We all have expectations in all parts of our lives. Whether or not you acknowledge this or feign ignorance, they exist. Sometimes they aren't acknowledged because we don't want to be disappointed if they aren't accomplished. But 'expectation' does need defining since this word does have multiple applications.
Simply, Webster defines the word by the word - "...the state of looking forward to or waiting for something...". Not certain this gives us any depth of understanding. Expectation is looking forward/waiting - but it isn't always positive. Example: waiting for the other shoe to drop. I do. This is not an unfamiliar feeling. But this word is so much more. Why wait? Why pray? ... if we don't expect?
Is there such a thing as a 'spiritual' expectation? Obviously, yes. But I think the important point is how this directs our lives. We have evidences of this throughout scripture that is summarized in Hebrews 11. All of these people had as their foundation for expectation - faith. And I do believe this is one of the keys. How can we possibly have a positive view of expectation apart from faith? The people described in Hebrews 11 acted on faith that what they expected would come to be.
I do realize that there are those who believe that there is no such thing as expectation that is based in scripture. They point to hope and trust. But isn't expectation based in hope and trust? When we don't immediately see the fruit of our expectations, do we just throw up our hands and walk away? Or do we wait, expectantly?
I personally believe that there is a passive side to expectation - wait, and an active side - continuing to walk believing. I don't see them separated. Expectation is based in faith... in hope... in trust that what we are seeking is going to be manifested. If not, why pray for these things? I do think that expectation can be a strong motivator to continue. Then again... it may be all in the definition.
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Saturday, February 23, 2019
Looking in all the wrong places
I do believe we do this. Perhaps not intentionally, but we do this none the less. Example: you wouldn't seek out a loan for (fill in the blank) from your postman, nor would you buy groceries from your local clothing store. Absurd, yes? But we do, in a similar fashion, seek non spiritual answers to what are really spiritual issues. Who or what is your source when you are seeking answers? Do you believe that scripture, spiritual answers will meet the needs of secular problems and questions?
Then again... maybe we have not understood that the answer we are seeking is to a spiritual question/issue and secular answers won't resolve. I'm inclined to believe that we have it the wrong way round - applying secular answers to a fundamentally spiritual issue rather than applying spiritual answers to both spiritual and secular questions/problems.
Do we forget that the people involved in scripture were people? Faced some of the same issues we do today? And do we forget the scripture that tells us about what Jesus endured - He was a man like we are.
"For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to
help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:18, ESV)
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with
our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as
we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15, ESV)
Sin, problems, temptations, questions really are not foreign to our High Priest, Jesus. The difference is that He endured but did not sin. Not always our response. Part of what Jesus did when He was on earth was to give us a model of what we should do and how to do it. We really do have a response to all the issues we face. And, we can overcome and be successful - but not with secular answers.
When we face trials - go to the source of answers... the Bible. Scripture mentions every temptation we face and gives us our answer. We truly can do all through Him who strengthens us (Romans 8:37). So, the real question is: do you want the answer? Do you want to do (fill in the blank) your way... or the Lord's (John 15:5)? We can be successful, happy and living the abundant life provided for us. Or... we can look in all the wrong places.
Then again... maybe we have not understood that the answer we are seeking is to a spiritual question/issue and secular answers won't resolve. I'm inclined to believe that we have it the wrong way round - applying secular answers to a fundamentally spiritual issue rather than applying spiritual answers to both spiritual and secular questions/problems.
Do we forget that the people involved in scripture were people? Faced some of the same issues we do today? And do we forget the scripture that tells us about what Jesus endured - He was a man like we are.
"For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to
help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:18, ESV)
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with
our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as
we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15, ESV)
Sin, problems, temptations, questions really are not foreign to our High Priest, Jesus. The difference is that He endured but did not sin. Not always our response. Part of what Jesus did when He was on earth was to give us a model of what we should do and how to do it. We really do have a response to all the issues we face. And, we can overcome and be successful - but not with secular answers.
When we face trials - go to the source of answers... the Bible. Scripture mentions every temptation we face and gives us our answer. We truly can do all through Him who strengthens us (Romans 8:37). So, the real question is: do you want the answer? Do you want to do (fill in the blank) your way... or the Lord's (John 15:5)? We can be successful, happy and living the abundant life provided for us. Or... we can look in all the wrong places.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
Tested
How do you respond to tests? Actually, can one ever 'enjoy' being tested? But they are inevitable... aren't they. However, can you identify when what you are experiencing IS a test v. from your own missteps or (fill in the blank)? Tests are a separate category all to themselves. Tests by definition are designed to help us know what we know and what we still need to learn. That is the basic method to discover if what you are experiencing is a test or not.
Tests, scriptural? Oh yes. There are over 57 verses that talk about testing.
"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance." (James 1:2-3)
"... so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which
is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise
and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;" (1Peter 1:7)
"But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good;"
(1Thessalonians 5:21)
out into the world." (1John 4:1)
These few scriptures explain the various ways and areas that testing occurs. Testing's purpose should be an assessment of what has been learned and retained, not a statement of the value of a person.
However, we do associate a high degree of accomplishment on tests with value. The point should be on a process - learning, rather than most typical definitions.
I remember when I was teaching that I tended to use tests and the results of the students as a test of my teaching. Was I actually doing what I needed to do about the subject so that students understood. Different emphasis.
The Word teaches us that we are tested, but the testing really is for our benefit. I've never believed that the Lord puts barriers and obstacles in our paths to prove how smart He is. Our tests are preparatory. He is doing all that He can so that we can and do resist the devil.
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee
from you." (James 4:7)
Sometimes the action associated with resisting is... to stand. (Ephesians 6:13-14)
"...Therefore put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to
withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand...."
The tests from the Lord are to equip and protect us. If the test you are going through does not fulfill this criteria... then check. It may not be of the Lord. But you can still resist and Stand.
Tests, scriptural? Oh yes. There are over 57 verses that talk about testing.
"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance." (James 1:2-3)
"... so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which
is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise
and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;" (1Peter 1:7)
"But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good;"
(1Thessalonians 5:21)
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see
whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." (1John 4:1)
These few scriptures explain the various ways and areas that testing occurs. Testing's purpose should be an assessment of what has been learned and retained, not a statement of the value of a person.
However, we do associate a high degree of accomplishment on tests with value. The point should be on a process - learning, rather than most typical definitions.
I remember when I was teaching that I tended to use tests and the results of the students as a test of my teaching. Was I actually doing what I needed to do about the subject so that students understood. Different emphasis.
The Word teaches us that we are tested, but the testing really is for our benefit. I've never believed that the Lord puts barriers and obstacles in our paths to prove how smart He is. Our tests are preparatory. He is doing all that He can so that we can and do resist the devil.
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee
from you." (James 4:7)
Sometimes the action associated with resisting is... to stand. (Ephesians 6:13-14)
"...Therefore put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to
withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand...."
The tests from the Lord are to equip and protect us. If the test you are going through does not fulfill this criteria... then check. It may not be of the Lord. But you can still resist and Stand.
Sunday, February 17, 2019
Are you in debt?
Perhaps the more important question is: to whom are you indebted? Are you trying to 'pay it back'? Think about it... but not in financial terms. To whom do you 'owe' a debt? How does it make you feel to be indebted? Embarrassed? Irritated (at yourself... at the one you are in debt to)? Frustrated because there doesn't seem to be a 'way out'? And perhaps a myriad of other feelings. Are you doing anything about the debt? about your feelings?
Now lets consider our debt to the Lord. Do we have one - of course. But what is it? How do we 'owe' when it comes to spiritual issues. How about the tithe? No one really likes to talk about it... because it makes us feel guilty if we aren't? If ever we feel guilty, whatever the issue - these feelings reallllly need to be considered because they are speaking to us. Ignoring only postpones.
"Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what
way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed
with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation. Bring
all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for
you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That
there will not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:8-10, NKJV)
These verses provide a great deal of information. Bottom line though is that we were told not to rob God. A noted theologian, R.C. Sproul wrote an article that would cause any evangelical Christian to reconsider the issue of tithing. I'm cherry-picking some of his statements but would recommend reading the whole article (https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/will-man-rob-god/).
"It declared that of all of the people in America who identify themselves as evangelical Christians, only four percent of them return a tithe to God." ...
"This immediately raises the question: “Why?” How is it possible that somebody who has given his life to Christ can withhold their financial gifts from Him?" ...
"Nowhere in the New Testament does it teach us that the principle of the tithe has been abrogated."
If you feel that tithing is only Old Testament - not - or you can't afford to tithe... then look at the end of the verse when the Lord says He will open the windows of heaven. Do we not believe this? Do we always find a reason not to tithe? Do you know WHY you believe about tithing in the way you do? In the final analysis, I suspect that the tithe really shouldn't be considered as a debt... rather as funds that never belong to us in the first place.
Now lets consider our debt to the Lord. Do we have one - of course. But what is it? How do we 'owe' when it comes to spiritual issues. How about the tithe? No one really likes to talk about it... because it makes us feel guilty if we aren't? If ever we feel guilty, whatever the issue - these feelings reallllly need to be considered because they are speaking to us. Ignoring only postpones.
"Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what
way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed
with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation. Bring
all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for
you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That
there will not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:8-10, NKJV)
These verses provide a great deal of information. Bottom line though is that we were told not to rob God. A noted theologian, R.C. Sproul wrote an article that would cause any evangelical Christian to reconsider the issue of tithing. I'm cherry-picking some of his statements but would recommend reading the whole article (https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/will-man-rob-god/).
"It declared that of all of the people in America who identify themselves as evangelical Christians, only four percent of them return a tithe to God." ...
"This immediately raises the question: “Why?” How is it possible that somebody who has given his life to Christ can withhold their financial gifts from Him?" ...
"Nowhere in the New Testament does it teach us that the principle of the tithe has been abrogated."
If you feel that tithing is only Old Testament - not - or you can't afford to tithe... then look at the end of the verse when the Lord says He will open the windows of heaven. Do we not believe this? Do we always find a reason not to tithe? Do you know WHY you believe about tithing in the way you do? In the final analysis, I suspect that the tithe really shouldn't be considered as a debt... rather as funds that never belong to us in the first place.
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Fundamental
Meaning? Is it the same as "foundational'? Webster:
"... serving as, or being an essential part of, foundation or basis; basic;
underlying; being an original or primary source; indispensable, primary..."
Some of the suggested synonyms are: basic, elemental, essential, introductory, rudimental, underlying.This is like an onion... the more you peal back the more you find more layers. From this definition then, fundamental is an essential part of foundation. Ultimately, this builds your understanding and leads you to the heart of (fill in the blank). All good.
However, the true focus is - what are your fundamentals? As you look at your life, your wants and needs... your actions - what are your absolute, minimum musts? What are the principles and beliefs that identify who you are, what you do, and how you do you? Do you also have plans for continuing this journey... of becoming your best you? I don't believe that this last point, best, can be attained without growing in our fundamentals.
We should always reconsider our 'fundamentals' and not only when they are challenged. Our understanding and application of them should always be in a continual state of growth, refinement. Simply because a belief, practice, allegiance, etc. has been, I believe it is instrumentally important in our discovering our own who and why this is still valid. Actually, we are validating our continue application each time we discover more understanding.
I find it instructive that scripture couples fundamentals with strength. This also leads us to how we relate this to scripture. Is it your basis for strength... especially in time of need? If we rely only on our own strength, we place ourselves in unnecessary danger. My continual question - why do we have to be so independent and stand on our own? We have a foundation in the Lord that will provide more than we need. Remember 2Corinthians 12:9
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Granted, in this instance Paul was pleading to the Lord about removing 'a thorn in his flesh' but the principle remains true. Because when we turn to Him in these times of need, we actually are operating on a higher fundamental - the Lord's power effective in our lives.
Fundamentals are basic, foundational but they are also not to be put on the shelf. They are part and parcel of our everyday expressions, and should be. Which is why we should always learn more about them and how they direct our day.
"... serving as, or being an essential part of, foundation or basis; basic;
underlying; being an original or primary source; indispensable, primary..."
Some of the suggested synonyms are: basic, elemental, essential, introductory, rudimental, underlying.This is like an onion... the more you peal back the more you find more layers. From this definition then, fundamental is an essential part of foundation. Ultimately, this builds your understanding and leads you to the heart of (fill in the blank). All good.
However, the true focus is - what are your fundamentals? As you look at your life, your wants and needs... your actions - what are your absolute, minimum musts? What are the principles and beliefs that identify who you are, what you do, and how you do you? Do you also have plans for continuing this journey... of becoming your best you? I don't believe that this last point, best, can be attained without growing in our fundamentals.
We should always reconsider our 'fundamentals' and not only when they are challenged. Our understanding and application of them should always be in a continual state of growth, refinement. Simply because a belief, practice, allegiance, etc. has been, I believe it is instrumentally important in our discovering our own who and why this is still valid. Actually, we are validating our continue application each time we discover more understanding.
I find it instructive that scripture couples fundamentals with strength. This also leads us to how we relate this to scripture. Is it your basis for strength... especially in time of need? If we rely only on our own strength, we place ourselves in unnecessary danger. My continual question - why do we have to be so independent and stand on our own? We have a foundation in the Lord that will provide more than we need. Remember 2Corinthians 12:9
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Granted, in this instance Paul was pleading to the Lord about removing 'a thorn in his flesh' but the principle remains true. Because when we turn to Him in these times of need, we actually are operating on a higher fundamental - the Lord's power effective in our lives.
Fundamentals are basic, foundational but they are also not to be put on the shelf. They are part and parcel of our everyday expressions, and should be. Which is why we should always learn more about them and how they direct our day.
Monday, February 11, 2019
There's so much more...
Life does begin with salvation. (John 3:3-8, ESV)
"Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one s born
again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him,
'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time
into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, “Truly, truly,
I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot
enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh,
and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I
said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes,
and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or
where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
This should end all arguments about being 'born again' but it doesn't... does it? It should also silence those who couple baptism with salvation - it also says, born of water 'and the Spirit'. Again, still a stumbling stone among many denominations.
Until we are born again (John 3:3-8), it's almost like we are in a holding pattern - circling round and round until we realize what's missing. Until we turn to Jesus, repenting of our sins, ask Him to forgive and cleanse us, and to be our Lord that something truly wonderous happens. The next step. Sadly, many Christians seem to stop at salvation and try to walk the line between the secular and spiritual worlds. Not possible - compromise always enters in.
"For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of
the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other,
to keep you from doing the things you want to do." (Galatians 5:17 ESV)
The next step includes renewing our mind. This, like most spiritual matters, is a continual journey of discovering, understanding, and applying. We are always learning and becoming our best.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal
of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2. ESV)
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever
is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable,
if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think
about these things." (Philippians 4:8, ESV)
"Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden
things that you have not known." (Jeremiah 33:3, ESV)
What defines 'there's so much more' is that there really is so much more. But, it requires us to take the next step - it's something WE do. The Lord is ready and waiting for us to begin. This is the greatest adventure!
"Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one s born
again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him,
'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time
into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, “Truly, truly,
I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot
enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh,
and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I
said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes,
and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or
where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
This should end all arguments about being 'born again' but it doesn't... does it? It should also silence those who couple baptism with salvation - it also says, born of water 'and the Spirit'. Again, still a stumbling stone among many denominations.
Until we are born again (John 3:3-8), it's almost like we are in a holding pattern - circling round and round until we realize what's missing. Until we turn to Jesus, repenting of our sins, ask Him to forgive and cleanse us, and to be our Lord that something truly wonderous happens. The next step. Sadly, many Christians seem to stop at salvation and try to walk the line between the secular and spiritual worlds. Not possible - compromise always enters in.
"For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of
the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other,
to keep you from doing the things you want to do." (Galatians 5:17 ESV)
The next step includes renewing our mind. This, like most spiritual matters, is a continual journey of discovering, understanding, and applying. We are always learning and becoming our best.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal
of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2. ESV)
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever
is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable,
if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think
about these things." (Philippians 4:8, ESV)
"Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden
things that you have not known." (Jeremiah 33:3, ESV)
What defines 'there's so much more' is that there really is so much more. But, it requires us to take the next step - it's something WE do. The Lord is ready and waiting for us to begin. This is the greatest adventure!
Friday, February 8, 2019
Strength of Character
Character is a given. We all have one. WHAT it is is our gift to the world... or not. But without doubt it is us who create our character. Actually, Webster gives a great deal of space to the word.
"one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an
individual; the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and
often individualizing a person, group, or nation; main or essential
nature especially as strongly marked and serving to distinguish..."
And I could continue... there are also synonyms and words used to describe character. Point being - you have one. The question is - does it describe who you are and how you want to be perceived? On the continuum from bold to wishy-washy, how would you describe your place, status. Pleased with you?
The question related to the title refers to 'strength'. Are you the type that responds to (fill in the blank) whoever you speak with last? Do you change so often that on one, including yourself, knows what you actually do believe and will act on. These types of people typically only act in conjunction with whoever they are with and not independently. There are also those that constantly go against the stream... simply to be independent. Neither extreme are people you would need on any project requiring others to be involved.
Strength of Character is to be prized. Scripture speaks about character, often in terms of the results from a person displaying a good character. One of the more famous quotes is in Romans (5:3-5)**
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering
produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character
produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love
has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been
given to us.”
Notice that character produces. Also, that it is also produced. This means, in my world of definitions, that character is very visible and is ours to create. We are the ones responsible for who we are. You can blame circumstances, upbringing, etc. but the bottom line is that our character is within our ability and demonstrates who we are. I also believe it can grow in strength - both good and bad. Our choice.
One guarantee I can make is that if the definition of your character is negative, it takes a long time and consistent behavior to change people's minds. However, if you don't like your character - change begins with you and your commitment. Attributed to Einstein, the definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over again but expecting different results. This is true in a variety of areas but especially when becoming a better you. It's impossible to continue your old practices and expect a new acceptance.
**[Other scriptures are: Proverbs 28:6 / Matthew 12:35 / Galatians 5:22-23 / Colossians 3:12-15 ]
"one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an
individual; the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and
often individualizing a person, group, or nation; main or essential
nature especially as strongly marked and serving to distinguish..."
And I could continue... there are also synonyms and words used to describe character. Point being - you have one. The question is - does it describe who you are and how you want to be perceived? On the continuum from bold to wishy-washy, how would you describe your place, status. Pleased with you?
The question related to the title refers to 'strength'. Are you the type that responds to (fill in the blank) whoever you speak with last? Do you change so often that on one, including yourself, knows what you actually do believe and will act on. These types of people typically only act in conjunction with whoever they are with and not independently. There are also those that constantly go against the stream... simply to be independent. Neither extreme are people you would need on any project requiring others to be involved.
Strength of Character is to be prized. Scripture speaks about character, often in terms of the results from a person displaying a good character. One of the more famous quotes is in Romans (5:3-5)**
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering
produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character
produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love
has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been
given to us.”
Notice that character produces. Also, that it is also produced. This means, in my world of definitions, that character is very visible and is ours to create. We are the ones responsible for who we are. You can blame circumstances, upbringing, etc. but the bottom line is that our character is within our ability and demonstrates who we are. I also believe it can grow in strength - both good and bad. Our choice.
One guarantee I can make is that if the definition of your character is negative, it takes a long time and consistent behavior to change people's minds. However, if you don't like your character - change begins with you and your commitment. Attributed to Einstein, the definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over again but expecting different results. This is true in a variety of areas but especially when becoming a better you. It's impossible to continue your old practices and expect a new acceptance.
**[Other scriptures are: Proverbs 28:6 / Matthew 12:35 / Galatians 5:22-23 / Colossians 3:12-15 ]
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Forgiveness... deserved?
Does 'deserved' have anything to do with forgiveness? Really? Do you demand that the person you are forgiving deserve this? Can you put that shoe on your foot as well? Not certain how 'deserved' became associated with forgiveness because they not related.
Forgiveness is the most unconditional gift given or received. In my world of definitions, it really has to be viewed as a gift because it doesn't need to be extended by the one offering it. Granted, we can always choose not to see the forgiveness that is extended for a multitude of reasons, but we also can't force someone to grant us this gift.
I suspect that some (most?) of the time, the other person extends this gift after we have come to them to apologize and seek to restore the relationship. Withholding our apology really harms any relationship... sometimes irreparably. Is this what we want? Are we only compounding the problem when we don't apologize? Probably. And how about our own attitude when we have been the 'wronged' person? Do we try and get even, is revenge our motivation? Will we be willing to accept their apology when they extend it. And the big question: will we forgive them even if they don't apologize?
'Deserved' is really not the mindset we need to cultivate. There are countless books, articles, 5 steps to..., etc. related to forgiveness. But to combined these two words..., let me remind you of just 2 verses in scripture:
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a
grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
(Colossians 3:13)
"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your
heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive
others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:14-15)
This final scripture puts the period on the subject. We have been forgiven, which means that our brothers and sisters in the Lord also have been forgiven... can we do less?
Forgiveness - extended gift and reception - form a solid foundation to growth in relationships. But it has another benefit in that we no longer need to carry that baggage! We can live forgiven - BOTH the one needing forgiveness and the one extending it. This does not mean license to do whatever we want. Then again, it may only be my definition (but I doubt it), because asking for forgiveness means that we are aware of what we did and repent of that with the intent to not repeat. Why say you are sorry if you really have no intention of changing.?
Deserved is not part of the definition of forgiving. We all have the choice to forgive or withhold forgiveness. But in withholding we continue to bear the burden of (fill in the blank). Why? Because the other person doesn't ask for forgiveness? Or... Point being that their action or lack shouldn't determine ours. Additionally, do you really want 'deserved' to be hung over your need for forgiveness? And speaking of forgiveness....... do you accept yours?
Forgiveness is the most unconditional gift given or received. In my world of definitions, it really has to be viewed as a gift because it doesn't need to be extended by the one offering it. Granted, we can always choose not to see the forgiveness that is extended for a multitude of reasons, but we also can't force someone to grant us this gift.
I suspect that some (most?) of the time, the other person extends this gift after we have come to them to apologize and seek to restore the relationship. Withholding our apology really harms any relationship... sometimes irreparably. Is this what we want? Are we only compounding the problem when we don't apologize? Probably. And how about our own attitude when we have been the 'wronged' person? Do we try and get even, is revenge our motivation? Will we be willing to accept their apology when they extend it. And the big question: will we forgive them even if they don't apologize?
'Deserved' is really not the mindset we need to cultivate. There are countless books, articles, 5 steps to..., etc. related to forgiveness. But to combined these two words..., let me remind you of just 2 verses in scripture:
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a
grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
(Colossians 3:13)
"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your
heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive
others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:14-15)
This final scripture puts the period on the subject. We have been forgiven, which means that our brothers and sisters in the Lord also have been forgiven... can we do less?
Forgiveness - extended gift and reception - form a solid foundation to growth in relationships. But it has another benefit in that we no longer need to carry that baggage! We can live forgiven - BOTH the one needing forgiveness and the one extending it. This does not mean license to do whatever we want. Then again, it may only be my definition (but I doubt it), because asking for forgiveness means that we are aware of what we did and repent of that with the intent to not repeat. Why say you are sorry if you really have no intention of changing.?
Deserved is not part of the definition of forgiving. We all have the choice to forgive or withhold forgiveness. But in withholding we continue to bear the burden of (fill in the blank). Why? Because the other person doesn't ask for forgiveness? Or... Point being that their action or lack shouldn't determine ours. Additionally, do you really want 'deserved' to be hung over your need for forgiveness? And speaking of forgiveness....... do you accept yours?
Saturday, February 2, 2019
Whatever...
"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. 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, NKJV)
Personally, this is my focus for myself. To put away, remove, cast off all those self-defeating, counter-productive, but undoubtedly self-serving thoughts and behavior and to renew my mind by thinking on these two verses in Philippians. Not easy. This is truly an attitude, an act, a mindset that has to be purposed and cultivated. You don't just wake up one morning and decide this is what you want and presto... it's what you have. If only.........
Renewing our mind is one of those 'suggestions' that is life changing. Renewal is not a simple suggestion but if we are asked to do anything by the Lord in scripture... then it is always something we can do. But what is this, what does it mean, how do we go about doing this? I believe that there are as many articles written on this subject as probably any other simply because of the tremendous influence it has on us, who we are, and what we do.
There was an article in UnlockingtheBible.org by Judy Allen in which she suggested that there were 5 critical (my word) steps in this process. 1- Ask the Lord to guard and direct your mind, 2- Recognize the source of self-focused and self-defeating thoughts, 3- Replace self-focused thinking with a God-focused mindset, 4- Rest in the truth that you are accepted in Jesus Christ, and 5- Repeat steps 1-4 daily. All of these steps are included in a successful transition into a renewed mind. I'm not going to repeat her thinking because you can go to the site to read for yourself.
What I would like to emphasize, though, is step 5. It is a daily walk. It is fraught with temptations and seductions... seemingly around every corner to woo you away from a purposed approach to renewal. To tell you that it is simple or easy is ludicrous. It isn't. BUT... it is the best path. And it is something we can do. When we allow scripture to lead us, we are on a firm path and one scripture that I have in front of my eyes is:
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is
faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with
the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be
able to endure it." (1Corinthians 10:13, ESV)
Absolutely nowhere does it say we will have an easier life when we make Jesus our Lord, it doesn't say that it will be a bed of roses. Actually, it says that we will endure trials and tribulations... but it also says we are more than conquerors. It tells us that Jesus has overcome. It says that He will always be with us. It says that He will send the Comforter to be with us. We are never alone. And we can renew!
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. 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, NKJV)
Personally, this is my focus for myself. To put away, remove, cast off all those self-defeating, counter-productive, but undoubtedly self-serving thoughts and behavior and to renew my mind by thinking on these two verses in Philippians. Not easy. This is truly an attitude, an act, a mindset that has to be purposed and cultivated. You don't just wake up one morning and decide this is what you want and presto... it's what you have. If only.........
Renewing our mind is one of those 'suggestions' that is life changing. Renewal is not a simple suggestion but if we are asked to do anything by the Lord in scripture... then it is always something we can do. But what is this, what does it mean, how do we go about doing this? I believe that there are as many articles written on this subject as probably any other simply because of the tremendous influence it has on us, who we are, and what we do.
There was an article in UnlockingtheBible.org by Judy Allen in which she suggested that there were 5 critical (my word) steps in this process. 1- Ask the Lord to guard and direct your mind, 2- Recognize the source of self-focused and self-defeating thoughts, 3- Replace self-focused thinking with a God-focused mindset, 4- Rest in the truth that you are accepted in Jesus Christ, and 5- Repeat steps 1-4 daily. All of these steps are included in a successful transition into a renewed mind. I'm not going to repeat her thinking because you can go to the site to read for yourself.
What I would like to emphasize, though, is step 5. It is a daily walk. It is fraught with temptations and seductions... seemingly around every corner to woo you away from a purposed approach to renewal. To tell you that it is simple or easy is ludicrous. It isn't. BUT... it is the best path. And it is something we can do. When we allow scripture to lead us, we are on a firm path and one scripture that I have in front of my eyes is:
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is
faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with
the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be
able to endure it." (1Corinthians 10:13, ESV)
Absolutely nowhere does it say we will have an easier life when we make Jesus our Lord, it doesn't say that it will be a bed of roses. Actually, it says that we will endure trials and tribulations... but it also says we are more than conquerors. It tells us that Jesus has overcome. It says that He will always be with us. It says that He will send the Comforter to be with us. We are never alone. And we can renew!
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