Tag: christianity

  • INTENSITY OF FOCUS

    With my faith, there are times that I feel very strong and other times that I feel weak. Perhaps some of that is because my emotions are up and down from one day to the next, and I shouldn’t give in to every whim on how I’m feeling today as a barometer to spiritual wellness. That said, I wish to GROW IN BEING MORE CONSISTENT WITH MY INTENSITY OF FOCUS! Perhaps this devotional will grant me some things to meditate on and pray about. 

    Spiritually speaking, GOD DOES WILL for me to have A DIALED-IN APPROACH to my spirituality. And I do need to be EVER MINDFUL in the pathway that I’m currently on. Every one of my heart’s intents should be aligned with God’s and doing that will inevitably lead my actions to follow suit. The wise King Solomon put it this way: 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you. 26 Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25-27)

    Of the many things that I probably allow to hinder my growth, looking too much in the rearview mirror of my life has stymied my progress. Though I do want (and need) to learn from my mistakes, the last thing I want to do is live in the past. God, PLEASE ENABLE ME THE PROPER FOCUS, AND MAY I TAKE CONTROL OF MY OWN THINKING to the extent of imitating Paul in the matter of intensely focusing/capitalizing on the opportunities in front of me: 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:13-14)

    There is something to be said for the fact that this world will pose its challenges. Something I cannot control are the racing thoughts that enter my mind from time to time, because of those past failures, or new information that pollutes my thinking. I would even say that too often, I am given over to mindless consumption of entertainment. God, I resolve to actively pursue that which will ENGAGE MY INTENSITY OF FOCUS: 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)

    Many things have an outward appearance of wisdom (things of this world, intellectualism, philosophy, etc.), but I pray that setting my mind on things above, and MORE INTENSELY FOCUSING ON BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES will enable me a fuller, richer, and more rewarding service to You, God! I will truly embrace the gift of being risen with Christ, seeking those things that are above, with the earnest expectation of nobler things! 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. (Colossians 3:1-4)

  • Till the Storm Passes By

    There is currently a major hurricane brewing in the Gulf of Mexico, and it is headed straight toward Florida. Moreover, there are people throughout the world right now who are going through difficult, frightening times – circumstances testing their faith.  

    Lord, may You be with Your people in the path of this storm (Mark 4:37; Acts 27:14). May they be faithful to You, and may You see them through. For those dealing with difficult circumstances right now, grant them the strength to carry on in the hollow of Your hand (Psalm 71:3; Matthew 14:27). No matter what comes, may everyone seek strength from You through the challenging times ahead (Luke 8:22-25).

    In the dark of the midnight have I oft hid my face, While the storm howls above me, and there’s no hiding place. ‘Mid the crash of the thunder, precious Lord, hear my cry; Keep me safe till the storm passes by. 

    Many times Satan whispered, “There is no need to cry, For there’s no end of sorrow, there’s no hope by and by.” But I know Thou art with me, and tomorrow I’ll rise Where the storm never darkens the skies. 

    When the long night has ended and the storms come no more, Let me stand in Thy presence on that bright, peaceful shore. In that land where the tempest never comes, Lord, may I Dwell with Thee when the storm passes by. 

    Till the storm passes over, till the thunder sounds no more, Till the clouds roll forever from the sky, Hold me fast, let me stand in the hollow of Thy hand, Keep me safe till the storm passes by.

    ~ Lyrics & Musical Arrangement by Mosie Lister

  • What Does God Really Want?

    Imagine you are walking along the way and suddenly fall into a puddle of muck. There you are, stained and yucky – what a mess. What if someone came along and said they could clean you right up? Would you take them up on that offer? I know I would.

    We have all fallen at some point in our lives. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Yet, everyone can be cleaned up spiritually. The apostle Peter spoke plainly of this when he wrote “There is also an antitype which now saves us–baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.” (1 Peter 3:21-22) If the Lord sees you on your back, wallowing in the mud, what would He tell you to do? Get up out of the mire!! You must hear (Rom. 10:17), believe (Heb. 11:6), repent (Acts 17:30), confess Jesus as the Christ (Matt. 10:33), and be baptized – and you will be cleansed spiritually (Acts 2:38, 22:16).

    Now that’s a big deal to us as sinners, but it’s not the biggest deal to God. Don’t get me wrong – these elements are essential to salvation (John 3:3-5, Mark 16:15-16). The bigger deal for God, however, is for us to commit our lives to Him! Once He cleanses us – if we then happen to stumble and get a little stained – God can clean us up again if we confess, repent, and pray (1 John 1:9; Acts 8:22)! But what do you suppose God will think if we get cleaned up – only to continue jumping right back into the mire? The Lord has indeed spoken of this, “For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: “A dog returns to his own vomit,” and, “a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.” (2 Peter 2:21-22)

    Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Peter exhorts the Christian, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul…” (1 Peter 2:9-11) Let us remember what the Lord has done for us, and therefore live in such a way as to glorify and honor Him.

  • Traumatic Experiences

    Can you imagine seeing some of the most violent assaults inflicted upon other human beings? 

    Can you imagine witnessing grown adults wail in the most excruciating pangs of anguish? 

    Can you imagine watching someone die in front of you, due to blunt force trauma?

    Can you imagine bearing the brunt of false accusations concerning your background, abilities, motives, and character?

    What type of memories will such trauma instill? What mental images are burned into your mind when thinking back on such things? How would you not only work through such things inwardly but respond to such challenges moving forward? 

    Perhaps YOU CAN imagine, because YOU HAVE witnessed violence in the extreme. Perhaps YOU HAVE experienced deep anguish, yourself? Maybe you’ve encountered some very gruesome scenes. Perhaps you have had difficulties of your own, compounded by the hurts inflicted by those who profess to be Christlike. If so, you are not alone! Rather, you are in good company. 

    Many others have also encountered traumatic situations and have found ways to overcome them. The Apostle Paul not only witnessed such horrible ordeals, but he was the cause of much suffering for others before his conversion (Acts 8:1-3; 26:9-11). Even after converting to Christ, he endured many afflictions for the sake of the gospel (Acts 9:16; 2 Corinthians 10:7-11; 11:22-33). But by the grace of God, he faithfully endured as a servant to others, becoming an example for others to follow! While some boast of their former conduct before becoming a Christian, others may suppress their memories of a lifestyle they escaped through the grace of God. It seems, however, that Paul used his memories and experiences of hardship as FUEL to serve the Lord with even more vigor (1 Corinthians 15:10; Philippians 3:12-16). If you have gone through traumatic experiences, you can use the grace given to you to serve others with even more passion and dedication.

    12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, 

    13 although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 

    14 And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 

    15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 

    16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.

    17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

    ~ 1 Timothy 1:12-17

  • The Philippian Jailer & Faith Only

    Those who teach salvation by faith alone often appeal to the conversion of the Philippian jailer in Acts 16. When he asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” they answered, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household” (Acts 16:30–31).

    Does this mean that belief is the only thing necessary for salvation? We need to consider the entire account, not simply one verse.

    What Must I Do to Be Saved?

    The jailer’s question came under extraordinary circumstances. Paul and Silas had been imprisoned in Philippi, yet at midnight they were praying and singing hymns to God. Suddenly, an earthquake shook the prison, opening its doors and loosening the prisoners’ chains.

    Assuming the prisoners had escaped, the jailer was about to take his own life when Paul cried out, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here” (Acts 16:28).

    Trembling, the jailer fell before Paul and Silas and asked what he must do to be saved.

    Their answer was straightforward: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 31). But what did that belief involve? And what happened next?

    What Happened After the Jailer Was Told to Believe?

    Notice the sequence of events recorded by Luke:

    First, Paul and Silas preached the word of the Lord. Acts 16:32 says, “Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.” The jailer needed to hear the gospel in order to believe it (Rom. 10:17).

    Second, the jailer responded to what he heard. That same night, he washed the wounds of Paul and Silas. His actions demonstrated a change in attitude toward the very men who had been placed in his custody.

    Third, he and his household were baptized immediately. Luke records, “And immediately he and all his family were baptized” (Acts 16:33).

    Why was baptism so urgent? Why did they not wait until morning?

    The answer becomes clearer when we consider what the apostles taught elsewhere. Peter commanded his hearers to repent and be baptized “for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). Jesus likewise connected belief and baptism in Mark 16:16.

    Finally, Acts 16:34 tells us that the jailer rejoiced, “having believed in God with all his household.”

    Notice that Luke describes the jailer’s belief after recording his response to the gospel, including his baptism. The account does not present belief as an isolated mental acknowledgment, but as faith that responded to God’s word.

    Does Faith Exclude Obedience?

    The Bible certainly teaches the necessity of faith. Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6). But does the necessity of faith mean that repentance, confession, and baptism can be excluded?

    Jesus taught the necessity of repentance (Luke 13:3, 5). He also spoke of confessing Him before men (Matt. 10:32–33). Paul connected confession with salvation in Romans 10:9–10, and Peter commanded baptism for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).

    These teachings do not contradict the command to believe. Rather, they help us understand what responding to the gospel involves.

    James makes an important distinction when he writes, “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). He concludes, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (v. 26).

    James is not teaching that sinners earn salvation through their own merit. His point is that genuine faith is not inactive. It responds to what God has said.

    We should not confuse obedient faith with an attempt to earn salvation. Nor should we separate faith from the obedience God requires.

    Consider the Whole Account

    The Philippian jailer was told to believe in Jesus Christ. He then heard the word of the Lord, responded to what he heard, and was baptized that very night. Only then does Luke conclude the account by describing his rejoicing as one who had believed in God.

    It is a mistake to stop reading at Acts 16:31 and overlook what follows.

    The question is not whether faith is necessary for salvation. It most certainly is. The question is whether saving faith can be separated from obedience to the gospel.

    The conversion of the Philippian jailer gives us good reason to consider the whole counsel of God rather than build a doctrine upon one verse.

    For further study:

    What Must One Do to Become a Christian? · Passages Concerning Water Baptism into Christ · Looking for Jesus?

  • How Does One Get into Christ?

    The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes that salvation is found in Jesus Christ. Paul writes that God has blessed us “with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). He also declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17).

    But this raises an important question: How does one get into Christ?

    There is considerable disagreement about the place of baptism in salvation. Some regard baptism as an outward expression of salvation already received, while others understand it to be part of the response God requires of those seeking forgiveness.

    Rather than begin with what people teach, let us consider what the Scriptures say.

    Baptized into Christ

    Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. — Romans 6:3–4

    Notice Paul’s language. He describes believers as having been baptized into Christ Jesus and into His death. Through baptism, they were buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life.

    Paul is addressing Christians who had already obeyed the gospel. His immediate purpose was to remind them that they could not continue living in sin. Their baptism signified a decisive break with their former manner of life.

    But in making that argument, Paul also tells us something important about their conversion: they had been baptized into Christ.

    Sons of God Through Faith

    For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. — Galatians 3:26–27

    Here, faith and baptism are not presented as competing ideas.

    Paul says that these Christians were sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. He then explains that those who were baptized into Christ had put on Christ.

    We should not overlook either statement.

    Salvation is not earned through human effort. It is made possible through the grace of God and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Yet the faith described in Scripture is not merely an acknowledgment that Jesus is the Son of God. It is faith that responds to His word.

    The question, then, is not whether faith is necessary. It certainly is. The question is whether we may separate faith from the response God has commanded.

    Baptism and the Resurrection of Christ

    There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. — 1 Peter 3:21

    Peter is careful to explain that baptism is not simply the washing of the body. Its significance is spiritual, and its saving power rests in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

    The water itself does not possess some special power to remove sin. Forgiveness comes through Christ.

    Nevertheless, Peter plainly connects baptism with salvation. We should be careful not to dismiss what he affirms.

    This agrees with the instruction given by Peter on Pentecost, when those convicted of their sins asked what they should do. He answered, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38).

    Jesus likewise commanded His apostles to preach the gospel throughout the world, declaring, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:16).

    These passages deserve careful consideration together.

    The Question Before Us

    If the New Testament speaks of being baptized into Christ, we ought to take that language seriously.

    Baptism does not earn salvation. Forgiveness comes through Jesus Christ. Yet the Scriptures consistently connect baptism with the believer’s response to the gospel.

    We must not diminish the necessity of faith, nor should we dismiss what the Lord has commanded. Our responsibility is to hear His word and respond in faith and obedience.

    A Prayer

    Holy Father, we thank You for the salvation made possible through Your Son. Give us honest hearts to receive Your word, the humility to obey it, and the courage to teach it faithfully. May we never place our own understanding above what You have revealed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    If you are studying this question for yourself, you may also want to read What Must One Do to Become a Christian? and Passages Concerning Water Baptism into Christ. If you are looking for a place to begin with Jesus and salvation, visit Looking for Jesus?.

  • Nakedness, Clothing, and Modesty (Part 3)

    Though the language is symbolic, God foretold the humiliation of Babylon with vivid imagery (Isa. 47:1-3). Within this context, God is using very vivid imagery to speak about how He will bring Babylon to an open shame. 

    1 “Come down and sit in the dust,

    O virgin daughter of Babylon;

    Sit on the ground without a throne,

    O daughter of the Chaldeans!

    For you shall no more be called

    Tender and delicate.

    2 Take the millstones and grind meal.

    Remove your veil,

    Take off the skirt,

    Uncover the thigh,

    Pass through the rivers.

    3 Your nakedness shall be uncovered,

    Yes, your shame will be seen;

    I will take vengeance,

    And I will not arbitrate with a man.”

    ~ Isaiah 47:1-3

    Let us not negate the value of looking to such passages in our thinking (because the language is symbolic) upon the matter of nakedness, clothing, and modesty. The fact remains, that God is making emphatic points concerning the shame of Babylon’s sins, and how they will, indeed, be exposed. 

    And about symbolism, can the tenderhearted truly remain unconvinced that certain imagery is meant to correlate with standards of propriety (See Ezek. 23:1-49; Prov. 7:10?)?

    While such sins were trying to be covered, God says that when His judgment comes, they will be exposed. And they will be exposed in such a way that will bring shame to those people. After reading such passages, I certainly would not want to inch my way closer to revealing such things in a way that can bring about shame (Cf. Jer. 6:15). 

  • Nakedness, Clothing, and Modesty (Part 2)

    Let us look to the Bible, considering passages that deal with nakedness, clothing, & modesty. Is there a verifiable biblical pattern of public modesty requirements for both men & women alike, regardless of custom or setting?  

    When Noah got drunk, he became uncovered in his tent, and Ham saw the nakedness of his father (Gen. 9:20-27). We may question what more Ham “had done” to Noah (that he looked upon Noah’s nakedness and told his brothers; was he scoffing, etc., ?), but Ham observing Noah naked (even in Noah’s tent), did not bring about a good result! Contrast that with how the other two brothers (Shem & Japheth) were very careful not to look upon their own father’s nakedness. Are there any applications we can make from here? What of bathing in front of children, at home? What about swimming with scant clothing in front of family and friends (e.g., revealing/formfitting bathing suits/swim trunks)? 

    When the Law of Moses was granted to the Israelites, priestly garments are said to have covered their nakedness (See Exod. 28:40-43; Cf. 20:25-26). Notice that their undergarments were to be from the waist to the thighs. First, we want to acknowledge that this was a specific requirement for priests… But we also want to acknowledge – the reason – was to have their nakedness (bare flesh) covered. Certainly, God can see anyone’s nakedness, anytime (Heb. 4:13). But the matter of approaching Him in spiritual service of worship was regulated by God in the OT, and He is the one who defines what was considered “nakedness.” I wonder if the Israelites ever dealt with controversy determining what God meant when He said, “And you shall make for them linen trousers to cover their nakedness; they shall reach from the waist to the thighs.” (28:42). This passage is often referenced to make the case for shorts/skirts reaching to the knee to be a suitable covering. 

    Perhaps that is a good practice, as well as the matter of being mindful of what my clothing may reveal in certain positions (I.e., sitting, bending over, etc.). It is not too difficult of a thing to think through if our number one priority is to honor God – even in the way I choose to dress. 

  • Nakedness, Clothing, and Modesty

    We will be looking to the Bible (this week), considering passages that deal with nakedness, clothing, & modesty. Is there a verifiable biblical pattern of public modesty requirements, for both men & women alike, regardless of custom or setting?   

    When God created Adam & Eve, they were naked and not ashamed (Gen. 2:25). But something concerning their shame changed drastically immediately after their first sin (See Gen. 3:7). Therefore, Adam & Eve made themselves coverings (3:7). But those coverings were not enough to cover them to the extent that they felt comfortable in the sight of God; as when the LORD God called for them in the garden, both Adam and Eve hid (3:8). And, when Adam told God that they were hiding because they were naked, notice that God did not disagree with Adam. Instead, God addressed their sin against Him (first), then, “Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of skin and clothed them.” (Gen. 3:21). Whatever Adam and Eve thought was covering them, God seems to have clothed them further. Think of that when you consider the culture we’ve grown up with. Our culture deems it acceptable for men to have their bare chests & thighs uncovered. Our culture deems it acceptable for women to have much of their breasts, buttocks, and thighs uncovered, also. Where this used to be acceptable only in certain areas (like at the beach, etc.), it is now becoming more commonplace to see such everywhere in public.  

    To my God and Father in Heaven: Some coverings men and women make are insufficient to cover their nakedness. May I honor You (and my friends and neighbors) by the way I choose to dress.  

  • He Is Able to Aid Those Who Are Tempted

    Jesus chose to become a human, and He humbled Himself even lower than the angels. He did this so that He could die for our sins and then be exalted. Through the experience of suffering, He became complete. By doing so, He also became our brother! Through His death, He made the devil powerless!! His humanity also served another purpose: to fully understand our struggles and be our compassionate and trustworthy high priest. He suffered temptation, which allowed Him to relate to our struggles and provide help when we are tempted… In this way, He accomplished God’s plan for the ages!!! 

    14 Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 

    15 and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

    16 For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham.

    17 Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 

    18 For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.

    ~ Hebrews 2:14-18

    Holy God and Father, it is truly a deep matter for me to meditate upon concerning the deity of Christ. For Him to lower Himself, and be obedient to the point of death, all because of His willingness to provide atonement for my sins – is truly humbling. Because of His death, I now have hope to live again, even after I die! Moreover, I see His example of suffering, and it makes me aware of the need for some overcoming I must accomplish in this body. I thank You for Your plan of salvation and ask for strength to overcome every trial and temptation, this very day!! Please grant me spiritual strength through Your Son!!! Amen.