July 31: Of Churchill and Hezekiah

2 Chronicles 30:1-31:21

Romans 15:1-22

Psalm 25:1-15

Proverbs 20:13-15

"We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender…"

In May of 1940, Britain needed a miracle to effect a retreat from the German attack across the channel from Dunkirk.  Germany was on the offensive, France had fallen, and Britain feared she would soon follow.  It was in that dark time that the PM, Winston Churchill, addressed Parliament.  He described their plight, then with his words, turned Britain from hopelessness and fear, to resolve and hope.  That renewal of spirit led, five years later, to Germany's surrender, and Allied victory.

Centuries earlier, Judah's King Hezekiah faced the same thing.  Judah was mired in defeat and despair, having been beaten by the Arameans, the Israelites and the Edomites, all because  the king's father had led Judah away from God during his sixteen-year reign.  Hezekiah described their plight, then with his words, exhorted Judah to turn from her sinful ways, and return to God.  That led to a great renewal in Judah, so much so the author of the book of Kings wrote in 2 Kings 18:5 that Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel.  There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him."

If you are like me, there are many times in your life you've found yourself mired in helplessness and despair.  You've found yourself in seemingly hopeless situations, problems that seem to have neither solution nor ending.  The good news is that we need neither Churchill nor Hezekiah.  Paul writes of "the God of hope" who can "fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you" - we - "may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit".

Where then do we find the words like those two men used to exhort us?  Today's psalm seems particularly apt: "I trust in You, do not let me be put to shame".  And "My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only He will release my feet from the snare".

Father, when things are tough, and all seems lost, remind us You are in control.  Exhort us with Your Word, strengthen our resolve, so we may one day see Your victory. 

PS - Happy birthday RG

Thursday, July 30

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

"Even though I walk

  through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil,

  for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

  they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)

Through Psalm 23, David, who began his career as a shepherd, paints a verbal picture of God, our Shepherd.  These words bring comfort and security in times of anguish and in times of joy.  God's presence will abide for His people, and we have the pleasure and privilege of following His wise lead.

From the first three verse, we understand that God both provides and guides His sheep.  His sheep will receive what they need and find peace in the "quiet waters."  This provision appears to stretch beyond the merely physical, to include both the emotional and spiritual.  God desires wholeness and integrity of being for His people.  His strength and power will be on display through the health of His people.  In addition to providing, God also guides and directs His sheep along "the right paths,/ for his name's sake."  In other words, God will be glorified as we follow Him.  His direction for our lives is indeed right and good.

In the center of the Psalm, we find both a descent and an ascent.  David does not shy away from our most challenging moments:  experiencing loss, death, and disease.  Yet, the hope for God's sheep lies in His presence and not an erasure of tough circumstances.  The highlight and center of the Psalm whispers to us:  "For you are with me."  As individuals and as a nation, we must acknowledge God as being welcomed and exalted as our Shepherd-King.  Otherwise, we will miss the blessings that He intended for us, expressed in completeness of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23).

Ascending from this center, we find that the Shepherd-King will bring triumphant victory for His sheep.  Following God will lead to the heavenly feast that David describes.  Yet, it seems that David experiences that heavenly blessing here on earth, again centered on welcoming God's presence ("I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever").  With God drawing near to David, and David drawing near to God, David finds rich satisfaction and blessing.

How does this Psalm speak to you?  Which of its verses most impacts you today?

Lord God, thank You for offering to be our Shepherd-King.  Thank You that Jesus has rescued us from the field of the evil one and certain spiritual death by offering Himself as our sacrifice.  Help us to welcome Your presence more and more today, and guide us in right paths for Your Name's sake.  In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.

"Surely Goodness, Surely Mercy":  https://youtu.be/ZfMWQ_nrlKE

July 29

Psalm 22

Charles Spurgeon described this Psalm as "a kind of gem among the Psalms, and is peculiarly excellent and remarkable. It contains those deep, sublime, and heavy sufferings of Christ, when agonizing in the midst of the terrors and pangs of divine wrath and death which surpass all human thought and comprehension."

This is a Psalm of David, and there were many instances in the life of David where he might write such an agonized poem. Added to that we realize it is even truer of Jesus the Messiah. Jesus deliberately chose the words of this Psalm to describe His agony on the cross. Beginning with "My God",  David shows the intense personal relationship he experienced with God. Jesus expressed that same intensity and agony on the cross. There are may parallels of David and Jesus throughout this Psalm, suggesting a prophetic cry of the Messiah, but one truth stood out to me throughout. David seemed to believe that he could endure anything if he enjoyed the conscious presence of God. His plea is not focused on the change of his situation, but on the presence of God in the crisis. Picturing his adversaries as vicious animals David pleaded for the help and deliverance the presence of God brings. These lines in this Psalm reflect not only the great danger and misery of both David and Jesus, but we see above everything else their trust in the Lord God as their deliverer. He and He alone is their hope. What a great message for us to take into the day with us. Our hope alone is God through the redeeming sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. After pouring out His soul in agony, Jesus had a glorious sense that the crisis became bearable in the knowledge that God was not removed from His suffering. Knowing that Jesus fulfilled this prophetic Psalm, and we are now redeemed through the cross and the precious blood of Christ,I pray no matter where we are or what we are going through, we put our hope, our trust, and our faith in Jesus.

Randi

Heaven-bound

What do you have to do to get in to Heaven? Often, people think that we must do good to others in order to gain eternal life, and that's all it takes. While geared towards God's relationship with Israel, today's passage reminds us that it is by grace we are saved, not by works.

Christians believe that for a person to go to Heaven, they must have a relationship with God, crediting Him as their personal savior who died for their sins to provide the gift of eternal life. So often, I think this gets translated as "read the Bible", "pray", "worship", "do good to others", but all of these things would be considered works, and we cannot get into Heaven through anything we do. We can only get into heaven through God's grace alone. It is not a combination of God's grace and us doing good, because if it's grace, then it's a gift that is not impacted by anything we do. This knowledge should free us to engage in "works" purely for our enjoyment, not because we feel like we should, but because we WANT TO, purely for the sake of connecting with God. I encourage you this week to consider God's amazing gift of grace towards us, and then think about how you'd like to connect with the giver of grace.

Bible Blog Post - July 26, 2020

2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34

Romans 9:25-10:13

Psalm 20:1-9

Proverbs 20:2-3

In 2 Chronicles 18, we read about Ahab, King of Israel, who wanted to fight Ramoth Gilead and he asked Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, to help him.  Jehoshaphat was a man of the Lord from the house of David, and he asked Ahab to consult with the Lord first.  Instead, Ahab consulted with his prophets and his prophets all said go for it.  Jehoshaphat wanted to hear from a man of God.    Ahab knew of someone, but he knew that he wouldn't like the advice he would receive.  Ahab eventually consulted with Micaiah, a prophet of the Lord, who said Ahab would die if he went to battle, but Ahab still wanted to go to war anyway.  Ahab came up with a plan where Jehoshaphat would be dressed in his kingly robes during the battle as a way to draw attention, while Ahab would go in disguise in an effort to try and stay safe. Jehoshaphat evaded danger with the security of the Lord, but Ahab got shot by an arrow in his chest, even while in disguise.  He ended up dying at the end of the day.

Avoid letting worldly advice direct your actions.  If you're dealing with a certain problem, it's best to consult with God through prayer first. But, if you really want to talk to someone about an issue you're going through, try to pick someone who has a close relationship with God. They might not tell you what you want to hear, but they'll do their part in speaking on behalf of God by giving you advice from what they know with biblical consideration. Use caution when you're seeking advice and guidance from others.

Anthony and Amanda

July 25: Of Advice We Need, But Don’t Want to Hear

2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34

Romans 22:10-13

Psalm 20:1-9

Proverbs 20:2-3

"…Jehoshaphat asked, 'is there no longer a prophet of the Lord here whom we can inquire of?"  The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, "There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad…""

     It is difficult to believe that, until 1940, France was the recognized military master of Europe, having been among the allies that won World War I.  Germany, which had been so thoroughly defeated, blitzkrieg'd its way through the supposedly impenetrable Maginot Line like hot knife through butter, and conquered France in 6 weeks.  

     What's interesting is that in March 1940, less than 60 days before the invasion, members of the French parliament inspected the defenses in Sedan and found them lacking.  They warned the Commander of the Second French Army, General Charles Huntziger, who dismissed their concerns entirely.  It seems it wasn't what he wanted to hear.

     Huntziger may as well have been descended spiritually from Ahab King of Israel.  Ahab didn't want to listen to Micaiah, who only seemed to have bad news.  So neither French general nor the Israelite king listened to what they didn't want to hear.  France lasted 6 weeks; Ahab was shot at random, and he lasted the day.  We read that "at sunset, he died."

     Sometimes what the Lord wants to tell us, what the Lord asks us, isn't what we want to hear or do.  At those times, it is important we have people who know the Lord intimately, like Micaiah did, whom we can trust.  I've been blessed with parents who have spent so much of their lives getting intimate with God; I admit I could be a lot better at listening to them when they tell me what the Lord says I need to hear.

     Father, bless us with people You speak through; then bless us with hearts that recognize Your voice through them, that listen, and obey.

July 24: In Turning Knowledge in the Head to Belief in the Heart

2 Chronicles 11:1-13:22

Romans 8:26-39

Psalm 18:37-50

Proverbs 19:27-29

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28

The verse above, from today's NT reading, is easy to agree with.  Well, in my head, anyway.  And in the light of day, when my circumstances are good, and things are going my way. 

But when things go dark and sideways - when my wife and I quarrel, for example; or work isn't going well, however hard I try; when a loved one is sick, or a friend dies, or one of my children is struggling with something I just cannot fix - then, it isn't so easy.  Isn't so easy?  Let's be honest - then, it gets really difficult to take that verse I know in my head, and believe it in my heart.  

When things are tough, what could be so difficult to believe?  For starters, that God loves me.  Or that He is in control.  Or that He knows what He is doing.  Or that He couldn't possibly be letting all this happen because He's decided He's had enough of my sinfulness.  That all this is for my good.  

Writing today's blog - well, yesterday's really - it's past midnight here - I had to think hard about this.  Why?  Why is it so difficult?  A couple of reasons came to mind.  

"…those who love Him".  Maybe that's where the problem is.  Maybe I don't really love God yet.  Maybe I am still far too in love with the world, and what it offers; I seek its approval, I seek happiness where the world says it is to be found - in money, in success, in approval, in prestige.  

"…according to His purpose".  Or maybe that's where the problem is.  Because I don't want to live according to His purposes - I still want to live according to mine.  Maybe the problem is I want what I want, and I want it how I want it.  And what I want - well, maybe that goes back to the first problem - what I want confirms to the world, not to Him.  

Maybe, just maybe, if I actually learn to love Him instead, and want what He wants instead of what I want, maybe it'll be easier to know that everything DOES work for my good, however difficult the circumstances, however much I would have preferred something else.

Father, I want to believe, and to be comforted by the belief that all things - however difficult, however painful - work to my good, and to the good of those I love.  Teach me to know You and to love You; teach me to want what You want for me.  So that, maybe then, when adversity strikes, I will know You are in control, and I can be at peace.  

Thursday, July 23

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

"For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (Romans 8:14-17)


Romans 8 shares the exciting news of how we may receive life through the Spirit. In Romans 6, Paul explained how, through God's grace, we have become set free from our slavery to sin and become instead slaves to righteousness.

Chapter 7 reviews how challenging the implications are. As we read along, we sympathize with Paul and appreciate his honesty and vulnerability in the daily struggle against sin and our broad fallibility.

Yet, in Chapter 8, we understand that "there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death." (8:1,2) Paul expanded on this truth to emphasize "life through the Spirit," pointing out that those in Christ can walk away from life in the flesh.

Life in the flesh involves the trappings of worldly thinking and expectations. God instead intended for us to receive our strength and guidance through the Holy Spirit, Who has come to live in every Christ-follower at the moment of rebirth. Through relying on Him, we can experience freedom by putting to death the things of the flesh and becoming fully alive to what the Spirit wishes to bring forth.

Part of the condemnation of sin involved a separation from God; God's holiness could not countenance that sin. Ye, in the Spirit, we are adopted into sonship, called to be part of His family. He welcomes us to become "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (8:17)

Yet, Paul notes that these sufferings are temporary and "not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." The redemption of God's people has initiated the renewal of Creation, which will come to full fruition with a new heavens and new earth. God has graciously given us a place in this renewed Creation, promising that "the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God."

What specific hope or promise strikes you from Romans so far? How could it change your view of your present circumstances?


Lord God, thank You for bringing renewal in our lives and in Creation through the completed saving work of Christ and renewing, empowering work of the Spirit. Bring freedom to our lives from the trapping of sin as we trust in You. Give us strength to change from worldly attitudes to Kingdom attitudes. Heal our land and restore fellowship and unity. In Jesus's Name, amen.




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July 22

Psalm 18

This is perhaps one of my favorite Psalms. David wrote this Psalm when the Lord delivered him from the hand of Saul. See one thing David knew was that God was his refuge. He knew that only God could and would save him from his enemies. In my Bible, this Psalm has tear stains, notes, praises, and heartfelt worship for every time I felt "the cords of the grave coiled around me and the snares of death confronting me" (v4-5).There is a memory for every time I found myself in an unjust situation and I was on my knees crying out to the Lord for justice and mercy and He heard me. I have watched His hand part the heavens and scatter my enemies in very difficult situations. Through His word I have seen his beauty and glory and I worship with a passion that often moves me to tears. As a wife and a parent, there is nothing I wouldn't do and no mountain I wouldn't move to protect my family and come to their rescue, but I realize that it isn't me who is moving mountains, it's God.  He hears our heart filled cries and prayers and in His sovereignty works all things for the good of those who love Him.  I encourage you to read this Psalm and allow the Spirit of God to move through you knowing that there is nothing our Heavenly Father wouldn't do to protect and rescue us. 

Randi

Bible Blog Post - July 21, 2020

2 Chronicles 4:1-6:11

Romans 7:1-13

Psalm 17:1-15

Proverbs 19:22-23

Throughout the Old Testament, David often chose to turn to God when facing his problems.  In Psalm 17, David was being hunted down by his enemies.  When he was speaking to the Lord, he was trying to show that he was worthy of God's time by explaining that he had stayed true to the path and followed His commands.  He was asking God to destroy his enemies, people that could physically hurt him.  As we seek God with our own troubles, our enemies are not limited to people hunting us down, as was the case with David in this Psalm; our "enemies" can be a wide range of things, such as relationship issues, addictions, pride, etc.  Today, when we turn to God, we don't have to try to prove ourselves worthy of being heard, the simple act of speaking to God is enough to catch His ear.  The enemy can try to attack us physically or mentally, but maintaining a strong relationship and an open dialogue with God can help us overcome any challenge we may face.

Lord, thank you for always being accessible and always being just.  You love and want the best for your followers, and nothing in this world can be more awesome than that.  Lord, please remind us that we can turn to you in the midst of our storms and to understand that whatever the outcome may be, that it was part of your plan all along.

Amen

Amanda & Anthony

Bible Blog Post - July 19, 2020

1 Chronicles 28:1-29:30

Romans 5:6-21

Psalm 15:1-5

Proverbs 19:18-19

One of the wonderful things about being a Christian is that our God loves us so much that he promises us many things.  As human beings, we tend to make and break promises.  Even something as sacred as wedding vows can be broken; but, God never falls short of what He has proclaimed.  In happy times, or in storms, we can always rely on His Word to carry us through.  It is timeless, it is limitless, it is true.  Today's reading had me take a look at my own priorities and what I make time for, as well as how much faith I have in Him.  It can be difficult to imagine a beautiful sunset on the horizon when there are mountains blocking the view, but it is our belief in Our Father Almighty that carries us through.  As David stepped down as king and Solomon stepped into position, we see a harmonious shift of power and authority.  Solomon was chosen by God to build the temple.  David had the plans, the outline, the Holy Spirit had provided him with the details that were needed, but it wasn't he who would complete this task.  Instead, God chose Solomon, someone who was young and inexperienced to fulfill this duty.  Isn't that interesting; even though Solomon lacked the experience that someone else may have had, he obtained something greater - God's support!  I think back to when I first considered teaching.  I wasn't sure if I had the confidence to be a teacher; certainly not with the older kids like 5th grade.  Some of my coworkers encouraged me, they believed in me, and fast forward to a memorable 5th grade student teaching experience.  I had a cooperating teacher who was incredible.  She gave support, but she did not spoon feed me.  I had to work hard, but she was there.  I think of her, a human being with a big heart full of compassion, and think about Our Father who loves us more than humanly possible.  God spoke that profession into my heart and He led me on a journey that would prepare me for where I am today.  It was challenging, but with His love and guidance I succeeded.

In 1 Chronicles, David highlights how everything that we have is because God was gracious enough to provide us with it.  He made offerings of his own fortune, but he knew that it was only his because of God.  He was an exemplar for others, and it is important for David to continue to be an exemplar for us today.  Student loans, bills, debt, insurance - it's easy for us to think that what we earn is ours and after we pay our debts that we deserve the rest.  I am entirely guilty of this.  This is a bold reminder that all that we have is a result of God's blessing, and that our worldly possessions and status are not what makes us wealthy - it is having a true, generous heart before God that makes us eternally rich.  Today's reading stresses the importance of using what we have for the betterment of others.  How can we be the body of Christ if we are only caring for one limb?  Let us join together and support this life in His name.

Dear Lord, I thank you for touching my heart today during these readings.  I was reminded to view my earnings as gracious gifts from you, and to use them to help others in need, to support the church and to have a bigger outreach.  In Psalm 15, we are told that the one who may dwell in God's sacred space is the "who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind;"  When we accept Jesus Christ into our hearts, we must deflect the old and continue to choose the new wineskin.  Dear Heavenly Father, please help us to look toward Jesus, to reach for your Word, to sit with you in prayer and to spend time in quiet seeking your guidance.  You are our salvation, your Word is our command, and whether we have the experience or the resources to accomplish a task does not matter because if it is your Will, you will provide us with a way.

Amen.

July 18: Of Peace Despite - not Because of - our Circumstances

1 Chronicles 26:12-27:34

Romans 4:13-5:5

Psalm 14:1-7

Proverbs 19:17

The fool says in his heart, "There is no God."

   They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good.

The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind

   To see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.

All have turned away, all have become corrupt;

   There is no one who does good, not even one.

- Psalm 14:1-3

For those of us here in my adopted country, the US, and in my home country, the Philippines, the first 3 verses of today's psalm seems like they were written thousands of years ago in anticipation of today.  Can you blame us, though?  Here, we have a pandemic, unemployment, violent protest, looting and rioting.  We have churches being destroyed, statues of our Savior being decapitated and desecrated.  In the Philippines we have the pandemic and unemployment as well, but there it seems it is the government doing the rioting and the looting.    

We aren't writing anything new; in fact, counting a week ago today, this is the third blog where we've referred to the difficulty and devastation taking place.  A week ago, we wrote about boldness.  Yesterday, it was about trust.  Today, we'd like to write about peace.    

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.  And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.  Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance character; and character, hope.

- Romans 5:1-4

Now I don't know about you, but I find it easier to find peace when I understand the why of something, even when I don't like it.  The verse above helps me understand a little bit of what God is doing when things get tough.  

Turns out, suffering HAS purpose.  When we suffer, we could give up - or we could learn to keep going in bold faith and in bold trust, thereby increasing our capacity for faith and trust.  That, in turn, builds - as Merriam Webster puts it - "moral excellence and firmness".  And from there, we get to hope - which is the certainty of the fulfillment of God's promise even if we don't yet see it.  And if we know it's already coming - then we CAN have peace despite the problems of today. 

Father, we've prayed for boldness and trust.  Today we pray for peace.  Give us the ability to persevere, so that we might grow faith and hope, and realize Your promises are good, and they are true, and they will come to pass.  And when we know that, then give us the peace that surpasses all understanding - however difficult our circumstances. 

July 17: Of Taking Arms Against a Sea of Troubles

1 Chronicles 24:1-26:11

Romans 4:1-12

Psalm 13:1-6

Proverbs 19:15-16

   "To be, or not to be: that is the question.  Whether it is nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against a sea of troubles, and by opposing, end them." - William Shakespeare, Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1

The circumstances surrounding Hamlet - the murder of his father, and his mother's hurried marriage to his father's brother - left him contemplating suicide, the otherwise abundance of his circumstances notwithstanding.  I mean, c'mon - he was a prince, for crying out loud.  How bad could things be? 

How long, Lord?  Will you forget me forever?  

     How long will You hide your face from me?

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts 

     and day after day have sorrow in my heart?"  

- Ps 13:1-2

The thing about suicide, though, is that to those left behind, it rarely makes sense.  We never really know the circumstances that plant doubt in a person's mind and heart, we never see the doubt that grows and bears the fruits of hopeless and despair. 

I had to look up the data.  From 1999 to 2016, the suicide rate in the US rose 25%.  In 2017, "there were an estimated 1.4 million suicide attempts, and more than 47,000 deaths deaths by suicide, making it the tenth leading cause of death in the United States."  Per 100,000 population, the number rose 6%, from 13.7 in 2017, to 14.5 in 2019.  That last statistic is particularly jarring - in those three years, things were getting better in the US, for so many.

This year, though, isn't looking too good.  Worse, six months into pandemic and its attendance consequences, there still doesn't seem to be an end in sight.  I fear the numbers - of attempts, and deaths - rise even more sharply this year.  How do we fight back?

     How long will my enemy triumph over me?

Look on me and answer me, Lord my God.  

     Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death, 

and my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"

     And my foes will rejoice when I fall.

- Ps 13:2-4

Two suggestions: know your enemy, and know your strength.  I find it helpful to remember that the enemy isn't me, it's Satan.  And he is trying to overcome me.  And then I find it doubly helpful to know that my strength isn't me either - it is the Lord my God.  It is HIS place to take arms against my sea of troubles - not mine.  

But I trust in Your unfailing love; 

     my heart rejoices in Your salvation. 

- Ps 13:5

Remembering who God is, we are then able to trust, and hope, in Him.  And then, while our circumstances might remain unchanged, because we know we can count on His salvation, we can rejoice. 

Father these are trying times.  But they are times You have ordained for us, out of Your perfect love for us, and Your desire for us to come back and enter into relationship with You.  Whenever anyone might be tempted by Satan to take things into our own hands, remind us to turn to You.  And when we do, help us to trust that You are in control.  

Thursday, July 16

THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2020


"Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin....

"But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in[h] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:20-24)


In Romans, Paul presents a structured argument that points to each person's need for grace and how God delivered that grace through the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Having reviewed the Law (and nature), Paul explains that "the whole world [should be] held accountable to God." (3:19) We are without excuse; we can see from the beauty of nature or the clarity of the Law that God is holy and wholly other. We have fallen short of His holy standard and are rightly deserving of separation from Him.

Critically, the Law did not exist to allow us to achieve self-justification. Rather, as Paul explains, "no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the words of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin." The Law therefore reflects reality, like a mirror or an X-ray machine. It allows us to see below our façade of self-righteousness and into the reality of our fallenness. If the argument ended there, we would be deeply and rightly depressed.

Yet, by His grace, God has chosen to intervene, making "the righteousness of God... made know, to which the Law and the Prophets testify." This statement explains that the Old Testament had pointed forward to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and how He would bring righteousness to those who trusted in Him by shedding His blood on the cross. The word "fulfillment" here brings hope: God made salvation possible, and He completed the terms. We simply receive Christ and receive salvation through our faith in Him.

In vv. 22-24, we understand that salvation stands available for each person, both Jew and Gentile. We have all fallen short of God's holy standard, but we all have opportunity to respond to God's invitation. Please note that we "all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." By "justified," Paul means that we have received a "right standing" before God. By "redemption," we understand that Christ has "bought us back at a price."

Even with this knowledge, we can sometimes struggle to trust God's promise, instead seeking to justify ourselves by perfectionism. God has designed us to live in "dignity" but also in "dependence" on Him. We experience fullness of life when we rely fully on God and rejoice in His love and grace for us.

How does this passage strike you? What implications does it have for your attitudes and actions today?


Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to give us fullness of life when we were dead in our sin. Thank You for pointing us to You through both nature and the Law. Give us strength to live in Your strength and in dependence on You rather than seeking to justify ourselves. Give us fullness of joy today as we experience Your Presence. In Jesus's Name, amen.



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July 15

Romans

Growing up I often heard "we are God's chosen people", but nobody could tell me what that actually meant. Paul, knowing the scriptures since childhood, probably didn't fully understand what that meant either until the day he met Jesus. Let's take ourselves back to the cultural setting of the time, where knowledge of Scripture set the Jewish people apart leaving them to think that knowledge alone was all they needed. Paul explains that being chosen people meant that we, the Jewish people, have been entrusted with the very words of God, and before he actually met Jesus, that is probably all he thought he and the nation of Israel needed. What a privilege, and yet at the same time, what a responsibility. Similarly, at the root of everything we do as disciples of Jesus lies the same truth. While the message came first to the Jews, it was intended to be spread throughout the world. Through the cross and the blood of Christ this was accomplished and now we, as Christ followers, have been entrusted with the very words of God. Again, what a privilege, but a great responsibility. Do we just keep this this to ourselves? In the words of the Apostle Paul, "Not at all, certainly not!" Paul realized the treasure he had been given the day he met Jesus and later, the responsibility that came with it. The Messiah he had read about became a real person. Paul's heart was circumcised and his knowledge of Scripture turned to the joy of worship and sharing the word of God.That is what we've all been chosen for, to see and experience the glory of God through Scripture and share it.  Has your heart by circumcised by Jesus? Are you praying for someone else's heart to be softened by His love? I join you in that prayer. I pray that like Paul, through our reading we get a glimpse of what Paul was shown by God and from there flows everything else in our Christian life.

Randi

Bible Blog Post - July 12, 2020

1 Chronicles 12:19-14:17

Romans 1:1-17

Psalm 9:13-20

Proverbs 19:4-5

The bible shows us many examples of God's grace and His justice.  Today's reading highlighted how people experienced the wrath of God by being wicked, and also by failing to take the time to seek His guidance and follow His instructions.  When moving the Ark of the Covenant, Uzzah touched the Ark while trying to prevent it from falling and God struck Him dead.  God had clearly stated the way the Ark should be transported, but this was initially overlooked.  It makes me reflect on my own decisions and sins.  Then, I take it further and wonder how many times did I sin and not even know it?  The more I learn about God, the more I grow in my faith, the more I realize that my old self was not what I thought it to be.  This reading teaches me how important it is not only to make choices that are just and that honor God, but to first reach out to Him and ask Him for guidance and direction.  God already has our paths mapped out, so who are we to ignore His calling for our lives?  When Uzzah died, David was initially angered by the Lord's decision, but then that anger turned to fear as he realized that he needed to seek the Lord's council first before making any decisions.  I, too, can think of times when I was angry about outcomes, but then transformations within me began to occur as my fear of the Lord grew.  When things are good and comfortable, it is easy to get off track and think we've got it handled, but the Lord is the best teacher and He certainly reminds us that we are not in the captain's chair, and it is He who must be honored and sought out each day and in all decisions that we make.

David had many different tribes and leaders supporting him.  He had over 300,000 men in his army.  He did not dictate; he unified the chiefs and utilized their strengths instead of relying on his judgement alone.  This got him far along in uniting Israel.  Uzzah's death, however, reminded David that seeking the Lord's council should precede any human advice, no matter how knowledgeable they might be.  Moving forward, David made a valiant effort to ask God to direct his next steps, and this favored him as he defeated the Philistines through clear instructions provided by the Lord.  He received two different strategies on how to combat the Philistines.  Had he applied the first strategy, which was successful for that instance, to the second clash with the Philistines, who knows what the outcome would have been.  By trusting in God he was able to overcome his foe.  

David teaches us the importance of humbling ourselves before God, and seeking Him in all that we do.  Our successes are a result of God's good work, not our own merit alone.  Let us remember that each day, and apply that to all areas of our lives.

Amanda and Anthony

July 11: Of Lions, Romans and Daring

1 Chronicles 11:1-12:18

Acts 28:1-31

Psalm 9:1-12

Proverbs 19:1-3

"I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart;

     I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds.

 I will be glad and rejoice in You;

     I will sing the praises of Your name, O Most High."

- Psalm 9:1-2

Pandemic.  Unemployment.  Injustice.  Protest.  Rioting.  Looting.  Disrespect for law, for authority, for logic and reason. 

One might be forgiven for asking "what wonderful deeds?"  The pandemic has disrupted life and livelihood; millions have lost their jobs, millions have contracted the disease (that we know of) and over a hundred thousand have passed away.  On top of that, protest has oft given way to looting and rioting, exacerbating the despair among those who are hurt or lose their livelihood.  So many are mourning, so many more are afraid.  What wonderful deeds?

     "Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, performed great exploits.  He struck down Moab's two mightiest warriors.  He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion." - 1 Chronicles 11:22

     "He was held in greater honor than any of the Thirty, but he was not included among the Three.  And David put him in charge of his bodyguard." - 1 Chronicles 11:25

Would that we could all be as daring as Benaiah who, in his confidence, chose to go into a pit where lay a lion.  Or Paul who, having been put in chains for preaching the Way, dared  summon and preach to the Jewish leaders upon his arrival at headquarters - Rome. These men faced adverse circumstances; they then dared, and then they triumphed.  We know Benaiah was promoted to head of security; we know the legacy Paul has left among the Gentiles.  

But it's tough to be like Benaiah or Paul.  To many of us, daring during the difficult isn't instinctive, isn't second nature.  What to do? Like anything, practice.  An easy, and ready enough example today.  

Pandemic?  I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart.  Unemployment?  I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds.  Injustice, protest, rioting and looting?  I will be glad and rejoice in You.  It seems small, but if we start here, perhaps we will grow to the point we WILL be ready, willing and able to get in a pit with a lion on a snowy day.  

Father, they might seem like small steps, but by Your guidance they will be pointed in the right direction; by Your strength they will lengthen and quicken.  Give us the daring to praise You, then serve You, even in the most adverse of circumstance.  

July 10: Of Stormy Nights, Finger Pointing and Reform

1 Chronicles 9:1-10:14

Acts 27:21-44

Psalm 8:1-9

Proverbs 18:23-24

There were 276 people on that boat, in that storm.  The storm, the reason why they "finally gave up all hope of being saved".  Can you imagine the scene when Paul spoke up, and said "I told you so"?  "You should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete…"

The muttering: "He TOLD us NOT to leave."  "How did he know?" "Why didn't we listen?"

There might have been some finger pointing as well.  The centurion might have heard them, and said "don't look at me - the owner said to go."  The owner might then have turned to the pilot and said "he told me it was ok".  

At that point, though, what was important?  Regret?  Recrimination?  No.  Far better: repentance and reform.  Yeah, they were in the thick of it, but after a few more nights in the storm, they repented of their disregard for Paul, and reformed - they listened to him. 

Why then, though?  Why couldn't they have listened to him earlier?  Probably because they didn't know him.  It was only after they realized he knew what he was talking about that they got to know him well enough to be wiling to listen.  Which is why Paul, in turn, wasn't afraid - he had listened to God, which he could do because he'd gotten to know God.  

I take away a couple of things from this, both of which are still so frustratingly very difficult for me.  

1. When caught in a bad situation because I did the wrong thing, because I didn't listen?  No recrimination.  No finger pointing.  Repent, reform.  
2. And to better recognize God's instructions, I have to get to know Him better.  

As frustrating as it is I still haven't learned those seemingly simple lessons, I take away a couple of encouraging points as well:

1. It doesn't matter how bad things get - God saves.
2. And if someone like a murdering Saul can turn into a listening Paul, then there certainly is hope for me.

Father, if Saul could do it, so can I - but like Saul, only by Your Spirit.  Give me such a hunger to know You it is becomes the purpose of my day, so like Paul, I recognize Your voice.  And when I sin, give me the desire not to run from, but to return to You.