"John 14:1-31
Honour the Lord to the end
Saul started off very well. God had given him great success. In the passage for today we can learn from Saul’s good example in the early days of his leadership.
However, he did not finish well due to disobedience and arrogance. Partial obedience is still disobedience. Not only did he disobey God, but he ‘set up a victory monument in his own honour’ (15:12, MSG). How different this is from Jesus who, as we see in today’s passage, had only one aim in life – to bring glory to his Father (John 14:13).
Samuel tells Saul, ‘When you started out in this, you were nothing – and you knew it. Then God put you at the head of Israel – made you king over Israel ... why did you not obey God? ... He wants you to listen to him! Plain listening is the thing, not staging a lavish religious production. Not doing what God tells you is far worse than fooling around in the occult. Getting self-important around God is far worse than making deals with your dead ancestors. Because you said No to God’s command, he says No to your kingship’ (1 Samuel 15:17–23, MSG).
Power is so dangerous. Its abuse corrupts. Success can so easily lead to pride and arrogance. That in turn can lead to idolatry.
Lord, we pray with the psalmist, ‘Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory’ (Psalm 115:1). Lord, help us to avoid the disobedience and arrogance of Saul, and to follow the obedience and humility of Jesus.
Lord, come and make your home in my heart today. May the Spirit of truth lead and guide me, and give me your peace."
1. Amen! Not to me but to Your name. Thank You, all glory to You.
2. Thank You for the existence of different perspectives. They teach me more understanding.
3. Thank You for being able to appreciate great music.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Thursday, July 30, 2015
The Legacy
"John 14:1-31
Trust in the legacy of Jesus
Are you troubled, distressed, agitated or afraid? Jesus does not want you to be troubled, but to have peace in your heart (vv.1,27).
Jesus knows that his life on this earth is about to finish. He is about to leave his disciples (v.27); he is going back to the Father (v.3). Yet he says to them, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled, distressed, agitated’ (v.1, AMP). ‘Peace I leave with you’ (v.27). Jesus does not leave us alone but passes on to us an amazing legacy.
Jesus has good plans for your future
Jesus says, ‘There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home ... I’m on my way to get your room ready’ (v.2, MSG). In Christ our long-term future is totally secure.
Jesus is coming back for you
The end of earthly life is not the end. Jesus told his followers, ‘I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am’ (v.3).
Jesus has opened the way for you to know God
Thomas asks, ‘How can we know the way?’ Jesus replies, ‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’ (vv.5–6).
Jesus reveals God for you
Philip says, ‘Lord, show us the Father’ (v.8). Jesus replies, ‘Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father’ (v.9). If you want to know what God looks like, look at Jesus.
Jesus will do even greater things through you
Jesus will do even greater miracles through his disciples than he did while he was on earth (v.12).
Jesus will continue to answer your prayers
‘From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I’ll do it. That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son. I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I’ll do’ (vv.13–14, MSG).
Jesus will never leave you alone
Jesus says, ‘I will not leave you as orphans’ (v.18). He says that he’ll ‘provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. This Friend is the Spirit of Truth ... he has been staying with you, and will even be in you!’ (vv.16–17, MSG).
Jesus will continue to love you
‘Those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them’ (v.21b).
Jesus and the Father will make their home with you
Jesus said, ‘Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them’ (v.23).
Jesus leaves you with peace
‘Peace I leave with you … Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid’ (v.27).
How is all this possible? The way in which Jesus passes on his legacy to you is through the Holy Spirit. He will send the Holy Spirit to live in your heart. ‘The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you’ (v.26, MSG).
Jesus had thought it through very carefully and had made a great succession plan!
Lord, thank you for giving me such an amazing legacy. Thank you that you give me the Holy Spirit, to be with me forever. Thank you that you live in me. Thank you that you and the Father come and make your home with me. Thank you that you give me your peace and you promise to answer my prayers.
Thank you that you say, ‘You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it’ (v.14). "
1. Indeed, Lord, today, I ask in Your name to guard my heart and strengthen me as I face incoming trials. You are always with me and may I always listen to You.
2. Thank You, Lord, for freshly baked Banh Mi in the midst of the rain.
3. Thank You for the rain that reminds me of cleansing.
Trust in the legacy of Jesus
Are you troubled, distressed, agitated or afraid? Jesus does not want you to be troubled, but to have peace in your heart (vv.1,27).
Jesus knows that his life on this earth is about to finish. He is about to leave his disciples (v.27); he is going back to the Father (v.3). Yet he says to them, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled, distressed, agitated’ (v.1, AMP). ‘Peace I leave with you’ (v.27). Jesus does not leave us alone but passes on to us an amazing legacy.
Jesus has good plans for your future
Jesus says, ‘There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home ... I’m on my way to get your room ready’ (v.2, MSG). In Christ our long-term future is totally secure.
Jesus is coming back for you
The end of earthly life is not the end. Jesus told his followers, ‘I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am’ (v.3).
Jesus has opened the way for you to know God
Thomas asks, ‘How can we know the way?’ Jesus replies, ‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’ (vv.5–6).
Jesus reveals God for you
Philip says, ‘Lord, show us the Father’ (v.8). Jesus replies, ‘Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father’ (v.9). If you want to know what God looks like, look at Jesus.
Jesus will do even greater things through you
Jesus will do even greater miracles through his disciples than he did while he was on earth (v.12).
Jesus will continue to answer your prayers
‘From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I’ll do it. That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son. I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I’ll do’ (vv.13–14, MSG).
Jesus will never leave you alone
Jesus says, ‘I will not leave you as orphans’ (v.18). He says that he’ll ‘provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. This Friend is the Spirit of Truth ... he has been staying with you, and will even be in you!’ (vv.16–17, MSG).
Jesus will continue to love you
‘Those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them’ (v.21b).
Jesus and the Father will make their home with you
Jesus said, ‘Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them’ (v.23).
Jesus leaves you with peace
‘Peace I leave with you … Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid’ (v.27).
How is all this possible? The way in which Jesus passes on his legacy to you is through the Holy Spirit. He will send the Holy Spirit to live in your heart. ‘The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you’ (v.26, MSG).
Jesus had thought it through very carefully and had made a great succession plan!
Lord, thank you for giving me such an amazing legacy. Thank you that you give me the Holy Spirit, to be with me forever. Thank you that you live in me. Thank you that you and the Father come and make your home with me. Thank you that you give me your peace and you promise to answer my prayers.
Thank you that you say, ‘You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it’ (v.14). "
1. Indeed, Lord, today, I ask in Your name to guard my heart and strengthen me as I face incoming trials. You are always with me and may I always listen to You.
2. Thank You, Lord, for freshly baked Banh Mi in the midst of the rain.
3. Thank You for the rain that reminds me of cleansing.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
What is Righteousness?
"Proverbs 12:28-13:9
Take the long view
The writer of Proverbs encourages us to take the long view and stay in the way of ‘righteousness’ where ‘there is life; along that path is immortality’ (12:28). We need to avoid the temptation to focus just on the here and now, and act in the light of eternity.
What does a righteous life look like?
Listen to parental advice
‘A wise child heeds a parent’s instruction’ (13:1). Honouring parents is high on the list of God’s priorities. Family life and good parenting are so important. I do recommend The Parenting Book by Nicky and Sila Lee.
Guard your lips
‘Those who guard their lips guard their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin’ (v.3). It is impossible to overestimate the importance of our words and of controlling the tongue.
Work hard
‘The desires of the diligent are fully satisfied’ (v.4). Work is a blessing. Success can be hard work. It requires diligent perseverance. Winston Churchill said, ‘Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.’
Love the truth
‘The righteous hate what is false’ (v.5). We are to hate dishonesty and love the truth. Mark Twain once said, ‘If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.’
Be a person of integrity
‘Righteousness guards the person of integrity’ (v.6). Integrity does not mean being perfect. It means being honest, real and authentic (it is the opposite of hypocrisy). In his book, Integrity, the clinical psychologist Dr Henry Cloud writes that integrity ‘is the key to success. A person with integrity has the – often rare – ability to pull everything together, to make it all happen no matter how challenging the circumstances.’
Lord, help me to take the long view and to stay on the path of righteousness, life and immortality. Help me to be wise, to honour parents, to guard my lips, to work hard, to speak the truth and to live a life of integrity.
1. To live a life of truth - yes, Lord, thank You for never ever getting tired of reminding me about this.
2. Thank You for Skype, as if distance does not matter at all.
3. Thank You for the rest You give. Thank You for antibodies, too.
Take the long view
The writer of Proverbs encourages us to take the long view and stay in the way of ‘righteousness’ where ‘there is life; along that path is immortality’ (12:28). We need to avoid the temptation to focus just on the here and now, and act in the light of eternity.
What does a righteous life look like?
Listen to parental advice
‘A wise child heeds a parent’s instruction’ (13:1). Honouring parents is high on the list of God’s priorities. Family life and good parenting are so important. I do recommend The Parenting Book by Nicky and Sila Lee.
Guard your lips
‘Those who guard their lips guard their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin’ (v.3). It is impossible to overestimate the importance of our words and of controlling the tongue.
Work hard
‘The desires of the diligent are fully satisfied’ (v.4). Work is a blessing. Success can be hard work. It requires diligent perseverance. Winston Churchill said, ‘Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.’
Love the truth
‘The righteous hate what is false’ (v.5). We are to hate dishonesty and love the truth. Mark Twain once said, ‘If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.’
Be a person of integrity
‘Righteousness guards the person of integrity’ (v.6). Integrity does not mean being perfect. It means being honest, real and authentic (it is the opposite of hypocrisy). In his book, Integrity, the clinical psychologist Dr Henry Cloud writes that integrity ‘is the key to success. A person with integrity has the – often rare – ability to pull everything together, to make it all happen no matter how challenging the circumstances.’
Lord, help me to take the long view and to stay on the path of righteousness, life and immortality. Help me to be wise, to honour parents, to guard my lips, to work hard, to speak the truth and to live a life of integrity.
1. To live a life of truth - yes, Lord, thank You for never ever getting tired of reminding me about this.
2. Thank You for Skype, as if distance does not matter at all.
3. Thank You for the rest You give. Thank You for antibodies, too.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Finishing Well
"You can finish well. You may have had a bad start in life. You may have messed up along the way. You may have made mistakes. You may have regrets. But you can finish well and that is what matters most.
Some start well but fall. In the recession, many of the companies that Jim Collins had profiled in his international bestseller Good to Great fell. He argued that the fall of the previously great companies did not negate the principles of the earlier books. However, it showed us that even the ‘mightiest’ of companies can fall.
In his most recent book, How the Mighty Fall, he examines the path towards doom. The first stage of the process begins with ‘hubris born of success’. As with Saul in the Old Testament passage for today, it is arrogance that begins the process by which the mighty fall.
It is more important to finish well than to start well. In the New Testament, Saul (of Tarsus) started off very badly (he was a persecutor of Jesus and was complicit in murder), but he finished well (as the great apostle, Paul). On the other hand, as we see in today’s Old Testament passage, Saul (king of Israel) started very well but did not finish well.
Jesus, as always, shows us the way. His life was relatively short. He died in his early thirties, yet he finished well. He prays to the Father, ‘I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do’ (John 17:4).
This is my ambition in life. I want to complete the work God has given me to do. How can we all make sure we finish well?"
1. Yes, Lord. Cleanse and guard my heart while I am in this world. Thank You for such great examples of real people who have finished well.
2. Thank You for Your provision that I was able to do my tasks in spite of respiratory weakness. Thank You for Your grace always.
3. Thank You for awesome Vietnamese food, I could not get enough. :)
Monday, July 27, 2015
Rushing Into Rash Decisions
"John 13:18-38
Love like God
There are times in our lives when we may feel outnumbered by problems – illness, temptation, attacks on our faith and so on – but God is able to save us, if he acts on our behalf. However much we seem to be outnumbered by our enemies, if the Lord acts on our behalf we will be saved.
We need to trust God not just when things are going well, but also in the difficult times. God is looking for men and women of faith.
Samuel said, ‘The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people’ (13:14).
God’s heart is full of love, compassion, mercy, justice and creativity. He is looking for people who are like him – like Jesus. Only the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts can make us like Jesus.
Saul failed. God had told Saul to wait until Samuel arrived. When Samuel was delayed, the people became restless. Saul cared more about what the people thought than what God thought. He became impatient and panicked (vv.6–12), just as we so often do. We need to learn to be more patient – to wait for God to act – and not panic if little things go wrong, such as Samuel being late. We must not rush into rash decisions in the heat of the moment.
Jonathan, on the other hand, trusted ultimately in God’s love. He said ‘Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few’ (14:6).
Lord, please give me a heart like yours – a heart of love. Help me to trust in your unfailing love. Thank you that your love is poured into my heart by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to me (Romans 5:5). Lord, please pour your love into my heart today."
1. Thank You for saving me despite my struggles. Come Holy Spirit.
2. Thank You Lord for home time. Thank You for weaknesses that I may realize my body needs rest too.
3. Thank You for being my strength, in everything.
Love like God
There are times in our lives when we may feel outnumbered by problems – illness, temptation, attacks on our faith and so on – but God is able to save us, if he acts on our behalf. However much we seem to be outnumbered by our enemies, if the Lord acts on our behalf we will be saved.
We need to trust God not just when things are going well, but also in the difficult times. God is looking for men and women of faith.
Samuel said, ‘The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people’ (13:14).
God’s heart is full of love, compassion, mercy, justice and creativity. He is looking for people who are like him – like Jesus. Only the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts can make us like Jesus.
Saul failed. God had told Saul to wait until Samuel arrived. When Samuel was delayed, the people became restless. Saul cared more about what the people thought than what God thought. He became impatient and panicked (vv.6–12), just as we so often do. We need to learn to be more patient – to wait for God to act – and not panic if little things go wrong, such as Samuel being late. We must not rush into rash decisions in the heat of the moment.
Jonathan, on the other hand, trusted ultimately in God’s love. He said ‘Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few’ (14:6).
Lord, please give me a heart like yours – a heart of love. Help me to trust in your unfailing love. Thank you that your love is poured into my heart by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to me (Romans 5:5). Lord, please pour your love into my heart today."
1. Thank You for saving me despite my struggles. Come Holy Spirit.
2. Thank You Lord for home time. Thank You for weaknesses that I may realize my body needs rest too.
3. Thank You for being my strength, in everything.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
Love One Another
"John 13:18-38
Nothing is more of a hindrance to the message of Jesus than a lack of love between Christians. If our nations are to be changed, if people are going to turn back to following Jesus, we must start loving one another. This means loving Christians of different churches, denominations, traditions and different views to us.
It means loving one another in the local church. Disunity destroys. Love unites. Love attracts others to the person of Jesus. Loving God and loving one another in Jesus’ name must be our overall ambition above all others. That is the kind of love that can change the world.
The author of John’s Gospel knew the love of Jesus in a very special way. Of all the disciples he was the one closest to Jesus. He was the one who ‘was reclining next to him’ (v.23). Four times in this gospel, John describes himself as ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’: here (v.23), at the cross (19:26), at the empty tomb (20:2) and with the risen Jesus (21:20).
Perhaps, because of this unique experience of Jesus’ love, his gospel and letters speak so much about love. He records that Jesus told his disciples, ‘A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (13:34–35).
People fail to love for different reasons. Judas betrays Jesus in spite of being so close to him: ‘He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me’ (v.18). Satan entered into him (v.27). Here we see the very opposite of love. Yet Jesus continued to love Judas.
Peter loved Jesus. But he too failed. Peter said that he would lay down his life for Jesus (v.37), but Jesus tells him, ‘You will disown me three times’ (v.38). And that is what Peter did (18:15–18,25–27). Yet Jesus continued to love Peter.
Jesus sets before us this amazing challenge: ‘As I have loved you, so you must love one another’ (13:34). Jesus loved us by laying down his life for us. He says that we are to follow his example and show self-sacrificial love for one another. This is the mark of a true Christian. ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (v.35).
Love is the most effective form of evangelism. When people see real love they see God. The best way to tell people about Jesus is to love them and to love other followers of Jesus.
Generally, in the world, people get into groups with people they are naturally attracted to and who think the same way as them. The followers of Jesus are meant to be quite different. The church of Jesus Christ brings us together with a variety of people from different backgrounds, of different interests, different ages, ethnicities, races, perspectives, opinions and different views: all who love one another.
This is one of the reasons I love gatherings, such as Alpha International Week. The week gathers people from over 100 countries and numerous different churches and denominations, representing every continent, race and ethnicity. One of the features of these biennial weeks is always the extraordinary love that breaks down every barrier and unites us all in our love for Jesus and our love for one another.
Lord, help us to love one another as you have loved us. May we see a new love between Christians of all churches, denominations and traditions in the local, national and global church. May the world be changed by our love."
1. Thank You for showing what love means. May I show this love to others.
2. Praise God for allowing me to see and feel the world of the deaf once more. Thank You for this calling.
3. Thank You for the series of events for today: English class, church, dinner and coffee with new friends, and meeting hyper kiddos.
Nothing is more of a hindrance to the message of Jesus than a lack of love between Christians. If our nations are to be changed, if people are going to turn back to following Jesus, we must start loving one another. This means loving Christians of different churches, denominations, traditions and different views to us.
It means loving one another in the local church. Disunity destroys. Love unites. Love attracts others to the person of Jesus. Loving God and loving one another in Jesus’ name must be our overall ambition above all others. That is the kind of love that can change the world.
The author of John’s Gospel knew the love of Jesus in a very special way. Of all the disciples he was the one closest to Jesus. He was the one who ‘was reclining next to him’ (v.23). Four times in this gospel, John describes himself as ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’: here (v.23), at the cross (19:26), at the empty tomb (20:2) and with the risen Jesus (21:20).
Perhaps, because of this unique experience of Jesus’ love, his gospel and letters speak so much about love. He records that Jesus told his disciples, ‘A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (13:34–35).
People fail to love for different reasons. Judas betrays Jesus in spite of being so close to him: ‘He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me’ (v.18). Satan entered into him (v.27). Here we see the very opposite of love. Yet Jesus continued to love Judas.
Peter loved Jesus. But he too failed. Peter said that he would lay down his life for Jesus (v.37), but Jesus tells him, ‘You will disown me three times’ (v.38). And that is what Peter did (18:15–18,25–27). Yet Jesus continued to love Peter.
Jesus sets before us this amazing challenge: ‘As I have loved you, so you must love one another’ (13:34). Jesus loved us by laying down his life for us. He says that we are to follow his example and show self-sacrificial love for one another. This is the mark of a true Christian. ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (v.35).
Love is the most effective form of evangelism. When people see real love they see God. The best way to tell people about Jesus is to love them and to love other followers of Jesus.
Generally, in the world, people get into groups with people they are naturally attracted to and who think the same way as them. The followers of Jesus are meant to be quite different. The church of Jesus Christ brings us together with a variety of people from different backgrounds, of different interests, different ages, ethnicities, races, perspectives, opinions and different views: all who love one another.
This is one of the reasons I love gatherings, such as Alpha International Week. The week gathers people from over 100 countries and numerous different churches and denominations, representing every continent, race and ethnicity. One of the features of these biennial weeks is always the extraordinary love that breaks down every barrier and unites us all in our love for Jesus and our love for one another.
Lord, help us to love one another as you have loved us. May we see a new love between Christians of all churches, denominations and traditions in the local, national and global church. May the world be changed by our love."
1. Thank You for showing what love means. May I show this love to others.
2. Praise God for allowing me to see and feel the world of the deaf once more. Thank You for this calling.
3. Thank You for the series of events for today: English class, church, dinner and coffee with new friends, and meeting hyper kiddos.
Saturday, July 25, 2015
He First Loved Us
"Psalm 66:13-20
Love God
When you are in trouble do you ever bargain with God? Do you ever make a promise that if God were to answer your prayer you will do something (… or you won’t do something ever again!)? The psalmist made such a promise – and when his prayer was answered he fulfilled his promise. He wrote, ‘I will … fulfil my vows to you – vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble’ (vv.13–14).
God loves you. He does not withhold his love from you. The psalmist praises God: ‘He stayed with me, loyal in his love’ (v.20, MSG). Your love for God and others is a response to his love for you, ‘We love because he first loved us’ (1 John 4:19).
God, in his love for you, hears and answers your prayers. If you want to enjoy God’s love to the full, experience answered prayer, and show your love for him, there is one thing you need to avoid. The psalmist writes: ‘If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened’ (Psalm 66:18).
If there is sin in the past, you can confess it and repent of it and be forgiven. What really blocks our relationship with God is if we deliberately plan to sin in the future. Then we cannot come into God’s presence with a clear conscience. This blocks the experience of his love.
It is because God, in his love ‘has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer’ (v.19), that in response the psalmist wants other people to listen to him. ‘Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me’ (v.16). It is so encouraging to hear other people’s testimonies about what God has done in their lives. It inspires the rest of us and increases our faith.
Lord, thank you for your forgiveness, mercy and love. Thank you for the many times when you have listened and heard my voice in prayer (v.19). ‘Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!’ (v.20)."
1. Thank You, indeed, for your forgiveness, O, Lord. I cannot just thank You enough.
2. Thank You for continuous learning.
3. Hallelujah for a free movie ticket! =D
Love God
When you are in trouble do you ever bargain with God? Do you ever make a promise that if God were to answer your prayer you will do something (… or you won’t do something ever again!)? The psalmist made such a promise – and when his prayer was answered he fulfilled his promise. He wrote, ‘I will … fulfil my vows to you – vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble’ (vv.13–14).
God loves you. He does not withhold his love from you. The psalmist praises God: ‘He stayed with me, loyal in his love’ (v.20, MSG). Your love for God and others is a response to his love for you, ‘We love because he first loved us’ (1 John 4:19).
God, in his love for you, hears and answers your prayers. If you want to enjoy God’s love to the full, experience answered prayer, and show your love for him, there is one thing you need to avoid. The psalmist writes: ‘If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened’ (Psalm 66:18).
If there is sin in the past, you can confess it and repent of it and be forgiven. What really blocks our relationship with God is if we deliberately plan to sin in the future. Then we cannot come into God’s presence with a clear conscience. This blocks the experience of his love.
It is because God, in his love ‘has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer’ (v.19), that in response the psalmist wants other people to listen to him. ‘Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me’ (v.16). It is so encouraging to hear other people’s testimonies about what God has done in their lives. It inspires the rest of us and increases our faith.
Lord, thank you for your forgiveness, mercy and love. Thank you for the many times when you have listened and heard my voice in prayer (v.19). ‘Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!’ (v.20)."
1. Thank You, indeed, for your forgiveness, O, Lord. I cannot just thank You enough.
2. Thank You for continuous learning.
3. Hallelujah for a free movie ticket! =D
Friday, July 24, 2015
The Decision to Love
"In February 1977, Bishop Festo Kivengere fled Uganda in fear for his life. A few days previously he had been part of a group of church leaders who had delivered a letter of protest to the dictator, Idi Amin. They had spoken out against the beatings, arbitrary killings and unexplained disappearances taking place across Uganda at the time. The delegation had been led by Kivengere’s friend and leader, Archbishop Janani Luwum. Within twenty-four hours of delivering the letter, Luwum had been killed, and Kivengere driven into hiding and then exile.
Soon afterwards Kivengere published a book entitled I Love Idi Amin. In the book he explained the extraordinary title: ‘The Holy Spirit showed me that I was getting hard in my spirit … so I had to ask for forgiveness from the Lord, and for grace to love President Amin more … this was fresh air for my tired soul. I knew I had seen the Lord and been released: love filled my heart.’
Love is more than a feeling or an emotion. It is a decision about how we treat one another. As Bishop Stephen Neill wrote, ‘If a mathematical analysis of “love” in this sense were to be attempted, it would probably assign 10% to emotion; 20% to understanding; 70% to will.’
Jesus was the supreme example of love in the history of the world. He tells us to love God, to love one another (John 13:34–35), to love our neighbour as ourselves and even to love our enemies. He demonstrates all this in his own life through loving everyone (even Judas who betrayed him), and laying down his life for us all in love."
1. Thank You for enlightening this aspect of my life. Thank You for the constant reminder that it is just 10% emotion.
2. Thank You for an awesome Friday, for the cooperation from people.
3. Thank You again for another fun night with really great music and dancing. :D
Soon afterwards Kivengere published a book entitled I Love Idi Amin. In the book he explained the extraordinary title: ‘The Holy Spirit showed me that I was getting hard in my spirit … so I had to ask for forgiveness from the Lord, and for grace to love President Amin more … this was fresh air for my tired soul. I knew I had seen the Lord and been released: love filled my heart.’
Love is more than a feeling or an emotion. It is a decision about how we treat one another. As Bishop Stephen Neill wrote, ‘If a mathematical analysis of “love” in this sense were to be attempted, it would probably assign 10% to emotion; 20% to understanding; 70% to will.’
Jesus was the supreme example of love in the history of the world. He tells us to love God, to love one another (John 13:34–35), to love our neighbour as ourselves and even to love our enemies. He demonstrates all this in his own life through loving everyone (even Judas who betrayed him), and laying down his life for us all in love."
1. Thank You for enlightening this aspect of my life. Thank You for the constant reminder that it is just 10% emotion.
2. Thank You for an awesome Friday, for the cooperation from people.
3. Thank You again for another fun night with really great music and dancing. :D
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Celebrating success
"John 12:37-13:17
Saul began his reign as king with a honeymoon period. The Spirit of God came upon him in power and he prophesied (10:9–13). God gave him great wisdom in dealing with opposition. He knew when to keep silent (v.27).
Saul soon had to deal with ‘troublemakers’ (v.27). God is in the business of touching human hearts (v.26). But, as always, the Bible is realistic. Troublemakers were around the corner. Wherever God is at work in power we must expect to find troublemakers as well.
When the people of God were facing appalling cruelty from a man who wanted to gouge out the right eye of every person, ‘the Spirit of God came upon [Saul] in power’ (11:6). God gave him a great victory and he had the wisdom to say afterwards, ‘No one shall be put to death today, for this day the Lord has rescued Israel’ (v.13). Instead they held ‘a great celebration’ (v.15).
In Samuel’s farewell speech he spoke of how often God has given success to his people when they cried to him for help (12:8,10–11). He urged them to ‘consider what great things he has done for you’ (v.24). Many of these things came about as a result of Samuel’s prayer and he said, ‘As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you’ (v.23).
We are told to pray for one another – and yet we seldom think of not praying for others as a sin, let alone a sin against God. Yet it clearly is. It is so easy to get out of the habit of intercessory prayer by getting so bound up with our own needs and worries.
The passage for today ends with Samuel telling the people to ‘consider what great things he has done for you’ (v.24). The people of Israel were continually looking back at all the good things God had done on their behalf. Whatever else is going on in our lives, we too can look back, consider and celebrate creation, the cross and resurrection, our forgiveness, our justification, the gift of the Holy Spirit, the promise of glory and all the other great things he has done for us.
Lord, today I want to look back with thanks and celebrate all the great things you have done for me …"
1. Thank You for an amazing memory to look back and give thanks to all the great things You have done for me.
2. Thank You for surrounding me with good friends.
3. Thank You for good music and great talent!
Saul began his reign as king with a honeymoon period. The Spirit of God came upon him in power and he prophesied (10:9–13). God gave him great wisdom in dealing with opposition. He knew when to keep silent (v.27).
Saul soon had to deal with ‘troublemakers’ (v.27). God is in the business of touching human hearts (v.26). But, as always, the Bible is realistic. Troublemakers were around the corner. Wherever God is at work in power we must expect to find troublemakers as well.
When the people of God were facing appalling cruelty from a man who wanted to gouge out the right eye of every person, ‘the Spirit of God came upon [Saul] in power’ (11:6). God gave him a great victory and he had the wisdom to say afterwards, ‘No one shall be put to death today, for this day the Lord has rescued Israel’ (v.13). Instead they held ‘a great celebration’ (v.15).
In Samuel’s farewell speech he spoke of how often God has given success to his people when they cried to him for help (12:8,10–11). He urged them to ‘consider what great things he has done for you’ (v.24). Many of these things came about as a result of Samuel’s prayer and he said, ‘As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you’ (v.23).
We are told to pray for one another – and yet we seldom think of not praying for others as a sin, let alone a sin against God. Yet it clearly is. It is so easy to get out of the habit of intercessory prayer by getting so bound up with our own needs and worries.
The passage for today ends with Samuel telling the people to ‘consider what great things he has done for you’ (v.24). The people of Israel were continually looking back at all the good things God had done on their behalf. Whatever else is going on in our lives, we too can look back, consider and celebrate creation, the cross and resurrection, our forgiveness, our justification, the gift of the Holy Spirit, the promise of glory and all the other great things he has done for us.
Lord, today I want to look back with thanks and celebrate all the great things you have done for me …"
1. Thank You for an amazing memory to look back and give thanks to all the great things You have done for me.
2. Thank You for surrounding me with good friends.
3. Thank You for good music and great talent!
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Celebrating Jesus
"John 12:37-13:17
There are times in our lives when things go well. There are times when things go badly. But there is one thing we can always celebrate: Jesus died and rose again for us. Jesus said, ‘For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it’ (12:47). He said, ‘I have come … so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness’ (v.46).
The context of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet is set just before the Passover feast (13:1). There would have been great excitement in the air as hundreds of thousands came to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. This time of celebration foreshadowed the passion of Jesus, which we now celebrate at Easter.
When he had finished washing their feet, he said to them, ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ (v.12). What was it all about? What were they to understand? We can see four pictures from the passage:
Love
The act of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet demonstrated the full extent of his love (13:1). This is a very striking contrast to what the world thinks of when people use the word ‘love’. It is far more than a feeling or an emotion: it is a decision to treat people the way that Jesus would treat them (v. 14–15).
Service
The roads of Palestine were un-surfaced and un-cleaned. In dry weather they would have been inches deep in dust. In wet weather they would have been liquid mud.
In a wealthy household, on arrival there would be a bowl at the door. The second lowest slave of the household would untie the sandals. The lowest slave would wash the feet.
Whilst the others are reclining, Jesus gets up, takes off his sleeveless tunic and strips down to a loin cloth. Like a slave he starts washing their feet.
Jesus shows us that if we love people, we will be willing to serve them and that those who serve should always be treated with the greatest respect.
Humility
Jesus uniquely combined absolute love (v.1) and absolute power: ‘The Father has put all things under his power’ (v.3a). In love he chose to act in humility and serve his disciples.
Those who seek their own glory (like Judas, v.2) are reduced to nothing. As William Temple put it, ‘When a person stands on their dignity, they usually succeed in squashing it flat.’ Those who exalt themselves are humbled. Those who humble themselves God will exalt.
Forgiveness
The washing and cleansing he is speaking about is not just washing from dirt, but cleansing from sin. Foot-washing is a picture of what Jesus is about to do on the cross for them (v.7). Through Jesus’ death for us we are totally forgiven. Why then does Jesus teach us to pray regularly for forgiveness?
I find the most helpful analogy and picture is the one given here. When Jesus moved to wash Peter’s feet, Peter said, ‘ “No, you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me” ’ (v.8). Peter replied, in effect, ‘Well, in that case, wash my whole body.’ Jesus said, ‘Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean’ (v.10).
This is a picture of forgiveness. When you put your faith in Jesus you are made totally clean and you are forgiven – everything is dealt with. You do not need to repeat this one-off act of repentance and faith that leads to total forgiveness. It is the equivalent of having a bath, which is enacted in the sacrament of baptism.
However, as we go through the world we do things that tarnish our friendship with God. Your relationship is always secure but your friendship is sullied with the dirt that you pick up on your feet. Each day pray, ‘Lord, forgive me, cleanse me from the dirt.’ You don’t need to have a bath again, Jesus has done that for you, but a measure of cleansing may be necessary every day.
Each week when we gather on the day of the resurrection (Sunday), and every year at Easter, we remember and celebrate these great events of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Furthermore, every time we receive communion we are celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus for us.
Lord, help us to follow Jesus’ example, not just in words but also in actions. Thank you that washing the disciples’ feet prefigured the crucifixion and our redemption. Thank you that you have given us so much to celebrate."
1. Thank You Jesus for dying on the cross and rising again. Thank You.
2. Thank You for loving me even if I don't deserve it. Thank You for not forsaking me.
3. Thank You for daily little lessons that You bring. May I continue to grow from them.
There are times in our lives when things go well. There are times when things go badly. But there is one thing we can always celebrate: Jesus died and rose again for us. Jesus said, ‘For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it’ (12:47). He said, ‘I have come … so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness’ (v.46).
The context of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet is set just before the Passover feast (13:1). There would have been great excitement in the air as hundreds of thousands came to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. This time of celebration foreshadowed the passion of Jesus, which we now celebrate at Easter.
When he had finished washing their feet, he said to them, ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ (v.12). What was it all about? What were they to understand? We can see four pictures from the passage:
Love
The act of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet demonstrated the full extent of his love (13:1). This is a very striking contrast to what the world thinks of when people use the word ‘love’. It is far more than a feeling or an emotion: it is a decision to treat people the way that Jesus would treat them (v. 14–15).
Service
The roads of Palestine were un-surfaced and un-cleaned. In dry weather they would have been inches deep in dust. In wet weather they would have been liquid mud.
In a wealthy household, on arrival there would be a bowl at the door. The second lowest slave of the household would untie the sandals. The lowest slave would wash the feet.
Whilst the others are reclining, Jesus gets up, takes off his sleeveless tunic and strips down to a loin cloth. Like a slave he starts washing their feet.
Jesus shows us that if we love people, we will be willing to serve them and that those who serve should always be treated with the greatest respect.
Humility
Jesus uniquely combined absolute love (v.1) and absolute power: ‘The Father has put all things under his power’ (v.3a). In love he chose to act in humility and serve his disciples.
Those who seek their own glory (like Judas, v.2) are reduced to nothing. As William Temple put it, ‘When a person stands on their dignity, they usually succeed in squashing it flat.’ Those who exalt themselves are humbled. Those who humble themselves God will exalt.
Forgiveness
The washing and cleansing he is speaking about is not just washing from dirt, but cleansing from sin. Foot-washing is a picture of what Jesus is about to do on the cross for them (v.7). Through Jesus’ death for us we are totally forgiven. Why then does Jesus teach us to pray regularly for forgiveness?
I find the most helpful analogy and picture is the one given here. When Jesus moved to wash Peter’s feet, Peter said, ‘ “No, you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me” ’ (v.8). Peter replied, in effect, ‘Well, in that case, wash my whole body.’ Jesus said, ‘Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean’ (v.10).
This is a picture of forgiveness. When you put your faith in Jesus you are made totally clean and you are forgiven – everything is dealt with. You do not need to repeat this one-off act of repentance and faith that leads to total forgiveness. It is the equivalent of having a bath, which is enacted in the sacrament of baptism.
However, as we go through the world we do things that tarnish our friendship with God. Your relationship is always secure but your friendship is sullied with the dirt that you pick up on your feet. Each day pray, ‘Lord, forgive me, cleanse me from the dirt.’ You don’t need to have a bath again, Jesus has done that for you, but a measure of cleansing may be necessary every day.
Each week when we gather on the day of the resurrection (Sunday), and every year at Easter, we remember and celebrate these great events of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Furthermore, every time we receive communion we are celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus for us.
Lord, help us to follow Jesus’ example, not just in words but also in actions. Thank you that washing the disciples’ feet prefigured the crucifixion and our redemption. Thank you that you have given us so much to celebrate."
1. Thank You Jesus for dying on the cross and rising again. Thank You.
2. Thank You for loving me even if I don't deserve it. Thank You for not forsaking me.
3. Thank You for daily little lessons that You bring. May I continue to grow from them.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Refined In The Fire
"Psalm 66:1-12
Celebrating God’s goodness
Do you sometimes feel like you have been ‘to hell and back’? Have you found yourself ‘pushed to the limit’? It may be that God is training you, like silver being refined in the fire.
This psalm celebrates the fact that God had brought his people through very difficult times:
‘He trained us first,
passed us like silver through refining fires ...
pushed us to our very limit,
Road–tested us inside and out,
took us to hell and back;
Finally he brought us
to this well–watered place’ (vv.10–12, MSG).
They did not let this occasion go unmarked. They celebrated. It sounds a fairly noisy affair: ‘All together now – applause for God!’ (v.1, MSG). They sang praise: ‘How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power’ (v.3). They celebrated what God had done (v.5). They rejoiced and praised God in a way that everybody around could hear: ‘Bless our God, O peoples! Give him a thunderous welcome!’ (v.8, MSG).
This is one of the many psalms celebrating God’s goodness. This is what we do every time we come together for worship.
Lord, I celebrate your goodness. I praise you for your great power and all that you have done on my behalf. Thank you that you bring me through fire and water in order to bring me to a place of abundance."
1. Thank You that I can celebrate your goodness, the salvation, and the forgiveness.
2. Thank You for failures that they can open my eyes to the truth, to reality.
3. Thank You for awesome and affordable food for dinner!
Celebrating God’s goodness
Do you sometimes feel like you have been ‘to hell and back’? Have you found yourself ‘pushed to the limit’? It may be that God is training you, like silver being refined in the fire.
This psalm celebrates the fact that God had brought his people through very difficult times:
‘He trained us first,
passed us like silver through refining fires ...
pushed us to our very limit,
Road–tested us inside and out,
took us to hell and back;
Finally he brought us
to this well–watered place’ (vv.10–12, MSG).
They did not let this occasion go unmarked. They celebrated. It sounds a fairly noisy affair: ‘All together now – applause for God!’ (v.1, MSG). They sang praise: ‘How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power’ (v.3). They celebrated what God had done (v.5). They rejoiced and praised God in a way that everybody around could hear: ‘Bless our God, O peoples! Give him a thunderous welcome!’ (v.8, MSG).
This is one of the many psalms celebrating God’s goodness. This is what we do every time we come together for worship.
Lord, I celebrate your goodness. I praise you for your great power and all that you have done on my behalf. Thank you that you bring me through fire and water in order to bring me to a place of abundance."
1. Thank You that I can celebrate your goodness, the salvation, and the forgiveness.
2. Thank You for failures that they can open my eyes to the truth, to reality.
3. Thank You for awesome and affordable food for dinner!
Monday, July 20, 2015
God With Us
"John 12:12-36
Government of humans
God had planned that his people would be different from others. He planned a society in which God himself was the king. But Israel wanted to be like everyone else. A direct rule of God only works when the people are wholly devoted to God. If not, it results in the chaos we saw in Judges. It is better to have a human king than no king at all. We might list the preferences like this:
God as King: The situation God wanted – his perfect will
A human king: The situation God allowed – his permissive will
No king: The situation in Judges – chaos.
The people of God rejected his rule. The Lord says, ‘they have rejected me as their king’ (8:7). The people ask for a king. They say, ‘appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have’ (v.5).
Samuel warns them that human governments are weak and fallible. Power corrupts. Samuel warns that the king who will rule over them will take some of their families, land, possessions and employees and use them for his own benefit and that of his inner circle (vv.11–16).
In other words, he warns them about the failings and weaknesses of all human government. He also warns them about taxes and ‘extensive bureaucracy’! (v.15, MSG).
In spite of the warning, the people say, ‘We want a king over us’ (v.19). The Lord allowed ‘plan B’: he gave them a king (v.22). Saul is chosen to be the anointed leader of Israel to deliver his people (v.16). The moment Samuel sees Saul, in the blink of an eye he recognises that this was the man who was going to govern the people of God (9:17). Saul, who comes from a humble background (v.21), becomes the anointed king (10:1).
God graciously blesses this new plan. Three remarkable things happen to Saul (which now happen to every Christian). First, when he is anointed the Spirit of the Lord comes upon him in power (v.6b). Second, he is ‘transformed’. He becomes a new person (v.6c, see 2 Corinthians 5:17). Third, Samuel tells him ‘Whatever job you’re given to do, do it. God is with you!’ (v.7, MSG).
This was true of Saul and it is true of you. However down you might feel about a circumstance, however far from God you may feel, however difficult you may find it to pray, whatever doubts you have, he is still with you.
Almighty God, give wisdom to those who serve as leaders in our nation. Grant that ‘they may lay aside all private interests and partial affections, and take counsel together for the glory of thy name, the maintenance of true religion and justice, and the welfare, peace and unity of the realm; through Jesus Christ our Lord’. (Adapted from the House of Commons Prayer)."
1. Thank You Lord for being with me however far I feel from You at times because of my failures.
2. Thank You for risks, that I may trust in You more as I face them.
3. Thank You also for having a good walk always.
Government of humans
God had planned that his people would be different from others. He planned a society in which God himself was the king. But Israel wanted to be like everyone else. A direct rule of God only works when the people are wholly devoted to God. If not, it results in the chaos we saw in Judges. It is better to have a human king than no king at all. We might list the preferences like this:
God as King: The situation God wanted – his perfect will
A human king: The situation God allowed – his permissive will
No king: The situation in Judges – chaos.
The people of God rejected his rule. The Lord says, ‘they have rejected me as their king’ (8:7). The people ask for a king. They say, ‘appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have’ (v.5).
Samuel warns them that human governments are weak and fallible. Power corrupts. Samuel warns that the king who will rule over them will take some of their families, land, possessions and employees and use them for his own benefit and that of his inner circle (vv.11–16).
In other words, he warns them about the failings and weaknesses of all human government. He also warns them about taxes and ‘extensive bureaucracy’! (v.15, MSG).
In spite of the warning, the people say, ‘We want a king over us’ (v.19). The Lord allowed ‘plan B’: he gave them a king (v.22). Saul is chosen to be the anointed leader of Israel to deliver his people (v.16). The moment Samuel sees Saul, in the blink of an eye he recognises that this was the man who was going to govern the people of God (9:17). Saul, who comes from a humble background (v.21), becomes the anointed king (10:1).
God graciously blesses this new plan. Three remarkable things happen to Saul (which now happen to every Christian). First, when he is anointed the Spirit of the Lord comes upon him in power (v.6b). Second, he is ‘transformed’. He becomes a new person (v.6c, see 2 Corinthians 5:17). Third, Samuel tells him ‘Whatever job you’re given to do, do it. God is with you!’ (v.7, MSG).
This was true of Saul and it is true of you. However down you might feel about a circumstance, however far from God you may feel, however difficult you may find it to pray, whatever doubts you have, he is still with you.
Almighty God, give wisdom to those who serve as leaders in our nation. Grant that ‘they may lay aside all private interests and partial affections, and take counsel together for the glory of thy name, the maintenance of true religion and justice, and the welfare, peace and unity of the realm; through Jesus Christ our Lord’. (Adapted from the House of Commons Prayer)."
1. Thank You Lord for being with me however far I feel from You at times because of my failures.
2. Thank You for risks, that I may trust in You more as I face them.
3. Thank You also for having a good walk always.
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Government of Jesus
"John 12:12-36
Jesus gives us a model of how to respond to suffering in our lives and to a suffering world. Then, as now, was a time of crisis. Jesus said, ‘the world is in crisis’ (v.30, MSG).
2. Praise God for keeping my busy, and a good kind of busy at that.
3. Thank You, Lord, for short but happy moments.
Are you troubled by something you are facing? Are you distressed by some trial in your life? If you are, you have a leader who understands. Jesus said ‘my soul is troubled and distressed’ (v.27a, AMP).
Jesus gives us a model of how to respond to suffering in our lives and to a suffering world. Then, as now, was a time of crisis. Jesus said, ‘the world is in crisis’ (v.30, MSG).
At the time of the Feast of Passover, ‘the great crowd’ came to Jerusalem (v.12). Josephus estimated that around 2.7 million people would assemble. This may well be an exaggeration. Nevertheless, it was a massive festival and there must have been a great sense of excitement and expectation.
At the time of Jesus, people were awaiting the Messiah. They were looking for a human king, in the line of David, who would free them from their oppressors. As Jesus enters Jerusalem he is seen to be that king: ‘Blessed is the King of Israel!’ (v.13b). The crowd probably saw Jesus as a military king and were hoping for an immediate liberation from Roman rule.
Then, as now, there were different attitudes to the government. The Pharisees (v.19) took the view that Roman occupation, oppressive though it might be, must be endured until God removed it. The Sadducees favoured cooperation with the government. The Zealots were the most popular with the people. They wanted a violent revolt led by a messianic king.
Jesus is indeed the King. But he did not ride into Jerusalem on a stallion. He came in humility on a donkey. He is a different type of leader: ‘See, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt’ (v.15b). He is the messianic king but not a military one. This acted parable was designed to correct the misguided expectations of the crowds and show the city of Jerusalem the way of peace.
He came as the victorious King – not by doing violence to the oppressors but by having violence done to him. He says, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified’ (v.23) – and yet he is talking about the cross. “I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die’ (vv.32–33).
We see an insight here into the inner struggle in Jesus’ heart as he faces his imminent trial, suffering and death. ‘Now my heart is troubled and what shall I say? “Father, save me from this hour”? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!’ (vv.27–28a).
The victory of Jesus came not through military force but through his self-sacrificial death, which defeated the demonic powers (v.31). The death of Jesus signifies judgment on the world, the overthrow of evil, the glorification of Jesus and a drawing of all people to him.
Here, indeed, was a different kind of victorious king. Jesus not only fulfilled the prophecies about the messianic King, he also fulfilled the prophecies about the suffering servant. He brought the two lines of prophecy together.
One day Jesus will return as the triumphant King to rule and reign for all eternity. In the meantime, we are called to be light in the darkness. If you live under the leadership of Jesus ‘then the light will be within you, and shining through your lives. You’ll be children of light’ (36, MSG).
1. Lord, thank You for always instilling in my heart to bring light.Lord, thank you for the example of leadership through humility and self-sacrifice. Help me to serve you in such a way that my life brings light to a dark world."
2. Praise God for keeping my busy, and a good kind of busy at that.
3. Thank You, Lord, for short but happy moments.
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Every Knee Will Bow
"Psalm 65:1-13
Government of God
Do you realise how good God is? He loves you and wants you to enjoy his blessings today in your life. This psalm is all about the goodness of God. It paints a beautiful picture of what life can look like when lived under God’s rule. It helps us to meditate on his goodness.
God hears your prayers (v.2), he forgives your sins, even in those times in your life when you may feel ‘overwhelmed by sins’ (v.3). God’s forgiveness is amazing.
‘We are filled with the good things’ (v.4) being in his presence. He gives us ‘hope’ (v.5b) and ‘joy’ (v.8b).
We see his great love in the way he treats creation (the watering of the land, the provision of corn, crops, flocks, and so on, vv.9–13).
We don’t live in a society directly governed by God, but through Christ you have a direct relationship with God in your own personal life. You can follow his rule, and experience the blessing of God’s presence. This is one of the ways in which you can experience ‘the kingdom of God’ in your life.
Thank you, Lord, for your amazing goodness. Thank you that one day your kingdom will come and every knee will bow before Jesus and he will inherit the kingdoms of the earth and will rule rightly in a ‘new creation’."
1. Thank You simply for Jesus. Thank You that I have a direct relationship with God through Jesus.
2. Hallelujah for a great trip today. Although it rained, it went smoothly.
3. Thank You for always being with me in the perfect timing.
Government of God
Do you realise how good God is? He loves you and wants you to enjoy his blessings today in your life. This psalm is all about the goodness of God. It paints a beautiful picture of what life can look like when lived under God’s rule. It helps us to meditate on his goodness.
God hears your prayers (v.2), he forgives your sins, even in those times in your life when you may feel ‘overwhelmed by sins’ (v.3). God’s forgiveness is amazing.
‘We are filled with the good things’ (v.4) being in his presence. He gives us ‘hope’ (v.5b) and ‘joy’ (v.8b).
We see his great love in the way he treats creation (the watering of the land, the provision of corn, crops, flocks, and so on, vv.9–13).
We don’t live in a society directly governed by God, but through Christ you have a direct relationship with God in your own personal life. You can follow his rule, and experience the blessing of God’s presence. This is one of the ways in which you can experience ‘the kingdom of God’ in your life.
Thank you, Lord, for your amazing goodness. Thank you that one day your kingdom will come and every knee will bow before Jesus and he will inherit the kingdoms of the earth and will rule rightly in a ‘new creation’."
1. Thank You simply for Jesus. Thank You that I have a direct relationship with God through Jesus.
2. Hallelujah for a great trip today. Although it rained, it went smoothly.
3. Thank You for always being with me in the perfect timing.
Friday, July 17, 2015
Prayer: In His Timing
"John 11:45-12:11
Persistent prayer
God never forgets a single prayer you pray, even though you may forget. Things may have happened to you today as a result of prayers that you prayed years ago and you have forgotten all about them. But God is still working on them in his timing. Keep stacking up the prayers. Persevering prayer prevails.
Under the old covenant, the ark of God was the place where God was supremely present, and it was the location of God’s glory. Yesterday we read that, as a result of the Philistines capturing the ark, Eli’s daughter-in-law named her son Ichabod, which means ‘no glory’ for ‘the glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured’ (4:22).
We sometimes have to wait a long time for the Lord to act and answer our prayers. ‘It was a long time, twenty years in all … all the people of Israel mourned and sought after the Lord’ (7:2). We think we have prayed for a long time if we have prayed for a year, but they prayed for twenty years for their country before God acted.
The path to deliverance from the Philistines began for the people of God with a return to the Lord with all their heart. Samuel said, ‘ “If you are truly serious about coming back to God, clean house. Get rid of the foreign gods and fertility goddesses, ground yourselves firmly in God, worship him and him alone, and he’ll save you from Philistine oppression.” They did it. They got rid of the gods and goddesses, the images of Baal and Ashtoreth, and gave their exclusive attention and service to God’ (7:3–4, MSG).
The first thing we need to do in our lives when we are seeking God’s presence and help is remove anything that is drawing our attention and focus away from God.
After the return to the Lord there was a need for a period of confession and repentance, which was shown by their fasting. ‘On that day they fasted and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.” ’ (v.6).
Finally, it was Samuel’s intercession and persistence in prayer for twenty years that brought the people of God victory. Samuel said, ‘I will intercede with the Lord for you’ (v.5). They said, ‘Pray with all your might! And don’t let up! Pray to God, our God, that he’ll save us from the boot of the Philistines’ (v.8, MSG). Samuel ‘cried out to the Lord on Israel’s behalf, and the Lord answered him’ (v.9).
They recognised it was an amazing answer to prayer. ‘Thus far has the Lord helped us’ (v.12). They were delivered from the power of the Philistines and there was peace in the land (v.13).
Lord, I commit myself to you again to serve you only. Forgive my sins and the sins of your people. I cry out to you for deliverance. May we see many people in this land putting their faith in Jesus."
1. Thank You for making me understand that things happen in Your time.
2. Thank You for taste buds that we can try different food everytime.
3. Thank You always for the grace that the day's activities have gone as expected.
Persistent prayer
God never forgets a single prayer you pray, even though you may forget. Things may have happened to you today as a result of prayers that you prayed years ago and you have forgotten all about them. But God is still working on them in his timing. Keep stacking up the prayers. Persevering prayer prevails.
Under the old covenant, the ark of God was the place where God was supremely present, and it was the location of God’s glory. Yesterday we read that, as a result of the Philistines capturing the ark, Eli’s daughter-in-law named her son Ichabod, which means ‘no glory’ for ‘the glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured’ (4:22).
We sometimes have to wait a long time for the Lord to act and answer our prayers. ‘It was a long time, twenty years in all … all the people of Israel mourned and sought after the Lord’ (7:2). We think we have prayed for a long time if we have prayed for a year, but they prayed for twenty years for their country before God acted.
The path to deliverance from the Philistines began for the people of God with a return to the Lord with all their heart. Samuel said, ‘ “If you are truly serious about coming back to God, clean house. Get rid of the foreign gods and fertility goddesses, ground yourselves firmly in God, worship him and him alone, and he’ll save you from Philistine oppression.” They did it. They got rid of the gods and goddesses, the images of Baal and Ashtoreth, and gave their exclusive attention and service to God’ (7:3–4, MSG).
The first thing we need to do in our lives when we are seeking God’s presence and help is remove anything that is drawing our attention and focus away from God.
After the return to the Lord there was a need for a period of confession and repentance, which was shown by their fasting. ‘On that day they fasted and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.” ’ (v.6).
Finally, it was Samuel’s intercession and persistence in prayer for twenty years that brought the people of God victory. Samuel said, ‘I will intercede with the Lord for you’ (v.5). They said, ‘Pray with all your might! And don’t let up! Pray to God, our God, that he’ll save us from the boot of the Philistines’ (v.8, MSG). Samuel ‘cried out to the Lord on Israel’s behalf, and the Lord answered him’ (v.9).
They recognised it was an amazing answer to prayer. ‘Thus far has the Lord helped us’ (v.12). They were delivered from the power of the Philistines and there was peace in the land (v.13).
Lord, I commit myself to you again to serve you only. Forgive my sins and the sins of your people. I cry out to you for deliverance. May we see many people in this land putting their faith in Jesus."
1. Thank You for making me understand that things happen in Your time.
2. Thank You for taste buds that we can try different food everytime.
3. Thank You always for the grace that the day's activities have gone as expected.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
What is Your Motive?
"John 11:45-12:11
Perishing plots!
God is sovereign. He uses even the very worst things for good. Supremely, we see this on the cross: the very worst plot ever – torture and murder of the innocent Son of God – was used by God to bring salvation to the entire human race.
This being the case, you can believe that God will use even the worst things that you face in life, for good (Romans 8:28).
Jesus faced evil plots. The motive appears to be envy(the religious sin). People were envious of Jesus because he had so many followers and seemed to be more ‘successful’ than the religious leaders. Out of envy, the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin (John 11:47a).
The Sanhedrin was the supreme court of the nation. It comprised 71 members including the high priest. The chief priests were the majority and the Pharisees an influential minority. They asked, ‘What are we accomplishing?’ (v.47b). It was a very good question! They were envious of the popularity of Jesus and plotted to take his life (v.53).
God uses even their evil plots for good. They meant it for evil. God meant it for good.
Caiaphas was the high priest. He held that office from AD 18 – AD 36. Ironically, Caiaphas prophesied: ‘It is better for you that one person die for the people than that the whole nation perish’ (v.50). God is able to speak through an unwitting agent.
John comments, ‘He didn’t say this of his own accord, but as Chief Priest that year he unwittingly prophesied that Jesus was about to die sacrificially for the nation, and not only for the nation but so that all God’s exile-scattered children might be gathered together into one people’ (vv.51–52, MSG).
Perhaps because he knew of the plot against him, Jesus withdrew: ‘Therefore Jesus no longer moved about publicly … Instead he withdrew … he stayed with his disciples’ (v.54). But this was not to be the end of the opposition Jesus faced.
Most painful of all must have been the opposition from Judas. When Mary pours the perfume on Jesus’ feet, Judas objects, ‘Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages’ (12:5). This, on the face of it, is a perfectly good objection, but we read, ‘He did not say this because he cared about the poor’ (v.6).
This is the only place that something is said to Judas’ discredit apart from the record of his ultimate treachery. It must have been so distressing for Jesus that his friend and disciple, Judas, was stealing money from the gifts made to Jesus and his disciples by generous donors (Luke 8:2–3).
Jesus simply responds to Judas’ objection, ‘You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me’ (John 12:8).
Jesus was certainly not encouraging complacency about the poor. The fact that we will never obliterate poverty in the world does not mean that we should not try – after all, compassion for the poor was central to Jesus’ ministry. Rather, Jesus was turning the attention of his disciples to the significance of what Mary had done.
Whilst all this was going on, plans against Jesus were being formed (vv.9–11). Envy can lead to murder. Not only did they plot to take Jesus’ life (11:53), they also made plans to kill Lazarus as well, because he was leading many people to faith (12:10–11).
The extraordinary thing about this passage though is the way in which we see God’s hand at work through it all. Despite opposition and wrongdoing, God’s ultimate plan was still fulfilled. What Jesus’ opponents meant for evil, God used for good.
Lord, thank you that in everything you work for the good of those who love you and have been called according to your purpose."
1. Your grace is enough, thank You, Lord. Day by day, as trial comes, You stand by me. Thank You.
2. Thank You for being able to recharge.
3. Thank You for great food!
Perishing plots!
God is sovereign. He uses even the very worst things for good. Supremely, we see this on the cross: the very worst plot ever – torture and murder of the innocent Son of God – was used by God to bring salvation to the entire human race.
This being the case, you can believe that God will use even the worst things that you face in life, for good (Romans 8:28).
Jesus faced evil plots. The motive appears to be envy(the religious sin). People were envious of Jesus because he had so many followers and seemed to be more ‘successful’ than the religious leaders. Out of envy, the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin (John 11:47a).
The Sanhedrin was the supreme court of the nation. It comprised 71 members including the high priest. The chief priests were the majority and the Pharisees an influential minority. They asked, ‘What are we accomplishing?’ (v.47b). It was a very good question! They were envious of the popularity of Jesus and plotted to take his life (v.53).
God uses even their evil plots for good. They meant it for evil. God meant it for good.
Caiaphas was the high priest. He held that office from AD 18 – AD 36. Ironically, Caiaphas prophesied: ‘It is better for you that one person die for the people than that the whole nation perish’ (v.50). God is able to speak through an unwitting agent.
John comments, ‘He didn’t say this of his own accord, but as Chief Priest that year he unwittingly prophesied that Jesus was about to die sacrificially for the nation, and not only for the nation but so that all God’s exile-scattered children might be gathered together into one people’ (vv.51–52, MSG).
Perhaps because he knew of the plot against him, Jesus withdrew: ‘Therefore Jesus no longer moved about publicly … Instead he withdrew … he stayed with his disciples’ (v.54). But this was not to be the end of the opposition Jesus faced.
Most painful of all must have been the opposition from Judas. When Mary pours the perfume on Jesus’ feet, Judas objects, ‘Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages’ (12:5). This, on the face of it, is a perfectly good objection, but we read, ‘He did not say this because he cared about the poor’ (v.6).
This is the only place that something is said to Judas’ discredit apart from the record of his ultimate treachery. It must have been so distressing for Jesus that his friend and disciple, Judas, was stealing money from the gifts made to Jesus and his disciples by generous donors (Luke 8:2–3).
Jesus simply responds to Judas’ objection, ‘You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me’ (John 12:8).
Jesus was certainly not encouraging complacency about the poor. The fact that we will never obliterate poverty in the world does not mean that we should not try – after all, compassion for the poor was central to Jesus’ ministry. Rather, Jesus was turning the attention of his disciples to the significance of what Mary had done.
Whilst all this was going on, plans against Jesus were being formed (vv.9–11). Envy can lead to murder. Not only did they plot to take Jesus’ life (11:53), they also made plans to kill Lazarus as well, because he was leading many people to faith (12:10–11).
The extraordinary thing about this passage though is the way in which we see God’s hand at work through it all. Despite opposition and wrongdoing, God’s ultimate plan was still fulfilled. What Jesus’ opponents meant for evil, God used for good.
Lord, thank you that in everything you work for the good of those who love you and have been called according to your purpose."
1. Your grace is enough, thank You, Lord. Day by day, as trial comes, You stand by me. Thank You.
2. Thank You for being able to recharge.
3. Thank You for great food!
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Be Light-hearted
"Proverbs 12:18-27
Promoting peace
The antidote to opposition and evil is to walk in the opposite spirit – to be those who ‘promote peace’. The book of Proverbs contrasts the ‘deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil’ (v.20a) with ‘joy for those who promote peace’ (v.20b). How can we do this?
Your words can bring healing
With your words you can be a promoter of peace. ‘Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise’ (v.18). Words are so powerful; they can hurt deeply but they can also heal.
Your words must be truthful
‘Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment’ (v.19). Truthful words are not only cathartic, they also have a lasting impact – they ‘endure forever’ (v.19).
Your words should be restrained
‘Fools blurt out folly’ (v.23b). But ‘a prudent person is reluctant to display his knowledge’ (v.23a, AMP). Knowledge is like underwear – it is useful to have it, but not necessary to show it off! The mere fact that we know the answer does not mean that we should give it. I am always so impressed by the restraint of leaders and helpers on Alpha.
Your words should be kind
‘Anxiety weighs down the heart’ (v.25a). God does not want you to be weighed down by worry and anxiety. As Joyce Meyer writes, ‘He wants you to be light-hearted and enjoy life.’ He also wants us to help others not to be weighed down by anxiety. ‘A kind word cheers’ up other people’s hearts (v.25b). By an encouraging word we can transform a person’s day or even their life.
1. Thank You that You have invented kind words. May I always use it.Lord, help me to be a person who promotes peace and who speaks words of healing, truth, restraint and kindness."
2. Thank You for realization, thank You for Your grace during trying times.
3. Thank You that You keep testing my faith.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Your Servant Is Listening
"John 11:1-44
Hope in the Word of the Lord
Do you realise that God wants to speak to you? You can say, like Samuel, ‘Speak Lord, for your servant is listening’ (3:9).
These were times of trouble for the people of God. They cried out, ‘We’re in trouble!’ (4:7). It was a time when it seemed that God was almost silent. ‘In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions’ (3:1).
It must have been heartbreaking for Eli to see his own sons dishonouring the Lord. We read how they slept with the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (2:22). Here we read again of them dishonouring God who has said, ‘Those who honour me I will honour, but those who despise me will be disdained’ (v.30).
As a result of the dishonouring of God, the people of God are defeated (4:1b–11). Eli dies heartbroken (vv.12–18). His daughter-in-law gives birth to a child with the name Ichabod: ‘The glory has departed’ (vv.19–22).
Yet, in the midst of these terrible times of trouble for the people of God there is hope. The Lord called Samuel (3:4). God revealed himself to Samuel and he listened to the Lord (vv.9–10). He said, ‘Speak, God. I’m your servant, ready to listen’ (v.9, MSG). The Lord said, ‘See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle’ (v.11).
Samuel was prepared to pass on the message in its entirety, however unpopular, embarrassing and difficult it was (v.18). He did not hide anything. As a result, God was able to use him greatly: ‘The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground’ (v.19).
Lord, help me to follow the example of Samuel and pray daily in my heart, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening’ (v.9). Help me to listen carefully to the word of God and then pass it on without altering it to please my audience."
1. Yes, Lord, help me to listen to You. Thank You for Your everyday Word, everyday bread.
2. Thank You for a productive day at work.
3. Praise You for everything that You are doing with my relatives! Hallelujah! Keep the Spirit moving! :)
Hope in the Word of the Lord
Do you realise that God wants to speak to you? You can say, like Samuel, ‘Speak Lord, for your servant is listening’ (3:9).
These were times of trouble for the people of God. They cried out, ‘We’re in trouble!’ (4:7). It was a time when it seemed that God was almost silent. ‘In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions’ (3:1).
It must have been heartbreaking for Eli to see his own sons dishonouring the Lord. We read how they slept with the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (2:22). Here we read again of them dishonouring God who has said, ‘Those who honour me I will honour, but those who despise me will be disdained’ (v.30).
As a result of the dishonouring of God, the people of God are defeated (4:1b–11). Eli dies heartbroken (vv.12–18). His daughter-in-law gives birth to a child with the name Ichabod: ‘The glory has departed’ (vv.19–22).
Yet, in the midst of these terrible times of trouble for the people of God there is hope. The Lord called Samuel (3:4). God revealed himself to Samuel and he listened to the Lord (vv.9–10). He said, ‘Speak, God. I’m your servant, ready to listen’ (v.9, MSG). The Lord said, ‘See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle’ (v.11).
Samuel was prepared to pass on the message in its entirety, however unpopular, embarrassing and difficult it was (v.18). He did not hide anything. As a result, God was able to use him greatly: ‘The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground’ (v.19).
Lord, help me to follow the example of Samuel and pray daily in my heart, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening’ (v.9). Help me to listen carefully to the word of God and then pass it on without altering it to please my audience."
1. Yes, Lord, help me to listen to You. Thank You for Your everyday Word, everyday bread.
2. Thank You for a productive day at work.
3. Praise You for everything that You are doing with my relatives! Hallelujah! Keep the Spirit moving! :)
Monday, July 13, 2015
Resurrection and Life
"John 11:1-44
Hope in the resurrection of Jesus
Do you fear death? Many people are afraid of death. But if you put your faith in Jesus, you do not need to fear death. Jesus has defeated the power of death.
Russell Brand (the English comedian, actor, columnist, singer, author and presenter) said, ‘Laughter is addictive because of the inevitability of death. It gives us a temporary escape – for the moment it stops the fear of the inevitability of death.’ Every human being will face the ‘trouble’ of death. Where does the hope lie?
In today’s passage we see the full humanity of Jesus in the face of death. Lazarus was his friend. Jesus loved him (v.3). He was ‘deeply moved’ and ‘troubled’ by his death (v.33). In the shortest verse in the Bible we read ‘Jesus wept’ (v.35).
Yet Jesus is also, uniquely, the answer to death. Jesus said to Martha, ‘ “Your brother will be raised up.”
Martha replied, “I know that he will be raised up in the resurrection at the end of time.”
“You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all” ’ (vv.24–26, MSG).
There is life beyond the grave. Jesus died and rose again. Everyone who believes in Jesus will rise again from the dead. As a foretaste of the future, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. Bishop Lesslie Newbigin was once asked, ‘Are you an optimist or a pessimist?’ He said, ‘I’m neither – Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.’ You have a completely certain hope. We are neither optimists nor pessimists – rather, we are hopeful. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the basis of your future hope.
This resurrection power also belongs to the church. Paul writes to the church of Rome, ‘If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you’ (Romans 8:11).
Christianity is the largest movement of all time. It is the only one that never loses a member through death. I remember one of my sons, when he was a little boy, saying, ‘When you die, I’ll be sad. Then I’ll see you in heaven and I won’t be sad anymore!’
Mother Teresa was asked shortly before her death, ‘Are you afraid of dying?’ She said, ‘How can I be? Dying is going home to God. I have never been afraid. No, on the contrary,’ she said, ‘I am really looking forward to it!’
This passage also indirectly provides a picture of hope for the church. There is a sickness in parts of the church and many, as we have seen, are predicting its death. Some parts of the church seem to have ‘fallen asleep’ (John 11:11). And in some cases there seems to be a ‘bad odour’ (v.39).
This passage reminds us of Jesus’ power to bring even the dead to life. This resurrection power is still at work in the church today. The same Jesus who said over Lazarus ‘this sickness will not end in death’ (v.4), also promised that he would ‘build [his] Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it’ (Matthew 16:18, KJV).
Some parts of the church seem to have been prematurely buried. Jesus said about Lazarus, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go’ (John 11:44c). Maybe Jesus would say something similar to parts of the church today. The Brighton and Hove Argus described what has happened at one of our church plants – St Peter’s, Brighton – as ‘the Lazarus-like recovery of the city’s “unofficial cathedral”.’
Lord, I pray for the church in this country. Forgive us where we have fallen asleep and are giving off a bad odour. Thank you that we know you are deeply moved by the situation, that you weep over the church, and that you will act out of love. May this sickness not end in death.
Lord, would you bring new life. I pray for an end to church closures and decline. May we see the church come alive all across our nation."
1. Amen! Thank You for this hope, thank You that You have indeed conquered death.
2. Thank You, Lord, for continuous learning. It was magnificent how you have crafted the minds.
3. Praise God for open doors, you never cease to amaze me of Your timing, of everything! Amen!
Hope in the resurrection of Jesus
Do you fear death? Many people are afraid of death. But if you put your faith in Jesus, you do not need to fear death. Jesus has defeated the power of death.
Russell Brand (the English comedian, actor, columnist, singer, author and presenter) said, ‘Laughter is addictive because of the inevitability of death. It gives us a temporary escape – for the moment it stops the fear of the inevitability of death.’ Every human being will face the ‘trouble’ of death. Where does the hope lie?
In today’s passage we see the full humanity of Jesus in the face of death. Lazarus was his friend. Jesus loved him (v.3). He was ‘deeply moved’ and ‘troubled’ by his death (v.33). In the shortest verse in the Bible we read ‘Jesus wept’ (v.35).
Yet Jesus is also, uniquely, the answer to death. Jesus said to Martha, ‘ “Your brother will be raised up.”
Martha replied, “I know that he will be raised up in the resurrection at the end of time.”
“You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all” ’ (vv.24–26, MSG).
There is life beyond the grave. Jesus died and rose again. Everyone who believes in Jesus will rise again from the dead. As a foretaste of the future, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. Bishop Lesslie Newbigin was once asked, ‘Are you an optimist or a pessimist?’ He said, ‘I’m neither – Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.’ You have a completely certain hope. We are neither optimists nor pessimists – rather, we are hopeful. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the basis of your future hope.
This resurrection power also belongs to the church. Paul writes to the church of Rome, ‘If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you’ (Romans 8:11).
Christianity is the largest movement of all time. It is the only one that never loses a member through death. I remember one of my sons, when he was a little boy, saying, ‘When you die, I’ll be sad. Then I’ll see you in heaven and I won’t be sad anymore!’
Mother Teresa was asked shortly before her death, ‘Are you afraid of dying?’ She said, ‘How can I be? Dying is going home to God. I have never been afraid. No, on the contrary,’ she said, ‘I am really looking forward to it!’
This passage also indirectly provides a picture of hope for the church. There is a sickness in parts of the church and many, as we have seen, are predicting its death. Some parts of the church seem to have ‘fallen asleep’ (John 11:11). And in some cases there seems to be a ‘bad odour’ (v.39).
This passage reminds us of Jesus’ power to bring even the dead to life. This resurrection power is still at work in the church today. The same Jesus who said over Lazarus ‘this sickness will not end in death’ (v.4), also promised that he would ‘build [his] Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it’ (Matthew 16:18, KJV).
Some parts of the church seem to have been prematurely buried. Jesus said about Lazarus, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go’ (John 11:44c). Maybe Jesus would say something similar to parts of the church today. The Brighton and Hove Argus described what has happened at one of our church plants – St Peter’s, Brighton – as ‘the Lazarus-like recovery of the city’s “unofficial cathedral”.’
Lord, I pray for the church in this country. Forgive us where we have fallen asleep and are giving off a bad odour. Thank you that we know you are deeply moved by the situation, that you weep over the church, and that you will act out of love. May this sickness not end in death.
Lord, would you bring new life. I pray for an end to church closures and decline. May we see the church come alive all across our nation."
1. Amen! Thank You for this hope, thank You that You have indeed conquered death.
2. Thank You, Lord, for continuous learning. It was magnificent how you have crafted the minds.
3. Praise God for open doors, you never cease to amaze me of Your timing, of everything! Amen!
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Cry, Rejoice, Stay Close, and Praise
"Psalm 64:1-10
Hope in the ultimate triumph of good over evil
Do you ever feel terrified by something you are facing in your life? David faced ‘the terror of the enemy’ (v.1b, AMP).
He went through times of real trouble, ‘the conspirators out to get me’ (v.2, MSG), ‘evil plans’ (v.5a) and ‘traps’ (v.5b, MSG). Yet, he is confident that God will triumph over evil.
What should we do when we face similar troubles? The psalm today gives us some clues:
Cry out to God
David prays, ‘Listen and help, O God’ (v.1a, MSG). David asks God: ‘protect my life from the threat of the enemy’ (v.1b).
‘Rejoice in the Lord’
‘Rejoice in the Lord’ (v.10a). As the apostle Paul puts it, ‘Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!’ (Philippians 4:4).
Stay close to the Lord
‘Take refuge in him’ (Psalm 64:10b). ‘Fly to God’ (v.10b, MSG).
Keep praising God
‘Let all the upright in heart praise him!’ (v.10c). ‘Make praise your habit’ (v.10c, MSG).
Lord, thank you that I can be confident of the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Thank you that you go with me into the battles. Thank you that I am never alone. Lord, I praise you."
1. Hallelujah for never forsaking me. Thank You, Lord.
2. Come Holy Spirit, in times that I need You to be there, You are there. You do amazing things in my life. Thank You for the energy for today's activities.
3. Thank You for provision and for protection.
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Pour Out Your Heart
"John 10:22-42
Pour out your heart and soul to God
Is there something you want desperately from God?
It is almost inevitable that at times in our lives we will feel ‘distress of soul’ (1:10, AMP). Never allow bitterness to eat away in your heart – but, like Hannah, pour it out to the Lord. ‘Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried – inconsolably’ (v.10, MSG).
There is nothing more releasing than to pour out one’s soul before the Lord – to tell him what your problems are, rather than carrying them around yourself – and to ask him for the solution, and then to receive the peace of God (Philippians 4:6–7).
Relief from her anguish comes to Hannah long before she actually sees the answer to her prayer.
This is a beautiful picture of heartfelt prayer from the depth of the soul. ‘As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard’ (1 Samuel 1:12–13a). Eli accuses her of being drunk. She replies, ‘Not so, my lord … I am a woman who is deeply troubled … I was pouring out my soul to the Lord … I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief’ (vv.15–16).
Eli tells her, ‘Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him’ (v.17). And as she left her face was no longer downcast: ‘She ate heartily, her face radiant’ (v.18, MSG). She knew deep down that God had heard her prayer and, indeed, ‘the Lord remembered her’ (v.19). In fact, God more than answered her prayer. Not only did he give her the child she longed for; she gave birth to six children (2:21).
Meanwhile, ‘the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favour with the Lord and with people’ (2:26). This is the prayer we have prayed so often for our children.
Hannah’s prayer after Samuel’s birth is a vivid demonstration of the soul satisfaction that she experiences through her relationship with God. She prays and thanks God that ‘those who were hungry hunger no more’ (v.5).
The amazing thing in Hannah’s prayer is that the supreme source of her joy is not her child, but in the Lord. She says, ‘My heart rejoices in the Lord’ (v.1). He is the source of her soul satisfaction.
‘I’m walking on air ... God brings life ... he rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope, restoring dignity and respect to their lives’ (vv.1,6,8, MSG).
Lord, thank you for amazing answers to prayer which you give when we pour out our souls to you. Thank you that sometimes you answer our prayers in these remarkable ways. But whether we receive what we specifically ask for or not, you promise us your peace."
1. Lord, thank you indeed for peace. I could not ask for more.
2. Thank You for a fun-filled day and meeting little angels.
3. Hallelujah for fellowship, praise You for old friends.
Pour out your heart and soul to God
Is there something you want desperately from God?
It is almost inevitable that at times in our lives we will feel ‘distress of soul’ (1:10, AMP). Never allow bitterness to eat away in your heart – but, like Hannah, pour it out to the Lord. ‘Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried – inconsolably’ (v.10, MSG).
There is nothing more releasing than to pour out one’s soul before the Lord – to tell him what your problems are, rather than carrying them around yourself – and to ask him for the solution, and then to receive the peace of God (Philippians 4:6–7).
Relief from her anguish comes to Hannah long before she actually sees the answer to her prayer.
This is a beautiful picture of heartfelt prayer from the depth of the soul. ‘As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard’ (1 Samuel 1:12–13a). Eli accuses her of being drunk. She replies, ‘Not so, my lord … I am a woman who is deeply troubled … I was pouring out my soul to the Lord … I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief’ (vv.15–16).
Eli tells her, ‘Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him’ (v.17). And as she left her face was no longer downcast: ‘She ate heartily, her face radiant’ (v.18, MSG). She knew deep down that God had heard her prayer and, indeed, ‘the Lord remembered her’ (v.19). In fact, God more than answered her prayer. Not only did he give her the child she longed for; she gave birth to six children (2:21).
Meanwhile, ‘the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favour with the Lord and with people’ (2:26). This is the prayer we have prayed so often for our children.
Hannah’s prayer after Samuel’s birth is a vivid demonstration of the soul satisfaction that she experiences through her relationship with God. She prays and thanks God that ‘those who were hungry hunger no more’ (v.5).
The amazing thing in Hannah’s prayer is that the supreme source of her joy is not her child, but in the Lord. She says, ‘My heart rejoices in the Lord’ (v.1). He is the source of her soul satisfaction.
‘I’m walking on air ... God brings life ... he rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope, restoring dignity and respect to their lives’ (vv.1,6,8, MSG).
Lord, thank you for amazing answers to prayer which you give when we pour out our souls to you. Thank you that sometimes you answer our prayers in these remarkable ways. But whether we receive what we specifically ask for or not, you promise us your peace."
1. Lord, thank you indeed for peace. I could not ask for more.
2. Thank You for a fun-filled day and meeting little angels.
3. Hallelujah for fellowship, praise You for old friends.
Friday, July 10, 2015
Believing, Knowing, and Following
"John 10:22-42
Communicate with God through Jesus
How do you and I communicate with God?
Communication with Jesus is communication with God. Those who met Jesus understood he was claiming to be God (v.33). When he said, ‘I and the Father are one’ (v.30) and ‘the Father is in me, and I in the Father’ (v.38), there was no ambiguity in the ears of his hearers. His opponents understood it as blasphemy – ‘because you, a mere human being, claim to be God’ (v.33) – and they picked up stones to stone him (vv.31–33).
Jesus communicated with his disciples and he continues to communicate with us. He says, ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me’ (v.27). We see here the marks of a true Christian:
Believing in Jesus
There is a contrast in this passage between those who ‘believed in Jesus’ (v.42) and those who ‘do not believe’ (vv.25–26). Belief in Jesus means believing in him when he says, ‘I am God’s Son’ (v.36) and putting our trust in him.
Knowing Jesus
Jesus says that ‘my sheep listen to my voice. I know them’ (v.27). To be a Christian is to recognise and follow the voice of Jesus. This is what defines a Christian – not so much knowledge about Jesus, but actually knowing him. This is then followed up by the wonderful declaration that Jesus also knows us.
Following Jesus
Jesus says, ‘They follow me’ (v.27). It affects our lives. As Jesus said elsewhere, ‘By their fruit you will recognise them’ (Matthew 7:16,20). James wrote, ‘Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead’ (James 2:17). The primary evidence of faith is love. Those who follow Jesus will follow his example of love.
Jesus promises every true Christian: ‘I give them eternal life’ (John 10:28). This is not just about quantity of life, it is also about quality. Jesus satisfies our spiritual hunger and thirst. In a relationship with Jesus we find this deep soul satisfaction that cannot be found anywhere else.
Jesus promises that this relationship with him will go on forever. It starts now, but it is ‘eternal’ (v.28). Those who follow Jesus will ‘never perish’ (v.28). This is a gift (‘I give them eternal life’ (v.28)). It cannot be earned, nor can it be lost. Jesus promises ‘no one can snatch them out of my hand … no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand’ (vv.28–29). There may be many struggles and temptations along the way, but ultimately the hand of Jesus and the hand of the Father are engaged together in protecting you. A Christian may lose their job, their money, their liberty and even their life, but they can never lose eternal life.
Thank you, Lord, that I can listen to your voice, that I can know you and that you give me eternal life. Thank you that you promise that I will never perish and that no one can snatch me out of your hand. Thank you that in this relationship I find soul satisfaction both now and forevermore."
1. Hallelujah to this eternal life that You give. Thank You, Lord.
2. Thank You that You can use me in service for others. I praise You.
3. Thank You, Lord, for being able to share time with a friend celebrating her birthday today.
Communicate with God through Jesus
How do you and I communicate with God?
Communication with Jesus is communication with God. Those who met Jesus understood he was claiming to be God (v.33). When he said, ‘I and the Father are one’ (v.30) and ‘the Father is in me, and I in the Father’ (v.38), there was no ambiguity in the ears of his hearers. His opponents understood it as blasphemy – ‘because you, a mere human being, claim to be God’ (v.33) – and they picked up stones to stone him (vv.31–33).
Jesus communicated with his disciples and he continues to communicate with us. He says, ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me’ (v.27). We see here the marks of a true Christian:
Believing in Jesus
There is a contrast in this passage between those who ‘believed in Jesus’ (v.42) and those who ‘do not believe’ (vv.25–26). Belief in Jesus means believing in him when he says, ‘I am God’s Son’ (v.36) and putting our trust in him.
Knowing Jesus
Jesus says that ‘my sheep listen to my voice. I know them’ (v.27). To be a Christian is to recognise and follow the voice of Jesus. This is what defines a Christian – not so much knowledge about Jesus, but actually knowing him. This is then followed up by the wonderful declaration that Jesus also knows us.
Following Jesus
Jesus says, ‘They follow me’ (v.27). It affects our lives. As Jesus said elsewhere, ‘By their fruit you will recognise them’ (Matthew 7:16,20). James wrote, ‘Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead’ (James 2:17). The primary evidence of faith is love. Those who follow Jesus will follow his example of love.
Jesus promises every true Christian: ‘I give them eternal life’ (John 10:28). This is not just about quantity of life, it is also about quality. Jesus satisfies our spiritual hunger and thirst. In a relationship with Jesus we find this deep soul satisfaction that cannot be found anywhere else.
Jesus promises that this relationship with him will go on forever. It starts now, but it is ‘eternal’ (v.28). Those who follow Jesus will ‘never perish’ (v.28). This is a gift (‘I give them eternal life’ (v.28)). It cannot be earned, nor can it be lost. Jesus promises ‘no one can snatch them out of my hand … no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand’ (vv.28–29). There may be many struggles and temptations along the way, but ultimately the hand of Jesus and the hand of the Father are engaged together in protecting you. A Christian may lose their job, their money, their liberty and even their life, but they can never lose eternal life.
Thank you, Lord, that I can listen to your voice, that I can know you and that you give me eternal life. Thank you that you promise that I will never perish and that no one can snatch me out of your hand. Thank you that in this relationship I find soul satisfaction both now and forevermore."
1. Hallelujah to this eternal life that You give. Thank You, Lord.
2. Thank You that You can use me in service for others. I praise You.
3. Thank You, Lord, for being able to share time with a friend celebrating her birthday today.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)