Read 2 Chronicles 9
Read Isaiah 39
Monday, January 31, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Not a Single Arrow...
Read 2 Chronicles 7
Read Isaiah 37
Um...how amazing is our reading in Isaiah?!?! The enemy blasphemes God, mocks his people, and marches out to war. But overnight, without either side firing a single arrow, God wins the war. His people who cried out to him for mercy received the victory. And the enemy perished in his wickedness. And 185,000 Assyrians failed to wake up in the morning. It must have been a horrible sight! But for the city of Jerusalem, that was potentially facing a long, painful, horrid siege, it was a sight that brought great rejoicing.
My comment is brief. Today I simply encourage you to meditate on that incredible victory. Now think of the victory of Jesus Christ that is yours. What has he done to the enemy? What power! What might and strength! What will happen on the Last Day? What glory! The spoils, the treasure!
May you rejoice today in the one who was crucified and raised to defeat your enemies: your sin, your death, and the Devil who haunts you. Christ has won the war.
And you didn't even fire a single arrow! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Read Isaiah 37
Um...how amazing is our reading in Isaiah?!?! The enemy blasphemes God, mocks his people, and marches out to war. But overnight, without either side firing a single arrow, God wins the war. His people who cried out to him for mercy received the victory. And the enemy perished in his wickedness. And 185,000 Assyrians failed to wake up in the morning. It must have been a horrible sight! But for the city of Jerusalem, that was potentially facing a long, painful, horrid siege, it was a sight that brought great rejoicing.
My comment is brief. Today I simply encourage you to meditate on that incredible victory. Now think of the victory of Jesus Christ that is yours. What has he done to the enemy? What power! What might and strength! What will happen on the Last Day? What glory! The spoils, the treasure!
May you rejoice today in the one who was crucified and raised to defeat your enemies: your sin, your death, and the Devil who haunts you. Christ has won the war.
And you didn't even fire a single arrow! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
The Son of God goes forth to war,
A kingly crown to gain;
His blood red banner streams afar:
Who follows in His train?
Who best can drink his cup of woe,
Triumphant over pain,
Who patient bears his cross below,
He follows in His train.
That martyr first, whose eagle eye
Could pierce beyond the grave;
Who saw his Master in the sky,
And called on Him to save.
Like Him, with pardon on His tongue,
In midst of mortal pain,
He prayed for them that did the wrong:
Who follows in His train?
A glorious band, the chosen few
On whom the Spirit came;
Twelve valiant saints, their hope they knew,
And mocked the cross and flame.
They met the tyrant’s brandished steel,
The lion’s gory mane;
They bowed their heads the death to feel:
Who follows in their train?
A noble army, men and boys,
The matron and the maid,
Around the Savior’s throne rejoice,
In robes of light arrayed.
They climbed the steep ascent of Heav’n,
Through peril, toil and pain;
O God, to us may grace be given,
To follow in their train.
(LSB 661, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Hear...and Forgive
Read 2 Chronicles 6
Read Isaiah 36
Solomon makes it clear that the temple would be the gracious presence of God. He prays a great and marvelous prayer at the temple's dedication. He points out that God's promises have been fulfilled. David indeed had a son to sit on the throne, and that son, Solomon, built the house of the Lord.
Though he points this out, Solomon is doing more than just tooting his horn. No, Solomon doesn't mention it because he wants praise, but to glorify God who kept his promise and who is pleased to dwell with his people in grace and mercy.
How do we know? Because in Solomon's prayer he repeats over and over that if the people are in any trouble, or distress, or have fallen into sin, or face this situation or that one, they should call out to God. And Solomon asks God, at this the dedication of the temple, to hear and to forgive sins. He asks that God would hear their cries for mercy and grant protection, rain and abundance, and prosperity in the Promised Land.
Solomon's prayer is heard, and in just a couple chapters we will read that God promises he will "hear" and will "forgive" (7:14). What a wonderful and blessed thing it is that God is faithful and just to forgive sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness!
And we may no longer have the one temple, one place of worship where we can encounter God's gracious presence, but that is OK. Jesus even prophesies that a time was coming soon when God's people would not worship in Jerusalem or on the mountain necessarily, but that we would worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4). Now God's gracious presence isn't tied so much to a location, but to the means he has established. Indeed, when we gather together around God's holy Word and his life-giving sacraments we are assured that Jesus is present, that we are united with him, that his promises give us life, his Body and Blood grant us forgiveness of sins. In this way God graciously assures us that he does hear our pleas for mercy and he does forgive.
Yes, today we can rejoice because of our Savior Jesus, who replaced the temple, whose body became the very temple, the very gracious presence of God. That temple was certainly torn down, and Jesus certainly "rebuilt" it in three days, as he rose from the dead! Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
Jesus is present with me today with his grace. How does that give me comfort?
Am I facing anything that Solomon mentions in the prayer - sin, enemies, injustice, drought, etc.? How can I know that God hears and answers prayer?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning what is weighing on your mind. Ask for forgiveness, for strength to make it through the day, and for God's continued help and guidance.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 36
Solomon makes it clear that the temple would be the gracious presence of God. He prays a great and marvelous prayer at the temple's dedication. He points out that God's promises have been fulfilled. David indeed had a son to sit on the throne, and that son, Solomon, built the house of the Lord.
Though he points this out, Solomon is doing more than just tooting his horn. No, Solomon doesn't mention it because he wants praise, but to glorify God who kept his promise and who is pleased to dwell with his people in grace and mercy.
How do we know? Because in Solomon's prayer he repeats over and over that if the people are in any trouble, or distress, or have fallen into sin, or face this situation or that one, they should call out to God. And Solomon asks God, at this the dedication of the temple, to hear and to forgive sins. He asks that God would hear their cries for mercy and grant protection, rain and abundance, and prosperity in the Promised Land.
Solomon's prayer is heard, and in just a couple chapters we will read that God promises he will "hear" and will "forgive" (7:14). What a wonderful and blessed thing it is that God is faithful and just to forgive sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness!
And we may no longer have the one temple, one place of worship where we can encounter God's gracious presence, but that is OK. Jesus even prophesies that a time was coming soon when God's people would not worship in Jerusalem or on the mountain necessarily, but that we would worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4). Now God's gracious presence isn't tied so much to a location, but to the means he has established. Indeed, when we gather together around God's holy Word and his life-giving sacraments we are assured that Jesus is present, that we are united with him, that his promises give us life, his Body and Blood grant us forgiveness of sins. In this way God graciously assures us that he does hear our pleas for mercy and he does forgive.
Yes, today we can rejoice because of our Savior Jesus, who replaced the temple, whose body became the very temple, the very gracious presence of God. That temple was certainly torn down, and Jesus certainly "rebuilt" it in three days, as he rose from the dead! Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
Jesus is present with me today with his grace. How does that give me comfort?
Am I facing anything that Solomon mentions in the prayer - sin, enemies, injustice, drought, etc.? How can I know that God hears and answers prayer?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning what is weighing on your mind. Ask for forgiveness, for strength to make it through the day, and for God's continued help and guidance.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Blooming Desert
"Lord God, bless Your Word wherever it is proclaimed. Make it a word of power and peace to convert those not yet Your own and to confirm those who have come to saving faith. May Your Word pass from the ear to the heart, from the heart to the lip, and from the lip to the life that, as You have promised, Your Word may achieve the purpose for which You send it; through Jesus Christ, my Lord. Amen."
Read 2 Chronicles 5
Read Isaiah 35
It was difficult to yesterday to read Isaiah 34 without reading chapter 35 right away. In fact, I didn't succeed. I had to continue. Chapter 34 was filled with so much wrath and judgment! I felt like I needed some Gospel (and there is plenty of it in chapter 35!).
But maybe sometimes we rush to the Gospel too quickly. If you let chapter 34 sink in for a while, I think you did a good thing. God's judgment spoken there is harsh, and the threats, terrifying. We see God's sword get drunk on the blood of the wicked. We see wild beasts inhabiting what used to be a civilization. What once was prosperous is now desert. Creation is destroyed. In 34:11 we even see the same Hebrew words that we saw before God created order in the universe, that is, that this land becomes formless and void again, reminding us of Genesis 1:2. Such strong and powerful language is in chapter 34! Certainly it behooves us to pause, consider our sinfulness, and repent with contrite hearts. Take a moment to examine your life with the 10 Commandments. And consider your position in life: are you a father, mother, child, employer, employee, brother, sister, neighbor, friend, citizen? How are you fulfilling those responsibilities? Surely we have left many good things undone, and have committed many forbidden acts.
But in Chapter 35 we see all of that reversed. The exiles of Israel return - "The ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing" (v. 10); the wild animals do not harm or destroy - "No lion shall be there nor shall any ravenous beast come upon it" (v. 9); those who had been suffering from affliction are healed - "the eyes of the blind shall be opened..." etc. (v. 5); and even the barren wasteland comes to life again - "the desert shall rejoice and blossom" (v. 1).
This beautiful language, and these many gracious promises of God are fulfilled in a very real way when the time of defeat, slavery, and exile was over and Israel could return to their land where God continued to provide and protect his people. But these promises are fulfilled in an even greater way through Jesus Christ. For surely, the release from bondage, affliction, and slavery of Israel foreshadowed the greater release of all who are in Christ from sin, death, and the devil! This is why the New Testament authors took great care to report that Jesus opened the eyes of the blind and unstopped the ears of the deaf. They report that Jesus is the living water, who provides us the life and nourishment needed so that we can bear fruit. They report that Jesus is our ransom, the payment that would buy us back from our captor the devil.
Blessed are you if when you read Isaiah 35 you see Christ! "Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you" (v. 4). Be sure to share this Good News with those who have "an anxious heart" or "weak hands" or "feeble knees" (v. 3-4). For Jesus is our life and salvation! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Christ, our human likeness sharing,
Heaven's love on earth portrayed;
Christ the Shepherd, tending, caring,
In His death our ransom paid:
Christ the Savior, Christ the Servant,
Be Your life in us displayed.
Come, O living Christ, renew us,
As of old in wind and flame;
With the Spirit's pow'r endue us,
Servants of Your saving name:
Christ the Savior, Christ the Servant,
Christ whose kingdom we proclaim.
(LSB 847:1, 4)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Chronicles 5
Read Isaiah 35
It was difficult to yesterday to read Isaiah 34 without reading chapter 35 right away. In fact, I didn't succeed. I had to continue. Chapter 34 was filled with so much wrath and judgment! I felt like I needed some Gospel (and there is plenty of it in chapter 35!).
But maybe sometimes we rush to the Gospel too quickly. If you let chapter 34 sink in for a while, I think you did a good thing. God's judgment spoken there is harsh, and the threats, terrifying. We see God's sword get drunk on the blood of the wicked. We see wild beasts inhabiting what used to be a civilization. What once was prosperous is now desert. Creation is destroyed. In 34:11 we even see the same Hebrew words that we saw before God created order in the universe, that is, that this land becomes formless and void again, reminding us of Genesis 1:2. Such strong and powerful language is in chapter 34! Certainly it behooves us to pause, consider our sinfulness, and repent with contrite hearts. Take a moment to examine your life with the 10 Commandments. And consider your position in life: are you a father, mother, child, employer, employee, brother, sister, neighbor, friend, citizen? How are you fulfilling those responsibilities? Surely we have left many good things undone, and have committed many forbidden acts.
But in Chapter 35 we see all of that reversed. The exiles of Israel return - "The ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing" (v. 10); the wild animals do not harm or destroy - "No lion shall be there nor shall any ravenous beast come upon it" (v. 9); those who had been suffering from affliction are healed - "the eyes of the blind shall be opened..." etc. (v. 5); and even the barren wasteland comes to life again - "the desert shall rejoice and blossom" (v. 1).
This beautiful language, and these many gracious promises of God are fulfilled in a very real way when the time of defeat, slavery, and exile was over and Israel could return to their land where God continued to provide and protect his people. But these promises are fulfilled in an even greater way through Jesus Christ. For surely, the release from bondage, affliction, and slavery of Israel foreshadowed the greater release of all who are in Christ from sin, death, and the devil! This is why the New Testament authors took great care to report that Jesus opened the eyes of the blind and unstopped the ears of the deaf. They report that Jesus is the living water, who provides us the life and nourishment needed so that we can bear fruit. They report that Jesus is our ransom, the payment that would buy us back from our captor the devil.
Blessed are you if when you read Isaiah 35 you see Christ! "Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you" (v. 4). Be sure to share this Good News with those who have "an anxious heart" or "weak hands" or "feeble knees" (v. 3-4). For Jesus is our life and salvation! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Christ, our human likeness sharing,
Heaven's love on earth portrayed;
Christ the Shepherd, tending, caring,
In His death our ransom paid:
Christ the Savior, Christ the Servant,
Be Your life in us displayed.
Come, O living Christ, renew us,
As of old in wind and flame;
With the Spirit's pow'r endue us,
Servants of Your saving name:
Christ the Savior, Christ the Servant,
Christ whose kingdom we proclaim.
(LSB 847:1, 4)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
Most Holy Place
Read 2 Chronicles 3
Read Isaiah 33
The Most Holy Place (or the "Holy of Holies") was a cube. It's length, width, and height were all 20 cubits long, according to our reading in 2 Chronicles 3:8. We know that that place was where God was pleased to be present. This was the most sacred place in the temple, and therefore, the most sacred place in the land, even in the world. This is where God Almighty, the maker of heaven and earth, Yahweh, covenant God of his people Israel, the One True God was pleased to make his glory and power visible. The fact that this space was a cube just helps drive home the point that this is a holy God who is perfect and who creates order and structure.
This is the place where the sacrifice was offered by the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement. The smoke of God's glory would fill the temple above the ark of the covenant, the ark where God told his people he would be. And there is no denying that the presence of God in the Old and New Testaments was/is a merciful presence for his people. He was there to forgive, renew, strengthen, help, and provide. What an incredible sight this temple (and even more so - the presence of God) must have been!
Where is this temple today? Well, it has been destroyed. There have been several temples built in Jerusalem and destroyed. But we know that the temple, yes, even Solomon's great and grand temple, was only a foreshadowing of something else. In Revelation 21, John gives us a vision of the New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven, beautifully prepared for the Lord. We see in Rev. 21:16 that the city is a cube. Why a cube? Because God is perfect, holy, and orderly, and here in this New Jerusalem would be the very presence of God among his people. Here is what had cast the shadow earlier in time. The temple was the type. The New Jerusalem is the anti-type, that is, the thing that was foreshadowed.
And this cubic city in Rev. 21 is one way that God's Word shows that in heaven we shall be perfect, holy, and righteous. There everything will be in order, not chaos. There God's Will will be done. There will be everything good. This is a perfect paradise for all eternity. And it is for you and for me.
Why? Because of Jesus Christ. The sacrifices in the Most Holy Place of the temple foreshadowed that sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And Rev. 21 assures us that the beauty of our heavenly home, the presence of God, the unending light that awaits us, is all through Jesus, the Lamb of God who was slain for us.
Though our sins are many and chaotic, he gives us perfect forgiveness, and promises us everlasting life! Ponder that today. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning everything that is on your heart. Be sure to thank Jesus Christ for the perfection of heaven that is waiting for you through the cross.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 33
The Most Holy Place (or the "Holy of Holies") was a cube. It's length, width, and height were all 20 cubits long, according to our reading in 2 Chronicles 3:8. We know that that place was where God was pleased to be present. This was the most sacred place in the temple, and therefore, the most sacred place in the land, even in the world. This is where God Almighty, the maker of heaven and earth, Yahweh, covenant God of his people Israel, the One True God was pleased to make his glory and power visible. The fact that this space was a cube just helps drive home the point that this is a holy God who is perfect and who creates order and structure.
This is the place where the sacrifice was offered by the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement. The smoke of God's glory would fill the temple above the ark of the covenant, the ark where God told his people he would be. And there is no denying that the presence of God in the Old and New Testaments was/is a merciful presence for his people. He was there to forgive, renew, strengthen, help, and provide. What an incredible sight this temple (and even more so - the presence of God) must have been!
Where is this temple today? Well, it has been destroyed. There have been several temples built in Jerusalem and destroyed. But we know that the temple, yes, even Solomon's great and grand temple, was only a foreshadowing of something else. In Revelation 21, John gives us a vision of the New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven, beautifully prepared for the Lord. We see in Rev. 21:16 that the city is a cube. Why a cube? Because God is perfect, holy, and orderly, and here in this New Jerusalem would be the very presence of God among his people. Here is what had cast the shadow earlier in time. The temple was the type. The New Jerusalem is the anti-type, that is, the thing that was foreshadowed.
And this cubic city in Rev. 21 is one way that God's Word shows that in heaven we shall be perfect, holy, and righteous. There everything will be in order, not chaos. There God's Will will be done. There will be everything good. This is a perfect paradise for all eternity. And it is for you and for me.
Why? Because of Jesus Christ. The sacrifices in the Most Holy Place of the temple foreshadowed that sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And Rev. 21 assures us that the beauty of our heavenly home, the presence of God, the unending light that awaits us, is all through Jesus, the Lamb of God who was slain for us.
Though our sins are many and chaotic, he gives us perfect forgiveness, and promises us everlasting life! Ponder that today. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning everything that is on your heart. Be sure to thank Jesus Christ for the perfection of heaven that is waiting for you through the cross.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Friday, January 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
We Give Thee But Thine Own
Read 1 Chronicles 29
Read Isaiah 30
There are a multitude of themes in our readings today that could use comment. But, time and space will limit us. So I'd like to comment on the offering given in 1 Chronicles 29.
Following the example of King David the people of Israel joyously give precious materials to the temple building project. King Solomon would build a splendid house for the Lord, and the people, so thankful for the salvation given to them by God give generously.
And notice that no gift was coerced. If we are going to encourage someone to give to the Lord, then we must do a few things: we must lead by example, and we must proclaim the goodness of God, what he has done and what he has promised to do, all through Jesus Christ (who would, by the way, BE the temple, the presence of God, the place where God is at work to grant salvation).
A gift given to God is no gift if it forced. It is no good work if it was given out of guilt. It is not pleasing to God if it was given only for show. What is remarkable about the 1 Chronicles 29 passage is that we see that the people, "had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD." The gift was willing. It was given with a pure heart. Giving in this way they pleased God more than if they had given double begrudgingly.
I wish I could always respond that way. Sometimes by the grace of God I do. But sometimes because of my sinful nature I don't. I'm not just talking about money, but also my time, my abilities, my service, my very life. Christ has done so much for me, rescuing me from sin, death, and the devil, it is a little thing that I should give myself for him.
But thankfully, our loving God accepts even our poor offerings just as a parent might accept and rejoice over a scribbling that their small child made for them. Thankfully he overlooks my faults, forgives me abundantly, and still is pleased to call me his son. We certainly have a gracious God. May we always live for him!
Pray:
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate'er the gift may be;
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our firstfruits give!
(LSB 781:1-2, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 30
There are a multitude of themes in our readings today that could use comment. But, time and space will limit us. So I'd like to comment on the offering given in 1 Chronicles 29.
Following the example of King David the people of Israel joyously give precious materials to the temple building project. King Solomon would build a splendid house for the Lord, and the people, so thankful for the salvation given to them by God give generously.
And notice that no gift was coerced. If we are going to encourage someone to give to the Lord, then we must do a few things: we must lead by example, and we must proclaim the goodness of God, what he has done and what he has promised to do, all through Jesus Christ (who would, by the way, BE the temple, the presence of God, the place where God is at work to grant salvation).
A gift given to God is no gift if it forced. It is no good work if it was given out of guilt. It is not pleasing to God if it was given only for show. What is remarkable about the 1 Chronicles 29 passage is that we see that the people, "had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD." The gift was willing. It was given with a pure heart. Giving in this way they pleased God more than if they had given double begrudgingly.
I wish I could always respond that way. Sometimes by the grace of God I do. But sometimes because of my sinful nature I don't. I'm not just talking about money, but also my time, my abilities, my service, my very life. Christ has done so much for me, rescuing me from sin, death, and the devil, it is a little thing that I should give myself for him.
But thankfully, our loving God accepts even our poor offerings just as a parent might accept and rejoice over a scribbling that their small child made for them. Thankfully he overlooks my faults, forgives me abundantly, and still is pleased to call me his son. We certainly have a gracious God. May we always live for him!
Pray:
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate'er the gift may be;
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our firstfruits give!
(LSB 781:1-2, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
The Faithful in Israel
Read 1 Chronicles 26
Read Isaiah 27
Our reading in Isaiah can be a bit confusing. All that stuff about Leviathan the serpent of the sea aside (probably not referring to a real creature here, but a personification of the wicked enemy), the end of Isaiah 27 can throw us for a loop too. Is this bad news for Israel or good news? Is he cursing, or promising a blessing?
How do we make sense of it? Well, it is as Paul says in Romans 9:6, "For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel." To be part of the nation of Israel is nothing. To be of Abraham's own bloodline is nothing. What counts to God is the faith of the person. If you have faith, then you are the True Israel, and you are his child. Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6)
So, this Word of God in Isaiah 27 is both a curse and a blessing. To the wicked of the nation who had no regard for the One True God, but participated in the disgusting worship of Ashera and other false gods, God says very terrible and terrifying things. He will have no compassion and will show them no favor. Their rejection of God is their certain doom.
But God also speaks a word of grace and comfort. He speaks of a people who will be fruitful. He speaks about their atonement as they burn to the ground the false altars to false gods. And he talks about a gleaning. That is, the leftover pieces would be gathered up. His faithful remnant would be gathered, whether from Egypt or Assyria, and he would bring them together again to worship on his holy mountain.
We, who are certainly God's faithful people through the grace of Christ alone, can also look forward to this promise. Surely, by nature we have longed for other gods. But Jesus Christ has given his life for us, and (thanks be to God!) by the strength of the Holy Spirit we have come to believe that good news! Leviathan is slain. Evil is conquered. We are God's faithful and fruitful people.
And no matter where we are, whether in the US, or the UK (yes, we have a fellow reader in the UK!), or wherever you might be, we can look forward to some day being gathered all together by our Crucified, Risen, and Returning Savior. What a great and awesome day that will be!
Until then, my friends, God's strength and peace to you as you seek to bear fruit for the Lord!
Ask Yourself:
How do I tend to raise up other gods? Do I trust myself, or pursue riches, or believe the lies of this world?
How could my life be more fruitful for the Lord?
What can I do to share the peace and comfort that I possess through Jesus Christ?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray that God would use you to be ever more fruitful for him. Pray that he would break the power of idolatry within you. Pray also that he would hasten the day of Christ's return, that we may be gathered with all the saints in eternal joy!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 27
Our reading in Isaiah can be a bit confusing. All that stuff about Leviathan the serpent of the sea aside (probably not referring to a real creature here, but a personification of the wicked enemy), the end of Isaiah 27 can throw us for a loop too. Is this bad news for Israel or good news? Is he cursing, or promising a blessing?
How do we make sense of it? Well, it is as Paul says in Romans 9:6, "For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel." To be part of the nation of Israel is nothing. To be of Abraham's own bloodline is nothing. What counts to God is the faith of the person. If you have faith, then you are the True Israel, and you are his child. Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6)
So, this Word of God in Isaiah 27 is both a curse and a blessing. To the wicked of the nation who had no regard for the One True God, but participated in the disgusting worship of Ashera and other false gods, God says very terrible and terrifying things. He will have no compassion and will show them no favor. Their rejection of God is their certain doom.
But God also speaks a word of grace and comfort. He speaks of a people who will be fruitful. He speaks about their atonement as they burn to the ground the false altars to false gods. And he talks about a gleaning. That is, the leftover pieces would be gathered up. His faithful remnant would be gathered, whether from Egypt or Assyria, and he would bring them together again to worship on his holy mountain.
We, who are certainly God's faithful people through the grace of Christ alone, can also look forward to this promise. Surely, by nature we have longed for other gods. But Jesus Christ has given his life for us, and (thanks be to God!) by the strength of the Holy Spirit we have come to believe that good news! Leviathan is slain. Evil is conquered. We are God's faithful and fruitful people.
And no matter where we are, whether in the US, or the UK (yes, we have a fellow reader in the UK!), or wherever you might be, we can look forward to some day being gathered all together by our Crucified, Risen, and Returning Savior. What a great and awesome day that will be!
Until then, my friends, God's strength and peace to you as you seek to bear fruit for the Lord!
Ask Yourself:
How do I tend to raise up other gods? Do I trust myself, or pursue riches, or believe the lies of this world?
How could my life be more fruitful for the Lord?
What can I do to share the peace and comfort that I possess through Jesus Christ?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray that God would use you to be ever more fruitful for him. Pray that he would break the power of idolatry within you. Pray also that he would hasten the day of Christ's return, that we may be gathered with all the saints in eternal joy!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
Death is Swallowed Up!
Read 1 Chronicles 24
Read Isaiah 25
I look forward to the day prophesied in our text. How cruel death is. How broken we feel even before we reach death. How every loss tears at us, making it impossible for us to forget that something in this world is just not right.
This last week we have mourned along with the nation over the tragic shootings in Tucson. And even as we feel saddened and fearful, we know that the affected families feel it so much more. They are devastated.
But are they without hope? Are we without hope? Not according the prophet Isaiah. Today's reading not only speaks about God's sure and certain defeat of his enemies, but also about a peace and a feasting for God's people. And (best of all) death is swallowed up. It is an interesting expression that it will be "swallowed." It doesn't just mean that God will do away with death, but that the complete opposite of the sad reality of death would take place. We are used to seeing death swallow others up. Their life is drained out of them, we put them in the grave, and the ground swallows them up. Death has consumed another victim.
But Death is now the victim. And surprisingly enough, Death dies by consuming the wrong person - Jesus. Yes Jesus, who is life and light, allows himself to be consumed by death. He really, truly, dies and is buried. But Jesus takes his life back up again. He isn't gone, but rather, death is swallowed up by the triumphant Son of God!
And Jesus promises that those of us who are hidden in him will also enjoy the resurrection and everlasting life in heaven. In baptism we are united with Christ in his death so that we might also be united with him in his resurrection. This is our great hope. And while we will never accept and "be ok" with tragedies like the one in Tucson, we can persevere with hope and find a way to cope. For we know that all who die in Christ are with him, and await the resurrection, the day when death will be completely and finally swallowed up in the victory of Jesus Christ. (For more reading on this topic, see Paul's great chapter on the resurrection: 1 Corinthians 15)
Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for all those mourning a great loss, especially those directly affected by the shooting in Tucson. Pray for your family and friends too, that you and they would all rejoice in the victory of Jesus, and will await with great hope the resurrection of the dead and the joyful reunion in heaven.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 25
I look forward to the day prophesied in our text. How cruel death is. How broken we feel even before we reach death. How every loss tears at us, making it impossible for us to forget that something in this world is just not right.
This last week we have mourned along with the nation over the tragic shootings in Tucson. And even as we feel saddened and fearful, we know that the affected families feel it so much more. They are devastated.
But are they without hope? Are we without hope? Not according the prophet Isaiah. Today's reading not only speaks about God's sure and certain defeat of his enemies, but also about a peace and a feasting for God's people. And (best of all) death is swallowed up. It is an interesting expression that it will be "swallowed." It doesn't just mean that God will do away with death, but that the complete opposite of the sad reality of death would take place. We are used to seeing death swallow others up. Their life is drained out of them, we put them in the grave, and the ground swallows them up. Death has consumed another victim.
But Death is now the victim. And surprisingly enough, Death dies by consuming the wrong person - Jesus. Yes Jesus, who is life and light, allows himself to be consumed by death. He really, truly, dies and is buried. But Jesus takes his life back up again. He isn't gone, but rather, death is swallowed up by the triumphant Son of God!
And Jesus promises that those of us who are hidden in him will also enjoy the resurrection and everlasting life in heaven. In baptism we are united with Christ in his death so that we might also be united with him in his resurrection. This is our great hope. And while we will never accept and "be ok" with tragedies like the one in Tucson, we can persevere with hope and find a way to cope. For we know that all who die in Christ are with him, and await the resurrection, the day when death will be completely and finally swallowed up in the victory of Jesus Christ. (For more reading on this topic, see Paul's great chapter on the resurrection: 1 Corinthians 15)
Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for all those mourning a great loss, especially those directly affected by the shooting in Tucson. Pray for your family and friends too, that you and they would all rejoice in the victory of Jesus, and will await with great hope the resurrection of the dead and the joyful reunion in heaven.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Monday, January 10, 2011
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Friday, January 7, 2011
Who Is Going to Win?
Read 1 Chronicles 18
Read Isaiah 19
That's it. I can't fight anymore. I surrender. This is my response today, a response to our reading in 1 Chronicles 18. This chapter is very encouraging to the Christian. It speaks of many victories for the people of Israel brought through the Lord's servant, King David.
So why do I surrender? Because I am trying to fight my own battles. But the battle belongs to the Lord. In my own battles there is failure. In the Lord's battles, victory.
But how hard it is sometimes to see the victory. And sometimes the losses along the way to victory are devastating and feel like defeat. We carry many burdens and sorrows. And as Christian people, we are called also to carry other people's burdens and sorrows. Goals we might have for home, family, employment, accomplishments might go unachieved. That feels like failure. Even when we pour ourselves into the Lord's work, good work that he has called us to do, and we strive with all our might to serve faithfully, sometimes we experience setbacks. Serious, gut wrenching setbacks. We never serve perfectly, but even when we do our best and we are trusting and faithful, many times it feels like we fail.
Surrender. It is in God's hands. Israel had a rocky past. Many times they were given incredible and miraculous victory. Sometimes, however, they would go into battle and face defeat. The problem was never that God's power was lacking, the problem was always Israel. They lacked faith. Or they trusted in idols. Or they didn't wait for the Word of the Lord. Or they completely disobeyed God's commands.
We sin in all those ways too. That's failure. And even when we are trusting God, relying on his Word, and being obedient, we can still face devastation's and frustrations all the same.
That's why we need 1 Chronicles 18. We see King David conquer in the strength of the Lord. He conquers without fail. There is great victory and rejoicing for the people of Israel. The battle is the Lords.
And the Son of David - no, not Solomon, but a future descendant, Jesus - would be David's Lord. This Jesus would fight even greater battles and win even more incredible and miraculous victories. This Jesus breaks the power of sin and death in your life through his death on the cross and triumphant resurrection. This Jesus, by the power of the Spirit of God, assures you that you will not fail, not in reality. No! Even when we face frustration and devastation, even when we feel like failures, even when the future looks bleak, even when we feel overwhelmed and helpless, he promises us victory.
We picture Jesus in our minds in a number of ways. Today, try picturing him as you pictured King David in our reading. A mighty warrior, prepared for battle, a cry of courage in his throat, his sword lifted up and ready to strike. He is our Valiant One who grants you victory.
There is your peace and confidence today.
Ask Yourself:
What frustrations do I have today? What devastation?
Where have I failed? Where have I been faithful but still feel like a failure?
Who owns the battle?
Pray:
"Gracious Lord, many are the battles of the sinner and the saint within me, many are the losses I have suffered. Forgive my sins and keep my faith in the one glorious victory won by Jesus Christ. Amen." (TLSB p. 498)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 19
That's it. I can't fight anymore. I surrender. This is my response today, a response to our reading in 1 Chronicles 18. This chapter is very encouraging to the Christian. It speaks of many victories for the people of Israel brought through the Lord's servant, King David.
So why do I surrender? Because I am trying to fight my own battles. But the battle belongs to the Lord. In my own battles there is failure. In the Lord's battles, victory.
But how hard it is sometimes to see the victory. And sometimes the losses along the way to victory are devastating and feel like defeat. We carry many burdens and sorrows. And as Christian people, we are called also to carry other people's burdens and sorrows. Goals we might have for home, family, employment, accomplishments might go unachieved. That feels like failure. Even when we pour ourselves into the Lord's work, good work that he has called us to do, and we strive with all our might to serve faithfully, sometimes we experience setbacks. Serious, gut wrenching setbacks. We never serve perfectly, but even when we do our best and we are trusting and faithful, many times it feels like we fail.
Surrender. It is in God's hands. Israel had a rocky past. Many times they were given incredible and miraculous victory. Sometimes, however, they would go into battle and face defeat. The problem was never that God's power was lacking, the problem was always Israel. They lacked faith. Or they trusted in idols. Or they didn't wait for the Word of the Lord. Or they completely disobeyed God's commands.
We sin in all those ways too. That's failure. And even when we are trusting God, relying on his Word, and being obedient, we can still face devastation's and frustrations all the same.
That's why we need 1 Chronicles 18. We see King David conquer in the strength of the Lord. He conquers without fail. There is great victory and rejoicing for the people of Israel. The battle is the Lords.
And the Son of David - no, not Solomon, but a future descendant, Jesus - would be David's Lord. This Jesus would fight even greater battles and win even more incredible and miraculous victories. This Jesus breaks the power of sin and death in your life through his death on the cross and triumphant resurrection. This Jesus, by the power of the Spirit of God, assures you that you will not fail, not in reality. No! Even when we face frustration and devastation, even when we feel like failures, even when the future looks bleak, even when we feel overwhelmed and helpless, he promises us victory.
We picture Jesus in our minds in a number of ways. Today, try picturing him as you pictured King David in our reading. A mighty warrior, prepared for battle, a cry of courage in his throat, his sword lifted up and ready to strike. He is our Valiant One who grants you victory.
There is your peace and confidence today.
Ask Yourself:
What frustrations do I have today? What devastation?
Where have I failed? Where have I been faithful but still feel like a failure?
Who owns the battle?
Pray:
"Gracious Lord, many are the battles of the sinner and the saint within me, many are the losses I have suffered. Forgive my sins and keep my faith in the one glorious victory won by Jesus Christ. Amen." (TLSB p. 498)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Judgment and Grace for the Nations
Read 1 Chronicles 17
Read Isaiah 18
A blessed Epiphany to you! Today (Jan. 6) is Epiphany in the Church year. This day and this Epiphany season is one in which we rejoice that Jesus is the Light to lighten the Gentiles (as Simeon sang). Jesus came for Israel, but also for all people. In Epiphany we see the nations being brought to Jesus as Jesus performs miracles, teaches the light of God's truth, and even peels back a layer of humanity to let his Divine Nature shine through as the season culminates in the Transfiguration.
So, on this day when the Church celebrates the magi coming to visit the Christ-child (Matthew 2), we think about how God relates not just to Israel, but to the nations.
It is interesting that in our reading schedule we happen to be in the midst of God's oracles against the nations as recorded by Isaiah. The point of this section of the book is that all those who have been enemies of Israel (either through warring or through their seductive idolatry) will face the wrath of God.
Truly we have a just God who will not share his glory with idols and will not tolerate his chosen people to be abused. This is why God refers to himself as a "jealous" God (Exodus 20:5). Some might want to judge God and say, "Well, what kind of a God is that?" Well, its the God you've got.
He is a just God. He has commandments. He wants us to walk in his ways. And really, this was not a problem until Adam cast humanity into sin. Before it was a joy and privilege. Now for us sinners, it is a burden - even an impossibility.
That's why we need Christ. For all the curses we hear in Isaiah against the enemies of God, we remember that Jesus came to make enemies into his people. And so it is that even while the nation of Israel didn't flock to the house where the holy family was staying, the magi saw the star, remembered the prophecy from Numbers 24:17, and came to Jerusalem seeking the King of Kings, were directed on to Bethlehem and knelt in adoration before the Savior, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 60:1-6.
And whether we are Jew or Gentile, it is through Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, that we receive grace and mercy from God. Certainly we and all nations deserve God's wrath and judgment. But through the cross of Christ, his grace and mercy is poured out upon us. What a privilege and a joy it is to be Chosen of God, to be the recipients of mercy only because of God's goodness. And what a privilege and a joy it is now to walk in God's ways, keep his commands, and give him all the glory and praise that is due the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier!
Ask Yourself:
How seriously do I take God's commands and strive to walk in his ways?
Where do I go with the guilt?
How can I help the nations to see the light of Christ today? What greater goal can I reach for in helping the nations to see the light of Christ?
Pray:
Lord, when You look on us in love,
At once there falls from God above
A ray of purest pleasure.
Your Word and Spirit, flesh and blood
Refresh our souls with heav'nly food.
You are our dearest treasure!
Let Your mercy
Warm and cheer us!
O draw near us!
For you teach us
God's own love through You has reached us.
(LSB 395:3)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 18
A blessed Epiphany to you! Today (Jan. 6) is Epiphany in the Church year. This day and this Epiphany season is one in which we rejoice that Jesus is the Light to lighten the Gentiles (as Simeon sang). Jesus came for Israel, but also for all people. In Epiphany we see the nations being brought to Jesus as Jesus performs miracles, teaches the light of God's truth, and even peels back a layer of humanity to let his Divine Nature shine through as the season culminates in the Transfiguration.
So, on this day when the Church celebrates the magi coming to visit the Christ-child (Matthew 2), we think about how God relates not just to Israel, but to the nations.
It is interesting that in our reading schedule we happen to be in the midst of God's oracles against the nations as recorded by Isaiah. The point of this section of the book is that all those who have been enemies of Israel (either through warring or through their seductive idolatry) will face the wrath of God.
Truly we have a just God who will not share his glory with idols and will not tolerate his chosen people to be abused. This is why God refers to himself as a "jealous" God (Exodus 20:5). Some might want to judge God and say, "Well, what kind of a God is that?" Well, its the God you've got.
He is a just God. He has commandments. He wants us to walk in his ways. And really, this was not a problem until Adam cast humanity into sin. Before it was a joy and privilege. Now for us sinners, it is a burden - even an impossibility.
That's why we need Christ. For all the curses we hear in Isaiah against the enemies of God, we remember that Jesus came to make enemies into his people. And so it is that even while the nation of Israel didn't flock to the house where the holy family was staying, the magi saw the star, remembered the prophecy from Numbers 24:17, and came to Jerusalem seeking the King of Kings, were directed on to Bethlehem and knelt in adoration before the Savior, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 60:1-6.
And whether we are Jew or Gentile, it is through Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, that we receive grace and mercy from God. Certainly we and all nations deserve God's wrath and judgment. But through the cross of Christ, his grace and mercy is poured out upon us. What a privilege and a joy it is to be Chosen of God, to be the recipients of mercy only because of God's goodness. And what a privilege and a joy it is now to walk in God's ways, keep his commands, and give him all the glory and praise that is due the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier!
Ask Yourself:
How seriously do I take God's commands and strive to walk in his ways?
Where do I go with the guilt?
How can I help the nations to see the light of Christ today? What greater goal can I reach for in helping the nations to see the light of Christ?
Pray:
Lord, when You look on us in love,
At once there falls from God above
A ray of purest pleasure.
Your Word and Spirit, flesh and blood
Refresh our souls with heav'nly food.
You are our dearest treasure!
Let Your mercy
Warm and cheer us!
O draw near us!
For you teach us
God's own love through You has reached us.
(LSB 395:3)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
What a Song of Thanks!
Read 1 Chronicles 16
Read Isaiah 17
David appointed that songs of thanksgiving should be sung to the Lord. Why? Well, just look at David's song of thanks in 1 Chronicles 16. David praises him because he is the Creator of all things. David also mentions the Covenant, that is, that God is a relational God who did not destroy his sin-fallen Creation but brings sinners into a loving covenant with himself. He is their God, and they are his people.
David also praises God for the protection that is over his people everyday. And concerning the "salvation" of God? Well, about that, David wants to tell the nations! (v. 23-24).
Indeed, this song of thanks is one that we still sing. We use many of the phrases and the concepts in the song to fuel our hymns. They still apply. They still impact us with meaning. They still proclaim the Good News to us.
Yes, this song of David proclaims the Good News to us because we know that we too are God's covenant people. Who is/are the chosen people? We Christians are! Baptized into the name of God, we are brought into a covenant relationship where he promises to be our God and we his people. It is the new covenant in the blood of Christ that reconciles us to God. Yes, because of Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection we can boast that we are his people, that we have his Divine help and protection.
Yes, we Christians can sing this song, or portions of it scattered throughout our hymns, in the presence of God. Ok, we don't have an ark of the covenant, but we have Christ's promise that he will be present in Word, water, wine, and wafer of bread. No wonder we rejoice!
Ask Yourself:
Why do I want to praise God today? Or, why don't I?
How can I better appreciate the gracious presence and help of God in the Divine Service?
What will my response be today, knowing that God has done so much for me and all his people?
Pray:
"Save us, O God of our salvation,
and gather and deliver us from among the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name,
and glory in your praise.
Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting!" (1 Chronicles 16:35-36)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 17
David appointed that songs of thanksgiving should be sung to the Lord. Why? Well, just look at David's song of thanks in 1 Chronicles 16. David praises him because he is the Creator of all things. David also mentions the Covenant, that is, that God is a relational God who did not destroy his sin-fallen Creation but brings sinners into a loving covenant with himself. He is their God, and they are his people.
David also praises God for the protection that is over his people everyday. And concerning the "salvation" of God? Well, about that, David wants to tell the nations! (v. 23-24).
Indeed, this song of thanks is one that we still sing. We use many of the phrases and the concepts in the song to fuel our hymns. They still apply. They still impact us with meaning. They still proclaim the Good News to us.
Yes, this song of David proclaims the Good News to us because we know that we too are God's covenant people. Who is/are the chosen people? We Christians are! Baptized into the name of God, we are brought into a covenant relationship where he promises to be our God and we his people. It is the new covenant in the blood of Christ that reconciles us to God. Yes, because of Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection we can boast that we are his people, that we have his Divine help and protection.
Yes, we Christians can sing this song, or portions of it scattered throughout our hymns, in the presence of God. Ok, we don't have an ark of the covenant, but we have Christ's promise that he will be present in Word, water, wine, and wafer of bread. No wonder we rejoice!
Ask Yourself:
Why do I want to praise God today? Or, why don't I?
How can I better appreciate the gracious presence and help of God in the Divine Service?
What will my response be today, knowing that God has done so much for me and all his people?
Pray:
"Save us, O God of our salvation,
and gather and deliver us from among the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name,
and glory in your praise.
Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting!" (1 Chronicles 16:35-36)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Monday, January 3, 2011
Inquire of the Lord
Read 1 Chronicles 14
Read Isaiah 15
A comment on 1 Chronicles 14 today:
From the Lutheran Study Bible: "The Philistines, disturbed that David is now king over all Israel, attack him twice and are defeated. David inquires of and relies on the Lord for victory. For our plans to have God's blessings, we must call on Him and submit to the judgment of His Word. Yet when we are weak, the Lord Himself will fight for us, especially against sin, death, and the devil" (p. 494).
I thought this was a helpful brief summary that reminds us to inquire on the Lord. One thing we have to remember, though, is that when we pray for wisdom and guidance, what then should we expect to happen? Well, because we are God's children and pray that in Jesus' name (that is, according to God's Will and at his invitation), then we can be assured that God will guide and give us wisdom.
We should not expect, however, that God is necessarily going to speak to us audibly. There are some who have claimed they have heard God speak audibly to them. I won't argue with them. I believe God do that when he chooses. But ordinarily (and this is really our only assurance) God will answer through his the word of Scripture. He can also speak to his people as they give Godly advice. This is how we should expect God to answer today.
How else will I know that God is speaking? My own impulses are unreliable. My thoughts and feelings change constantly. How do I know that some still small voice I hear inside me isn't just me talking? That's why I need the assurance of hearing God speak outside of myself. I can be sure and certain in the pages of Scripture. And regarding the godly advice of others, well, I can use my God given reason and their advice and reach the best conclusion we can reach, and then ask God to bless that decision. We won't always hear God telling us to take this job or that, or move to that place or this one, etc. But we can be sure that God will continue to lead and to guide us.
Yes, Jesus Christ who laid down his life for us and rose for us, promises that God will hear our prayers and he will answer. So, why don't we always go to the Lord in prayer and inquire of him before we start a task?
There's something to think about, and something to seek to improve upon. God will answer! So let us pray!
Ask Yourself:
How often/much do I pray throughout the day?
What can I do to become more disciplined in the difficult (but wonderful!) task of prayer?
What difficult challenge lies before me, reminding me that I need God's wisdom and guidance?
Pray:
Almighty God, our refuge and our help, Fountain of wisdom and Tower of strength, I can do nothing without Your guidance and help. Assist me, I pray You, and direct me by Your divine wisdom and power, that I may accomplish this task and whatever I may undertake to do faithfully and diligently, according to Your will, so that it may be for my good and for the good of others and to the glory of Your holy name. For to You we render glory - Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Isaiah 15
A comment on 1 Chronicles 14 today:
From the Lutheran Study Bible: "The Philistines, disturbed that David is now king over all Israel, attack him twice and are defeated. David inquires of and relies on the Lord for victory. For our plans to have God's blessings, we must call on Him and submit to the judgment of His Word. Yet when we are weak, the Lord Himself will fight for us, especially against sin, death, and the devil" (p. 494).
I thought this was a helpful brief summary that reminds us to inquire on the Lord. One thing we have to remember, though, is that when we pray for wisdom and guidance, what then should we expect to happen? Well, because we are God's children and pray that in Jesus' name (that is, according to God's Will and at his invitation), then we can be assured that God will guide and give us wisdom.
We should not expect, however, that God is necessarily going to speak to us audibly. There are some who have claimed they have heard God speak audibly to them. I won't argue with them. I believe God do that when he chooses. But ordinarily (and this is really our only assurance) God will answer through his the word of Scripture. He can also speak to his people as they give Godly advice. This is how we should expect God to answer today.
How else will I know that God is speaking? My own impulses are unreliable. My thoughts and feelings change constantly. How do I know that some still small voice I hear inside me isn't just me talking? That's why I need the assurance of hearing God speak outside of myself. I can be sure and certain in the pages of Scripture. And regarding the godly advice of others, well, I can use my God given reason and their advice and reach the best conclusion we can reach, and then ask God to bless that decision. We won't always hear God telling us to take this job or that, or move to that place or this one, etc. But we can be sure that God will continue to lead and to guide us.
Yes, Jesus Christ who laid down his life for us and rose for us, promises that God will hear our prayers and he will answer. So, why don't we always go to the Lord in prayer and inquire of him before we start a task?
There's something to think about, and something to seek to improve upon. God will answer! So let us pray!
Ask Yourself:
How often/much do I pray throughout the day?
What can I do to become more disciplined in the difficult (but wonderful!) task of prayer?
What difficult challenge lies before me, reminding me that I need God's wisdom and guidance?
Pray:
Almighty God, our refuge and our help, Fountain of wisdom and Tower of strength, I can do nothing without Your guidance and help. Assist me, I pray You, and direct me by Your divine wisdom and power, that I may accomplish this task and whatever I may undertake to do faithfully and diligently, according to Your will, so that it may be for my good and for the good of others and to the glory of Your holy name. For to You we render glory - Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Blessed New Year!
For your New Year's Day meditation I have posted a hymn below. Today is the 8th day after our Christmas celebration, so in the church we recognize that it is the day that he was circumcised (referred to in the hymn below as his first taste of human woe) and officially named Jesus.
May this hymn bring you peace and joy today. And may our Wondrous Christ be with you this year and always. Blessings!
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
May this hymn bring you peace and joy today. And may our Wondrous Christ be with you this year and always. Blessings!
Jesus! Name of wondrous love!
Name all other names above!
Unto which must every knee
Bow in deep humility.
Jesus! Name of priceless worth
To the fallen sons of earth,
For the promise that it gave—
“Jesus shall His people save.”
Jesus! Name decreed of old,
To the maiden mother told—
Kneeling in her lowly cell—
By the angel Gabriel.
Jesus! Name of mercy mild,
Given to the holy Child,
When the cup of human woe
First He tasted here below.
Jesus! Only name that’s given
Under all the mighty heaven,
Whereby man, to sin enslaved,
Bursts his fetters, and is saved.
Jesus! Name of wondrous love,
Human name of God above!
Pleading only this, we flee,
Helpless, O our God, to Thee.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
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