other churches how to renew their spiritual life. Hundreds were baptized or renewed their commitment to Jesus Christ. A spiritual awakening occurred throughout the town.
I’ve heard pastors say under their breath that a church was going to die unless one or two families left the church. I’ve heard people say that their pastor had lost his spiritual vitality and the church was dying on the vine with his attitude. In these types of situations, God will often prune a church, clearing out the spiritually sick in order to bring life. Sometimes, for a church to grow again, a new leader may be needed. Most often, the church needs a new heart or new commitment to God in order to become spiritually alive again.
You also may need a spiritual pruning by God. God may have to prune away the hold of some memories that are killing you. God may need to change your habits or reorient your values. It may be that your spiritual life is in a rut. It could be that a past sin has you beaten down or hard-hearted. Don’t be surprised when God shakes up your world in order to prune away what is sick and dying. Don’t be surprised if God doesn’t manipulate events in your life to get you to make appreciate grace or forgiveness or humility. Usually, when spiritual pruning occurs, there will be hard times or sleepless nights. You might find yourself beaten down by your own sin or suffering with difficulties. Repentance and atonement will usually be required. God will often use those moments to prune away what is wrong in you. It’s the only way growth will happen.
Because God the Father is a spiritual gardener (John 15:1), HE will tend to your welfare. He will change your situation depending on your spiritual needs. He will prune away bad things in your life in order to save you. He may prune away people from your church in order to save it. God knows exactly how to do your spiritual pruning. The process may be difficult, but it will change your life!
When Jesus spoke the words of our scripture today, God was about to expose and prune away the sin in the Jewish faith. Throughout history, God has pruned away “dead wood” in synagogues and congregations in order to make way for true faith and holiness. I believe now is another time of spiritual pruning. God is using the events of today to expose true faith and spiritual lies. God will also use the events of your world in order to bring spiritual growth to you. In the end, God’s plan is to “produce even more fruit” (John 15:2) in your life. That will only come by a spiritual pruning. I hope you are up for it.
According to the dictionary, pruning is a way to “cut off or cut away dead or overgrown plants or branches to increase fruitfulness and growth”. Pruning is used by gardeners or landscapers often to prepare for new growth. The process culls what is dying or lacking and exposes what is growing. Some plants will never grow unless they are pruned regularly. By cutting back the unfruitful sections of plant, the gardener or landscaper causes new growth in the plant or bush. In the scripture for today, Jesus spoke about pruning. He, however, was using the words to speak of spiritual pruning. Like a landscaper may prune back a bush so it may grow or be sculpted to perfection, God prunes back the spiritually dying or lifeless portions of your life so that you may grow spiritually. Bushes that are pruned will lose a lot of undergrowth. Despite the loss of whole sections of the plant, they will grow healthier when the pruning is done by a professional. In the same way, when God prunes away the sick or dying portions of your spiritual life, HE is promoting your spiritual growth.
What is it like when God prunes your spiritual life? What happens when God spiritually prunes a church?
A congregation in Ohio experienced some hard times in the 1970’s. Over its fifty-year history, the church had grown greatly. However, by the 1970’s it hit some difficulties. There were two families in that church that didn’t like each other. When one voted for something, the other voted against it. Whenever people entered the building, they felt like they had to take sides. Pastors felt hard-pressed to keep the church together. Many whispered of a looming church split. In just ten years during the 1970’s, the church had lost half its members. Then, they called a charismatic pastor named John.
After only being a pastor there for a few months, he called all the members together for a meeting. There, he told them that the church was going to close unless they did three things. First, he urged them to re-commit themselves to Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and live like it. Second, he told them that they were not allowed to fight among themselves any longer. Third, he required all adults to attend his Bible Study classes each Sunday morning. If they didn’t commit to all three measures, the pastor was going to quit. He explained that the church would die unless it took seriously all three measures.
In the month after Pastor John's ultimatum, dozens quit the church. The two families took sides. However, in the end, the church vowed to accept his terms. The members faithfully followed all three measures. The church grew from less than a hundred to over five hundred in attendance at worship. They began to reach out with inspiring missions. Their pastor began to teach other churches how to renew their spiritual life. Hundreds were baptized or renewed their commitment to Jesus Christ. A spiritual awakening occurred throughout the town.
I’ve heard pastors say under their breath that a church was going to die unless one or two families left the church. I’ve heard people say that their pastor had lost his spiritual vitality and the church was dying on the vine with his attitude. In these types of situations, God will often prune a church, clearing out the spiritually sick in order to bring life. Sometimes, for a church to grow again, a new leader may be needed. Most often, the church needs a new heart or new commitment to God in order to become spiritually alive again.
You also may need a spiritual pruning by God. God may have to prune away the hold of some memories that are killing you. God may need to change your habits or reorient your values. It may be that your spiritual life is in a rut. It could be that a past sin has you beaten down or hard-hearted. Don’t be surprised when God shakes up your world in order to prune away what is sick and dying. Don’t be surprised if God doesn’t manipulate events in your life to get you to make appreciate grace or forgiveness or humility. Usually, when spiritual pruning occurs, there will be hard times or sleepless nights. You might find yourself beaten down by your own sin or suffering with difficulties. Repentance and atonement will usually be required. God will often use those moments to prune away what is wrong in you. It’s the only way growth will happen.
Because God the Father is a spiritual gardener (John 15:1), HE will tend to your welfare. He will change your situation depending on your spiritual needs. He will prune away bad things in your life in order to save you. He may prune away people from your church in order to save it. God knows exactly how to do your spiritual pruning. The process may be difficult, but it will change your life!
When Jesus spoke the words of our scripture today, God was about to expose and prune away the sin in the Jewish faith. Throughout history, God has pruned away “dead wood” in synagogues and congregations in order to make way for true faith and holiness. I believe now is another time of spiritual pruning. God is using the events of today to expose true faith and spiritual lies. God will also use the events of your world in order to bring spiritual growth to you. In the end, God’s plan is to “produce even more fruit” (John 15:2) in your life. That will only come by a spiritual pruning. I hope you are up for it.
March 26
“Wise words bring approval, but fools are destroyed by their own words. Fools base their thoughts on foolish assumptions, so their conclusions will be wicked madness;” (Ecclesiastes 10:12–13, NLT)
A few years ago, a man living nearby was brought home from the hospital with a serious illness to his lungs. In order to leave the hospital, the doctors demanded he breathe pure oxygen until he was out of danger. One doctor warned him repeatedly, “Do not smoke while using the oxygen!” The person delivering the oxygen to his home said, “Do not smoke around this oxygen gas!” His wife told him, “If you smoke while on the oxygen, I’m going to be mad at you!” What did he do? After a few days at home recovering, he rewarded himself for getting better by lighting up a cigarette while breathing pure oxygen. The explosion that followed killed him and seriously injured his wife. His house was so damaged, they considered tearing it down. Sometimes, people just won’t listen to wisdom!
Two weeks ago, a young woman who refused to believe all the coronavirus warnings took a video of herself licking a toilet on a plane as a way to rebel against the hype! Now, others are posting videos showing themselves doing the same thing to get their few minutes of fame! How do you think this will turn out?
Two weeks ago, five students were interviewed on TV while spending their Spring Break in Florida. They didn’t care that travel bans were in place and the governor of Florida was urging people to use caution because of the coronavirus outbreak. They were partying, sharing glasses, hugging, dancing together and more. The University they attended was notified this week that four out of the five were infected. The youth had ignored their parents, the governor, the CDC, and so many more people who gave warnings about the dangers. It didn’t matter. As one of them was quoted, “The virus won’t stop me!” Yeah, right.
The scripture for today explains that there is a huge difference between “wise words” and “foolish assumptions”. Ecclesiastes 10:12 begins with an observation that “wise words bring approval”. Wise words usually bring forth a better life, good things, and rewards. Wise words, when heeded, support life and love. They are the basis of common sense. True wisdom is seen as something that comes from God (James 3:13-18). Worldly wisdom won’t cut it. God’s wisdom is essential for faithful living. Being foolish is not only unintelligent, it is ungodly.
The second verse of our reading for today from Ecclesiastes 10 teaches that “fools base their thoughts on foolish assumptions” (Ecclesiastes 10:13). In the end, their conclusions are “wicked madness”. When you do something foolish, it brings risks. God wants to preserve life. Foolish living threatens to damage life. God wants to protect you with wisdom. Fools may want to have fun or be independent or do what they want, but they are taking risks when they go against God’s word.
Is there something foolish you do in your life? Are there wise words from God you ignore?
When I was going to seminary, I worked at a factory job to make ends meet. I was based out of a warehouse, though sometimes I traveled with a truckload of guys to install the company’s products. One Friday morning, a woman walked through our work area. This was unusual, since all the workers in this area were men. I figured one of the wives had stopped in to visit. I found out later that the woman was one of the workers in the main office. She was on the warehouse floor to check on an order. Over the next month, I saw her a couple of times and figured she was checking on an invoice or account.
One day, while on a break, she came by again. I overhead her talking to one of the workers. She was flirting with him! And he, a married man, was flirting back! I was shocked as this woman was not his wife. Later I said to him, “Why are you so flirty with her?” He replied, “She started it, so I just enjoy the banter.” I told him, “You are playing with fire, man. I think she likes you.” One apprentice said, “Hell, enjoy the banter. It adds to the excitement of the day!”
Several months later, I found out that the two flirts had an affair. The whole situation blew up at the man’s home and among the workers in my area. The other workers knew the man and his wife well. They did not appreciate the woman from the office wrecking the marriage. It caused so many problems that both workers quit their jobs. A divorce ensued. Lives were forever changed.
Today, if God speaks through another person with wise words, don’t ignore them. To do so may not only show foolishness but result in all kinds of evil. Learn to distinguish God’s wisdom from the foolish words of others. Be careful what you think. Base your decisions on God’s wisdom, not upon foolish assumptions. Let God help you to see what is true and what are lies. Learn to trust God’s wisdom. Your life will depend on it.
Two weeks ago, a young woman who refused to believe all the coronavirus warnings took a video of herself licking a toilet on a plane as a way to rebel against the hype! Now, others are posting videos showing themselves doing the same thing to get their few minutes of fame! How do you think this will turn out?
Two weeks ago, five students were interviewed on TV while spending their Spring Break in Florida. They didn’t care that travel bans were in place and the governor of Florida was urging people to use caution because of the coronavirus outbreak. They were partying, sharing glasses, hugging, dancing together and more. The University they attended was notified this week that four out of the five were infected. The youth had ignored their parents, the governor, the CDC, and so many more people who gave warnings about the dangers. It didn’t matter. As one of them was quoted, “The virus won’t stop me!” Yeah, right.
The scripture for today explains that there is a huge difference between “wise words” and “foolish assumptions”. Ecclesiastes 10:12 begins with an observation that “wise words bring approval”. Wise words usually bring forth a better life, good things, and rewards. Wise words, when heeded, support life and love. They are the basis of common sense. True wisdom is seen as something that comes from God (James 3:13-18). Worldly wisdom won’t cut it. God’s wisdom is essential for faithful living. Being foolish is not only unintelligent, it is ungodly.
The second verse of our reading for today from Ecclesiastes 10 teaches that “fools base their thoughts on foolish assumptions” (Ecclesiastes 10:13). In the end, their conclusions are “wicked madness”. When you do something foolish, it brings risks. God wants to preserve life. Foolish living threatens to damage life. God wants to protect you with wisdom. Fools may want to have fun or be independent or do what they want, but they are taking risks when they go against God’s word.
Is there something foolish you do in your life? Are there wise words from God you ignore?
When I was going to seminary, I worked at a factory job to make ends meet. I was based out of a warehouse, though sometimes I traveled with a truckload of guys to install the company’s products. One Friday morning, a woman walked through our work area. This was unusual, since all the workers in this area were men. I figured one of the wives had stopped in to visit. I found out later that the woman was one of the workers in the main office. She was on the warehouse floor to check on an order. Over the next month, I saw her a couple of times and figured she was checking on an invoice or account.
One day, while on a break, she came by again. I overhead her talking to one of the workers. She was flirting with him! And he, a married man, was flirting back! I was shocked as this woman was not his wife. Later I said to him, “Why are you so flirty with her?” He replied, “She started it, so I just enjoy the banter.” I told him, “You are playing with fire, man. I think she likes you.” One apprentice said, “Hell, enjoy the banter. It adds to the excitement of the day!”
Several months later, I found out that the two flirts had an affair. The whole situation blew up at the man’s home and among the workers in my area. The other workers knew the man and his wife well. They did not appreciate the woman from the office wrecking the marriage. It caused so many problems that both workers quit their jobs. A divorce ensued. Lives were forever changed.
Today, if God speaks through another person with wise words, don’t ignore them. To do so may not only show foolishness but result in all kinds of evil. Learn to distinguish God’s wisdom from the foolish words of others. Be careful what you think. Base your decisions on God’s wisdom, not upon foolish assumptions. Let God help you to see what is true and what are lies. Learn to trust God’s wisdom. Your life will depend on it.
March 28
“When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?”” (Revelation 6:9–10, ESV)
For the past few years, Hollywood has been mesmerized with a comic book set of heroes called “The Avengers”. This group is made up of superheroes with varying superpowers. As a group, they avenge those who hurt the innocent, threaten world domination, damage the environment, and ruin nations. The evil enemies of The Avengers always want to destroy earth or humanity. The Avengers are there to stop the evil and destruction.
Long before “The Avengers” comic series was written, God was known as the ultimate Avenger. Through divine action, God has always been a benevolent source of good. God has fought evil, destruction, and devastation. God protected the faithful, those who knew right from wrong and lived it. I find it interesting that the comic book Avengers have grown in great popularity among young people in western culture, but our God who has always been a real Avenger (not a comic book one!) has been overlooked and ignored by the same generation.
Even before the current generation, people who rebelled against the Vietnam War in the 1960’s also rebelled against the God of the Bible. They did not like the picture of God as an avenging personality. They believed a real “god” would never stoop to war or death or destruction. At the time, some of them sought to praise Jesus, who they saw as “anti-war”, while demonizing the God of the Old Testament as a warmonger. Many of these anti-war protesting types saw the God of the Old Testament as cruel and inhumane, where Jesus was praised as peaceful and loving. Pictures of Jesus dressed up as a hippy, complete with a peace symbol on a tie-dyed shirt, were not uncommon.
Despite the negativity surrounding a God who is an avenger, the scripture for today hails God’s characteristic vengeance. In this passage from Revelation, those who were “slain for the word of God” wanted God to “avenge” their blood. These martyrs who died for the faith wanted God’s judgment to fall upon those who had perpetrated real evil upon the world. In Revelation 6:11, God told them the time was soon coming for Judgment Day. The martyrs were told to be patient until God’s timing was right. The martyrs found it difficult waiting for God’s judgment to fall upon the evil ones on the earth. From Heaven, they could see the injustices, the murders, the suffering of the faithful. It was hard to watch. But God was more patient. God wanted to give more of the faithful a chance to rise against the evil. God was hoping for people to choose to be righteous. Only then would God avenge the blood of the martyrs.
The martyrs in Heaven knew God had the power to avenge evil. They knew God was a righteous judge. Many people on this earth, even Christians, can forget God’s ultimate power to avenge evil and wrongdoing and sin. Humans don’t often respect God’s authority to bring life and to destroy evil.
For a short time during the 1980’s, I worked at a mental hospital in St. Louis. I was a full-time chaplain at the hospital as part of a training program. While working on an inpatient psychiatric ward one day, I remember a man telling me that he wanted to die. I asked him why. He told me that in his life he had done evil things. Then, he looked me right in the eye and said, “But God has yet to strike me down! Maybe there is no God!” A heartbeat later, a man across the room said, “You’ve done it now! God heard that and will surely strike you down! Don’t push God’s buttons, man! It will always end bad…..”
Like the patient who rebuked the one who made light of God’s authority, I have also found that God will not be mocked. Those who do evil will end up paying for it sooner or later. God is merciful and righteous. God is loving and protective. However, these characteristics of God are reserved for those who are faithful or repentant. For those who perpetrate evil, God is an avenger. God will stand against unrighteousness. God will bring those who cause suffering to justice. God will avenge the wrongs done by humankind. It’s only a matter of time.
Humanists today make fun of the faithful. They decry that there is no god. Atheists mock those who follow God’s commandments. Governments, military leaders, and power-hungry people don’t care about hurting others. They revel in their power and prestige. However, God watches and notices the actions of every soul. God will not forget His judgment. God will avenge injustices and evil. God will correct the sinner and sinful ways. It’s just a matter of time.
I would not want to mock God. I do not want to live in sin as a statement against God. I have a great respect for God’s ability to avenge a wrong and make things right. When Great King Nebuchadnezzar stood against God, God took away his health and prosperity (Daniel 4). He was reduced to a madman, losing his mind and then his throne (Daniel 4:33). When Ananias and Saphira broke a promise to God and the church, hiding money needed by the Apostles for the care of widows and orphans, they died a quick death (Acts 5). When Judas betrayed Jesus, his suffering was immense. In his grief, he committed suicide (Matthew 27:5). Don’t mock God. It won’t end well.
God does not take kindly to people who live in sin, even if you’ve been faithful for a long time. When a sin comes between you and God, repentance is demanded. Atonement is required. God is the great Avenger. God is judge. I have learned to show respect to God while on this earth. I hope our world today learns its lessons. God will not be mocked. God expects humanity to live righteously. If humans choose to perpetuate evil, God will come down hard on the guilty. God will avenge the suffering of the innocent.
Do you believe in our Divine Avenger? Do you show respect for God's authority? Are you willing to endure patient suffering knowing that God will make things right in the end?
Long before “The Avengers” comic series was written, God was known as the ultimate Avenger. Through divine action, God has always been a benevolent source of good. God has fought evil, destruction, and devastation. God protected the faithful, those who knew right from wrong and lived it. I find it interesting that the comic book Avengers have grown in great popularity among young people in western culture, but our God who has always been a real Avenger (not a comic book one!) has been overlooked and ignored by the same generation.
Even before the current generation, people who rebelled against the Vietnam War in the 1960’s also rebelled against the God of the Bible. They did not like the picture of God as an avenging personality. They believed a real “god” would never stoop to war or death or destruction. At the time, some of them sought to praise Jesus, who they saw as “anti-war”, while demonizing the God of the Old Testament as a warmonger. Many of these anti-war protesting types saw the God of the Old Testament as cruel and inhumane, where Jesus was praised as peaceful and loving. Pictures of Jesus dressed up as a hippy, complete with a peace symbol on a tie-dyed shirt, were not uncommon.
Despite the negativity surrounding a God who is an avenger, the scripture for today hails God’s characteristic vengeance. In this passage from Revelation, those who were “slain for the word of God” wanted God to “avenge” their blood. These martyrs who died for the faith wanted God’s judgment to fall upon those who had perpetrated real evil upon the world. In Revelation 6:11, God told them the time was soon coming for Judgment Day. The martyrs were told to be patient until God’s timing was right. The martyrs found it difficult waiting for God’s judgment to fall upon the evil ones on the earth. From Heaven, they could see the injustices, the murders, the suffering of the faithful. It was hard to watch. But God was more patient. God wanted to give more of the faithful a chance to rise against the evil. God was hoping for people to choose to be righteous. Only then would God avenge the blood of the martyrs.
The martyrs in Heaven knew God had the power to avenge evil. They knew God was a righteous judge. Many people on this earth, even Christians, can forget God’s ultimate power to avenge evil and wrongdoing and sin. Humans don’t often respect God’s authority to bring life and to destroy evil.
For a short time during the 1980’s, I worked at a mental hospital in St. Louis. I was a full-time chaplain at the hospital as part of a training program. While working on an inpatient psychiatric ward one day, I remember a man telling me that he wanted to die. I asked him why. He told me that in his life he had done evil things. Then, he looked me right in the eye and said, “But God has yet to strike me down! Maybe there is no God!” A heartbeat later, a man across the room said, “You’ve done it now! God heard that and will surely strike you down! Don’t push God’s buttons, man! It will always end bad…..”
Like the patient who rebuked the one who made light of God’s authority, I have also found that God will not be mocked. Those who do evil will end up paying for it sooner or later. God is merciful and righteous. God is loving and protective. However, these characteristics of God are reserved for those who are faithful or repentant. For those who perpetrate evil, God is an avenger. God will stand against unrighteousness. God will bring those who cause suffering to justice. God will avenge the wrongs done by humankind. It’s only a matter of time.
Humanists today make fun of the faithful. They decry that there is no god. Atheists mock those who follow God’s commandments. Governments, military leaders, and power-hungry people don’t care about hurting others. They revel in their power and prestige. However, God watches and notices the actions of every soul. God will not forget His judgment. God will avenge injustices and evil. God will correct the sinner and sinful ways. It’s just a matter of time.
I would not want to mock God. I do not want to live in sin as a statement against God. I have a great respect for God’s ability to avenge a wrong and make things right. When Great King Nebuchadnezzar stood against God, God took away his health and prosperity (Daniel 4). He was reduced to a madman, losing his mind and then his throne (Daniel 4:33). When Ananias and Saphira broke a promise to God and the church, hiding money needed by the Apostles for the care of widows and orphans, they died a quick death (Acts 5). When Judas betrayed Jesus, his suffering was immense. In his grief, he committed suicide (Matthew 27:5). Don’t mock God. It won’t end well.
God does not take kindly to people who live in sin, even if you’ve been faithful for a long time. When a sin comes between you and God, repentance is demanded. Atonement is required. God is the great Avenger. God is judge. I have learned to show respect to God while on this earth. I hope our world today learns its lessons. God will not be mocked. God expects humanity to live righteously. If humans choose to perpetuate evil, God will come down hard on the guilty. God will avenge the suffering of the innocent.
Do you believe in our Divine Avenger? Do you show respect for God's authority? Are you willing to endure patient suffering knowing that God will make things right in the end?
March 30
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason…..” (James 3:17, ESV)
Justine approached her husband that morning with lips pressed tight. The day before, she was hurt by something her husband David had said. When Justine asked David to come with her to buy a new pair of shoes, he told her that he had something else to do. Then, he spoke honestly, “I think you spend too much money. I think you buy clothes whenever you are upset or emotional. I wish you dealt with your feelings in a more healthy way.”
When these words came out of David’s mouth, Justine flew into a rage. She ridiculed him as stupid and worthless. She explained how she bought all her clothes to look nice for him! Then, she turned on the silent treatment. All the rest of the first day was spent with Justine close-lipped. She spoke only in short sentences. When David asked to talk about it, Justine huffed and said, “As if you care!” Then, she went back to the silent treatment. Justine knew David wanted to talk about the disagreement. She wanted him to suffer for making such egregious statements. How dare he tell her she was emotional or spent too much! She had a good job. She deserved to get that new pair of shoes.
Justine is stuck in an emotional fit of anger. Using passive-aggressive tactics, she will make David pay for daring to speak the truth. She wants him to feel the hurt that his words caused her. Over the next week, she will cause suffering in a variety of ways. She will make backhanded slams about David's abilities. By withholding sex, she will make him feel less loved. Justine will “forget” to attend a couples group gathering, wake David up in the morning by making lots of noise around the house, prepare meals she knows he doesn’t like, and more. Rather than helping the situation, Justine is making things worse and worse. No matter what David does, she will find ample justification for her abuse. Justine is not open to reason with David. She is not reasonable at all. While at church, Justine is full of smiles, but you can see her anger. She does not lean into David. She refuses to touch him. She glares at him when others aren’t watching.
Proverbs 25:24 says it is preferable to live in a small corner of the attic or rooftop than to share a house with a contentious woman! Living with someone who is emotionally vengeful or unreasonable is very difficult. Anyone living in a house with an unreasonable person knows what it is like. Proverbs 27:15 describes being around a contentious person as the equivalent of a constant dripping on a rainy day. Unreasonable people make a sunny day feel cloudy. Like a dripping faucet, they will drive you crazy with their constant nagging or offhanded comments or little pricks of complaint or incessant whining. When an overly emotional person lacks the ability to work things out, he or she will be hard to live with and difficult to work around. The ensuing attitude will run counter to wisdom and godliness.
The scripture for today from James chapter three explains that “wisdom from above”, i.e. godly wisdom, is not only “pure”, “peaceable”, and “gentle”; it is also “open to reason”. Those who act unreasonably are not only being unwise, they are going against God’s wisdom (“wisdom from above”). Can you imagine living with a God who is unreasonable, quirky, emotional, unpredictable, or difficult? What would life be like if God was fickle in determining whether to punish you or overreacted to your sin?
In Greek myth, there is the story of Aphrodite and her jealousy. “The goddess in Greek mythology most known for both love and astonishing beauty was Aphrodite. She attracted males who were gods and men who were mortals. But there came a time when a mortal woman named Psyche was gaining attention for being even more stunning than Aphrodite. As Psyche was getting noticed and talked about more and more, Aphrodite was angered, not ready to give up her reputation as the fairest woman in the land. Her son Eros, had magical golden arrows, and in a fit of jealousy, Aphrodite begged him to shoot poor Psyche with one of them.” (https://owlcation.com/humanities/The-Greek-Mythology-of-Psyche-and-Eros)
Can you imagine living with a god who was jealous of humans, sought to get rid of those who were successful, or who manipulated an ally into doing evil deeds? Thankfully our God is in no way unreasonable. Can the same be said about you?
The scripture for today is a reminder that when you lose the ability to be reasonable, you go against godly wisdom. You exhibit unholy behavior. When emotions and fears and insecurities drive your thoughts and actions, no good will come of it. Your unreasonable responses will go against God’s plans.
If you find yourself becoming overly emotional and prone to being unreasonable, take a step back. Learn to work out your feelings, fears, and insecurities. Respect God more than listening to your emotions. Repay no one evil for evil (Romans 12:17). Overcome your evil thoughts with good (Romans 12:21). If you are not open to reason, you cannot place your full trust in the authority of God. Your thoughts and emotions will control you. Vengeance, fears, temptation, and evil will consume you.
When these words came out of David’s mouth, Justine flew into a rage. She ridiculed him as stupid and worthless. She explained how she bought all her clothes to look nice for him! Then, she turned on the silent treatment. All the rest of the first day was spent with Justine close-lipped. She spoke only in short sentences. When David asked to talk about it, Justine huffed and said, “As if you care!” Then, she went back to the silent treatment. Justine knew David wanted to talk about the disagreement. She wanted him to suffer for making such egregious statements. How dare he tell her she was emotional or spent too much! She had a good job. She deserved to get that new pair of shoes.
Justine is stuck in an emotional fit of anger. Using passive-aggressive tactics, she will make David pay for daring to speak the truth. She wants him to feel the hurt that his words caused her. Over the next week, she will cause suffering in a variety of ways. She will make backhanded slams about David's abilities. By withholding sex, she will make him feel less loved. Justine will “forget” to attend a couples group gathering, wake David up in the morning by making lots of noise around the house, prepare meals she knows he doesn’t like, and more. Rather than helping the situation, Justine is making things worse and worse. No matter what David does, she will find ample justification for her abuse. Justine is not open to reason with David. She is not reasonable at all. While at church, Justine is full of smiles, but you can see her anger. She does not lean into David. She refuses to touch him. She glares at him when others aren’t watching.
Proverbs 25:24 says it is preferable to live in a small corner of the attic or rooftop than to share a house with a contentious woman! Living with someone who is emotionally vengeful or unreasonable is very difficult. Anyone living in a house with an unreasonable person knows what it is like. Proverbs 27:15 describes being around a contentious person as the equivalent of a constant dripping on a rainy day. Unreasonable people make a sunny day feel cloudy. Like a dripping faucet, they will drive you crazy with their constant nagging or offhanded comments or little pricks of complaint or incessant whining. When an overly emotional person lacks the ability to work things out, he or she will be hard to live with and difficult to work around. The ensuing attitude will run counter to wisdom and godliness.
The scripture for today from James chapter three explains that “wisdom from above”, i.e. godly wisdom, is not only “pure”, “peaceable”, and “gentle”; it is also “open to reason”. Those who act unreasonably are not only being unwise, they are going against God’s wisdom (“wisdom from above”). Can you imagine living with a God who is unreasonable, quirky, emotional, unpredictable, or difficult? What would life be like if God was fickle in determining whether to punish you or overreacted to your sin?
In Greek myth, there is the story of Aphrodite and her jealousy. “The goddess in Greek mythology most known for both love and astonishing beauty was Aphrodite. She attracted males who were gods and men who were mortals. But there came a time when a mortal woman named Psyche was gaining attention for being even more stunning than Aphrodite. As Psyche was getting noticed and talked about more and more, Aphrodite was angered, not ready to give up her reputation as the fairest woman in the land. Her son Eros, had magical golden arrows, and in a fit of jealousy, Aphrodite begged him to shoot poor Psyche with one of them.” (https://owlcation.com/humanities/The-Greek-Mythology-of-Psyche-and-Eros)
Can you imagine living with a god who was jealous of humans, sought to get rid of those who were successful, or who manipulated an ally into doing evil deeds? Thankfully our God is in no way unreasonable. Can the same be said about you?
The scripture for today is a reminder that when you lose the ability to be reasonable, you go against godly wisdom. You exhibit unholy behavior. When emotions and fears and insecurities drive your thoughts and actions, no good will come of it. Your unreasonable responses will go against God’s plans.
If you find yourself becoming overly emotional and prone to being unreasonable, take a step back. Learn to work out your feelings, fears, and insecurities. Respect God more than listening to your emotions. Repay no one evil for evil (Romans 12:17). Overcome your evil thoughts with good (Romans 12:21). If you are not open to reason, you cannot place your full trust in the authority of God. Your thoughts and emotions will control you. Vengeance, fears, temptation, and evil will consume you.