Psalm 143:1-4 “Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness. And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified. For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead. Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.”
A pastor was going through some really deep water and was walking down the street just having some time alone with the Lord when he noticed a construction worker carving a triangle out of stone. He asked the gentleman what he was making. The man pointed to the steeple of the new church building where there was a small opening. “I’m carving this stone down here so it will fit up there,” the man answered.
The ugly reality is we really wouldn’t fit “up there” in our natural condition. God prepares us through redemption and life experiences so that we long to be “up there” and are fitted to be there. I love the truth of this verse “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 1:6)
Isn’t that a tremendous thought? God is working and will continue to do so until you and I are fitted for eternity. The Apostle Paul spoke of this work in Romans 8:28-30 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called and whom he called them he also justified and whom he justified them he also glorified.”
You and I may not look like much; remember we’re only sinner saved by grace. But God sees us in the righteousness of Christ which has been imputed to us. (Romans 3:21-22) He also sees the finished product after He has made us fitted for “up there.”
Some of the process of God’s carving in our life involves valleys. In my years of working with people I have found many going through valleys. It may be in the death of a loved one. It may have been a baby, a young child or the sudden death of a teen who seemed to just be blossoming into his or her own personality. It may be a dreaded disease which threatens to shorten a person’s own life span. It could be the loss of a job which puts a financial burden on the entire family and puts life long plans on the back burner.
I think one of the hardest valleys a person can face is that of rejection. I’ve hurt and prayed with both men and women whose mates have walked out on them. The loss of finances, security and material possessions is nothing compared to the loss of love. Everybody wants to be loved and rejection is such devastation.
The valley of rejection may come by way of never feeling accepted by a parent. I’ve hurt and prayed with those who have said that they never felt they could do anything to please their dad. The valley of rejection may even come through a parent being held at arm’s length because the son or daughter was disappointed by actions of the parent.
Whatever the valley is in the life of the individual, the sovereign, almighty God has allowed that valley for a purpose. It’s not by accident. Those valleys have distinct characteristics and they bring feelings of depression, discouragement, despair and defeat.
Many people through history have been plagued with dark valleys. As a young lad I sat in the pew of Trinity Baptist Church in Oxford, Alabama and listened as a distinguished gray haired man sat at the piano and sang a classic spiritual song which came out of an trial God had allowed him to go through. His wife had rejected his lifestyle and their marriage. The rejection he felt that day gave way to the work of the Spirit of God in his heart. The void that was left when his wife walked out was filled by the work of the Spirit of God. And that day Dr. Charles Weigle penned the words and music to one of the greatest songs ever written, “No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus.” Not only did that song bless Dr. Weigle’s heart but it has comforted and blessed millions of people down through the years.
One of the saddest things I notice in churches today is that songs like this are omitted in the worship. I have sung that song many, many times and it never gets old. I always remember how God walked through the valley with this godly preacher and brought him out on the other side. It’s an encouragement to me that when I’m in a valley, God is fitting me according to His plan.
When I read many of the Psalms I realize that the godly man who is known as “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) faced valleys also. Psalm 143 was written at a time of depression in his life. Adam Clark’s Commentary states “The Hebrew and all the Versions attribute this Psalm to David; and the Vulgate, Septuagint, AEthiopic and Arabic state that it was composed on the rebellion of his son Absalom: nor is there any thing in the Psalm that positively disagrees with this inscription.”
As I stated earlier I know of no more rejection than that of a child. Absalom not only rejected his father but set out to take his throne from him. I don’t think any of us can totally place ourselves in the sandals of David. All we can do is try to follow the thoughts of this Psalm and try to see David as he conquers, as God brings him out of this dark valley.
Are you in a valley today? Are you overwhelmed with discouragement, depression or defeat? Can I pray with you over the valley you’re in? Send me a message on fb and I’ll hold you up to the Lord at this time. Please submit to God work in your life. Remember, He’s fitting you for “up there.”
In the next few weeks I’ll deal with how David responds to the work of God. We can truly learn from this Psalm.
That’s my view; how about you?
Monday, October 25, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
STARTING RIGHT AND ENDING RIGHT
Proverbs 4:25-27 “Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.”
Uzziah was a biblical character who started right but ended wrong. Uzziah was one of Amaziah’s sons, who the people made king of Judah after his father had been sain. This man reigned about fifty-two years and it was thought to be the most prosperous reign since the time of Solomon, except that of Jehosaphat. In the earlier part of the reign of this kind, under the influence of Zechariah, he was faithful to God, and the Word of God said that he “did that which was right in the sight of Lord, according to all that his father Amaziah had done.” (II Kings 15:3)
It would have been great if this had lasted but toward the close of his long life, the Bible records that "his heart was lifted up to his destruction," and he invaded the priest's office. (II Chronicles 26:16) He defiantly entered the sanctuary and proceeded to offer incense on the golden altar. Azariah the high priest saw the error of such a daring act on the part of the king, and with a band of eighty priests he withstood the king to his face. (II Chronicles 26:17) The king was told that he had no right to do what only the priests could do. Uzziah was suddenly struck with leprosy while in the act of offering incense. (II Chronicles 26:19-21) Uzziah was driven from the temple and compelled to reside in "a several house" (house by himself) to the day of his death. (II Kings 15:5, 27; II Chronicles 26:3) He was buried in a separate grave "in the field of the burial which belonged to the kings." (II Kings 15:7; II Chronicles 26:23)
For generations to come that lonely grave would be a testimony that even the king must bow before the will of God that is found in the law of God. It would also testify that any interference with God plan and will would not be tolerated.
What I want to point out is that Uzziah started out right but he did not finish right. That’s important. The life of any individual should not only start right but end right. It can be done. Daniel started right and ended right, even though he faced many tests and trials in his life. He was raised in a foreign land with an ungodly environment. This man took a stand when told to violate his convictions. How did he do this? He had determined beforehand “that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank:” (Daniel 1:8)
Daniel was later elevated to a very high government position. He was faithful to his personal time with God. He prayed 3 times a day and that got him the opportunity to spend a night with the lions. But it’s great to see how God vindicated him and the king made a decree that there was no god like Daniel’s God. Daniel started right and also ended right.
Another great example of starting right and ending right is Joseph. I’m not going to go into as much example of his life as I did Daniel but Joseph also faced hardships and stayed true to the plan of God for his life. He was sold by his brothers into slavery, falsely accused by his master’s wife, thrown into prison and deceived by fellow-prisoners. But God did vindicate this godly man and elevated him to second position in the nation and used him to put together a plan that eventually saved his family and the entire nation. Daniel started right and ended right.
Let’s bring this down to today. How does a person start out right and be able to end up right?
1. Get Saved – This is where it starts. In fact, if you do not accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, you are not even on the road to finish right. We read in John 14:6 “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” This is where it begins.
2. Make Right Decisions – I learned this principle many years ago. “You are PRESENTLY the sum total of the PAST decisions you have made.” This is where many people have failed. They have made bad decisions. Maybe they have started and quit. They may have gotten involved in sin and drifted away from God. You can have forgiveness for those sins and failures. We read in I John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
“You ARE BECOMING the sum total of the PRESENT decisions you are making.” This makes every decision you make important to you. If I want to finish right then I must look at every decision I have to make in light of the Word of God. Psalm 119:11 we read “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” We also read in Psalm 37:31 “The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.” Pray about every decision you are called on to make.
3. Have a DAILY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD – I’m talking about Bible study and Prayer. Notice what we read in II Timothy 2:15 “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Reread the vese I used earlier. (Psalm 119:11)
Look at our text verses again: Proverbs 4:25-27 “Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.”
1. Start Right = “Let thine eyes look right on” Straightforward integrity lies at the foundation of all true excellence and permanent success. Start right with the Lord. Integrity will also take you a long way. (That will probably another “Challenging Concept” one day.)
2. Make Right Choices = “Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.” I’ve talked about the importance of making right choices.
3. Be Consistent – “Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil” Some people are hot and cold! You can’t depend on them. They have good intentions, but . . . This word “but” is tragic in so many lives.
What Are You Going To Do? How Are You Going To Start? How Are You Going To Finish? I pray you have started right and will be faithful until the end!
That’s my view; how about you?
Uzziah was a biblical character who started right but ended wrong. Uzziah was one of Amaziah’s sons, who the people made king of Judah after his father had been sain. This man reigned about fifty-two years and it was thought to be the most prosperous reign since the time of Solomon, except that of Jehosaphat. In the earlier part of the reign of this kind, under the influence of Zechariah, he was faithful to God, and the Word of God said that he “did that which was right in the sight of Lord, according to all that his father Amaziah had done.” (II Kings 15:3)
It would have been great if this had lasted but toward the close of his long life, the Bible records that "his heart was lifted up to his destruction," and he invaded the priest's office. (II Chronicles 26:16) He defiantly entered the sanctuary and proceeded to offer incense on the golden altar. Azariah the high priest saw the error of such a daring act on the part of the king, and with a band of eighty priests he withstood the king to his face. (II Chronicles 26:17) The king was told that he had no right to do what only the priests could do. Uzziah was suddenly struck with leprosy while in the act of offering incense. (II Chronicles 26:19-21) Uzziah was driven from the temple and compelled to reside in "a several house" (house by himself) to the day of his death. (II Kings 15:5, 27; II Chronicles 26:3) He was buried in a separate grave "in the field of the burial which belonged to the kings." (II Kings 15:7; II Chronicles 26:23)
For generations to come that lonely grave would be a testimony that even the king must bow before the will of God that is found in the law of God. It would also testify that any interference with God plan and will would not be tolerated.
What I want to point out is that Uzziah started out right but he did not finish right. That’s important. The life of any individual should not only start right but end right. It can be done. Daniel started right and ended right, even though he faced many tests and trials in his life. He was raised in a foreign land with an ungodly environment. This man took a stand when told to violate his convictions. How did he do this? He had determined beforehand “that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank:” (Daniel 1:8)
Daniel was later elevated to a very high government position. He was faithful to his personal time with God. He prayed 3 times a day and that got him the opportunity to spend a night with the lions. But it’s great to see how God vindicated him and the king made a decree that there was no god like Daniel’s God. Daniel started right and also ended right.
Another great example of starting right and ending right is Joseph. I’m not going to go into as much example of his life as I did Daniel but Joseph also faced hardships and stayed true to the plan of God for his life. He was sold by his brothers into slavery, falsely accused by his master’s wife, thrown into prison and deceived by fellow-prisoners. But God did vindicate this godly man and elevated him to second position in the nation and used him to put together a plan that eventually saved his family and the entire nation. Daniel started right and ended right.
Let’s bring this down to today. How does a person start out right and be able to end up right?
1. Get Saved – This is where it starts. In fact, if you do not accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, you are not even on the road to finish right. We read in John 14:6 “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” This is where it begins.
2. Make Right Decisions – I learned this principle many years ago. “You are PRESENTLY the sum total of the PAST decisions you have made.” This is where many people have failed. They have made bad decisions. Maybe they have started and quit. They may have gotten involved in sin and drifted away from God. You can have forgiveness for those sins and failures. We read in I John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
“You ARE BECOMING the sum total of the PRESENT decisions you are making.” This makes every decision you make important to you. If I want to finish right then I must look at every decision I have to make in light of the Word of God. Psalm 119:11 we read “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” We also read in Psalm 37:31 “The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.” Pray about every decision you are called on to make.
3. Have a DAILY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD – I’m talking about Bible study and Prayer. Notice what we read in II Timothy 2:15 “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Reread the vese I used earlier. (Psalm 119:11)
Look at our text verses again: Proverbs 4:25-27 “Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.”
1. Start Right = “Let thine eyes look right on” Straightforward integrity lies at the foundation of all true excellence and permanent success. Start right with the Lord. Integrity will also take you a long way. (That will probably another “Challenging Concept” one day.)
2. Make Right Choices = “Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.” I’ve talked about the importance of making right choices.
3. Be Consistent – “Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil” Some people are hot and cold! You can’t depend on them. They have good intentions, but . . . This word “but” is tragic in so many lives.
What Are You Going To Do? How Are You Going To Start? How Are You Going To Finish? I pray you have started right and will be faithful until the end!
That’s my view; how about you?
Monday, October 11, 2010
DELIVERANCE FROM DOUBTS – Pt 3
Matthew 11:1-6 “And it came to pass when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities. Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.”
In the first two “Challenging Concepts” from John the Baptist’s time in prison, we have looked at the question he wanted Jesus to answer. I really do believe that because of the circumstance he’s in and the wrong idea of what the Messiah was to do, John was having some major questions and maybe even doubts. But remember, doubt is not unbelief it’s only a need for more info or reassurance.
Now we pick up the narrative and see how Jesus responds to the question posed to Him from His faithful servant. We have seen his DOUBTS. Now let’s see:
HIS DISCOVERY
Notice verses 4-5, "Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them." Jesus responds, not react. That’s the difference between the Spirit and the flesh. What did John discover?
1. Jesus Is GENTLE – If you and I had gotten this question we might have given John a harsh rebuke, but that’s not the gentle Lord. Jesus could have said “John, don’t you remember the Spirit descending on me when I was baptized? Haven’t you preached about me coming and haven’t you heard about what has been happening? Who are you to question who I am?” But that’s not the response of the Lord. He is so gentle. He is so patient and full of grace.
Aren’t you glad that Jesus deals with us with patience and longsuffering?
Jesus tells the disciples of John to go back and remind him of the miracles that He had performed. Jesus said, “Remember John that these are fulfillments of prophecy.” We read in Isaiah 35:5-6, "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert." Jesus is so gentle.
2. Jesus Is GOOD - Notice what we read in verses 8-15 “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”
I do not have time in this blog to deal with everything that Jesus says about John in this passage of Scripture. What Jesus does, though, is lift up this godly man before his followers. Jesus says that they had not gone out to follow an effeminate man. This man John was more than just a prophet, even though he was a prophet. John the Baptist was a prophet and a forerunner and way-preparer. And even though his circumstances had brought some questions and even doubts in his life, he was still a useful servant of God.
Aren’t you glad that God uses us even with our weaknesses? This should be a real eye-opener for us. We sometimes think if someone has a problem in their life, we can’t use them. Remember, we are all imperfect believers with room to grow in our lives, but God still wants to use us. I’m thankful for that.
Notice verse 11 “Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: . . .” What a statement Jesus uses to build up John in the front of those who had been sent to Jesus with the question. What an example of kindness and gentleness.
We have noticed John’s DOUBT and his DISCOVERY. Now let’s notice one last thing:
HIS DIRECTIVE
Notice what we read in verse 6 “And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.” The word “offended” means “to stumble.” Jesus is saying blessed is the individual who does not “stumble” at what comes into their life. There is nothing that happens in the life of the believer that is an accident. Everything that comes into our life has to cross God’s desk and get his stamp of approval. And because of that, we should not “stumble” in our walk with the Lord.
Think about the circumstance that John is in here. He is in prison for taking a stand against sin. He is discouraged, disillusioned, down in the dumps and away from family and friends. He has learned that “absence does not make the heart grow fonder.” He no longer can see Jesus perform miracles and change lives. He is at a dangerous point in his life and Jesus says, “John, don’t “stumble” at what is going on in your life.
There is a warning for us here. When we go through trials and we have some questions about why it is happening like it is, stop and remind yourself that God is still on the throne and He’s in control of the circumstances. We should not “stumble” in our walk with Christ. When we have questions, we should do what John the Baptist did and take those questions to the Lord. He’s the only one who can solve our problems and answer our questions.
There are some tremendous benefits to living without doubts. Knowing that even trials are part of God’s will for your life. This makes the circumstances so much better and easier to handle.
1. There Is DELIGHT in certainty – Psalm 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” Notice also Psalm 37:11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” The child of God must come to the place of absolute trust in God’s dealings with us. This is the only place of peace, contentment and real joy. We must get in the Word of God and walk daily with the Lord no matter what circumstances come our way.
2. There Is DISTRESS in uncertainty – Questions and doubts make a person miserable. Too many people, who profess to be believers, live miserable lives. This is not God’s plan for a Christian’s life.
Let me close by saying that some very good people sometimes have problems. Think about Elijah who had stood alone on Mount Carmel and faced down a king, a false god and had prayed down fire from heaven. But then he went out under a juniper tree and asked God to let him die. God had to work with him and continue to strengthen his faith time and time again. If you have problems and questions, you’re in pretty good company.
Secondly, God knows how to gently deal with a person with questions and doubts. God can deal with rebellion very strongly, but if a person needs reassurance and faith, God knows exactly how to work with gentleness and kindness. Don’t be afraid to admit your weakness. Go to the Word of God with honest openness and God will meet you there.
That’s my view; how about you?
In the first two “Challenging Concepts” from John the Baptist’s time in prison, we have looked at the question he wanted Jesus to answer. I really do believe that because of the circumstance he’s in and the wrong idea of what the Messiah was to do, John was having some major questions and maybe even doubts. But remember, doubt is not unbelief it’s only a need for more info or reassurance.
Now we pick up the narrative and see how Jesus responds to the question posed to Him from His faithful servant. We have seen his DOUBTS. Now let’s see:
HIS DISCOVERY
Notice verses 4-5, "Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them." Jesus responds, not react. That’s the difference between the Spirit and the flesh. What did John discover?
1. Jesus Is GENTLE – If you and I had gotten this question we might have given John a harsh rebuke, but that’s not the gentle Lord. Jesus could have said “John, don’t you remember the Spirit descending on me when I was baptized? Haven’t you preached about me coming and haven’t you heard about what has been happening? Who are you to question who I am?” But that’s not the response of the Lord. He is so gentle. He is so patient and full of grace.
Aren’t you glad that Jesus deals with us with patience and longsuffering?
Jesus tells the disciples of John to go back and remind him of the miracles that He had performed. Jesus said, “Remember John that these are fulfillments of prophecy.” We read in Isaiah 35:5-6, "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert." Jesus is so gentle.
2. Jesus Is GOOD - Notice what we read in verses 8-15 “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”
I do not have time in this blog to deal with everything that Jesus says about John in this passage of Scripture. What Jesus does, though, is lift up this godly man before his followers. Jesus says that they had not gone out to follow an effeminate man. This man John was more than just a prophet, even though he was a prophet. John the Baptist was a prophet and a forerunner and way-preparer. And even though his circumstances had brought some questions and even doubts in his life, he was still a useful servant of God.
Aren’t you glad that God uses us even with our weaknesses? This should be a real eye-opener for us. We sometimes think if someone has a problem in their life, we can’t use them. Remember, we are all imperfect believers with room to grow in our lives, but God still wants to use us. I’m thankful for that.
Notice verse 11 “Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: . . .” What a statement Jesus uses to build up John in the front of those who had been sent to Jesus with the question. What an example of kindness and gentleness.
We have noticed John’s DOUBT and his DISCOVERY. Now let’s notice one last thing:
HIS DIRECTIVE
Notice what we read in verse 6 “And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.” The word “offended” means “to stumble.” Jesus is saying blessed is the individual who does not “stumble” at what comes into their life. There is nothing that happens in the life of the believer that is an accident. Everything that comes into our life has to cross God’s desk and get his stamp of approval. And because of that, we should not “stumble” in our walk with the Lord.
Think about the circumstance that John is in here. He is in prison for taking a stand against sin. He is discouraged, disillusioned, down in the dumps and away from family and friends. He has learned that “absence does not make the heart grow fonder.” He no longer can see Jesus perform miracles and change lives. He is at a dangerous point in his life and Jesus says, “John, don’t “stumble” at what is going on in your life.
There is a warning for us here. When we go through trials and we have some questions about why it is happening like it is, stop and remind yourself that God is still on the throne and He’s in control of the circumstances. We should not “stumble” in our walk with Christ. When we have questions, we should do what John the Baptist did and take those questions to the Lord. He’s the only one who can solve our problems and answer our questions.
There are some tremendous benefits to living without doubts. Knowing that even trials are part of God’s will for your life. This makes the circumstances so much better and easier to handle.
1. There Is DELIGHT in certainty – Psalm 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” Notice also Psalm 37:11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” The child of God must come to the place of absolute trust in God’s dealings with us. This is the only place of peace, contentment and real joy. We must get in the Word of God and walk daily with the Lord no matter what circumstances come our way.
2. There Is DISTRESS in uncertainty – Questions and doubts make a person miserable. Too many people, who profess to be believers, live miserable lives. This is not God’s plan for a Christian’s life.
Let me close by saying that some very good people sometimes have problems. Think about Elijah who had stood alone on Mount Carmel and faced down a king, a false god and had prayed down fire from heaven. But then he went out under a juniper tree and asked God to let him die. God had to work with him and continue to strengthen his faith time and time again. If you have problems and questions, you’re in pretty good company.
Secondly, God knows how to gently deal with a person with questions and doubts. God can deal with rebellion very strongly, but if a person needs reassurance and faith, God knows exactly how to work with gentleness and kindness. Don’t be afraid to admit your weakness. Go to the Word of God with honest openness and God will meet you there.
That’s my view; how about you?
Monday, October 4, 2010
DELIVERANCE FROM DOUBTS – Pt 2
Matthew 11:1-6 "And it came to pass when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities. Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.”
In last week’s “Challenging Concepts” we explored the questions and doubts of the forerunner prophet John the Baptist, especially the CAUSES of this issue. If you didn’t read that blog, please refer to it at the left of this page. This week we’re going to explore the CONDUCT of dout.
Doubt is not UNBELIEF. If you want to evaluate the life of one who was a doubter, you could find none any more suited than the disciple Thomas. He was a doubter of the first order, even being referred to as Douting Thomas for generations. The question js not whether or not he was a doubter. The question is whether or not his life was one of unbelief. Let us look at the facts:
1. Thomas was willing to DIE FOR CHRIST - In John 11 Jesus goes to Judea. It was here that there was an attempt to take the life of the Messiah by stoning Him. This was a very dangerous place for Jesus to go. The disciples remind Him of the previous attempt on His life and warn Him, but realize that the death of Lazarus had given Him an opportunity to minister so He was determined. Who steps up to the plate? Notice John 11:16, "Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go that we may die with Him.” Thomas was saying, “If we die; we die.” He was not a man of unbelief. He was willing to die with and for His Master.
2. Thomas was willing to ASK THE HARD QUESTIONS - Doubt is a need for more evidence to confirm your belief. In the fourteenth chapter of John Jesus is trying to prepare His disciples for His departure. He tells them of the mansions He’s preparing for them. He reassures them that He’s going but He will return to get them. He then tells them they know the way, at which time it is Thomas who steps forward and ask the question which was probably in all their minds. We read in John 14:5 "Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest and how can we know the way?" Thomas is not a man of unbelief. He just needs more information so he’s willing to ask the tough question.
3. Thomas is willing to ACT ON EVIDENCE – When Jesus appeared to His disciples after the resurrection, Thomas was not present. Why? The rest of the disciples were behind closed door for fear of the Jews. Was Thomas more brave? I don’t know where he was and why he was not with the rest. The Bible does not tell us. But when he heard that the other disciples claimed to have seen the Lord, Thomas needed more proof that it was truly Jesus. We read in John 20:25 “. . . Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” He needed more evidence. Eight days later all the disciples, including Thomas, are again together and Jesus appears to them again. Jesus told Thomas to put his fingers into the scars in this hand and place his hand into His side. In other words, examine the evidence. And how does Thomas respond? Notice John 20:28 “And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.” He had received the evidence needed and he acted upon it.
Thomas had not refused to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead and appeared to the others, he just needed reassurance by seeing for himself.
Ian Johnson: "Doubt is the sincere question; unbelief is the unwillingness to hear the answer."
Just because John the Baptist had some questions and doubts does not mean that he had forsaken his beliefs. When you put yourself into John’s shoes and understand his limited knowledge about the purpose that Jesus had come, then you realize that this great man of God is only seeking more information and reassurance that his ministry has been on target. John is visiting the place of doubt, but he’s not enjoying it so he sends his disciples to get answers.
I’m sure that each of us have been at this place in our own lives. And, doubt may be a place where we visit every once in a while in the future. I think that would be natural for most people. There are circumstances we face that cause us to reconnect with former questions we have had. So let’s not beat ourselves up if we visit doubts about why God allows us to face these circumstances.
We may visit the place of doubts, but let’s not live there.
In next week’s “Challenging Concepts” we’ll examine how Jesus deals with the questions of His cousin and servant.
That’s my view; how about you?
In last week’s “Challenging Concepts” we explored the questions and doubts of the forerunner prophet John the Baptist, especially the CAUSES of this issue. If you didn’t read that blog, please refer to it at the left of this page. This week we’re going to explore the CONDUCT of dout.
Doubt is not UNBELIEF. If you want to evaluate the life of one who was a doubter, you could find none any more suited than the disciple Thomas. He was a doubter of the first order, even being referred to as Douting Thomas for generations. The question js not whether or not he was a doubter. The question is whether or not his life was one of unbelief. Let us look at the facts:
1. Thomas was willing to DIE FOR CHRIST - In John 11 Jesus goes to Judea. It was here that there was an attempt to take the life of the Messiah by stoning Him. This was a very dangerous place for Jesus to go. The disciples remind Him of the previous attempt on His life and warn Him, but realize that the death of Lazarus had given Him an opportunity to minister so He was determined. Who steps up to the plate? Notice John 11:16, "Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go that we may die with Him.” Thomas was saying, “If we die; we die.” He was not a man of unbelief. He was willing to die with and for His Master.
2. Thomas was willing to ASK THE HARD QUESTIONS - Doubt is a need for more evidence to confirm your belief. In the fourteenth chapter of John Jesus is trying to prepare His disciples for His departure. He tells them of the mansions He’s preparing for them. He reassures them that He’s going but He will return to get them. He then tells them they know the way, at which time it is Thomas who steps forward and ask the question which was probably in all their minds. We read in John 14:5 "Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest and how can we know the way?" Thomas is not a man of unbelief. He just needs more information so he’s willing to ask the tough question.
3. Thomas is willing to ACT ON EVIDENCE – When Jesus appeared to His disciples after the resurrection, Thomas was not present. Why? The rest of the disciples were behind closed door for fear of the Jews. Was Thomas more brave? I don’t know where he was and why he was not with the rest. The Bible does not tell us. But when he heard that the other disciples claimed to have seen the Lord, Thomas needed more proof that it was truly Jesus. We read in John 20:25 “. . . Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” He needed more evidence. Eight days later all the disciples, including Thomas, are again together and Jesus appears to them again. Jesus told Thomas to put his fingers into the scars in this hand and place his hand into His side. In other words, examine the evidence. And how does Thomas respond? Notice John 20:28 “And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.” He had received the evidence needed and he acted upon it.
Thomas had not refused to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead and appeared to the others, he just needed reassurance by seeing for himself.
Ian Johnson: "Doubt is the sincere question; unbelief is the unwillingness to hear the answer."
Just because John the Baptist had some questions and doubts does not mean that he had forsaken his beliefs. When you put yourself into John’s shoes and understand his limited knowledge about the purpose that Jesus had come, then you realize that this great man of God is only seeking more information and reassurance that his ministry has been on target. John is visiting the place of doubt, but he’s not enjoying it so he sends his disciples to get answers.
I’m sure that each of us have been at this place in our own lives. And, doubt may be a place where we visit every once in a while in the future. I think that would be natural for most people. There are circumstances we face that cause us to reconnect with former questions we have had. So let’s not beat ourselves up if we visit doubts about why God allows us to face these circumstances.
We may visit the place of doubts, but let’s not live there.
In next week’s “Challenging Concepts” we’ll examine how Jesus deals with the questions of His cousin and servant.
That’s my view; how about you?
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