A Self-Made Challenge

I just finished the Book of Ecclesiastes by King Solomon. OK, I’ll admit it. I made myself read it!

I’ve read it before but never studied it. My large-print *Life Application Study Bible (New International Version) motivated me with its footnotes, cross-references, introductory notes, and charts. We are blessed to have such help available

I’ve always enjoyed the classic beauty of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything,” then contrasted positive and negative events in our lives. It’s worth a read!

Ecclesiastes opens by using the word “meaningless” four times in the NIV (in the King James Version, the word is “vanity”). Not exactly words to draw us in, but this time I determined to plow on through it. Raised on the plains, plow was exactly how I felt about it. . . breaking into fertile, untouched territory, one chapter a day. Footnotes were the biggest help. Then I considered cross-references.

I discovered some “meaningful” scriptures along the way. For example, as a history major, I could agree with Solomon that “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9-10).

From other Scriptures, I also knew he was correct in saying “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked” (Ecclesiastes 3:17). Also, it’s better NOT to make a vow to God than to make a vow and not fulfill it (Ecclesiastes 5:4-7).

I finished the book and then paged through to review. Chapter two caught my attention because sixteen verses in a row were extremely self-focused: “I” will do this, “I” will do that. My previous note in the margin said: Great accomplishments with no eternal motives.

At the end, with his focus on God and not himself, Solomon said, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind” (Ecclesiastes 12:12-13).

Remember: All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Even the Book of Ecclesiastes!

Ready for a self-made challenge? You might be pleasantly surprised, or at least get a feeling of accomplishment.

*Life Application Study Bible, Lge. Print (NIV: New International Version) is published jointly by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. and Zondervan. Life Application Study Bible copyright 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, 1996, 2004, 2005 by Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, IL 50188. All Rights Reserved. (Note: Available where Bibles are sold. I purchased from christianbooks.com. It comes in different translations.)

*Pixabay: Explore, Word, Letters; WOKANDAPIX.

What Am I?

A passing comment this week caught my attention and wouldn’t fade away. By the time you finish reading this, you might ask yourself the same question.

I don’t remember who said it, but here’s the comment: The word “disciple” comes from the word “discipline.”

I had always thought of discipline as a verb: Action taken to train, control, or punish those who didn’t see any need to obey/follow certain rules.   

Now I was reminded that discipline could also be a noun, meaning: Mental self-training or preparation, while developing a system of obedience to rules of conduct.

Here’s where it becomes personal! Jesus said the Holy Spirit would come and lead us into all truth (John 16:12-14); however, it is always our choice to follow what we learn, or not.

Why do I say that? For two reasons:

(1) Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24 and Luke 9:23).  

(2) Jesus’ final instructions were to “make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:18-20).

Words tend to change meanings over time. For example: (1) In Acts, disciples were all who believed in the risen Lord, (2) Then, with the Great Commission, disciples became those who responded in faith to Jesus Christ for salvation, and (3) Eventually, “disciple” became an equivalent to the word “Christian” (Christ One).

In our time, the Great Commission resembles a Great Evangelism program. I really appreciate the ministries that: (1) Not only call people to salvation through faith in Jesus, but (2) Also offer materials and further teaching on how to become a committed “disciple,” learning/obeying Jesus’ teachings.

So, I’ve asked myself, “What am I: A Christian, or a Disciple?”

I’ve always considered myself a Christian, believing in Jesus as my Savior. Now, I’m going deeper and identifying as a disciple.

By God’s grace and the help of the Holy Spirit, I desire to: (1) Continually learn and obey Jesus’ teachings, and also (2) Try to encourage others with what I learn.

How about you?

Pixabay: Screen, TV, Watch TV; geralt.

Guidelines for Spiritual Health: Part Two and Three

There are three things common to both physical and spiritual health: (1) Good Nutrition, (2) Sleep, and (3) Exercise. Let’s complete Parts Two and Three.

Sleep is Necessary

We’re not talking about the lazy man’s sleep, but the satisfying sleep of someone who has put effort into something (Proverbs 6:9-11; Ecclesiastes 5:12).

Don’t discount the energy required to focus on God’s Word. The Psalmist said, “The double-minded I despise,” and James said, “The double-minded man is unstable in all his ways” (Psalm 119:113, James 1:8).

You can’t count on unstable people. They promise, but don’t deliver. They’re up one day and down the next, sucking the life out of you as you try to encourage them.

On the other hand, God is so stable that He put His desires in writing (Psalm 119:89). We can count on His word for instruction, correction, and training, equipping us to do things pleasing to Him, and bringing Him glory (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

We can also pray God’s word. He said He would never let it return to Him empty, but it would accomplish His will and prosper wherever it is sent (Isaiah 55:11). Faith in God’s word will bring you peace, joy, and sleep (Isaiah 55:12; Psalm 4:8).

Don’t Avoid Spiritual Exercise

Walking is basic. But remember, blessings come if we do not walk in the counsel of the wicked, but walk in the light of God’s word (Psalm 1:1, Psalm 119:105).

We can also run. We are to: (1) Fix our eyes on Jesus, and (2) Run with endurance our race of life, (3) On our way to eternal life (Hebrews 12:1-3; Isaiah 40:29-31). Paul said he disciplined his body to run with purpose (1 Corinthians 9:26-27).   

We Have a Certified Personal Trainer

When Jesus instructed His disciples to go into the world to preach the gospel and make disciples, He included heavenly help (Matthew 18:19-20).

He promised to send the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth and understanding of God’s word (John 16:1-15). This happened on the Day of Pentecost, and now, as believers, we are temples of the living God; His Spirit dwells in us (Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 3:16).

Be blessed and be healthy . . . physically and spiritually!

Pixabay: Family walk, Parents with Children; tanrica.  

 

Guidelines for Spiritual Health: Part One

Physical health is important to all of us. How many times have we heard guidelines regarding: (1) Good Nutrition, (2) Sleep, and (3) Exercise?

These three things also apply to our spiritual health. Though we’re not bombarded with information, we can take a brief look for ourselves.

Good Nutrition

From Moses to Jesus to us, daily bread is required for life (Deuteronomy 8, Matthew 4). We can go to the market and see wonderful food items on display, but they don’t do us any good until we make some commitments.

First, we invest money in them and take them home. Then we invest time preparing them, and after we eat, we enjoy the energy and growth they provide.

How many people have Bibles around, but never read them? All that spiritual nutrition is of no value unused.

The Psalmist said, “Your testimonies are my heritage forever. . . I have inclined my heart to perform your statutes even to the very end” (Psalm 119:111-112).

God’s word is life, let me tell you.

In 2007, I had nine months of treatment for Stage 3 Breast Cancer and IBS (Inflammatory Breast Cancer). I’ve always read and studied God’s word, but it took on new meaning in my struggle for life.

I discovered study booklets from *NAVPress (Navigators) and *IVP (InterVarsityPress). They were great tools to keep me focused, one spiritual topic at a time.

I asked the Lord for a scripture I could personally claim on my cancer journey, and I still quote it to myself:  I will not die, but I will live and proclaim what the Lord has done (Psalm 118:17). That’s what I’m doing today.

Babies sit and wait to be spoon-fed. 

When we first become a Christian, it is important to hear the word of God taught. Gathering ourselves together to worship the Lord will always be important; however, we are to grow up and learn to feed on God’s word for ourselves each day (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18).

It’s interesting to me that the Bereans were commended for their knowledge of God’s word. They listened to the Apostle Paul and then searched the scriptures to see if what they heard was true! (Acts 17:11)

Do you search the scriptures to see if what your spiritual leaders say is true? Even non-readers can learn from **audio Bible sources, if they are careful listeners.

Next week, we’ll share Part Two (Sleep) and Part Three (Exercise) for good spiritual health.  

*I got my NAVPress and IVP study booklets from christianbooks.com online; however, there may be other sources.

**Listen to God’s Word on-line, CDs, or audio books. Google the Bible in audio form.  

Pixabay: Family Picnic, Outdoor Activities, Family Bonding; tanrica.                                                            

6 Ways To Be Blessed

Some people think that being blessed means being happy, but it’s more than that. To be blessed is to be part of God’s Kingdom. He loves to see believers acting on, or obeying, His word. God is aware of what we do, and we reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7-10).

Desiring to please God, we bring glory to His name by doing right. The first step is to fear Him. That means to respect and revere His authority.

Psalm 112 lists some ways we can be blessed:

1.  Delight in God's Commands (v.1)
2.  Be gracious and compassionate (v.4)
3.   Be generous and lend freely (v.5)
4.  Conduct your affairs justly (v.5)
5.  Be steadfast, trusting in the LORD (v.7)
6.  Give to the poor (v.9)

 In contrast, here are some worldly viewpoints that lack respect for God’s authority:

• My truth is more important than God’s
• I see no reason to be compassionate
• I’ll make a personal loan, but charge a hefty fee
• It's not important to judge impartially
• There’s no need to trust in God; I can make my own way
• I give to the poor when I feel like it, Christmas for sure

As Christians, it’s a constant choice between MY will and THY will. Jesus set the example for us, even at an early age (Luke 2:41-52). Later, He overcame Satan’s temptations (Luke 4:1-13). Later still, He agonized in prayer over the Father’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:39-46).

While suffering on the cross, He was obedient to the end and declared, “It is finished!” (John 19:28-30). Then God tore the veil before the Holy of Holies in the temple from top to bottom (Luke 23:44-46; Mark 15:37-39). Jesus’ sacrifice was now the only acceptable way to be cleansed from sin.

It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but in addition to His example of prayer and knowing the Scripture, Jesus gave us two directives. We are to: (1) Take up our cross daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23), and (2) Show our love to Him by obedience to His commands (John 14:15).

Be blessed!

Pixabay: Rock, Sunrise, Morning Image; TomMarc

  

Part Three: What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?

To be a Christian means to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18).

It takes twelve years to earn a high school diploma, and more degrees beyond that. Why don’t we consider that our spiritual learning also requires that type of consistency?

You can believe Hebrews 4:12 when it says God’s word is lively and active. I’ve been reading the Bible since middle school, and though I have re-read scriptures many times, I’m always learning something new. The Bible, for me, is a life-satisfying adventure.

New Testament instructions guide our spiritual growth. Once we were in darkness, but now we are in the light of the Lord (Ephesians 5:8-10). God’s light consists of goodness, righteousness, and truth.

We are to put off our old corrupted self and put on our new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-32).  As Christians, we should live to please God and bring Him glory, not making provision to satisfy earthly lusts and evil desires (Colossians 3:1-17).

In fact, we are to detest what is evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9). Paul said, “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). As we have opportunities, we are to do good to everyone (Galatians 6:10).

The difference between our old life and new life in Christ is quite clear. Read it for yourself in Colossians 3:1-17, Ephesians 4:17-32, and Galatians 5:16-26.

Don’t be put off by these scripture references. If you’re not familiar with the Bible, check the Table of Contents. Become familiar with it.

Take time to learn about other spiritual blessings: (1) The Fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23, (2) Our Spiritual Armor – Ephesians 6:10-18, and (3) The Value of God’s Word - Psalm 119.

Remember, Jesus said we are to love God with: (1) all our heart, (2) all our soul (mind, will, and emotions), (3) all our mind, and (4) all our strength (Mark 12:28-31). It’s not a half-hearted commitment.

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6). For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose (Philippians 2:13).

Our daily desire becomes “Thy Will,” not “my will.”

Pixabay:

Part Two: What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?

Have you heard of The Great Commission? It was Jesus’ last directive to His disciples.

This assignment had three parts: (1) Go into every nation and make disciples, (2) baptize them (in water) in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and (3) teach them to obey all that I have commanded you (Matthew 28:18-20).

Mark said that after Jesus had spoken to them, He ascended into heaven and was seated at the right hand of the Father. He also said that the disciples went out to follow instructions, and that the Lord was with them, just as He had promised (Mark 16:19-20, Matthew 28:20).  

Let’s not forget that God also promised to send the Holy Spirit to empower them to be witnesses. This happened on the Day of Pentecost in a very special way. Immediately, Peter was a great example (Acts 2).

Remember that after soldiers had arrested Jesus in Gethsemane, Peter had denied knowing Jesus three times (Matthew 26:69-75). Yet, after the Holy Spirit was given on the Day of Pentecost, he stood up and preached to a great multitude of people (Acts 2).  

We know from reading the New Testament that disciples follow a master teacher. They adhere to his teachings and share them with others. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).  

We learn to do that by reading our Bibles, the Holy Scriptures given by God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). A good place to start might be in Matthew. The first four books of the New Testament are the Gospels, or the good news about Jesus and His teachings.

Sunday sermons, Bible classes, small group studies, and devotionals are all good, but not enough. We need both physical food and spiritual food every day.  

It’s never too late and never too soon to start a daily reading of our Bible verse by verse, and book by book!

Next week, we’ll close with Part Three of being a Christian.

Pixabay: Did you know, Speech, Balloon; Imageforyou.

Part One: What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?

Christian comes from the Greek word Christianos, meaning follower of Christ. But the need for Christ began in the Garden of Eden.

God said to Adam, “Enjoy everything in this Garden, but do not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The penalty is death” (Genesis 2:15-16).      

God created Eve because He thought it would be good for man not to be alone (Genesis 2:18-25). Eve knew God’s warning, but was not a careful listener. Satan came to her, casting doubt by saying, “Did God really say?” He misquoted God’s word, and so did Eve in her reply (Genesis 3:1-7).

She was tempted as she looked, desired, and took the forbidden fruit. She offered it to Adam, and he chose to participate, rather than obey God’s warning (Genesis 3:1-7).

That’s why James could say, “Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin (James 4:17).

In His time, God took away the Old Testament animal sacrifices for sin. Here’s why:  For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). How’s that for good news?

The New Testament says, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).

A friend was telling me the other day how great it is that salvation is not by works. She said, “We’d always have to wonder: (1) What kind of works? (2) How many? (3) How often?

Salvation by faith includes belief in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-8). With this faith, we are rewarded with new life, born again, spiritually. 

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17).   

Final Good News, Part One: When we believe in Jesus as our Savior, God sends the Holy Spirit to live in us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

As Christians, we are to follow Jesus’ teachings. The Holy Spirit will teach us and help us to do that (John 14:15-17).

More Good News Next Week: Part Two

Pixabay: Question Mark, Question; Peggy_Marco.

How To Have A Friend And Be A Friend

It’s a long title, I know. But the point is that true friendship works both ways.

Of course, there are casual friends or acquaintances. They’re important and add variety to our lives; however, we also need close friends, people who know us well and love us anyway.  

Mutual Interests

People can enjoy being together if they agree on things (Amos 3:3). That’s why I enjoy my Christian friends. They understand my scriptural choices and I theirs. We also enjoy places to eat, entertainment, and topics of conversation. I no longer live near a long-time friend, but our telephone conversations still cover these basic areas of interest.   

Encouragement and Understanding

Understanding is a fountain of life, pleasant words are sweet to the soul and bring healing to our bodies (Proverbs 16:22, 24). When I was in a care center after hip surgery, days and nights seemed endless. But kind words and encouragement from friends helped me keep focused on my recovery.

Truthful Communication

It’s good to have someone who can help us face the truth (Proverbs 27:6); however, wise friends do it in such a way as not to crush our spirit (Proverbs 15:4). Remember, life and death are both in the power of the tongue! (Proverbs 18:21)

Help When Needed

We’re not to be concerned only with our own interests, but also the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). An example for me was a friend who volunteered to stay in my guest room and help me the first two weeks I was home from hip surgery. On the flip side, I scheduled other friends to stay with me each afternoon to give her a break.

Take No Offense

A true friend loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17), but misunderstandings do happen. We are to forgive and bear with one another (Colossians 3:13), but let’s get real. If it’s something you can’t overlook, then talk it over.

Friendships are important to our health. Don’t isolate. Sometimes, when I feel extremely lonely, I’m grateful I can pick up my phone and call a friend.   

Pixabay:

Fresh Hope Each Day

When I became a caregiver for my father, I thanked the Lord for fresh hope each day. Upon waking, my first words were, “Thank you, Lord, for new mercies today.”

I was familiar with Lamentations 3:22-23 long before that, but now it was a life verse:

Because of the loving devotion of the LORD, we are not consumed,

for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!

I took care of Dad for about two and a half years before he passed away. A few years later, I became a caregiver for my husband. I never knew what to expect from day to day, so once again, Lamentations 3:22-23 became my fresh hope.

Even now, it’s my wake-up prayer, though I’m no longer a caregiver. Why am I writing about this now? Because I had a refreshing look at God’s mercies in a Bible study this week, in Psalms.

Psalm 106:43-45 caught my attention. It was talking about the children of Israel, how God delivered them many times, yet they continued to rebel. They’re not the only ones. I’ve seen plenty of that in our day.

I stopped to meditate on Psalm 106:44-45. God chose to continue helping them whenever He heard their cry. He remembered His covenant with them and relented, or had compassion on them, according to the multitude of His mercies.  

I read about “Mercy” in my *Bible dictionary.  I started writing down thoughts of God’s mercies. Here’s my list, but you might think of more:

Answered Prayer/Salvation/Healing

Deliverance from Trouble

Provision, as needed

Love/Kindness/Compassion

Justice/Action on our behalf

Truth/Taught in Scripture

Fellowship/Eternal Life

No prejudice--Salvation for ALL

Restoration, as needed

Protection/Our Good Shepherd

Psalm 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.”

Psalm 100:4 reminds us to enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and bless His name.

Maybe these ideas will get you started.

*Mercy, pp. 1106-1108, Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, TN, Copyright 2003.

Pixabay: Tree. Sunrise, Field image; rperucho.                                                                                                    

Who Started Communion and Sunday Worship?

COMMUNION.

The Passover meal had been celebrated from the time of Israel’s EXODUS out of Egypt. Jesus and His disciples celebrated Passover just before His betrayal (Luke 22:7-23). It was at this meal (known also as The Last Supper) that Jesus created a new celebration with only two elements.

First, He took the Passover non-yeast, cracker-like bread, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “This is My body broken for you.” He knew He would suffer terrible abuse before He was even crucified (Matthew 27:24-26; 27:27-31).

Next, he took the cup and said, “This is my blood poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28; John 3:16).

But, get this! He also said, “I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in My Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29; Paul’s follow-up, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

His disciples received confirmation of this message after the Resurrection, as Jesus ascended into heaven (Acts 1:10-11). I’m looking forward to His return, are you?

SUNDAY WORSHIP

The Old Testament commanded a holy Sabbath, every seven days (Exodus 20:8-11). Sunday Worship requires a three-day timeline to explain:

1.       Friday afternoon, Jesus died on a Roman cross (Matthew 27:45—46). As Evening approached, Joseph of Arimathea (a rich man and secret follower of Jesus) asked Pilate for Jesus’ body. Nicodemus (another secret follower) brought burial spices, and together they prepared Jesus’ body and laid it in Joseph’s tomb (John 19:38-42).    

 2.       Saturday was the Jewish Sabbath.

 3.       Sunday, at dawn on the first day of the week, certain women went to the tomb where they were shocked! The tomb was open, and they saw an angel who said, “He is not here. He is risen . . . go quickly, tell His disciples . . . He is going ahead of you to Galilee” (Matthew 28:1-7).

Early Christians then started worshiping on the first day of the week, calling it “The Lord’s Day.” First-day worship was also mentioned in Paul’s day (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4).

 I’m thankful to celebrate these two ancient Christian traditions in my spiritual life. How about you?

Pixabay:

The Wordless Book

When I’m running errands, I often thank God for colors like white clouds, blue sky, green trees in a variety of shades, and houses, too.

My mind often turns to the Wordless Book with its colorful message.

I learned it in a neighborhood Bible club, but its truth is for people of all ages, an illustration of John 3:16:  For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

God loved the world! My husband and I once worked at a very large church that I called “world-class.” On the front of our church, up high, were large white letters that read like the old King James: “Whosoever Will May Come.” And come they did!

We had a diverse range of people groups, economic and educational levels, and all ages, from babies to senior citizens. It was an exciting place to be!

THE WORDLESS BOOK IS SIMPLE 

Four Colors - - - Four Truths

PAGE ONE:  Sin has darkened our hearts; the darkest primary color is BLACK.

Adam and Eve weren’t the only ones who chose to disobey God. Isaiah 53:6 says, “We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way.”

PAGE TWO:  Jesus shed his blood on the cross as a sacrifice to remove sin; that’s RED.

Because of that, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).  

PAGE THREE: Christ’s blood removes our sin; we are pure, WHITE as snow.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they will become like wool” (Isaiah1:18).  

PAGE FOUR: Eternal life in heaven includes streets of GOLD.

Revelation 21:21 says, “The main street of the city was pure gold as clear as glass.” Won’t that be something to see!

It’s a wonderful new day when our sins are washed away.

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. 

Behold, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Believe it! The message of The Wordless Book is for each of us---fresh hope and a fresh start!

Pixabay: watercolor box; stux.