The City of Man or The City of God?

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“Ambassadors from the city of God go out day by day into the city of man, warning and imploring the residents to flee the city.”

During 2022, the ravages of drugs tore through America, from the opioid to the fentanyl crisis. Inflation persisted, increasing the cost of goods and services and put immense pressure on households and businesses. Death also reigned upon us causing historically high death rates along with multitudes suddenly dying. In city after city, the lawless became more lawless; the evil, more evil.

Revelation is a book in the Bible that reveals future judgements to come upon mankind. It says, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place for demons, a haunt for every unclean spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable beast.” (Rev. 18:2)

Babylon is the city we have all lived in during 2022.

This ancient city is famous for at least three historical points. First, it was the location of the infamous tower of babel. The place where the nations joined together to build a tower to reach the heavens and become like God, until He destroyed their tower and brought confusion to their language. Second, the most notorious leader was King Nebuchadnezzar, whom built Babylon into an expansive empire, conquering nation after nation. Third, Nebuchadnezzar led Babylon to lay siege to Jerusalem, destroying it and capturing its people.

Eventually, Babylon’s pride and glory in itself, brought about its own downfall. Babylon, which once was a servant of God, became His enemy. And 70 years after it conquered Jerusalem, Babylon fell to its enemies and was destroyed on the crucible of its own ego.

The historical city of Babylon eventually grew to become a spiritual picture of the godless cities of mankind. The city of Babylon is the city of man.

These are places where man joins together with others of like mindedness, to pursue the evil desires of his heart. The worldly success they enjoy becomes the envy of other cities. The city grows in all things evil and lawless, glorifying itself and feeling as if they are god-like.

The people of this world, live in the city of Babylon. They are places built on the foundation of man’s own wisdom and knowledge. The evidence of man as architect is clear. Confusion and chaos abound. Crime, immorality and division existing in neighborhood after neighborhood, while corruption lives in the halls of power.

But as we move into 2023, there is something important to note. There is another city, one that was built strategically in opposition to the city of man. It is the city of God, and was established by the risen Lord Jesus Christ.

This city serves the desires of the Lord God, the Creator of heaven and earth. The citizens have turned from their sin, placed their faith in Christ and walk in holiness and love for one another. The city is marked by truth, service, peace, joy, kindness and much more. The Lord indwells each of them through His Spirit and is always with them. Ambassadors from this city go out day by day into the city of man, warning and imploring their residents to flee the city. They plead with them to find refuge in the city of God, as each of them once did. Sometimes their message is received, other times it is rejected and they are cast out of the city.

In 2023, the city of God will continue expanding, seeking to rescue those from the city of man. One day Babylon will fall. The judgement of God will prevail and the city of man will be no more. Yet, the city of God will remain forever, as its Lord and King will. If you are part of the city of man, living for yourself and your own desires, leave at once! Come to the city with a sure foundation, whose builder is God Almighty. Come through His Son and the doors of grace and mercy will be opened to you.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, open the eyes of people to see what city they live in. Bring them to flee the city of man and run to the city of God. Let them leave behind their selfish ways and yield to the just and holy ways of their Creator. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

What Kind of a Child Was This?

                                               Image by Jeff Jacobs from Pixabay 

“Jesus was not just a human little baby, He was deity! He was the Creator God, Almighty God, the eternal God in human form!”

In today’s world and throughout human history there have been miraculous births, where children have survived incredible medical odds to come into this world. There also have been famous children born, who have garnered attention from the masses because of their influential parents. There have been many extraordinary births, but none rise to the remarkableness of the birth of Jesus.

There are numerous parts of Jesus’ birth that causes one to ponder, just as Mary and Joseph did. An angel told Joseph, before he had married her, “. . . for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 1:20) Jesus was conceived through God’s Spirit, while Mary was a virgin, having never lain with man. Nothing like this has ever happened with any other child. The angel also said, “. . . for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matt. 1:21) What child has ever been appointed to such a mission before he was born? And what kind of a person would have the ability to forgive sins? Furthermore, the Scripture says about the Christ-child, “‘. . . they shall call his name Immanuel’ which means, God with us.” (Matt. 1:23) What child has ever been described as “God with us?”

An angel also spoke to Mary saying about her future son, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” (Luke 1:32-33) Instead of being called the son of Joseph, her coming child would be called Son of the Most High. Mary understood this to be the Son of God. And this baby would grow up to sit on a throne, and of it there will be no end. Mary was a common woman. How could she be carrying royalty? And everyone dies. What kind of a child would live and reign on a royal throne forever?

Then a strange group of wise men that traveled from far away, came to Jesus when He was nearly two years old. The story reads, “And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.” (Matt. 2:11) Wealthy, educated, and spiritual men falling on their knees to worship a two-year old. What kind of a child was this?

Show me another child that has been born like this? In all human history, there is none. And after pondering these things, it leaves one to consider, where was this child from and was He beyond a normal human being?

Jesus spoke of this in His public ministry. Before He was born of Mary, He existed in another place – heaven. Every other child came into existence at conception, but only Jesus existed before He was born!

Who was this child? He was born a King, Lord and Savior. He was worshipped. He looked human, yet He made incredible claims about the supreme God. His opponents said of Him, “but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.” (John 5:18) Jesus was not just a human little baby, He was deity! He was the Creator God, Almighty God, the eternal God in human form!

Christmas is the story about when a holy God entered our world and became one of us, that He would save us from our immoral and destructive ways. Come to Him as the wise men did. Bow before the Lord Jesus. Escape the judgement of God and find refuge and peace in His only Son.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, we confess that Jesus is Lord! He is God in human form. Bring us to bow before your holy Son. We put away trusting in ourselves and in our goodness. This day, we trust in Christ alone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Mary, She Was One of Us

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“Mary called herself a servant of the Lord God. She did not exalt herself, because she was chosen among a whole world full of women. Instead, she lowered herself to a servant, doing what a servant does – carrying out her Master’s plans.”

When you think of the Christmas story, who is one of the characters that first comes to mind (besides Jesus, of course)? For many it is Mary, and for good reason, she gave birth to the Lord Jesus. The eternal and divine Son of God.

The fascinating thing about Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and other characters in the Christmas story like Zechariah and Elizabeth; they were common people. None were famous, rich or powerful in the land of Israel. They were unknown, ordinary folks. Mary recognized that ordinariness in herself. Read some of her God-inspired prayer of praise, after the announcement of her mission to carry the Creator’s only Son. “My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” (Luke 1:47-49)

Note the words she used like “humble estate”, “servant” and “blessed.” And if you read the entire prayer, there are many other words like this, that speak of her simple ordinariness and incredible humility. Mary had such spiritual maturity at a young age, combined with wisdom and graciousness. To think this prayer came from a youth is amazing. Many religious scholars believe she was a teenager.

A comment I heard one preacher say of Mary is that, “She was one of us.” Another part of her prayer amplifies this when she declares, “God my Savior.” Like her fellow Jewish neighbors, she was created by God. And like them, she also was a broken vessel that had fallen short of God’s standards and was in need of a Savior. Not just a divine being to rescue her from life’s situations, but the one and only true God that she and her ancestors worshiped, whom could forgive their sins. In that sense, she considered the Lord God her Savior. Are you imperfect? Have you fallen short of God’s holy standards? Like Mary, as the Lord God became her Savior, He can become yours too.

Mary called herself a “servant” of the Lord God. She did not exalt herself, because she was chosen among a whole world full of women. Instead, she lowered herself to a servant, doing what a servant does – carrying out her Master’s plans. Her prayer reveals how she sought to elevate the Lord God and lower herself, which is a common theme among all God’s chosen ones.

Mary states how future generations will call her “blessed”, meaning one who has received great fortune from God. The fortune of being chosen to bear the Christ-child. How blessed she was! And so are we. When one has been given salvation through Jesus Christ and born again, is he or she not blessed as well? For those who have received this gift, they are fortunate to have experienced the forgiveness of their sins, the hope of heaven, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and so much more! Mary is not the dispenser of any divine blessings and neither are we. Instead, all of us are humble receivers of God’s precious and timely gifts.

No matter who you are, you can receive the grace the Lord God wants to bestow upon you. You and I are unworthy vessels, as Mary was. Yet, God’s grace through Jesus, makes us worthy. If only we will recognize our fallenness and call out to Him for our salvation, trusting in Him alone, then grace upon grace will be ours.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, we praise you for your divine wisdom in choosing Mary, to carry your only Son. What an example she is to us. As you were her Savior, may you be ours as well. Humble us as she was, then bring us to turn from our sin and to you, that we may experience your abundant grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Christmas: The Hope of The World

                                              Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 

"Christmas shows us that evil in the human heart is the greatest threat to the future of the world. God so believed this truth, He sent His only Son to be born of a virgin, then to die on a cross and rise again."

On the eve of history’s first Christmas, it was a dark time for the Jewish people. Their land was occupied by the Roman Empire. The Lord God had not spoken to them for hundreds of years. Heaven’s voice was silent. Their religious texts spoke of prophecies about a King that would rise up from among them. They anticipated this King, that He would be their deliverer from Roman rule. How would darkness be turned to light? How would despair be turned to hope?

In approximately 4 B.C. a divine earthquake caused a split right down the middle of human history – the birth of Jesus Christ. It was like the rising of the sun dispelling the darkness. It was a new era for mankind.

The Jewish prophet Isaiah, 700 years earlier, foretold about the coming of a Messiah who would become the hope, not just of the Jewish people, but of all nations. Isaiah wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Jesus was the fulfillment of this prediction. The birth of the Christ-child was a divine light borne into darkness. As He grew up and settled into His heaven-sent role, the public responded and a divine unstoppable movement took shape. However, His followers soon became disillusioned at His messaging. He was not becoming the national Savior they envisioned. Soon, the dreams they had of Jesus turning back the Roman Empire started to fade away.

Instead, Jesus told the crowds, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) He also said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” (Lk. 9:23) This meant if they wanted to follow Him, they must give up pursuing their agenda and take up God’s. This was much different than expected.

Jesus' focus was the hearts and souls of mankind. He purposed to deliver them from the bondage of sin and lead them to spiritual freedom. He was born to govern the lives of precious souls, not a nation.

The lesson of Christmas teaches, that the change our world needs is ultimately spiritual. Like the Jewish people, we can look around and see our world filled with oppression and injustice and wonder how it all can change. Like them, our hope can be for a type of national savior to be raised up. This is how we naturally think. In times of national crisis, we instinctively begin with what we can do with our own intellect and resources. And history is replete with the rise and fall of political, military, religious and other types of national figures to help save their nation.

Law, policies, programs, regulations, committees, organizations, investigations. All these have their place. At best, they can curb, reduce or control lawlessness and corruption, but they cannot eliminate it. Why? Because the heart of the problem is the human heart. Jeremiah once wrote, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) Then he penned God’s own words, “I the Lord search the heart and test the mind . . .” (Jer. 17:10)

Christmas shows us that evil in the human heart is the greatest threat to the future of the world. God so believed this truth, He sent His only Son to be born of a virgin, then to die on a cross and rise again. Through this, Christ conquered evil. And to all who come to Him in repentance and faith, He will provide forgiveness of sin and a transformed heart and life.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, open our eyes to see beyond the physical to the spiritual. Bring men and women to humble themselves before you and be changed by your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

The Darkest Day of Christmas

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“God showed ruthless Herod mercy through the wise men. He was given a chance by His Creator to go with them and genuinely worship baby Jesus, but he refused.”

In our modern celebration of Christmas, it is a joyous time of the year. But when we look at the origins of the holiday, we find a dark and tragic side. And when we go deeper, we discover how a little baby posed such a grave threat to one man’s power.

One day the whole city of Jerusalem became stirred, when a large entourage of wise men arrived. Nearly two years earlier they observed an unusual light in the sky. They were a group of men who studied the stars. Through their study, God revealed the star was a sign that a king had been born.

Therefore, the wise men were strongly compelled to follow it. They began travelling from their far eastern country and went many miles. They were led to the city of Jerusalem. When they arrived, they began asking, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:2) Their presence and what they were asking troubled the city. Soon King Herod, who governed Jerusalem, was made aware of their arrival and met with them. The wise men asked Herod the same thing.

Decades earlier, the Roman Senate conferred on Herod the title, “King of the Jews.” Herod had a reputation as an evil ruler, for he had executed some of his own family members in his obsession to retain power. So, when the wise men came looking for this baby king who had been born, all Israel knew Herod would go after this political rival, even if He was just a baby.

Herod assembled the religious leaders, and based upon various prophecies it was determined the Baby-King was born in the city of Bethlehem. The wise men travelled there to worship Him. Later, after being tricked by the wise men, Herod ordered all baby boys in the Bethlehem region, two years and younger, to be seized from their families and executed. Pure evil! There was no “joy to the world.” It was a dark time, and an ominous sign of things to come. Jesus’ life would be continually marked by conflicts with those in power. His life would eventually come to a temporary end, when He was crucified by Jewish and Roman leaders. Temporary, because three days later He rose from the dead and foiled their plans.

The person and message of Jesus will pose a conflict with many who are in power. Why? Because it is a battle about authority. It is an inner spiritual conflict of the heart over the Lordship of Jesus. Herod had no intention of bowing before Christ, as the wise men did. Instead, he foolishly sought to destroy Him and a whole city of baby boys.

So many like Herod, are drunk on their own pride. They blind themselves with their hard heart toward the divine hope they so desperately need. As a result, they continue bringing havoc and chaos on themselves and those around them. All the while, they do not understand other people are not their enemy, but it is God. They are opposing the ways of God to their own demise. And just as it drove Herod to absolute madness, it will do the same to anyone else. Herod was rich, famous and powerful, yet He was miserable.

Even so, God showed ruthless Herod, mercy through the wise men. He was given a chance by His Creator to go with them and genuinely worship baby Jesus, but he refused. Today, you are given the same chance. Through Christ, there is good news. If you turn from your pride and submit before Heaven’s King you can have peace. The war within will end. Refreshment from heaven will be poured out upon you.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, I pray you will humble the mightiest and proudest. Send an earthquake upon their lives to reveal they are mere men and women. Then show them mercy. Provide them an opportunity to come and worship the King of Kings and receive His eternal peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Why Should We Pray Over our Meals?

“When we pray over our meals, it is an acknowledgment of God’s grace that has come to us through the provision of our food.”

Have you ever been in a restaurant where at one table, after people received their food, they just plowed right in and started eating, while at another table you observe a family bowing their heads over their food in prayer first? Where does this tradition of praying over meals come from? Is it a uniquely American tradition that came from the Pilgrims we read about in our history books, or is it something else?

Once when Jesus had His disciples together, He had some bread and a cup laid out for them. He was instituting what we call the Lord’s Supper or Communion, “And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, ‘Take this, and divide it among yourselves . . .’ And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them . . .” (Luke 22:17-19)

On another occasion, during a teaching ministry of Jesus, He provided food for thousands of people who were hungry “. . . he took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.” (Matthew 15:36) And when Jesus had a large group another time, He did the same thing, “Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated.” (John 6:11)

The Apostles of Jesus followed this example. When Paul was on a ship, before he ate with all those on board, the Scripture says, “. . . he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat.” (Acts 27:35)

When you see someone praying over their food, it does not come from some national tradition, it comes from the example Jesus set.

What does “giving thanks” mean? The Greek word for thanks written in English letters is eucharistos. Does it look familiar? It means to be thankful for God’s grace. His grace are His gifts given to us, not based on any worth within ourselves, but because of His mercy. In regards to praying over meals, it is an acknowledgment of this grace that has come to us through the provision of food.

There are three parts of giving thanks we see in each of the stories. First, there is the receiving of the food, as from God. Though we bought it with our money, and was made by ourselves or others, and ingredients provided through farmers, we still acknowledge God’s hand in it all. Second, is giving thanks to God. This is having a sense of gratitude toward the one who provided. Third, is giving to others. Jesus received the food, offered thanks, then gave. In each of the stories it was not just about giving thanks to satisfy their own appetites, it was also about giving unto others. The one providing the funds, gives of themself to buy the food. The cook gives of themself in preparing the meals. Another gives of themself to provide food for the poor and hungry. This is why inviting people to our home for a meal is important. It is a way of sharing with others, what God in His grace has provided for us.

Jesus has shown us the cross through giving thanks over a meal. He came from heaven to earth to receive humanity unto Himself. He offered thanks to His Father for the opportunity to show divine grace toward all people through providing forgiveness for their sins. Then He gave of Himself to die and rise again for that work to be completed. Giving thanks to God, is more than just for food, but for the Savior of the world who graciously died that we might live.

A prayer for you. Lord God, I praise you for your grace that has provided us the food we have eaten today. We are unworthy of such grace. We acknowledge your provision and pray that you will open a door for us to share with another, what you have given us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Stand Up and Speak Up! Say Something!

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“Jesus had to stand up and speak up and did so with wisdom and divine power. He was not compelled by national zeal. He was driven by a higher cause; the truth of His Father’s Word.”

What should we do when see people engaging in things that are clearly morally wrong? When evil and lawlessness is unfolding before us, how should we respond? To often, our natural human response is to let things go. We will think about it and talk about it, but in the end, we are hesitant, timid and extremely cautious to get involved. Did you know that God sees things otherwise? He wants you to stand up and speak up against things that violate His most holy Word. That is His gospel, the good news! How so? Because it can save people from the unknown and dangerous consequences of their foolish immoral choices.

As Jesus was nearing the end of His ministry, He approached Jerusalem, where He would be crucified. He came into the city with the adoration of the people, but something changed within Him when He stepped into the temple. As He looked around and observed what was happening, a burning zeal swelled up inside Him. He saw people buying and selling. They had turned His Father’s temple into a business. He responded to this evil with decisive boldness. He swiftly approached a man’s table doing business. He grabbed it and flipped it upside down, causing the money to fly everywhere. Then He proceeded to another table, and another. The merchants could see a burning in His eyes and none challenged Him. Then He spoke out to all who could hear, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer’, but you make it a den of robbers.” (Matthew 21:13) Afterwards He continued to teach and minister to people, but the religious leaders became incensed at such actions.

Why did Jesus do this? The account shows no one forcing Him to do it. And if He would have done nothing, no one would have thought otherwise. He did it for the zeal of His Father and His Word. His passion for what was right burned inside Him. It grew to a holy and just anger over what He saw. He had to stand up and speak up and did so with wisdom and divine power. He was not compelled by national zeal. He was driven by a higher cause; the truth of His Father’s Word.

Jesus was the wisest man who ever lived. He knew He would anger the religious leaders, who had the authority to arrest Him. He knew it would create a chaotic and divisive scene. He knew He could possibly loose some followers. There was much risk in what He did, but He did it anyway. Why? Because He had to. Zeal for His Father so moved Him, there was no other option.

Where is such holy zeal today? We have many with a fiery national zeal, that rise up for things that violate our freedom of speech and religious liberty. But where are those with a heavenly zeal, that will stand up and speak up when God’s Word is violated?

Too many are willing to ignore or just talk about the evil things happening around us. Where are the pastors and local church leaders who are willing to address the sins of their community or nation at the risk of loosing members and finances?

Why did Jesus do this and why should we? To love our neighbor. When we respond to evil with a Jesus-like zeal and boldness, we are showing sacrificial love. Meaning, we are willing to sacrifice or risk it all to help people stop their sinful behavior and to turn toward Christ. There they will find forgiveness and newness of life. It will spare them from the eternal consequences of their darkened hearts. It is the most loving thing we could ever do for people. Are you willing to live like Jesus, no matter the cost?

A prayer for you. “Lord God, raise up a generation of divine zeal-filled men and women. Fill them with such a passion for you, your Word and others, that they are compelled to stand up and speak up for the glory of your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Is Healing from Mental Illness Possible?

                                         Image by Grae Dickason from Pixabay 

"The hope of the cross is that in Christ, there is a Savior that can help us in our struggle with mental illness."

There is something about mental illness in the headlines every day. For millions of families though, it is not a headline. Their child, spouse or grandchild lives with it. And life is not easy. They have regular counseling. Daily medications. Occasional visits to the hospital. And that is not even covering the financial costs and symptoms, which can bring incredible high levels of stress to families and care-givers.

Have you ever felt as if your disorder controls your life? Have you ever wondered if freedom from its control, or even healing is possible?

Jesus once came upon a man whose severe illness brought fear and great concern on the entire community. This is how he was described, “. . . no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him.” (Mark 5:3-4) His family, friends and people of his community tried all they could do to help him from being a danger to himself and others. They were at a loss for other options while the man lived a miserable day to day life.

But something happened to him when he encountered the Lord, “And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat . . . there met him . . . a man . . .” (Mk. 5:2) When the man came into the presence of Christ, without him realizing it, that was the first step toward the help he desperately needed. What did Jesus do? With all authority and power, He looked at the man eye to eye, and boldly stated, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” (Mk. 5:8) What was the result? A little time later, the man was in front of Jesus, “. . . sitting there, clothed and in his right mind . . .” (Mk. 5:15)

The story is not communicating that all mental illnesses are the result of an evil spirit, yet some are. Nor is it saying that every disorder Jesus will instantly heal, yet some He does. The larger message is how there is an important spiritual side to mental illness. The family and friends of the man helped him on the physical side, the best they knew how. But when Jesus arrived, He showed them there was a spiritual side to the man’s disorder, and His power to help him.

God sent Jesus to die on a cross and rise again to do a spiritual work by overcoming the curse of sin. Mental illness is part of this. The story is an illustration about how through the cross of Christ, the journey toward freedom from the dominating power and control of mental disorders is real.

What does that mean? Sometimes people may feel controlled by hopelessness, anger, anxiety, depression, addictions and in some extreme cases – thoughts of suicide. God’s Word uses the term of slavery to describe how we can feel enslaved by these things at times. The hope of the cross is that in Christ, there is a Savior that can help us in our struggle with mental illness. In Him, we can find His help and peace in the midst of the daily battle.

The Psalmist wrote, “. . . they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still and the waves of the sea were hushed.” (Psalm 107:28-29) Cry out to the Lord in your struggle and experience His peace and joy in the storm.

A prayer for you. “Father in heaven, millions have been touched by mental illness. You have hope for each of them. You died and rose again so they can have your peace. For nothing is impossible with you. Begin your healing today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Voting is an Honorable Act

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"Your vote is your voice to speak up for what honors God."

There are many ways one can do good to others. Feeding the poor, being a foster parent, caring for the elderly, being a voice for the oppressed. What about going to the polls on election day and voting? Is that a genuine way of serving others and doing good?

A famous and elderly man once came to a small town and met with the town’s elders. They knew who he was and were greatly concerned by his presence. He was there on a mission from God. His name was Samuel.

He came in search of Israel’s next king. He was led by God to meet with the family of Jesse. All his sons passed before Samuel, except one; David the youngest. Samuel called for him and as soon as Samuel saw David, he “took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers.” (1 Samuel 16:13) David, a teenager at the time, did not resist nor question what God was doing through Samuel. Though it was several years before wearing the crown, David accepted this calling from God, and viewed it as an act of service to the Lord and the people of Israel. He once wrote, “When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light.” (2 Sam. 23:3-4)

Throughout the Bible, the reader constantly sees this, where people are serving others through the call to serve God. The highest example of this is Jesus, the Son of God. He stated about Himself, “. . . the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45) Jesus’ life set the standard for all His followers. One of the early church leaders whom Jesus’ appointed, wrote that Christians should “. . . be careful to devote themselves to good works.” (Titus 3:8)

How is voting a good work and service to others? First, our government has established a system by which its leaders are voted in or removed from office, by the people. There is no law requiring the people to vote. It is a system that provides citizens the right, privilege and opportunity to do so. The Bible says to, “Honor the emperor.” (1 Peter 2:17) This means to honor the government, at all levels, from local to federal. To vote, is to do a good work that shows honor being given to the government over us. Second, some of our fellow citizens have given themselves to serve in elected office. They have sacrificed in time, money and other ways. To vote, is to do a good work showing respect for the candidates on the ballot. Third, some candidates and issues on the ballot may be honoring or dishonoring to God. Your vote is your voice to speak up for what honors God and a good work that is pleasing to the Lord.

As we serve others with our good works, we recognize the evil and corruption that surrounds us. It should cause us to march forward in the name and power of Jesus with a determined spirit. However, in our humanness, it can discourage or disillusion us, causing us to pull back. I pray you will not be among this group. Instead, go to the polls and cast an honoring vote before the Lord to bring a vote of light into the darkness.

Ask God for wisdom in your service of voting. Be diligent and discerning to protect your vote. Pray for the candidates, the issues and for our nation. The Scripture says, “Righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34)

A prayer for you. “Lord God, as we go to the polls, we realize government is not our Savior. We declare that Jesus is our only King. Yet, you have placed this government over us. Help us to be honoring to it through our vote. Raise up righteous, God-honoring candidates that will bring you glory in their service. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Is Your Belief in God Meaningless?

                                                 

                                                    Image by J F from Pixabay 

“When we say with our lips, ‘I believe in God,’ but put our personal lifestyle above His Word, we are illustrating that our heart is far from the one we profess to believe in.”

Our churches and communities are filled with people who say, “I believe in God,” but do not believe in the Word of God. How can that be? They speak with a sense of assurance that it is well with their soul, but are bothered when someone questions them. They do not understand why someone would. They are firm in their belief, that they believe in God and are confident they have a relationship with Him.

Jesus had regular encounters with the religious leaders who thought similarly. They once questioned Him about His followers, “Why do your disciples break the traditions of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat.” (Matthew 15:2) Jesus, using their own words against them responded wisely and boldly with a similar question, “Why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?” (Matt. 15:3) Then Jesus laid out a specific command they regularly broke, while teaching others to do the same. Having their direct attention after exposing their hypocrisy He summarized, “So for the sake of your tradition you have made void the word of God.” (Matt. 15:6)

The religious leaders believed in God, but they put their traditions above the Word of God, giving legitimate reason to question their spiritual condition.

Where did the traditions they promoted come from? Their own reasoning. Where does the Word of God come from? The one who created the heavens and earth. So even though they claimed to be children of God, their practices showed otherwise. They were unashamedly putting themselves above God. Perhaps they were ignorant, not realizing what they were doing.

Like the religious leaders, there are many today who put their personal practices above their belief in God. The command of God says, “. . . that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matt. 5:27) In another place the Lord commands, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you . . .” (Matt. 5:44) And the Word also declares, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up . . .” (Ephesians 4:29) The one who confidently speaks of their belief in God, but then regularly permits themselves to lust, be filled with anger at others or use profane speech makes void the Word of God. The reasoning for the lifestyle choices they make have a higher value than what God says. They say they believe in God, or are Christians, but their own desires, habits, wants and needs take precedence over God’s commands.

Why did Jesus point this out? Because it revealed something of grave eternal significance that affected the destiny of their souls, and the souls of those whom they influenced. He strongly condemned them, “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me . . .” (Matt. 15:8)

When we say with our lips, “I believe in God”, but put our personal lifestyle above His Word, we are illustrating that our heart is far from the one we profess to believe in. Jesus does not want our professions; He wants our heart. Why? Because when He gets our heart, He has our entire life. Jesus told His disciples once, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (John 14:15) Do you love Jesus? This is not a statement of feelings or emotions, but one of the heart, where one is willing to submit their whole life under the authority of Jesus by faith.

Because Jesus suffered, died and rose again for us, and loved us while we were still sinners, we should be willing to yield our lives unto Him, no matter the cost.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, I pray you will search our hearts and point out if we are putting any part of our life, above your Word. Show us if we are making void your Word, by our daily choices. Today, we give you our hearts, not just our lips. Take all of us Jesus. In your holy name. Amen.”

A World Gone Mad!

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“At times it can seem as if there is no God when the state of the world goes from bad to worse.  Can it be stopped, or is man a god unto himself, doing as he pleases with no accountability, no justice?  Is there any hope for a world out of control or is evil destined to reign supreme?”  

 

Across the globe, corrupt political leaders institute laws and policies that oppress their people. Debased wealthy abuse their power for personal gain. Possibilities of World War III and nuclear war are spoken of. Criminals go unpunished while the just are defamed and imprisoned. Deception, lawlessness and perversions of all sorts abound. Our world has gone mad. Where is God?

At times it can seem as if there is no God when the state of the world and your own community, goes from bad to worse. Can it be stopped, or is man a god unto himself, doing as he pleases with no accountability, no justice? Is there any hope for a world out of control or is evil destined to reign supreme?

To discover the answer, lift your eyes above the news headlines. Look beyond what you see, which is a foggy mist of deception and fear. Above is a truth that hangs like a mighty banner which states in bold letters, “For God is the King of all the earth . . . God reigns over the nations . . .” (Psalm 47:7-8) Despite this truth, many of those in power have no fear of God, “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed . . .” (Ps. 2:2) Do the rulers not realize that God sees their plans and will hold them to account? “Arise, Lord, do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence.” (Ps. 19:9) For God will become their enemy if they persist and do not turn from their ways, “Strike them with terror, Lord; let the nations know they are only mortal.

The nations and those in power that defy the Lord God, misunderstand His patience. They act without any concern for God nor of consequences. It is a veil of deceit the evil one has laid over their eyes.

As evil proceeds from bad to worse and corrupt men become even more so we might wonder why God does not respond to the arrogance of the merciless. Why does He not pour out His wrath on the cruel, unjust and grossly immoral?

God’s ways are opposite of mankind’s. We want instant action and often revenge. God responds differently.

He comes to where the prince of darkness dwells, who orchestrates the madness. The Holy One listens as the father of lies arrogantly declares “I am King of the Earth. God has no place here.” But while Satan speaks, the sovereign King of the Universe, with His saving light, quietly and humbly moves about in the darkness. He walks the ground He spoke into existence long ago searching, looking, calling and drawing men and women through the power of His unseen Spirit. The light of His Word of Truth pierces the darkness. His Spirit-empowered servants boldly expose the evil, while proclaiming the way of salvation to those held captive by the wicked prince.

The evil one fights back using every weapon available to silence the Most High’s servants.

Satan once battled God’s only Son, whom was killed on a cross. He was the prince’s greatest enemy. Three days of celebrating went by. Then all the sudden, the Son rose from the dead, and the prince of darkness’ head was smashed by the Son of God into defeat.

As evil exerts itself in our world understand this. The King of Kings has defeated Stan, evil, death and sin. He is the Victor! He is here and at work among us. Today, flee from the slavery of sin. Run to Jesus and be free!

A prayer for you. “Lord God, open our eyes to see you high and lifted up above the evil plans of men. Reveal yourself to us. Let us not be held captive to fear or destructive ways. We turn to you. Only you can save our souls and the nations of the world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

How to Stop Living in Chaos

                                          Image by Yatheesh Gowda from Pixabay 

“Only Jesus can save you out of the constant chaos of your life.  The chains of immoral living that are shackled around your feet, only Christ can lose them and set you free."  

There are people whose life is one chaotic moment after another. Constant crises. Why? Because of their own poor choices. It seems to be one bad decision after another. And as time goes on, it is natural to wonder, “Will anything ever change?”

I can confidently say, the Lord God is the God of second chances.

Jesus once told a story about a young man who was one of those who lived a reckless life, but through a miracle of God, was changed. It is known as the parable of the prodigal son. “There was a man who had t
wo sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. (Luke 15:11-16)

The son displayed a selfish and rude attitude toward his father. His dad, in a humble act of wisdom, gave his son what he demanded. What he wanted, was something beyond money. He wanted freedom, so he could be free from his father and do as he pleased. So he went far away to find it, and at first he enjoyed his freedom, but then reality hit. A famine swept across the land, and soon he was penniless. This was the moment the rebel began to change.

First, he recognized he was in need. He had empty pockets and needed to find some income quickly. He did not turn to God for help. Instead, he tried to dig himself out of his own hole.

Second, he experienced no one giving him anything. He soon realized he could not fix himself. And fortunately, he did not have anyone who tried to solve his problems for him. He also did not go person to person and try to manipulate others into helping him. He was able to sit in that awful pig pen and reflect on the stupid decisions he made that put him there.

Third, he came to his senses. The next part of the story states, “But when he came to himself . . .” (vs. 17) Gone was living by impulse and desire. He wisely evaluated his life and what did he see? He saw how his recklessness put him in the spot he was, and was separating him from God and causing harm to others.

Fourth, he rose to his feet. He knew he needed to leave his old ways behind to change. But he did not just think or talk about it. Instead, he stood to his feet and walked away from his old life and toward the only person that could save him. He went to his father.

The son knew that only his father could save him out of the desperate situation he was in. Who does the father represent? Jesus. It is truth, that only Jesus can save you out of the constant chaos of your life. The chains of immoral living are shackled around your feet and only Christ can lose them and set you free.

How did the father receive the son? The father ran and embraced him because the father knew his son was broken over what he had done. Jesus is waiting to embrace you. Come to Him humble and broken over how you have lived and be set free today.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, open the eyes of the reckless to see their destructive ways. Help them to take responsibility for what they have done and realize you are their only hope. Bring them to leave behind their old life and turn toward you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Why Do We Want to Change Ourselves?

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“God made you a man or woman, and did not make a mistake. Sometimes it can feel like He did when we look at other people and compare, listen to the hurtful words of others or the destructive voices in our own mind. Here is the truth. You were made by the one who sits as King of the Earth on His throne in heaven.”

Do you like who you are? I am sure all of us wish we could change a few things about ourselves. Even the most beautiful or handsome among us. But I am asking something deeper. Do you so dislike some things about yourself that you are willing to go to great lengths to change yourself?

Whoever is walking through such feelings is not alone. Many are traveling this path. This goes beyond feelings though. This is about who someone really is, and where they came from. I am not talking about their family. Large numbers of people come from difficult homes. They may have had a single parent, raised by their grandparents, or have been abused. I want to go back further than their family.

Let us go back to where all of us have come from. “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness . . .’ So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it…’” (Genesis 1:26,27-28)

This is where you and I have come from. We have been created by Almighty God. Before you were born, you were fashioned together by Him. You are not a product of science or biology, but a miracle of the one who fills the universe with His presence.

He made you a man or woman, and did not make a mistake. Sometimes it can feel like He did when we look at other people and compare, listen to the hurtful words of others or the destructive voices in our own mind. Here is the truth. You were made by the one who sits as King of the Earth on His throne in heaven.

What is the evidence of this? You were made in God’s image and the imprint of His likeness is upon you. Where does your laugh come from? Your ability to love, gain knowledge, be creative, show kindness and a host of other things? All from God. This is who He is and He gave some of His likeness to each of us along with physical life. For it is not just your heart, blood and brain that keeps you going. Ultimately, it was God’s Spirit that breathed life in you to make you live. And one day, that life will be withdrawn from you upon death.

Even though we are a wonderful creation of God, there is something not right. Something is amiss. Each one of us is born with a bent toward disobeying our Creator. The bent is called sin. It has touched everything God has created in us and corrupted it. We love, but only certain people. We gain knowledge, but it may not be good or edifying. We are creative, but not in always creating honorable things.

And sometimes this corruption shows itself in the rejection of what God has made – ourselves. This is the root of why we often want to change who we are. Instead of giving God thanks for how He made us and loving ourselves just as we are, we condemn ourselves and want to change what God has made. God is not pleased when we reject what He has made and called it good.

What is the answer? God sent His only Son to rid us of this internal brokenness. If we turn from our disobedience and to God by faith, we will instantly become a new person. Then the separation between us and God will be bridged. You will be one with the God who made you, and finally see yourself through His eyes.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, I pray for those who look at themselves and want to change who they are. Open their eyes to see how they were created by you. Help them to see how there is a corruption within them causing all this. Bring them to turn from their sin, and to faith in Christ. Then lift the veil of darkness so they can see and be made new by the light of Jesus. In His name. Amen.”

Overcoming Hate

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“Hate can be rid from our hearts, along with its companions—bitterness, anger and unforgiveness.  And the chains of hate that others have tried to bound us with, can be snapped off and laid powerless at our feet.  How so?  Through the cross of Jesus Christ.”       

Hate. This is an often-used word in our culture. Hate speech. Acts of hate. Hate crimes. Why do people hate? Sometimes it is aimed at others who are not like them and those who do not conform to their set of beliefs, values or convictions. They are not part of their political party, their religion, or maybe they are a different race or speak a different language. There is something within us as humans that seems to stiffen up or flat out reject those who are not like us. As a result, because of hate, there are always people in society that are rejected, condemned or seemingly pushed to the side.

There was a time when Jesus was teaching people in the temple, and in walked a group of religious leaders immediately gathering the attention of the crowd. They interrupted Jesus’ teaching by heartlessly dragging some unnamed woman with them, and presented her before Him. Then in a further act of public humiliation, they stated that she had been caught having an affair with a married man. Then they asked Jesus what should be done with her, fully knowing what their laws require. They did not care about the woman. She was just a tool being used to challenge Jesus so they could find something to arrest Him for.

After Jesus dealt with the men and they left, He stood there before the quiet and humiliated woman with the crowd watching. He softly spoke to her these words before she left and went back home, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” (John 8:10-11)

The religious leaders treated the woman with hate. Why? Because she was a woman and disobeyed God’s law on adultery. They were selective in their hate though. The man she was having an affair with, was let off by the leaders. And there were many other laws of God they could have picked, maybe even ones they violated. There is never a sense of integrity with hate. By nature, it is always hypocritical and corrupt.

They also hated Jesus. That is why they brought the woman to Him. They hated Him because He did not follow their man-made religious traditions and challenged their beliefs and behavior with the truth. He did not conform to their ways.

What can overcome the cruel hate the religious leaders shamelessly showed? Can it be defeated or is our only option to bow before it and allow it to enslave us?

Praise God, hate can be overcome. It can be rid from our hearts, along with its companions—bitterness, anger and unforgiveness. The chains of hate that others have tried to bound us with, can be snapped off and laid powerless at our feet. How so? Through the cross of Jesus Christ.

Hate in the hearts of evil men put Him on the cross and killed Him. Yet, three days later Jesus rose from the dead overcoming the hate of others. On that day, good triumphed over evil!

Because of Jesus, hate can be defeated. Not by human methods though. For hate comes from a heart controlled by the curse of sin, and it is a spiritual battle to transform that heart into one of love. Why was Jesus not controlled by the hate of others or return hate for the evil spewed upon Him? Because His heart was pure. He heard His opponents’ evil words with a heart of peace and spoke the truth to them with a heart of purity.

Do not let words of hate fall from your lips anymore, and let the days be gone when someone else’s words of hate control you. In Christ is cleansing and freedom. Let Him give you a clean heart and life of freedom through the power of His indwelling Spirit.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, as Christ overcame His hate-filled adversaries, let us overcome it too. We admit our sinful hearts and call upon you to cleanse us and fill us with your very presence, and all that you are. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

How to Know What is Right and Wrong

"When I preach Jesus, I preach the truth. When people turn to Jesus, they turn to the truth. When people follow Jesus, they follow the truth."

Do you believe lying is wrong? What about stealing? If a married man has an adulterous affair with another woman, is that okay? How about when a person commits murder? I believe we would have universal agreement across all races, languages and nations that these are morally wrong.

The questions are broad though. Disagreement can surface when we change from talking generally to personally, and ask, “Do you believe it is wrong for YOU to lie?” “Is it wrong for YOU to steal?” All of the sudden answers may be different now because it is about YOU, and not other people.

Then we can have more disagreement, even controversy, when we move into other areas that are more specific. Do you believe it is morally wrong for two men to marry? What about a man to become a woman? It is wrong for a woman to have an abortion? On these, we are far away from universal agreement. On these moral issues, we might say, “Well, for other people I cannot say, but for me I would never do such and such.”

This all leads to one final question. Are there absolute moral truths for you, me, our family, friends and neighbors where we can know what is right or wrong regardless of personal circumstances, feelings or the opinions of others? In the end, it all comes down to “truth.”

Before Jesus was sentenced to death by crucifixion, He had a conversation with His judge. “You say that I am a king”, Jesus responded to Pilate. “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” This caught Pilate’s curiosity who then asked Jesus, “What is truth?” (John 18:37-38)

This is the question of many today. Jesus did not answer Pilate. Why? Because He already did and Pilate knew it. Jesus was the truth. He stated this earlier to His own disciples declaring, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (Jn. 14:6)

What does that mean, Jesus is the truth?  As the standard for measurement is a ruler, and as the standard for time is a clock, so Jesus is the standard for truth.

How can Jesus make such an astounding and unique claim? Because of His incarnation and resurrection. The Bible declares Jesus was born of a virgin, God was His Father and He was born perfectly moral, with no sin in Him. His incarnate birth bears witness that He is the truth, and so does His resurrection. He died like any other human being, then something happened. He was put in a tomb on Friday, but on Sunday it was empty. He rose from the dead, or rather, He rose Himself from the dead. Jesus once said, “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.” (Jn. 18:17) That is what Jesus did. He chose to die. Then He chose to raise Himself up again. What human being has such power? None. Only the Lord God, and that is whom Jesus is. He is the very living and breathing Word of God. Therefore, Jesus has the right and the authority to boldly state, “I am the truth.”

This has significant implications. Because of His incarnation and resurrection. The Bible declares Jesus was born of a virgin, God was His Father and He was born perfectly moral with no sin in Him. His incarnate birth bears witness that He is the truth, and so does His resurrection. He died like any other human being, then something happened. He was put in a tomb on Friday, but on Sunday it was empty. He rose from the dead, or rather, He rose Himself from the dead. Jesus once said, “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.” (Jn. 18:17) That is what Jesus did. He chose to die. Then He chose to raise Himself up again. What human being has such power? None. Only the Lord God, and that is whom Jesus is. He is the very living and breathing Word of God. Therefore, Jesus has the right and the authority to boldly state, “I am the truth.”

This has significant implications. When I preach Jesus, I preach the truth. When people turn to Jesus, they turn to the truth. When people follow Jesus, they follow the truth. Do not trust in changing circumstances, unreliable feelings or the persuasive words of others. Turn to the unchangeable Truth of Jesus. The very Word of God.

Jesus is the standard for all humanity. The source for determining all that is right and wrong. By Him we will be judged. Come and find mercy at the foot of His cross.

A prayer for you. “Lord God, help us to know the truth in a world of moral confusion. Help us to know Jesus more. To seek Him and His Word that we might live like Him. Help us to turn from lies and deception to the way of Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Awakening a Comfortable Church

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"Many churches today have wonderful buildings, faithful congregations, dependable supporters, encouraging weekly services, but something is missing.  Like the believers in Laodicea, our modern church is missing a zealousness for Christ."

Would any coach want an entire team of content mediocre football players, playing for him? Would any business want a whole company of uninterested employees working for them? Would any pastor want to eagerly lead a congregation of happily complacent believers?

Jesus is the Founder and Chief Shepherd of the church. In straight forward terms He condemns any of His congregations that are filled with these type of contented mediocre, uninterested and complacent followers. There was once a church just like this, and Jesus wrote them a letter saying, “I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 2:15-16)

Jesus used temperature language to illustrate where this church stood in relationship with Him. They did not have a cold distant relationship, nor a passionate one. They were somewhere in the middle, which Jesus forcefully called, lukewarm.

The church had good biblical doctrine. The congregation was morally upright. They were not lazy, but a group of doers, always getting much done in the church. Consequently, their divine rebuke did not result from their beliefs, morals or activity. Instead, it came from their attitude toward their Chief Shepherd. They acknowledged Him, talked about Him, but they did not operate their church, nor live their lives in dependency on Him. And anyone that visited the church could sense this. They may not have been able to put their finger on it, but there was something or rather, someone missing. Jesus.

This is the state of so many churches today. They have wonderful buildings, faithful congregations, dependable supporters, encouraging weekly services, but something is missing. Jesus says to them what He said to the Laodicean church, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.” (Rev. 3:19) Like the believers in Laodicea, the church today is missing a zealousness for Christ. This is another temperature word referring to hot or boiling. There is no burning passion for Jesus. There is no boiling love for Him. Just a contented lukewarmness. And people can feel it. Amidst the solid teaching, friendliness, good programming, something is missing.

In love for His church, Jesus comes to its door and patiently, but steadfastly knocks. All the while, the door remains unknowingly closed to dependency on Him. Even so, He knocks, waiting for anyone in the church to come and welcome Him back in. If they refuse, He will “spit them out of His mouth.” But if they respond and turn from their lukewarmness to a renewed walk with Him, He offers a great promise of blessing upon them.

My fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, take time to examine the spiritual condition of your church and your own walk with Christ. Where is the passion for Jesus? Where is the boiling love for Him? Where is the heavenly zeal? This is not about feelings, but about the bent of one’s whole life and the spiritual state of a congregation.

Listen to Jesus’ loving and persuasive words to His precious bride, “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Rev. 3:20-22)

Hear the Spirit’s call to His church and respond. May we, the church, repent of our lukewarmness and be awakened to a fresh zeal for Christ, the one who died in our place.

A prayer for you. “Shepherd of the church. Search our hearts. Point out if we have strayed from you and lost our zeal. We repent of our love for the world and dependency on ourselves. We turn to you asking that you pour out upon us a renewed passion and love that burns with a raging fire, that nothing in this world can extinguish. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Drugs, a Deal with The Devil

"Drugs. No matter if it is a drink or something that is smoked, injected, snorted or swallowed, they have been around since near the beginning of human history. Why do we do it? Because we believe the lies they promise."

“Drugs.” That is what the Sherriff and Police Chief told me was the greatest problem their area faced when I was seeking to learn about the needs in their respective county and city.

Since nearly the beginning of mankind, the human race has continually had an ongoing battle with drugs. A grotesque scene between a father and his two daughters from long ago captures the influence they have had on humanity for thousands of years. The stunning episode is recorded in the Bible. Lot fled from his home just before his town (Sodom) was destroyed by fire because of the judgment of God. He had lost everything but his two adult daughters, and their new home was a lonely dark cave. No doubt they were all discouraged, grief-stricken, overwhelmed, and unsure what the next step was. Though they were a religious family, they did not call upon God nor search out Lot’s gracious uncle Abraham for help.

Eventually, Lot’s daughters felt desperate to have children and reasoned between themselves that there was no option for them outside of their father. They each conspired to have a one-time incestual relationship with him, and to do it with the help of alcohol. The first night, they spent time with their father, coaxing him to drink. Lot was unaware of his daughters’ plans, but knew that he was drinking alcohol and refused to stop. When he became drunk, one daughter laid down with him. After Lot woke up from his hangover, he did not remember anything other than being drunk. The next night Lot started drinking again and the same thing happened with the other daughter. Lot never realized the implications of his drinking until he found out that both of his daughters were pregnant.

Lot’s daughters wanted something for themselves, but instead of trusting God for it, they rationalized the need to drug their dad to get it. And as for Lot, rather than going to God for help, he went to alcohol and lost his moral compass at a great cost.

Drugs. No matter if it is a drink or something that is smoked, injected, snorted or swallowed, they have been around since near the beginning of human history. Why do we do it? Because we believe the lie, that they can give us some temporary relief. Indeed, drugs are an evil tool that leads to evil things.

They offer grand promises using demonic lies. “Take this for the pain”, they say. “This will help you have a good time”, is said with a devilish smirk. “It will calm you down,” whispers another minion. We believe the promises, treating them like a god, as if they have the power to give us what we are searching for. These false gods have a high price though. They can take nearly all your money, family, job, possessions, reputation and perhaps even your very life and eternal soul, dragging it to the fires of hell. Taking drugs is a deal with the devil and he wins every time.

What’s the answer? From Lot and his daughters, to every person in the world, if they did this one thing, the drug problem would be solved.

Find freedom in Jesus Christ.

Jesus died and rose again to defeat the power of sin, to set men and women free from its strangle hold. Many are like powerless slaves to drugs, following them like a sheep to slaughter. But the cross of Jesus, came to rescue people from the slavery of sin, that they might be free. Turn from your drugs. Throw them away. Flush them down the toilet. Burn them up. Leave them behind and run to Jesus and there you will be free. Freedom is waiting for you!

A prayer for you. “Lord God, I pray for the drug pushers and users. Open their eyes to the lies they are believing. Open their eyes to what their drug is taking from them. Let them no longer be deceived. Then bring them to turn to you. Help them to see the cross and call out to you and be gloriously set free! In Jesus’ name. Amen.”