I am a great proponent of applying learning. What function does learning accomplish if it isn't tested and demonstrated in one's life? I typically classify any unapplied learning as 'interesting' but not of any great use - a kind of learning for learning's sake, still with some value. But it is in seeing, intentionally, the impact on ourself and others that determines the importance, the value of the learning. If it goes unapplied, then on what basis do you know?
If we are to apply learning, then we need to consciously look and see it, how it can used and how it looks in action. If you can't visualize the learning then how can it be applied? This is akin to the student's lament about algebra and having no use. (Not true of course, one uses it daily but it isn't always recognized.) 'Not recognize' does become an issue when learning has no context.
However... perhaps it's also a 'readiness' issue. Though it may sound strange - we have to want to learn and apply, we must have the frame of reference of intentionality of applying learning. Otherwise, do we even appreciate that we are learning? I realize that these questions may appear simplistic, but the answers aren't. For example: we need to understand the how, when of 'speaking the truth in love' (Ephesians 4:15). Otherwise, what we are saying can be mistaken, not heard, felt as criticism, and a host of other ramification that emanate from what we say. Do we think/believe that what we are saying is important to the listener? If so, then our message must be uncluttered and not a mixed message. We do learn this refining over time when we take the time to learn what we see in others from what we say.
If application of what we are learning isn't a priority, a value... then what is learning's purpose? Philippians 4:9
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen
in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
The added benefit from our practice, from applying our learning is that we will walk in God's peace, knowing that if we err, He will correct us. As we see the effects of practicing what we learn, we will build precept upon precept, line upon line (Isaiah 28:10, 1Corinthians 11:1).
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Sunday, May 26, 2019
Our Future
Do you ever think about your future? Do you know what your future will look like?
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first born among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified."
(Romans 8:28-30, NKJV)
Foreknew: predestined, called, justified, glorified. Whether or not you realize it, this is what happens to us when we accept the Father's invitation and make Jesus our Lord. Remarkable
is too mild a word. Transformative? Yes. But we are also involved in the process. Before it appears that I am suggesting that it is WE who can justify or glorify ourselves - not. Part of my suggestion stems from the scripture from Paul in Galatians 2:20-21
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but
Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live
by faith in the Son of God; who loved me and gave Himself for
me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness
comes through the law, the Christ died in vain."
I would suggest that it is the ongoing growing in who we are becoming as a result of our accepting that Jesus is Lord of ALL of our lives. But what an adventure! If you've read the book (Bible) then you know the end result - We WIN! It's from now to the win that influences who we are and what we do.
The Bible tells us everything - nothing is hidden. As a result we can know our future. I think part of the reason all is exposed is so that we can make more effective decisions about what we are facing. We are never left alone, we are always equipped and enabled to do what we can. So we shouldn't fear or wonder about our future. We need to act in our now to touch lives for their future.
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first born among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified." (Romans 8:28-30, NKJV)
Foreknew: predestined, called, justified, glorified. Whether or not you realize it, this is what happens to us when we accept the Father's invitation and make Jesus our Lord. Remarkable
is too mild a word. Transformative? Yes. But we are also involved in the process. Before it appears that I am suggesting that it is WE who can justify or glorify ourselves - not. Part of my suggestion stems from the scripture from Paul in Galatians 2:20-21
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but
Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live
by faith in the Son of God; who loved me and gave Himself for
me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness
comes through the law, the Christ died in vain."
I would suggest that it is the ongoing growing in who we are becoming as a result of our accepting that Jesus is Lord of ALL of our lives. But what an adventure! If you've read the book (Bible) then you know the end result - We WIN! It's from now to the win that influences who we are and what we do.
The Bible tells us everything - nothing is hidden. As a result we can know our future. I think part of the reason all is exposed is so that we can make more effective decisions about what we are facing. We are never left alone, we are always equipped and enabled to do what we can. So we shouldn't fear or wonder about our future. We need to act in our now to touch lives for their future.
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Walking in all the light you have
is the first part. The second part is continuing to grow, to learn, to become all you have been destined. My Mom would apologize to me about not providing a deeper spiritual journey for me and my brother. I kept trying to reassure her that she did fulfill the scripture, "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:5, NKJV) And I tried to reassure her that she had done a terrific job of walking in all the light she had and demonstrating those values and qualities that are critical. She walked her talk!
Walking in all the light we have really is what we are asked to do. The qualification on this is that we are never to stop growing and discovering all the Lord has for us. I suspect the question then would be... are we walking in all the light we have? And how do we know if we are... or aren't? Yes. Back to the proof of action. What does our behavior tell us? How are we modeling our learning and understanding? We will be 'speaking' something in our behavior - what?!
Walking is a key here. Do we walk in all we know? I think there's a point at which we need to do the doing and not just do the learning. Unless we make the words real and applicable, then it remains 'interesting' but of no value. Value comes in the testing. And testing refines the knowing. Walking our talk is not always convenient or easy but it is critical. Otherwise we may appear hypocritical - willing to talk but not willing to walk.
Walking also gives us our proof... to us. Proof that we are growing and that it is visible. Proof inspires confidence. And I believe that confidence is a foundation to who we are and are becoming. If we really don't believe (fill in the blank) then how can we act? And if we don't act, then how do we know? Line upon line, precept upon precept... Luke 14:28 cautions us to consider. Remember there is always a cost both for doing and not doing (fill in the blank). Walking is a choice.
Walking in all the light we have really is what we are asked to do. The qualification on this is that we are never to stop growing and discovering all the Lord has for us. I suspect the question then would be... are we walking in all the light we have? And how do we know if we are... or aren't? Yes. Back to the proof of action. What does our behavior tell us? How are we modeling our learning and understanding? We will be 'speaking' something in our behavior - what?!
Walking is a key here. Do we walk in all we know? I think there's a point at which we need to do the doing and not just do the learning. Unless we make the words real and applicable, then it remains 'interesting' but of no value. Value comes in the testing. And testing refines the knowing. Walking our talk is not always convenient or easy but it is critical. Otherwise we may appear hypocritical - willing to talk but not willing to walk.
Walking also gives us our proof... to us. Proof that we are growing and that it is visible. Proof inspires confidence. And I believe that confidence is a foundation to who we are and are becoming. If we really don't believe (fill in the blank) then how can we act? And if we don't act, then how do we know? Line upon line, precept upon precept... Luke 14:28 cautions us to consider. Remember there is always a cost both for doing and not doing (fill in the blank). Walking is a choice.
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
One(1) chance to get it right
No mulligans. No do overs. You can't grab back those words or actions that hurt others or were just plain wrong. No turning back the clock. In so many ways, many times we have only 1, one, opportunity to do or say the right thing. None of us can say, 'I really didn't know/mean (fill in the blank)' or, 'that's not what I intended'. Granted there are times when we really don't realize the ramifications from our words... but is that a justifiable excuse?
That's why we have to be purposed, intentional. There truly are no ameliorating words or actions. Besides, can we really say we had no idea about the ramifications? Or are we simply trying to distance ourselves from bad decisions - what I call being found out. And yes, it probably does depend on the situation. However, still... no excuse.
So now. You are faced with a situation that you did do/say all the wrong things at the wrong time to the wrong person. What do you do? I suspect that many times we only compound the problem - at least I know I do. Not always. Sometimes we do have the opportunity to lessen the impact. Do we? I suspect we can't until we come to terms with our own motivation for doing what we did and accepting that we can't 'run' from making amends in some way.
If you are really interested in a scriptural basis then:
https://www.bibletruths.org/7-characteristics-of-a-real-genuine-sincere-apology/ lists the 7 characteristics.
"A real, genuine, sincere apology is more than just a confession of
wrongdoing. It is really a request for mercy and forgiveness; therefore,
it needs to do more than just confess."
1) RECOGNITION and REALIZATION
2) RESPONSIBILITY
3) REGRET and REMORSE
4) WITHOUT RESERVATION
5) REPENTANCE and REVISION
6) RESTORATION and RESTITUTION
7) REVIVAL
i have only identified the titles of the characteristics, but even just the names provides a mindset. Whether the sin be grievous or incidental (then again, there is never just a 'little sin') - when you find yourself in a position such as this... this becomes what you need to do to access what you need to do. Do these now represent your thinking and feeling? If not... then you really aren't sorry. If they are, then they provide the basis for repentance and restoration.
Perhaps my title is not totally correct. Maybe this title should read: "You only get one (1) chance to resolve wrongful words and acts."
That's why we have to be purposed, intentional. There truly are no ameliorating words or actions. Besides, can we really say we had no idea about the ramifications? Or are we simply trying to distance ourselves from bad decisions - what I call being found out. And yes, it probably does depend on the situation. However, still... no excuse.
So now. You are faced with a situation that you did do/say all the wrong things at the wrong time to the wrong person. What do you do? I suspect that many times we only compound the problem - at least I know I do. Not always. Sometimes we do have the opportunity to lessen the impact. Do we? I suspect we can't until we come to terms with our own motivation for doing what we did and accepting that we can't 'run' from making amends in some way.
If you are really interested in a scriptural basis then:
https://www.bibletruths.org/7-characteristics-of-a-real-genuine-sincere-apology/ lists the 7 characteristics.
"A real, genuine, sincere apology is more than just a confession of
wrongdoing. It is really a request for mercy and forgiveness; therefore,
it needs to do more than just confess."
1) RECOGNITION and REALIZATION
2) RESPONSIBILITY
3) REGRET and REMORSE
4) WITHOUT RESERVATION
5) REPENTANCE and REVISION
6) RESTORATION and RESTITUTION
7) REVIVAL
i have only identified the titles of the characteristics, but even just the names provides a mindset. Whether the sin be grievous or incidental (then again, there is never just a 'little sin') - when you find yourself in a position such as this... this becomes what you need to do to access what you need to do. Do these now represent your thinking and feeling? If not... then you really aren't sorry. If they are, then they provide the basis for repentance and restoration.
Perhaps my title is not totally correct. Maybe this title should read: "You only get one (1) chance to resolve wrongful words and acts."
Saturday, May 18, 2019
Feeling far from God
First: this is not unusual. Second: what is 'far' and how do you define the word? Third:...when and how did it begin? Fourth: 'feeling'? Whether you define this time as dessert or confusion, I believe we all experience those times when we don't 'sense' the Lord's presence in our lives. Regardless... He really is there, He hasn't moved. He told us He would be with us, and He never goes back on His word. (Hebrews 13:5, Numbers 23:19)
The issue is - as much as you need to know your how, when, what of the state you're in, the main point is to remove yourself and find the place that you are at peace. Not always easy. One time when I was in this place and felt totally frustrated, a wise friend said - why not go back to the time that you knew, confidently, that you were in right relationship and see if there was something you did/didn't do that led you to where you are now. Actually, that's excellent advice.
For any number of reasons, it really is we who have gotten off our path. However, it is unnecessary to compound the problem. 'Stop!' seems to be the best approach, though it seems that in the midst of crisis or other negative situation, this is the one thing most of us don't do. Leaving logic aside, stopping seems counter-intuitive. Doing Something is our 'fix it' mindset.
However, when it is an issue of relationship... we really do need to discover not only what has happened... and why... but also what we need to do to restore relationship. I would argue that our single most important consideration should always be our relationship with the Lord - this is where our strength, our joy stems from.
Do we truly not know what we are feeling apart from Him? Among other scriptures, reread: 1 Peter 5:10, Jeremiah 29:11, Galatians 6:1, Jeremiah 17:14, i John 5:4, Mark 11:24. However, in my thinking, the most important is: Matthew 6:33. We have to be the ones to take the step since the Lord has done everything for us. He would never walk away from us, period. So we need to go to Him to seek restoration/reconciliation.
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out,
that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,..." (Acts 3:19)
The issue is - as much as you need to know your how, when, what of the state you're in, the main point is to remove yourself and find the place that you are at peace. Not always easy. One time when I was in this place and felt totally frustrated, a wise friend said - why not go back to the time that you knew, confidently, that you were in right relationship and see if there was something you did/didn't do that led you to where you are now. Actually, that's excellent advice.
For any number of reasons, it really is we who have gotten off our path. However, it is unnecessary to compound the problem. 'Stop!' seems to be the best approach, though it seems that in the midst of crisis or other negative situation, this is the one thing most of us don't do. Leaving logic aside, stopping seems counter-intuitive. Doing Something is our 'fix it' mindset.
However, when it is an issue of relationship... we really do need to discover not only what has happened... and why... but also what we need to do to restore relationship. I would argue that our single most important consideration should always be our relationship with the Lord - this is where our strength, our joy stems from.
Do we truly not know what we are feeling apart from Him? Among other scriptures, reread: 1 Peter 5:10, Jeremiah 29:11, Galatians 6:1, Jeremiah 17:14, i John 5:4, Mark 11:24. However, in my thinking, the most important is: Matthew 6:33. We have to be the ones to take the step since the Lord has done everything for us. He would never walk away from us, period. So we need to go to Him to seek restoration/reconciliation.
that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,..." (Acts 3:19)
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
What matters Most???
Do you know your answer? Whether to verify or discover your 'what matters most' look at your credit card and bank items. How you spend your money will tell you, regardless of your protestations, what really matters... because we do spend our 'income' according to these demands. If you bewail that this is not fair because you do have those items that are part of your basic needs, thus requiring you to respond... then, what are you willing to do or to do without in order to align your actions with what you say you believe?
I don't have your answer to resolve any discrepancy between what you say and what actually occurs. But, to be fair... finances are not the only qualifier. How do you 'spend' your time? If something truly matters, do you spend your time involved with your (fill in the blank)? Example: I say that writing is very important to me and has a very high priority on my 'what matters most' list. But do I spend time writing? In my case, the answer is - 'yes'. So I can see a congruence between my avowed 'most' and my behavior. At least on this dimension....
But it should be acknowledged that we all have many 'things' that matter to us, it's the prioritizing that tends to become frustrating because there's only so much of us and not enough time, energy, resources, etc. Obviously what we need to do is a type of a 'housecleaning'. There are things that do matter to us but some that matter more. Sometimes we have to face the fact that we need to loosen ourselves from obligation(s) - even if we don't want to.
What is it that the Lord considers our 'most important'?
"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD
require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk
humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8, ESV)
If we focus on these three qualities, our time, energy, resources... in other words, 'US' will be in sync. And, trust me, this will take all your time to discover what this means and how it relates to you and your life. It is a lifestyle not just a mindset.
I don't have your answer to resolve any discrepancy between what you say and what actually occurs. But, to be fair... finances are not the only qualifier. How do you 'spend' your time? If something truly matters, do you spend your time involved with your (fill in the blank)? Example: I say that writing is very important to me and has a very high priority on my 'what matters most' list. But do I spend time writing? In my case, the answer is - 'yes'. So I can see a congruence between my avowed 'most' and my behavior. At least on this dimension....
But it should be acknowledged that we all have many 'things' that matter to us, it's the prioritizing that tends to become frustrating because there's only so much of us and not enough time, energy, resources, etc. Obviously what we need to do is a type of a 'housecleaning'. There are things that do matter to us but some that matter more. Sometimes we have to face the fact that we need to loosen ourselves from obligation(s) - even if we don't want to.
What is it that the Lord considers our 'most important'?
"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD
require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk
humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8, ESV)
If we focus on these three qualities, our time, energy, resources... in other words, 'US' will be in sync. And, trust me, this will take all your time to discover what this means and how it relates to you and your life. It is a lifestyle not just a mindset.
Sunday, May 12, 2019
Renew our minds...
Since we are told to renew our minds... what does this mean? Have you ever thought about the what, how of renewal? Not only the need to renew our mind... nor only the how to renew... but the renew to what? I realize that I've written about this before and probably will again... probably because this appears to be such an important act that we need to 'do' once we have accepted Jesus as Lord.
Part of the reason, I think, is because we are the ones doing the doing. It isn't done for us as salvation was. Renewal takes commitment and understanding of what we are doing and why and what all this means. No one can renew our minds... we must. Some of the scriptures related to this are:
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and
acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2)
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things
[are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are]
pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of
good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise,
think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)
"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish,
yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day." (2Corinthians 4:16)
"And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;" (Ephesians 4:23)
"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
(Colossians 3:2)
There is a great deal of meat in those five verses relating to most of the questions about renewing. Romans talks about not being conformed to this world so that we can prove the will of God. Philippians tells us what we can think on to continue in our walk and set our minds on positive things. Ephesians tells to be renewed. Colossians tells us where we should set our thinking. All of these form a foundation related to the how and what of renewing.
As is much of our spiritual life and growth, renewal is not a one and done. It is a continual journey. In so many places we are told that our minds are the devil's playground. We do have the power to lock the gates against our enemy. Plus, the only way he knows if he is successful is by observing our actions. When we consciously think and act on Whose we are and how we can be our best us, then the devil has no place in us.
When you put on your armor in the morning after rising, simply arm yourself with the thoughts that will be pleasing to the Lord and give a good report. We are in a war. But not one that is of flesh and blood. 2Corinthians 10:4
"The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty..."
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee
from you.” (James 4:7)
Part of the reason, I think, is because we are the ones doing the doing. It isn't done for us as salvation was. Renewal takes commitment and understanding of what we are doing and why and what all this means. No one can renew our minds... we must. Some of the scriptures related to this are:
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and
acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2)
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things
[are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are]
pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of
good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise,
think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)
"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish,
yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day." (2Corinthians 4:16)
"And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;" (Ephesians 4:23)
"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
(Colossians 3:2)
There is a great deal of meat in those five verses relating to most of the questions about renewing. Romans talks about not being conformed to this world so that we can prove the will of God. Philippians tells us what we can think on to continue in our walk and set our minds on positive things. Ephesians tells to be renewed. Colossians tells us where we should set our thinking. All of these form a foundation related to the how and what of renewing.
As is much of our spiritual life and growth, renewal is not a one and done. It is a continual journey. In so many places we are told that our minds are the devil's playground. We do have the power to lock the gates against our enemy. Plus, the only way he knows if he is successful is by observing our actions. When we consciously think and act on Whose we are and how we can be our best us, then the devil has no place in us.
When you put on your armor in the morning after rising, simply arm yourself with the thoughts that will be pleasing to the Lord and give a good report. We are in a war. But not one that is of flesh and blood. 2Corinthians 10:4
"The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty..."
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee
from you.” (James 4:7)
Thursday, May 9, 2019
"Stop... and ..."
How many of us advocate (use?) the philosophy of 'stop'? Whether the stop is directed at thinking first or smelling the roses. Do we? Or don't we follow it until we are basically forced to? In case you don't see it, my hand is raised. It really is so foolish of us because what are we doing / prioritizing / thinking is more important? Bottom line - are we placing our 'what's best', not good or better, but BEST? Are we opting for convenient or expedited? What's the exchange? Is it truly worth the price?
You have no choice is an unacceptable response. Of course you have a choice - we all do on some level. Sometimes I believe it isn't the problem that we have a choice, but that it isn't our favorite or preferred. We want something... grander?... 'better' (undefined)?,... 'different' (undefined)?... Whatever it is that we have (something) available, we'd rather go without? To me, that's akin to cutting one's nose off to save our face - totally foolish (and yes, I've done that too). But being foolish once is no cause to rejoice and we can change in our future.
Simultaneously... we do advocate, if not practice, the 'stop' philosophy. But, what and how does scripture talk about stopping? Examples:
"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for our work will
be rewarded." (2Chronicles 15:7)
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power
is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more
gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest
on me." (2Corinthians 12:9)
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives
us power, love, and self-discipline." (2Timothy 1:7)
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only
one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."
(1Corinthians 8:24)
[Note: 'run' is not necessarily defined as a physical exertion.]
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to
mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted
beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will
also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
(1Corinthians 10:13)
These few verses speak to a vast majority of the issues we as Christians face that keep us from... stopping. We can do this. The prize we receive when we do far outweighs our speculative cost. I would argue that we all need to practice the art of stopping in order to move forward more effectively. ... then again, I may be only talking to myself.
You have no choice is an unacceptable response. Of course you have a choice - we all do on some level. Sometimes I believe it isn't the problem that we have a choice, but that it isn't our favorite or preferred. We want something... grander?... 'better' (undefined)?,... 'different' (undefined)?... Whatever it is that we have (something) available, we'd rather go without? To me, that's akin to cutting one's nose off to save our face - totally foolish (and yes, I've done that too). But being foolish once is no cause to rejoice and we can change in our future.
Simultaneously... we do advocate, if not practice, the 'stop' philosophy. But, what and how does scripture talk about stopping? Examples:
"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for our work will
be rewarded." (2Chronicles 15:7)
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power
is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more
gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest
on me." (2Corinthians 12:9)
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives
us power, love, and self-discipline." (2Timothy 1:7)
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only
one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."
(1Corinthians 8:24)
[Note: 'run' is not necessarily defined as a physical exertion.]
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to
mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted
beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will
also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
(1Corinthians 10:13)
These few verses speak to a vast majority of the issues we as Christians face that keep us from... stopping. We can do this. The prize we receive when we do far outweighs our speculative cost. I would argue that we all need to practice the art of stopping in order to move forward more effectively. ... then again, I may be only talking to myself.
Monday, May 6, 2019
Guilt
Motivator or Crippler? Consumed by or do you seek forgiveness and restoration? There are so many reasons and reactions to guilt. The one thing we can't do is to let it define us. How do you react to guilt? What do you do about it?
The simplest is not always the path we choose... again for a variety of reasons. However, saving face is rarely a good reason to avoid acknowledgement of our actions or words, and the need for forgiveness. The offended party always has the option to not accept our apology, but that isn't ours to choose. And, the only way we or others really know if we are truly sorry is in our changed behavior. No change - no sorrow on our part.
Too often, though, we hang onto our guilt. If we have sought forgiveness and have attempted to not repeat the previous behavior, then... are you telling God He still can't forgive you? Or maybe a bit of 'penance' will make you feel better about yourself? What keeps you holding onto the baggage and not moving on? It does take courage to admit when you are wrong. And it takes courage to seek forgiveness. And it takes courage to change your words and behavior. But what kind of courage does it take to hold onto guilt?
Perhaps you think I'm being a bit harsh? No. I am being logical. I'm not dismissing the feelings associated with guilt, I'm suggesting a better way. There are 9 distinct verses in scripture that talk about guilt and how we should view and respond to it.
1. “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17).
2. “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
3. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7).
4. “ ‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ ” says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool’ ” (Isaiah 1:18)
5. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
6. “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12)
7. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12)
8. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit”
(Romans 8:1).
9. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
As much as I might like... I can't take credit for assembling these scriptures. I discovered the compilation at: www.amazingfacts.org. These are not unfamiliar or obscure scriptures - we use them all the time. This richness focuses us on how we need to view and react when we are facing guilt. With these scriptures in mind, we have no right to hold on to the baggage of guilt. We are empowered and equipped to move on.
The simplest is not always the path we choose... again for a variety of reasons. However, saving face is rarely a good reason to avoid acknowledgement of our actions or words, and the need for forgiveness. The offended party always has the option to not accept our apology, but that isn't ours to choose. And, the only way we or others really know if we are truly sorry is in our changed behavior. No change - no sorrow on our part.
Perhaps you think I'm being a bit harsh? No. I am being logical. I'm not dismissing the feelings associated with guilt, I'm suggesting a better way. There are 9 distinct verses in scripture that talk about guilt and how we should view and respond to it.
1. “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17).
2. “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
3. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7).
4. “ ‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ ” says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool’ ” (Isaiah 1:18)
5. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
6. “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12)
7. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12)
8. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit”
(Romans 8:1).
9. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
As much as I might like... I can't take credit for assembling these scriptures. I discovered the compilation at: www.amazingfacts.org. These are not unfamiliar or obscure scriptures - we use them all the time. This richness focuses us on how we need to view and react when we are facing guilt. With these scriptures in mind, we have no right to hold on to the baggage of guilt. We are empowered and equipped to move on.
Friday, May 3, 2019
Friend
How does this word resonate with you? What does it mean? Do you use the word lightly... like love? What qualities define 'friend'? Actually... how do you define the word and operationalize it?
Perhaps 'friend', for you, is comparable to the 600+ people you have friended on Facebook? And just how often do you communicate with them... individually. Or, is it more like a post sent out to the 'public'? If you noticed a touch of asperity... spot on. For some people it almost feels like a notch on the gun when they indicate they are 'friends' with (fill in the blank). Are friends important to us? Why? What makes a friend different from someone else?
Personally, I think when I say someone is a friend, that it takes on a greater importance. It means that we have spent time together and have begun, on some level, to know one another and have decided that this is good. One very critical component is trust. I do not throw trust around... it really is 'earned' and typically, over time. It's not that we have to agree on everything, rarely does this happen, but that in the essential issues of life - we are in one accord.
Many of the scriptural references/definitions is found in Proverbs (AMP):
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." (27:17)
"A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity." (17:17)
"He who walks [as a companion] with wise men will be wise, But the
companions of [conceited, dull-witted] fools [are fools themselves and]
will experience harm." (13:20)
And probably the best known: John 15:13
"No one has greater love [nor stronger commitment] than to lay down
his own life for his friends."
Jesus talked about friends and friendship;
"I do not call you servants any longer, for the servant does not know
what his master is doing; but I have called you [My] friends, because
I have revealed to you everything that I have heard from My Father.
You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed
and placed and purposefully planted you, so that you would go and
bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit will remain and be
lasting, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name [as My
representative] He may give to you. This [is what] I command you:
that you love and unselfishly seek the best for one another."
(John 15:15-17, AMP)
And from other words that Jesus spoke, I believe that we can infer that this gift of friendship is extended to us who believe and act as His friend. How can I presume and assume this??? Because Jesus began His discussion by saying: "You are my friends if you keep on doing what I command you." (John 15:14)
Even a cursory glance indicates that there are definite and distinguishable actions and beliefs that unscore friend, friendship. It is not casual. There are foundational expectations such as found in verse 14: "...if you keep on doing what I command you." Reason? "...so that you go and bear fruit and keep on bearing..." (16)
Those are strong characteristics of friendship. Friends and friendship is no little consideration. Plus, we need one another. But... You do realize that you can be friendly without being friends? You do realize that you can be friendly to others and still not negate who you are, Whose you are, and what you believe? However... you really don't want the Lord to only be an acquaintance... do you?
Perhaps 'friend', for you, is comparable to the 600+ people you have friended on Facebook? And just how often do you communicate with them... individually. Or, is it more like a post sent out to the 'public'? If you noticed a touch of asperity... spot on. For some people it almost feels like a notch on the gun when they indicate they are 'friends' with (fill in the blank). Are friends important to us? Why? What makes a friend different from someone else?
Personally, I think when I say someone is a friend, that it takes on a greater importance. It means that we have spent time together and have begun, on some level, to know one another and have decided that this is good. One very critical component is trust. I do not throw trust around... it really is 'earned' and typically, over time. It's not that we have to agree on everything, rarely does this happen, but that in the essential issues of life - we are in one accord.
Many of the scriptural references/definitions is found in Proverbs (AMP):
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." (27:17)
"A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity." (17:17)
"He who walks [as a companion] with wise men will be wise, But the
companions of [conceited, dull-witted] fools [are fools themselves and]
will experience harm." (13:20)
And probably the best known: John 15:13
"No one has greater love [nor stronger commitment] than to lay down
his own life for his friends."
Jesus talked about friends and friendship;
"I do not call you servants any longer, for the servant does not know
what his master is doing; but I have called you [My] friends, because
I have revealed to you everything that I have heard from My Father.
You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed
and placed and purposefully planted you, so that you would go and
bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit will remain and be
lasting, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name [as My
representative] He may give to you. This [is what] I command you:
that you love and unselfishly seek the best for one another."
(John 15:15-17, AMP)
And from other words that Jesus spoke, I believe that we can infer that this gift of friendship is extended to us who believe and act as His friend. How can I presume and assume this??? Because Jesus began His discussion by saying: "You are my friends if you keep on doing what I command you." (John 15:14)
Even a cursory glance indicates that there are definite and distinguishable actions and beliefs that unscore friend, friendship. It is not casual. There are foundational expectations such as found in verse 14: "...if you keep on doing what I command you." Reason? "...so that you go and bear fruit and keep on bearing..." (16)
Those are strong characteristics of friendship. Friends and friendship is no little consideration. Plus, we need one another. But... You do realize that you can be friendly without being friends? You do realize that you can be friendly to others and still not negate who you are, Whose you are, and what you believe? However... you really don't want the Lord to only be an acquaintance... do you?
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