Chapter 13 -- love chapter; basically talent, education, a life of sacrifice is pointless without love. The description of love is what we all want to be on the receiving end of -- but it's a challenge to be on the giving end. That kind of spontaneous love can only spring from a heart of gratitude; our selfishness battles that -- we ARE in a war zone.
Prophecy and Tongues -- seems like it was unclear then, and in many people's minds - it's unclear now. There can be false prophets and true prophets; so, I'm guessing there can be false tongue speakers and true tongue speakers (never thought of this before. It sounds like Paul prefers tongues to be spoken privately and prophecy publicly. Seems like most people shy away from one or the other -- either tongues or prophecy. For me the key is to keep focused on my Savior and what He wants from me. If He chooses to give me the gift of tongues, I want to be open to that. If He chooses to make me a prophet, I'm open to that -- but I don't want to stress of not having or being either of those, I want to relax in His plan and gifts for my life and affirm those who have the gifts He's given to them:)
Perfect day to read the love chapter as today Christians celebrate the greatest gift that Love ever gave - eternal life.
I am always smacked upside my head when I read the description of love, because I never cut it. I see the opposite of my life & thoughts. Don't give up on me Lord.
I like how NLT puts the 1st few verses of it too. Having all that knowledge of God, huge faith & sacrifices are just for me to boast about - without love. So void of love, it's all about me; with Love, it's all about Him. Which is why I fail so much because I keep making it all about me.
That old song of Amy Grant's keeps playing through my mind as I type this "Don't give up on me" - can't find it on youtube though so can't share the link.
I like what you wrote about prophecy vs tongues Linda. I got that too.
NLT describes prophecy different than we normally think of it, which is Daniel/Revelation stuff. Tell what's to come...etc. But NLT says "But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them" v3. I think of friends in other churches who say "does anyone have a Word to share today?" And it's in this context. People share what God has given them to share & it always encourages someone in the church body. I think this also happens between individuals, as they encourage each other & give each other courage to keep on the narrow path of truth.
This makes prophesying a whole much more desirable gift than tongues as Paul says (v5). And the reason, like you pointed our Linda is that Paul says tongues are for personal edification, not for the whole church. Prophesying is for the whole church.
They are both gifts but an encouragers is a a valuable asset to have in a church. It helps the church grow, because the members are strengthened. But like we humans do all to well, we put the emphasis on the outward show & make it more important than connecting one on one with each other.
Now, I'm not saying to speak in other languages isn't important, that's how the disciples were able to reach so many people at Pentecost without ever learning the other languages. God can still use it today when someone hasn't learned a language but God needs them to communicate the Gospel to someone right then & there. But to speak in a language that no one can interpret in a church where everyone does speak 1 common language seems pointless & doesn't edify anyone except bring attention to that individual & not to God, as Paul says in the rest of 14.
There's a time & place for every gift & it's use to glorify God & not us as individuals.
A time and place for every gift & it's use to glorify God -- and Moses found that out! I love watching God work in His God-way of nudging nudging nudging -- He could have sent some huge retribution on the Egyptians - wiped them out; but instead, little by little - - he brought about conviction
to the Israelites, to the Magicians, even to Moses (who was pretty hesitant about following God's directions at first -- then, as God showed His hand, Moses became bold, as in 8:29) Pharaoh was the last to cave.
So -- in God's time, in His way. How many nudges will he send my way before I finally totally trust - lay down my plans, my way? Daily lessons of surrender, once again.
The beginning of our reading today reminds me of Ptr Mike's sermon Sabbath. Sometimes, when we surrender to Jesus, our lives get harder. Obeying Him is difficult, there are sacrifices on our part that do take place & they hit close to home.
For some people, it seems like the refining process is pretty easy, but for others, it's 1 trial after another. Have to beware lest I fall into the category with Job's friends & judge that 1 is more of a sinner than the other. I have no clue what God is doing in people's lives.
I need to remember what God told Moses & Aaron when they cried out to Him after things had gotten harder for the Israelites. God said, now you will see what I will do. Waiting on God to act on my behalf is the hardest thing for me to do. When it looks the most impossible is when He is going to do something most incredible. I want to have my eyes of faith open so I don't miss it.
Today's reading shows what irrational anger does. Killing innocent people (priests), creating dissension & imaging things (David is trying to kill me). When I am angry I can create all kinds of things in my head & they are all false. I take myself out of God's hands & start fighting battles that I alone created. Pretty ugly to watch.
David was going to do something similar with Nabal, but God sent Abigail to warn him. He could have blown her off, but I'm glad he realized he was going to extract revenge with his own hands (25:33) instead of letting God take care of him.
Good lessons for me today. God, please help me to minute by minute place my entire life & future in your hands & not fight you for the steering wheel.
Chris, I noticed that too -- David was so careful to leave vengence in God's hands when dealing with Saul -- but for Nabal, he strapped that sword on, and off they went! But I think he realized what the "anger" had done to him (25:39)
I didn't realize that Jonathan had another secret meeting with David -- man, if Jon's dad found out, Saul would have killed Jonathan for sure; Saul was crazy with Jealousy and insecurity. But I thought it was a testimony to Jonathan's faith in God that he encouraged David to stay strong in his faith of God.
Really sad about the innocent priests; as PM said, life is not fair. It didn't seem like David took much of the blame for the slaughter "I knew he (Doeg) was sure to tell Saul"
Abigail is a beautiful in spirit woman. She must have been very unhappy with a lout like Nabal; but she didn't whine. The servants knew that she was capable, could make wise decisions even in a tough situation. She asked David to remember her -- and boy howdy, did he! Yet, she was willing to simply be his servant. A very humble, wise woman -- David and Abilgail were both blessed with there unusual first meeting -- you just never know how God will bring 2 people together:) I wonder if David asked God is Abigail was "the one"
I couldn't help think about your last comment Linda & what came to mind was that he took another wife in the next verses, so which one was "the one"?
Psalms 42 & 43 make me think of Job. Wanting to find God to present his case before Him. Not understanding what's going on but putty complete trust in God & talking positive about the outcome. I WILL praise Him again.
I like the reminder in 44 that God has worked in my behalf in the past & no matter what the current looks like, He will deliver me in the end. Also the great reminder that it's God who brings the victory, not my own fighting/defending myself.
I'm a big Abigail fan -- so I think she's "the one!!!" But of course, the other lady is probably a sweetie too -- but I sure can't understand sharin' a man; glad I'm married in the 19th century -- easier on my psychi!
I love the protection promised in 43:1-3; and, as with the story of "the shack" sometimes God is there with us as we walk through the pain, maybe not always rescuing us - - but walking with us, feeling the pain with us. It reminds me of child birth -- I had to go through that pain, Duane was right beside me, encouraging me; he couldn't take the pain away, there was no way around it - - but I was the one that had to feel the pain.
43:10 God assures us that He's the One and only God -- but also, the One and only Savior!
I love the assurance in both 43:25 and 44:22 that God forgets about our past mistakes; which for me are so numerous -- He's forgotten a LOT!
And for me, the text I claimed and then claimed again was 44:3 "I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on your children. The will thrive like watered grass." I have run into so many parents in the last 2 months whose children are not thriving -- all of those parents are struggling in different ways. It's a comfort that God understands that heart of a parent.
Job found out who his friends were & how fickle humans are. If things are going good for a you & you have money then everyone wants a piece of you. But just a hint of misfortune & they scatter. And Job had way more than a hint.
I wonder if one reason God allowed this to happen to Job is because the belief of "being blessed = good person, & troubles = bad person" was so rife among the people then.
I'm still leaning toward the possibility that his so called "friends" were more of a delegation of church elders sent to get him on the right path again. After all, his issues were causing their religious system to be cast in a bad light. Who wants to join a group whose most prominent member is having issues?
Man, do we ever put people on pedestals in the place of God. Vicious cycle of wearing masks & trying to be perfect for everyone. Makes me tired just thinking about it!
Did they even have "church" back then?? But yeah, I can see it being a delegation to get Job back on the right track. We humans think we're so smart with all the right answers - yikes, we are so short-sighted; fall so short from God's perspective.
I can't imagine the pain Job was going through -- such a picture of where he once was, and where he is now. Our lives can turn in a moment. And one of the tough things about life is our expectations. Job's life was so good, he was blessed and he was a blessing -- and he expected all of that would continue, who wouldn't? But expectations can lead to disillusionment.
The part I related to today is found in 29:5 "my children were around me" I know he had ideas of his kids always being around, and grand kids, laughter, birthdays, celebrations - - and now every one of his kids was dead. That's enough to crush a body. No wonder in 30:16 he says that depression haunts my days.
If I let go of my expectations, it frees God up to walk me down His path -- but letting go isn't easy, and His path isn't always easy either.
speaking of God's path not always being easy, Jeremiah has it pretty tough. Finally was able to read some of it today. I admit I peruse most of it though.
Here's what struck me. It was in 17 about those that put their trust in God. They are likened to a tree, v 7-8. The tree by a river that sends it's roots deep. Now since it's by the river it doesn't HAVE to send it's roots deep to get water but it does.
As Christians we can stop with a surface level knowledge of God & the doctrines or we can plunge into deep relationship with Him. This is His hearts desire with us. If you think about it, it's similar to us & friends. There are some you are surface level with, some go a little deeper & then others you open up every closet inside & speak honestly about everything. You can even hold each other accountable & not get easily offended or ruin the relationship.
God wants this same thing with us. We just don't want the accountability at times when it's inconvenient. But this type of relationship is the only way we can stand through the tough & painful times - the drought spoken of in v8. We KNOW God is faithful & we don't stop producing fruit - even in discouraging times. It happens because of where we are in our relationship to God during that famine.
My root needs to go deeper still & the cool thing is that God is just waiting for me to plunge even deeper! Very exciting!
Really good Chris -- I skimmed as well; so thank you for bringing me back to the roots.
15:16 I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight -- it has taken me a long time (still in process) with God's word - - but I do believe that I've arrived at pieces of discovery! The blog helps, like today and the roots!
I appreciate God's reply to Jer in 15:11 "I will take care of you Jeremiah" He was scared to pieces, what a very tender response from God.
Judah was arrogant and selfish -- to emotions that always lead to destruction. God knew that they had to hit bottom before they'd look up.
We want the glory, the reward, the final peace from everything that nags, bothers & harasses us. We want heaven. Nothing wrong with that. It is a hope that keeps us plugging along on the narrow way.
Sometimes though, we overlook or want to overlook, what gets us there. What prepares us for heaven. It is the suffering, overcoming daily what nags & trips us up. Constant surrender to God when we are harassed, wronged, lied about & to, surrender to win.
Jesus knew that He was going to be betrayed, mocked, spit on, whipped & killed (10:34). But He kept going toward that day. As it got closer it got harder & in Gethsemane it was unbearable. But since He had surrendered every day to the insults, the constant harassment, lies against his reputation, etc. He was able to surrender in this huge, momentous decision as well.
It's the little things that annoy me & can break me as I build them into big things in my head. But, when I surrender them to Jesus, second by second (forget minutes...its faster than that), He fights for me & delivers me. These little splinters surrendered & defeated, will grow my character so I can stand in whatever lies ahead, before heaven.
John & James didn't get that. They just saw opportunity for power. To sit on the right & left hand of a king. It shows us that they still had work that needed to be done in their hearts.
What about me is showing that I still have a work to be done? I can think of a LOT of stuff. It's good to look at the prize, but through what eyes am I looking at it? And in just wanting the prize, am I tripping(failing) in an area I need to focus on now & surrender to God. Not just brush it away as a nuisance. Surrender isn't a nuisance, it's a necessity for getting the prize.
Chris, you have such a gift to get to the heart of the matter -- that's a God-gift, so treasure it. Surrender isn't a nuisance, it's a necessity . . . gotta let that sink in and settle awhile.
Jesus is intense on 2 things in 9 and 10; preparing his followers for his trial, beating, and crusifixion, and getting the message across to be a servant, a slave to those around them.
As you say Chris -- they didn't get it; sandwiched in between 9:35, 10:31 and 10:44 is J & J's request. And when they say "O yes, we are able" they seem to have forgotten he just said he'd be mocked, spat upon, flogged, killed . . . selective hearing (how guilty am I of THAT!) Where was J & J's mom? I thought she was in on this discussion?
How many times I've grabbed onto the father's cry of 9:24; his cry for help with his unbelief, and Jesus stepped right in and gave him the help he needed.
Twice Jesus let's them know that anything is possible if a person 1) believes and 2) with God. ANYTHING - - yet I always leave God an out in case the "anything" doesn't happen -- which takes me right back to the "I believe, help my unbelief"
9:38,39 -- don't stop someone working for God, even if their not with "our group" as the disciples put it - - how many times do we Christians look at other Christians as the competition instead of "our group" -- we're on the same team!!
in 9:15 the crowd saw Jesus and were overwhelmed with awe, later the disciples were filled with awe as they were on their way to Jerusalem. Was this "awe" a conviction about who Jesus was -- maybe from the H.S.? Or was it an awe coming from "why would He do that -- it doesn't make sense" or an awe because He knew who He was and walked with confidence that men don't seem to come by naturally. Interesting word -- "awe"
good comment on the competition thing between churches. I think it comes from, well, I know it comes from self & pride. But then we're missing the whole point of being servants. The hired help usually encourages each other in their jobs because they are all servants & THEY KNOW IT. We act like spoiled brat heirs more than the servants God needs.
I too was wondering about the awe people felt. I wonder if it was the peace that Jesus carried with Him. He always could make everything ok. Puts me in awe to know that Him living in us gives us the same peace as PM said today. But I don't think people are in awe around me for that reason. It's usually when I blow it that people are in awe. Ha ha. Actually, I don't want to know when people are in awe. And I'm thankful God knows exactly when my head's getting too big.
Chapter 13 -- love chapter; basically talent, education, a life of sacrifice is pointless without love. The description of love is what we all want to be on the receiving end of -- but it's a challenge to be on the giving end. That kind of spontaneous love can only spring from a heart of gratitude; our selfishness battles that -- we ARE in a war zone.
ReplyDeleteProphecy and Tongues -- seems like it was unclear then, and in many people's minds - it's unclear now. There can be false prophets and true prophets; so, I'm guessing there can be false tongue speakers and true tongue speakers (never thought of this before. It sounds like Paul prefers tongues to be spoken privately and prophecy publicly. Seems like most people shy away from one or the other -- either tongues or prophecy. For me the key is to keep focused on my Savior and what He wants from me. If He chooses to give me the gift of tongues, I want to be open to that. If He chooses to make me a prophet, I'm open to that -- but I don't want to stress of not having or being either of those, I want to relax in His plan and gifts for my life and affirm those who have the gifts He's given to them:)
Perfect day to read the love chapter as today Christians celebrate the greatest gift that Love ever gave - eternal life.
ReplyDeleteI am always smacked upside my head when I read the description of love, because I never cut it. I see the opposite of my life & thoughts. Don't give up on me Lord.
I like how NLT puts the 1st few verses of it too. Having all that knowledge of God, huge faith & sacrifices are just for me to boast about - without love. So void of love, it's all about me; with Love, it's all about Him. Which is why I fail so much because I keep making it all about me.
That old song of Amy Grant's keeps playing through my mind as I type this "Don't give up on me" - can't find it on youtube though so can't share the link.
I like what you wrote about prophecy vs tongues Linda. I got that too.
NLT describes prophecy different than we normally think of it, which is Daniel/Revelation stuff. Tell what's to come...etc. But NLT says "But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them" v3. I think of friends in other churches who say "does anyone have a Word to share today?" And it's in this context. People share what God has given them to share & it always encourages someone in the church body.
I think this also happens between individuals, as they encourage each other & give each other courage to keep on the narrow path of truth.
This makes prophesying a whole much more desirable gift than tongues as Paul says (v5). And the reason, like you pointed our Linda is that Paul says tongues are for personal edification, not for the whole church. Prophesying is for the whole church.
They are both gifts but an encouragers is a a valuable asset to have in a church. It helps the church grow, because the members are strengthened. But like we humans do all to well, we put the emphasis on the outward show & make it more important than connecting one on one with each other.
Now, I'm not saying to speak in other languages isn't important, that's how the disciples were able to reach so many people at Pentecost without ever learning the other languages. God can still use it today when someone hasn't learned a language but God needs them to communicate the Gospel to someone right then & there. But to speak in a language that no one can interpret in a church where everyone does speak 1 common language seems pointless & doesn't edify anyone except bring attention to that individual & not to God, as Paul says in the rest of 14.
There's a time & place for every gift & it's use to glorify God & not us as individuals.
A time and place for every gift & it's use to glorify God -- and Moses found that out! I love watching God work in His God-way of nudging nudging nudging -- He could have sent some huge retribution on the Egyptians - wiped them out; but instead, little by little - - he brought about conviction
ReplyDeleteto the Israelites, to the Magicians, even to Moses (who was pretty hesitant about following God's directions at first -- then, as God showed His hand, Moses became bold, as in 8:29) Pharaoh was the last to cave.
So -- in God's time, in His way. How many nudges will he send my way before I finally totally trust - lay down my plans, my way? Daily lessons of surrender, once again.
Nudges, I like that. I need to look for them today & yes, surrender to win! Thanks for that way of putting it!
DeleteThe beginning of our reading today reminds me of Ptr Mike's sermon Sabbath. Sometimes, when we surrender to Jesus, our lives get harder. Obeying Him is difficult, there are sacrifices on our part that do take place & they hit close to home.
ReplyDeleteFor some people, it seems like the refining process is pretty easy, but for others, it's 1 trial after another. Have to beware lest I fall into the category with Job's friends & judge that 1 is more of a sinner than the other. I have no clue what God is doing in people's lives.
I need to remember what God told Moses & Aaron when they cried out to Him after things had gotten harder for the Israelites. God said, now you will see what I will do. Waiting on God to act on my behalf is the hardest thing for me to do. When it looks the most impossible is when He is going to do something most incredible. I want to have my eyes of faith open so I don't miss it.
Today's reading shows what irrational anger does. Killing innocent people (priests), creating dissension & imaging things (David is trying to kill me). When I am angry I can create all kinds of things in my head & they are all false. I take myself out of God's hands & start fighting battles that I alone created. Pretty ugly to watch.
ReplyDeleteDavid was going to do something similar with Nabal, but God sent Abigail to warn him. He could have blown her off, but I'm glad he realized he was going to extract revenge with his own hands (25:33) instead of letting God take care of him.
Good lessons for me today. God, please help me to minute by minute place my entire life & future in your hands & not fight you for the steering wheel.
Chris, I noticed that too -- David was so careful to leave vengence in God's hands when dealing with Saul -- but for Nabal, he strapped that sword on, and off they went! But I think he realized what the "anger" had done to him (25:39)
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize that Jonathan had another secret meeting with David -- man, if Jon's dad found out, Saul would have killed Jonathan for sure; Saul was crazy with Jealousy and insecurity. But I thought it was a testimony to Jonathan's faith in God that he encouraged David to stay strong in his faith of God.
Really sad about the innocent priests; as PM said, life is not fair. It didn't seem like David took much of the blame for the slaughter "I knew he (Doeg) was sure to tell Saul"
Abigail is a beautiful in spirit woman. She must have been very unhappy with a lout like Nabal; but she didn't whine. The servants knew that she was capable, could make wise decisions even in a tough situation. She asked David to remember her -- and boy howdy, did he! Yet, she was willing to simply be his servant. A very humble, wise woman -- David and Abilgail were both blessed with there unusual first meeting -- you just never know how God will bring 2 people together:) I wonder if David asked God is Abigail was "the one"
I couldn't help think about your last comment Linda & what came to mind was that he took another wife in the next verses, so which one was "the one"?
ReplyDeletePsalms 42 & 43 make me think of Job. Wanting to find God to present his case before Him. Not understanding what's going on but putty complete trust in God & talking positive about the outcome. I WILL praise Him again.
I like the reminder in 44 that God has worked in my behalf in the past & no matter what the current looks like, He will deliver me in the end. Also the great reminder that it's God who brings the victory, not my own fighting/defending myself.
I'm a big Abigail fan -- so I think she's "the one!!!" But of course, the other lady is probably a sweetie too -- but I sure can't understand sharin' a man; glad I'm married in the 19th century -- easier on my psychi!
ReplyDeleteI love the protection promised in 43:1-3; and, as with the story of "the shack" sometimes God is there with us as we walk through the pain, maybe not always rescuing us - - but walking with us, feeling the pain with us. It reminds me of child birth -- I had to go through that pain, Duane was right beside me, encouraging me; he couldn't take the pain away, there was no way around it - - but I was the one that had to feel the pain.
43:10 God assures us that He's the One and only God -- but also, the One and only Savior!
I love the assurance in both 43:25 and 44:22 that God forgets about our past mistakes; which for me are so numerous -- He's forgotten a LOT!
And for me, the text I claimed and then claimed again was 44:3 "I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on your children. The will thrive like watered grass." I have run into so many parents in the last 2 months whose children are not thriving -- all of those parents are struggling in different ways. It's a comfort that God understands that heart of a parent.
Job found out who his friends were & how fickle humans are. If things are going good for a you & you have money then everyone wants a piece of you. But just a hint of misfortune & they scatter. And Job had way more than a hint.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if one reason God allowed this to happen to Job is because the belief of "being blessed = good person, & troubles = bad person" was so rife among the people then.
I'm still leaning toward the possibility that his so called "friends" were more of a delegation of church elders sent to get him on the right path again. After all, his issues were causing their religious system to be cast in a bad light. Who wants to join a group whose most prominent member is having issues?
Man, do we ever put people on pedestals in the place of God. Vicious cycle of wearing masks & trying to be perfect for everyone. Makes me tired just thinking about it!
Did they even have "church" back then?? But yeah, I can see it being a delegation to get Job back on the right track. We humans think we're so smart with all the right answers - yikes, we are so short-sighted; fall so short from God's perspective.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine the pain Job was going through -- such a picture of where he once was, and where he is now. Our lives can turn in a moment. And one of the tough things about life is our expectations. Job's life was so good, he was blessed and he was a blessing -- and he expected all of that would continue, who wouldn't? But expectations can lead to disillusionment.
The part I related to today is found in 29:5 "my children were around me" I know he had ideas of his kids always being around, and grand kids, laughter, birthdays, celebrations - - and now every one of his kids was dead. That's enough to crush a body. No wonder in 30:16 he says that depression haunts my days.
If I let go of my expectations, it frees God up to walk me down His path -- but letting go isn't easy, and His path isn't always easy either.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletehad to correct some stuff...should've read before I posted...hee hee
Deletespeaking of God's path not always being easy, Jeremiah has it pretty tough. Finally was able to read some of it today. I admit I peruse most of it though.
ReplyDeleteHere's what struck me. It was in 17 about those that put their trust in God. They are likened to a tree, v 7-8. The tree by a river that sends it's roots deep. Now since it's by the river it doesn't HAVE to send it's roots deep to get water but it does.
As Christians we can stop with a surface level knowledge of God & the doctrines or we can plunge into deep relationship with Him. This is His hearts desire with us. If you think about it, it's similar to us & friends. There are some you are surface level with, some go a little deeper & then others you open up every closet inside & speak honestly about everything. You can even hold each other accountable & not get easily offended or ruin the relationship.
God wants this same thing with us. We just don't want the accountability at times when it's inconvenient. But this type of relationship is the only way we can stand through the tough & painful times - the drought spoken of in v8. We KNOW God is faithful & we don't stop producing fruit - even in discouraging times. It happens because of where we are in our relationship to God during that famine.
My root needs to go deeper still & the cool thing is that God is just waiting for me to plunge even deeper! Very exciting!
Really good Chris -- I skimmed as well; so thank you for bringing me back to the roots.
ReplyDelete15:16 I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight -- it has taken me a long time (still in process) with God's word - - but I do believe that I've arrived at pieces of discovery! The blog helps, like today and the roots!
I appreciate God's reply to Jer in 15:11 "I will take care of you Jeremiah" He was scared to pieces, what a very tender response from God.
Judah was arrogant and selfish -- to emotions that always lead to destruction. God knew that they had to hit bottom before they'd look up.
I love it when we both find something the other missed! I like the word pic of devouring God's words.
ReplyDeleteWe want the glory, the reward, the final peace from everything that nags, bothers & harasses us. We want heaven. Nothing wrong with that. It is a hope that keeps us plugging along on the narrow way.
ReplyDeleteSometimes though, we overlook or want to overlook, what gets us there. What prepares us for heaven. It is the suffering, overcoming daily what nags & trips us up. Constant surrender to God when we are harassed, wronged, lied about & to, surrender to win.
Jesus knew that He was going to be betrayed, mocked, spit on, whipped & killed (10:34). But He kept going toward that day. As it got closer it got harder & in Gethsemane it was unbearable. But since He had surrendered every day to the insults, the constant harassment, lies against his reputation, etc. He was able to surrender in this huge, momentous decision as well.
It's the little things that annoy me & can break me as I build them into big things in my head. But, when I surrender them to Jesus, second by second (forget minutes...its faster than that), He fights for me & delivers me. These little splinters surrendered & defeated, will grow my character so I can stand in whatever lies ahead, before heaven.
John & James didn't get that. They just saw opportunity for power. To sit on the right & left hand of a king. It shows us that they still had work that needed to be done in their hearts.
What about me is showing that I still have a work to be done? I can think of a LOT of stuff. It's good to look at the prize, but through what eyes am I looking at it? And in just wanting the prize, am I tripping(failing) in an area I need to focus on now & surrender to God. Not just brush it away as a nuisance. Surrender isn't a nuisance, it's a necessity for getting the prize.
Hey, I just realized I read the wrong week for Jeremiah's reading on Friday. Actually, it was just what I needed, but it's next's week's reading.
ReplyDeleteChris, you have such a gift to get to the heart of the matter -- that's a God-gift, so treasure it. Surrender isn't a nuisance, it's a necessity . . . gotta let that sink in and settle awhile.
ReplyDeleteJesus is intense on 2 things in 9 and 10; preparing his followers for his trial, beating, and crusifixion, and getting the message across to be a servant, a slave to those around them.
As you say Chris -- they didn't get it; sandwiched in between 9:35, 10:31 and 10:44 is J & J's request. And when they say "O yes, we are able" they seem to have forgotten he just said he'd be mocked, spat upon, flogged, killed . . . selective hearing (how guilty am I of THAT!) Where was J & J's mom? I thought she was in on this discussion?
How many times I've grabbed onto the father's cry of 9:24; his cry for help with his unbelief, and Jesus stepped right in and gave him the help he needed.
Twice Jesus let's them know that anything is possible if a person 1) believes and 2) with God. ANYTHING - - yet I always leave God an out in case the "anything" doesn't happen -- which takes me right back to the "I believe, help my unbelief"
9:38,39 -- don't stop someone working for God, even if their not with "our group" as the disciples put it - - how many times do we Christians look at other Christians as the competition instead of "our group" -- we're on the same team!!
in 9:15 the crowd saw Jesus and were overwhelmed with awe, later the disciples were filled with awe as they were on their way to Jerusalem. Was this "awe" a conviction about who Jesus was -- maybe from the H.S.? Or was it an awe coming from "why would He do that -- it doesn't make sense" or an awe because He knew who He was and walked with confidence that men don't seem to come by naturally. Interesting word -- "awe"
good comment on the competition thing between churches. I think it comes from, well, I know it comes from self & pride. But then we're missing the whole point of being servants. The hired help usually encourages each other in their jobs because they are all servants & THEY KNOW IT. We act like spoiled brat heirs more than the servants God needs.
ReplyDeleteI too was wondering about the awe people felt. I wonder if it was the peace that Jesus carried with Him. He always could make everything ok. Puts me in awe to know that Him living in us gives us the same peace as PM said today. But I don't think people are in awe around me for that reason. It's usually when I blow it that people are in awe. Ha ha. Actually, I don't want to know when people are in awe. And I'm thankful God knows exactly when my head's getting too big.