Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul.

Scripture:         These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. …And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. Hebrews 11:13, 39-40

Observation:    Hebrews tells us of men and women who held on to hope in the midst of horrendous situations.  Many of these people died never having received, but having seen.  The reason they did not receive is that God had provided something better.

            There is great power in hope.  Emily Dickenson once wrote: “Hope is the thing with feathers/That perches in the soul/And sings the tune--without the words/And never stops at all.”  It is from that perch in our hearts that hope sings the tune of redemption, the song of salvation.  The notes that remind us that this is not our home, that something better for us is out there with Christ.

Application:    This has been a difficult fall season for me, filled with tough conversations and circumstances.  I needed to be reminded today that things I have only seen with the eyes of hope, I will hold with the hands of faith.   Just around the corner of this year, I believe that I will begin to receive things I have only greeted from afar.  I must continue to sing the tune of hope and never stop at all.  God is good and he will do it.

And there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears.
And love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears.
Get over your hill and see what you find there,
With grace in your heart and flowers in your hair. ("After the Storm" Mumford and Sons)

Prayer:             God, give me the song of hope today.  Hope that one day it will all be made right with you.  But also the hope that you are at work and that some of the seeds sown in the last few years will be ready for the harvest in 2012.   I trust you to get me over the hill with grace in my heart and flowers in my hair.

Possess Your Own Vessel.

Scripture: …each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor... 1 Thessalonians 4:4 

Observation: Paul is encouraging the Thessalonians to not fall back into their pre-Jesus ways of living, especially in regards to sexual purity. He encourages them that now, in Christ, they ought to know how to “possess their own vessel.” To demonstrate self-control over their bodies, that their bodies might help them live holy and honorable lives.
   Though the context is primarily the relationship between the body and sex, the larger principle here seems to be that believers ought to control their bodies, and not let their bodies control them. This has application not only in sexuality, but in diet, health, addiction, sleep. The larger principle is that believers ought to control their own bodies.

Application: Nibbling at the edge of my soul these last few months has been the question: What obligations do I have to God with my body, other than sexual purity? I know I am overweight and out of shape. Is that something God cares about? The reason I am in this situation is that I am not controlling my body, but letting my body’s cravings and desires control me. I think that God wants me to control my own body in the area of health, not just purity. I do not know what this means fully yet, only that it has implications for me and our church as well.

Prayer: God, I want to control my own body in holiness and honor. Will you show me what that means and then how I can trust you for the power to do so?

Go to God, and Get Back to Work!

Scripture: Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. Nehemiah 4:1 Observation: So much work had been done on the wall Nehemiah was rebuilding. Gates rehung, towers restored, breaches repaired. It was close to half-way finished. Nehemiah and his team were close to carrying out the task of the Lord. And then opposition arises. Sanballat begins to taunt them and accuse them. This does not deter Nehemiah, however, who takes this issue straight to God, and then gets back to work. Goes to God, and gets back to work. There is a wall to be built, after all. In the next few verses we see the people rallied and finished that stage of the wall--1/2 done, because they had a mind to work. Application: When you are getting close to accomplishing the task God has set before you, opposition will rise. It may be in the form of a person or a problem. It might be financial or medical. It may be something that affects the whole team, or a personal issue. But obstacles are not evidence that wrong has been done. Sometimes they are a blockbuster sign that something right is happening. The enemy will leverage whatever tools at his disposal to slow down God's work. I need to take seriously Nehemiah's example of praying, and getting back to work. I probably tend to focus on all the wall-building aspects in my life, and not remember that projects need prayer. Prayer: God, I thank you for the wall building you let me do. Please guard these walls and build them up for your people and your glory. May my heart turn again and again to you, and may I keep at the work, that I might see you finish the wall.

Walking Like Esther

Scripture: Now Esther was winning favor in the eyes of all who saw her. Esther 2:15

Observation: The Persian king has divorced his wife for not obeying his command to come to him. Now, he is looking for another woman to be his bride. He has brought to him a group of virgins, who are treated to a 12 month beauty regime. Out of this group, he will choose Esther. This selection quickly proves wise, as her cousin Mordaci is able to uncover and foil a plot against the king.
There is much that disagrees with me in this story—the casual dissolution of a marriage, the forced enslavement of young women. But in spite of the circumstances, one thing shines through: Esther. She is determined to willingly serve in tough circumstances. She is wise in her ability to listen and follow the advice of others. Slowly she is winning over all those around her, including the king himself. And as we will see, it is for such a time as this that Esther sits on the throne.

Application: Sometimes in the worst of circumstances, we have to continue to do what is right. We have to continue to serve, continue to get back up, continue to fight for the cause. Esther determined that she would not change who she was, but would continue to let the favor-winning grace of God shine through her life. Who knows, perhaps the situation that seems so bleak and helpless, is merely God setting the stage for a huge reveal of His deliverance? Ester could not have known her selection would assist in the saving of the king’s life.
It can be hard in trying times to give in, give up. But the smart money is on continuing to do what is right, and trust that God has a plan. Until that plan becomes clear, we walk in and by his favor-winning grace.

Prayer: Today, God, I trust that you are working behind the scenes. Just like you are present, but not named, in Esther’s life, I know that you are behind the scenes in my life. You are using all kinds of circumstances for your good and your glory. Help me keep my chin up and walk with grace in such a way that I am winning favor among all whom I serve.

You Become What You Pursue

Scripture: They went after false idols and became false… 2 Kings 17:15

Observation: The author describes the reason for Israel’s enslavement and exile—they had abandoned the Lord and pursued evil. One phrase caught me… “They went after false idols and became false.” This word, false, is also translated “vanity,” or “emptiness.” There is a progression here. You become what you pursue. If you pursue the emptiness of hollow priorities, you become hollow. If you pursue shallow goals, you become shallow.

Application: What emptiness am I pursuing? I think one area is television. Jessica and I have some shows we watch together, as we do with the kids. While that is fine, I think we can also easily settle in to the empty routine of television each night before bed. Jessica has been asking me recently about my leadership at home in the area of Family Night. I think I let nights sneak up on me with no planning. I think we need at least one night a week that is TV free for the family—where we play games or ride bikes or cook out. I need to incorporate this into my family night planning.

Prayer: God, I don’t want to pursue emptiness and become empty. Help me see empty areas in my life that could be replaced with things of true value and weight.

Planning on and Standing on Noble Things

Scripture: But he who is noble plans noble things, and on noble things he stands. Isaiah 32:8

Observation: Isaiah speaks of a coming day when the failures of all human leaders will be forgotten in the triumph of the Messiah. He will reign in righteousness. This is in sharp contrast to the foolish rulers who set God aside and neglect the needs of their people. Then, Isaiah reminds leaders that those who are “noble,” who carry the nobility of leadership, ought to pursue true nobility by planning on and standing on noble things. Noble things such as declaring truth, fostering purity of heart, regarding the needs of those in one’s care, hearing the pleas of the needy. Noble leaders aim high, and plan on and stand on these things.

Application: What are the noble things I am planning for and standing upon in my leadership? Where am I “aiming high?” At work, I believe our call to love people to Christ and help them in their journey with God is a noble thing. Our vision to pursue God, build community, extend Christ, and leave a legacy are noble things. They are the big rocks. I need to keep them front and center. At home, I believe the noble things are to love my wife and kids, to help them listen to God. To provide and provision for them. To pursue glorious masculinity in my own life.

These are some of the noble things that I need to plan on and stand on as a leader. But even in my drive to work this morning, I sensed the call to get distracted, to elevate less important things and miss out on the noble ones.

Prayer: God, I want to be a man of noble things. Help me see your heart, what you declare to be noble. And help me keep these as the big rocks of my life. Protect me from the distraction of folly, of things that ultimately waste my life and squander my leadership.

Be An Example of Progress

Scripture: …set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity…Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 1 Tim. 4:12-15

Observation: Paul is encouraging the young pastor, Timothy, to focus on teaching the truth to his people, setting an example for them in life, and to continue to make progress in his Christian life.

Application: This text embodies a major leadership principle of my life. I am going to lead people out of the example of my own progressing life, not out of my own perfected life. My hope is that they will be inspired to see that they can progress along with me, that we are in this journey together. This requires openness, willingness to risk not having it all together. It means allowing people into your home and life. This can be a challenge for me, but these verses encouraged me to continue to be diligent in my progress, and continue to be open is letting others see that progress as I lead them.

Prayer: God, help me continue to progress. Give me opportunity to share my advancing with others, in a way that encourages their speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Thanks for the opportunity, and protect my progress.

Sounding the Trumpet for Battle

Scripture: Behold, God is with us at our head, and his priests with their battle trumpets to sound the call to battle against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the Lord, the God of your fathers, for you cannot succeed.” 2 Chronicles 13:12

Observation: Abijah, king of Judah, is headed into battle against Jereboam, king of Israel. Jereboam had led his country into cultish worship and evil practices. Abijah also was not completely without sin, but it says he was "wholly true to the Lord." THe difference between the two kings is that Abijah was leading his troops to trust in the Lord. Here, we see a battlefield speech, calling his countrymen to unite and fight and calling his enemies to give up.
These words caught me because I love the advancing with God nature of them. This is a man, albeit flawed, who actually wants to lead, to conquer, to defeat the enemy. And he wants to do it under the headship of the Lord, and with the priests sounding their battle trumpets. This is a man ho wants to go into battle with and for the Lord.

Application: I want to be a minister like Abijah. A man who runs to the battle, confident God is ahead of him and ready to sound the call to battle. It can be so easy to hang back, and let others sound the call. To refuse to accept the responsibility of wading into the fray. Is it fear? Is it insecurity? Is it personality? Is it lack of confidence that God is with us at our head? I am not sure, but I am learning that people are who people are, and some are simply not going to pick up the battle trumpet--no matter what you do. It may have to do with the way God created us--he made some to lead the battle and others to not. In any case, I know that for my soul, I need to look to the left and right and see "valiant men of war" standing with me on the plains of battle.

Prayer: God, I thank you for the way you created me. I pray you help me grow more comfortable with my divine design, and learn to serve and lead out of it. I pray you show me how to build valiant men of war around me for the battle. Show me how to do that and help me make sure that I have you at my head.

When Happiness Goes Too Far.

Scripture: Happy are your wives! Happy are these your servants, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom! 2 Chronicles 9:7

Observation: While the beginning of Solomon’s rule was marked by widespread prosperity and protection for the people, the last days saw the focus shift. When the Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, she is amazed by the luxury and wealth he has amassed. The throne of wisdom has become a gaudy, glitzy thing. The court of Solomon is a happy place, because luxury rules. It seems that success + drifting from God = decadence. The ultimate cost of this is a divided kingdom.
We have been talking in our Small Group about money, and the proper use of it. We learned that the love of money is the root of all kinds of problems. You can see that here. Solomon had too much success, and failed to temper it with the wisdom God gave him. The wisdom that starts with a healthy fear of God.

Application: As God brings success into my life, I must remain moored to Him. I need to remember to “dance with the one who brung ya.” I need to remember what got me here, and who got me here. Staying grounded in the word is key for me. With increased responsibility comes the increased pressure to squeeze out this time with God, to fill it with more productive things. But that is how it starts. I need this summer to make sure I stay close to God in his word.

Prayer: God, grant me success, that I might serve you and your people better. But don’t let me get caught up in the glamour and trappings of success. Don’t let it go to my head. I trust you to be my priority.

To see my kids eating and drinking and being happy...

Scripture: Judah and Israel were as many as the sand by the sea. They ate and drank and were happy. 1 Kings 4:20

Observation: Under Solomon's leadership, the people were happy. They grew. They were able to tackle immense projects for the glory of God, like the building of the temple. They had safety from their enemies and prosperity. Nations from all around heard of their growing reputation and came to seek the wisdom of Solomon. Why was God's hand on them in such a powerful way?
A clue is found in something Solomon himself once observed. When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. Proverbs 29:2. The way Solomon lived his life impacted the way he led, which impacted the way the people lived. Another clue is found in the psalm of Solomon's father, David. In psalm 101, David outlines the kind of man and ruler he intends to be. I will ponder the way that is blameless...I will walk with integrity of heart within my house. (v.2). I believe it is clear that the blessings Judah and Israel experienced were related to Solomon's walking in wisdom and integrity. Later, we see the flip side of this, but for now, everyone is eating and drinking and happy.

Application: As a father, my "kingdom" is subject to these same things. As I go, my family will go. How I conduct my life and character and walk affects my family. I need to heed Psalm 101 as an aspiration for fatherhood. I think I will memorize that over the next few weeks, and aspire to a higher level of integrity in my parenting.

Prayer: God, I know my life is not a guarantee for my kids. But the odds are much better if I walk with you. Help me to me a father of integrity. Help me lead myself that I might lead others.

Get off your Bed and Make a Decision!

Scripture: And now, behold, Adonijah is king, although you, my lord the king, do not know it. 1 Kings 1:18

Observation: David is advancing, and it is time for him to choose a successor. His oldest living son, Adonijah, plans to take the throne, even though God had identified Solomon as David’s successor. David learns of this news on his sickbed, when his wife comes to tell him that Adonijah is acting like the next king. David has to act quickly to install Solomon, lest rebellion and division arise.

Adonijah was right—the oldest living son is supposed to take the throne from his father. This was the world’s custom. However, God had already picked Solomon. So contrary to public opinion of “the way things are done around here,” Solomon was the right choice for David.

Application: As a leader, one burden we must carry is the burden of leading where God is going, even when it may not be popular or even customary. There are many things I face in the church, for example, where I have to act on what God has shared with me or our leadership, things that may not make sense according to the customs of the day. Now, I need to make sure we are hearing from God, and we are communicating that to people. But in the end, sometimes we just have to install Solomon on the throne and let the chips fall.

What I realize today is that by not dealing with problems, I can let bitterness and rebellion grow. There comes a time when David has to get off his bed and make a decision, for the sake of the kingdom.

Prayer: God, I need your guidance in when and how to deal with people. When do I need to get off my sickbed and deal with a potential problem before it blooms into a big one? I pray today for wisdom in hearing from you and identifying the time to act. I also ask for grace and truth when the time comes.

God Brings Mighty Men

Scripture: David went out to meet them and said to them, “If you have come to me in friendship to help me, my heart will be joined to you; but if to betray me to my adversaries, although there is no wrong in my hands, then may the God of our fathers see and rebuke you.”
1 Chronicles 12:17

Observation: A group of men approach David, asking to join him. Having known betrayal and lack of support, David asks if these men have come to him in shalom, peace and support. If this is the case, then he will unite his heart to them. If they have come to be his loyal friends, he will give them his heart. Later, the text tells us that day to day men came to David to help him, until there was a great army, like an army of God. This verse tells us that these men were not coming on their own, but were coming to him from God. God was the one bringing these mighty men. God was the one building David’s army. God was the one finding friends for David.

Application: Two things. One, God has brought men in my life to be my shalom, my peace and support. I need to learn how to unite my heart to them, to give them my heart and join them. Two, I need to recognize that I am not alone in my battles, that God wants to support me, and support me by bringing mighty men around me. So I need to pray for and look for them, and then be ready to receive them with an open heart.

Prayer: God, I ask you to bring me mighty men. Maybe you have already, and I need to flip the switch and give them my heart. Maybe you still have some to bring, and I ask you to bring them and give me mighty men in friendship. Help me to enjoy your favor through friendships.

Who Are You Listening To?

Scripture: And the men of David said to him, "Here is the day of which the LORD said to you, 'Behold, I will give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it shall seem good to you.'" Then David arose and stealthily cut off a corner of Saul's robe. 1 Samuel 24:4

Observation: David and his men find themselves with what appears to be a divine opportunity. Saul, who had been pursuing David to kill him, steps into a cave where David and his men are hiding. While Saul is occupied, David's men seize this moment as God given and call David to take advantage of it by killing Saul. They use divine language, and speak as if they are speaking for God. David does not kill Saul, but is moved along by his men to go and cut a piece of Saul's robe, symbolizing that he could have killed Saul if he wanted.
God had not told David he could kill Saul. Yet David's men misread the situation and gave David spiritual sounding, but wrong advice.

Application: I need to be careful when I listen to others tell me what God says. Good hearted people, loyal to my best interests, can misread the signs and circumstances. When they come to me and say, "I think God wants you to do this or that," I need to test it out before acting on it. I need to be able to have my own direction from God and his word.

Prayer: As I head into a week of strategic discussions with our pastoral team, I pray we would be guided by you, Lord, and you would help shield us from misreading the signs and circumstances. Help us really hear from you, and avoid acting on what you have not said.

When That Armor Just Doesn't Fit

Scripture: David strapped his sword over his armor. And he tried in vain to go, for he had not tested them. Then David said to Saul, “I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.” So David put them off. 1 Samuel 17:39

Observation: David, outraged, prepares to come up against Goliath. Though David is hopelessly outmatched, he goes in the name of the Lord. Saul tries to equip David with his armor and weapons, but David realizes he is not a warrior; he is a shepherd. Robes and slings will be his strategy. David trusts in who the Lord made him to be, not in who others need him to be.

Application: This weekend I am speaking to a group at a conference. When I think about my topic, I get a little intimidated—it is outside my area of expertise. I wonder if they should have gotten someone else to deliver this talk, someone with the training and tools to really bring this topic to light. In recent weeks of preparation, I feel I have been trying on different suits of armor, trying to be a warrior. But I am a shepherd. I have to go out to meet this group as myself, as who God made me to be, not wearing the armor of another. God knew what he was doing when he called me here, and I can go in confidence in the name of the Lord.

Prayer: God, help me to go out today in Your name. Free me from the pressure of another man’s armor. For your reasons, you chose me to be the one to do this talk. I pray you would let me go out with my staff and sling, and throw for the fences. Thanks for qualifying those you call. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10

Succeeding at Work but Failing at Home

Scripture: Why then do you scorn my sacrifices and my offerings that I commanded, and honor your sons above me by fattening yourselves on the choicest parts of every offering of my people Israel?’ 1 Samuel 2:29

Observation: Eli is a priest, and from his interactions with young Samuel, he appears to be a godly and wise one. Yet in his influence with his own sons, he is a failure. His sons, who serve in the ministry, are consumed with greed and immorality. They abuse their power. While we want to be careful about holding parents responsible for all their children’s’ actions. In this case, God does hold Eli accountable. God promises to dishonor Eli and his sons and eventually put them to death. In this situation, Eli was able to be an influence for good among other children, but not his own. He was good at work but a failure at home.

Application: As a pastor, I have the opportunity to influence others. On the recent Boquillas trip, I had the opportunity to spend time with and influence the children of others. But the lesson of Eli to me today is: your kids are your priority. Eli helped Samuel listen and follow God, but was unable to lead his sons to do the same. I do not want that to be my legacy. “He led others, but failed with his own family.” It can be easy for me to get home and go “off the clock.” But my main ministry is among my own family.

Prayer: God, help me to learn how to lead my own kids. I pray to day they will honor you and grow in love for you. Show me ways I can lead them, even tonight.

God Can Install and Uninstall Whom He Pleases

Scripture: And God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, and the leaders of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech, Judges 9:23

Observation: Abimelech went to the leaders of Shechem, his relatives, and offered to kill his 70 brothers and become their king. Instead of 70 strangers ruling them, they could have one relative. They agreed, and yet soon they turned against Abimelech and tried to kill him. What soured their relationship so quickly? God himself. He sent an evil spirit in between them to divide their relationship. And though Abimelech had taken the throne illegally, without God's appointment, God was able to correct this.

Application: God can get his way. He can correct injustice. He is more powerful than the schemes of violent men. I am sure there were people who wondered where God was when Abimelech took over. The truth is, God was right there and he had a plan. God is able to install and uninstall people from positions.
I have seen God do this in a smaller scale in my life. People that need to be removed from a position or a a company or even a church. I wonder what God is doing and then I see his plan at work. I need to trust that God knows what he is doing and is at work, behind the scenes, to accomplish his purposes. And that sometimes he has to allow the occasional Abimelech.

Prayer: God, today I affirm my trust in your leadership. You know what you are doing. Evil does not win. Your kingdom moves forward. Help me have the peace of trusting you today.

Something More Important than Fear

Scripture: So Gideon took ten men of his servants and did as the LORD had told him. But because he was too afraid of his family and the men of the town to do it by day, he did it by night. Judges 6:27

Observation: When the angel of the Lord showed up to where he was working, Gideon, begged him not to leave without giving him a sign. Later, the Lord told Gideon to tear down an altar to Baal. Gideon did, but waited until night because he was afraid. When God asked him to lead an army against his enemies, Gideon pressed God for a sign. He knew that testing God was wrong because he asked God not to be angry with him. Later, God told Gideon to scout the enemy camp, and told him if he was afraid to scout the enemy by himself, he was to take his servant with him.
Gideon did as the Lord told him, but with a spirit of fear and uncertainty. He needed constant reassurance that he was doing what was right. God was gracious to him, and gave him the reassurance he was looking for, but then upped the ante by reducing Gideon’s fighting force from 32,000 to 300 men—further stretching Gideon’s faith. In the end, Gideon, clothed with the Spirit of the Lord, was successful.

Application: God can use people of weak faith. In Gideon’s defense, he never let his fear hold him back from obeying God. Ambrose Redmoon once wrote: Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear. Gideon judged that obeying God, removing idols, and defeating the enemy was more important than his fear.
In my world, I have many reasons to need reassurance. To need external validation that I am going in the right way. I may not cast a fleece, but I may look for the words of others to confirm direction. But the reality is that God has declared a course for me, and I need to hold fast to it. Seeking reassurance may be fine, but in the end, I need to judge that something else is more important than my need for reassurance—obeying the call of God.

Prayer: God, you have outlined some clear paths. Do not let naysayers or questioners cast doubt on your direction. Keep me open to your voice, but when I have heard it, let me judge that it is more important than fear. Help me to keep moving forward.

Rob Bell and Deuteronomy

Scripture: "If a prophet or a dreamer of dreams arises among you and gives you a sign or a wonder, and the sign or wonder that he tells you comes to pass, and if he says, 'Let us go after other gods,' which you have not known, 'and let us serve them,' you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams. Deuteronomy 13:1-3

Observation: God is warning his people not to be swayed by signs, wonders, or any other appearances of divine empowerment when it comes to people who claim to speak for God. The key to knowing if a person is truly a prophet is not success, or accurate predictions, or even miracles and signs. It is not if the person can reform miracles or heal people or have thousands of followers. The key is the theological test. Who does this person say that God is? What does this person say about God's word?
"Let us go after other gods" may not be someone intentionally enticing false religion, but if we lead people to a version of God that is inconsistent with scripture, then we, in effect, are leading people to other gods and are not to be listened to.

Application: Everyone is tweeting and testing about Rob Bell's forthcoming book, yet few have read it. I have not read it yet, and am trying to withhold a rush to judgment. But as I read the book, my criteria for whether Rob Bell is a person to be listened to is not if his prose is compelling, or if he is genuinely living out the signs of life of Christ, nor is it even the miracle of thousands of followers. In the end, it will come down to: "who does he say that God is?". This answer must be centered in scripture, and not in a sanitized or palatable version. If that answer leads us to a God different than scripture, then we have to stop listening.

Prayer: God, help me make sure my words reflect who you are and not who I want you to be or who I think people want to hear you to be. I pray also for Rob Bell, that his evident love for Christ and people would be guided by the truth of your word.

Obstacle or Opportunity?

Scripture: And you shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to reveal what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. Deuteronomy 8:2

Observation: God led his people into some strategic situations where their patience and obedience would be tested. He did this to reveal what was really in their hearts. All people can promise obedience, but the true test is obedience under fire—how we act when our comfort and desires are challenged.

Application: I tend to look at challenges and problems as obstacles to me getting where I want rather than opportunities to obey. Chances to demonstrate to God that I will keep his commandments. These tests reveal what is really in my heart.

Prayer: God, help me today to see the tests I face as opportunities to obey you. Let me find joy I choosing your leading over me.

God Longs for it to Go Well With Me

Scripture: Oh that they had such a mind as this always, to fear me and to keep all my commandments, that it might go well with them and with their descendants forever! Deuteronomy 5:29

Observation: Moses is giving the people the deut nomos, the second giving of the law. After the giving, receiving, and disobeying of the first law, God is gracious to reaffirm the terms of his promise. Here, Moses relates God's reminiscing about that moment. God remembers how the law was given and how the people promised to obey. And he remembers how they feared him with a holy fear. There was genuine honor and respect for God and a desire to follow him and obey.
The Moses relates this one lament of God's, "Oh that they had such a mind as this always, to fear me and to keep all my commandments, that it might go well with them and with their descendants forever!" while God values their fear, he longs for that t be more than fleeting. God longs for their fear and desire to obey would be permanent. Why? Not so God gets something out of it,but so that it might go well with the people whom he loves. In other words, God's heart is aching for his people to experience e best life has to offer, and he know the only path to that lies in holy fear and obedience.

Application: this is a good reminder for me that God asks for my obedience not because he is on a power trip--my obedience or disobedience does not affect his reign one whit. He asks for my obedience because he longs for life to go well with me. He longs for me to avoid the pain and troubles of wrong paths.
As I consider this, I need to ask, is this my motivation as I call others to obedience? Do I ask for obedience among my kids because I need to control, or because I long for it to go well with them in life? Do I call our church to follow God because it makes me feel better, or because I long for it to go well with them in this life? I need to examine my motives, and make sure my call to obedience in others is matched by a longing for blessing in their lives.

Prayer: God, examine my heart today as I prepare to lead with our staff. I am calling all of us to obedience. May my heart ache for them to experience it going well in their lives. May they hear that longing under the surface of all I say today. Let me lead with strength and grace and patience today. Amen.

When the Sure Thing isn't so Sure

Scripture: And they said, "If we have found favor in your sight, let this land be given to your servants for a possession. Do not take us across the Jordan." Numbers 32:5

Observation: The tribes of Israel are moving into the promised land, to cleanse and occupy it. As they are about to enter, two tribes, Reuben and Gad, ask Moses if they could hang back. They have found land much more suitable for their needs on the other side of the Jordan. Were they afraid of battle? Maybe they saw the land on this side of the Jordan as "a sure thing" compared to the risk of the promised land.
Moses strikes a compromise with them. If they will fight alongside the other tribes until the promised land is secure, then they can return to this land and live there. The two tribes agree and fulfill their obligation.
However, history shows this to be a bad decision. The land Reuben and Gad requested is referred to as the Transjordan. It lacked natural defenses, and was vulnerable to Israel's enemies. It was often the first land invaded. Several times, Israel lost control of this land. In fact, when Reuben is mentioned in the bible, it is never in a way that shows it controlled this land. The sure thing turned out to be not so sure.

Application: Be careful what you wish for could be the immediate takeaway. But the problem is not poor land assessment. The problem is that God gave the tribes a land of promise and two tribes thought they could do better. Moses even connects this decision with the fear of the spies who initially surveyed the land. The problem is that Reuben and Gad could not trust that what God had for them was better than what their eyes could see. They walked by sight, not by faith.

What is it in my life that God has promised, but I am turning down for what appears to be better? Can I hold out for His promise, or do I need to grab what I can now? Is it really a sure thing if is is not God's thing?

Prayer: God, show me today where I am choosing the Transjordan for the Promised land. Don't let me take the easy road.

What He Requires, He Will Provide

Scripture: The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Command the people of Israel and say to them, ‘My offering, my food for my food offerings, my pleasing aroma, you shall be careful to offer to me at its appointed time.’ Numbers 28:1-2

Observation: Here we find the calendar of sacrifices. What to offer, which day to offer it. It is a detailed list. And sometimes, these offerings could pile up on each other. For example, if the Sabbath day fell on the first day of the month, a priest would have to offer not only the daily offerings and the Sabbath offerings but also the first-of-the-month offerings. That’s a lot to offer. According to the ESV Study bible, these sacrifices, over the course of a year, could total 113 bulls, 1,086 lambs, over a ton of flour, and 1,000 bottles of oil and wine!
One way to look at that is with pressure and responsibility. “You mean we have to produce that many animals and flour and bottles? Oh boy!” Another way to look at this is to see it as a promise: God will provide for what God requires. “You mean we will be prosperous enough to be able to sacrifice 100 bulls, 1000 lambs, and 1000 bottles of wine? Praise God!” Pressure or praise hinge upon seeing God’s unspoken promises.

Application: I deal with a lot of responsibility. Sometimes I look at that and feel the pressure, “You mean I have to come up with _______?” Today, God is reminding me that what he requires, He will provide. I can look at my responsibility (which has not changed) and see that God is going to provide. Greater responsibility means I need greater provision, and greater opportunity for God to flex his muscles.

Prayer: God, I have some tasks before me these next few weeks. Tasks that have increased due to illness. Yet today I ask for and trust that You will provide for all you have required of me. I cannot do it myself.

Resurrection = Preperation

Scripture: There will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust. So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man. Acts 24:15-16

Observation: Paul is giving a defense of his faith before Felix. And to counter the claims he is in a cult, he affirms his beliefs in the true God. One thing he confesses is that he believes in the resurrection…and that this belief causes him to guard how he lives in this life. Knowing he will one day face Christ, Paul lives to have a clear conscience in this life.

Application: This week I preached on Heaven. One person came up to me afterwards and admitted he was a little apprehensive about Heaven, as he expected Christ to call him to accounts. My initial response was to say something soothing, like, “Oh, but don’t worry about that, Heaven will just be joy. Jesus will not have anything negative to say to you—it will only be commendation.” This response comes out a lifetime of well meaning, yet biblically uninformed people spouting stuff like this. The judgment and evaluation aspect of Heaven is so downplayed. Yet the bible clearly outlines that meeting Christ in heaven should motivate our living on earth. Paul was motivated by the prospect of one day reviewing his earthly life with Christ in Heaven. We should be too.

Prayer: God, help me proclaim truth and prepare people for the resurrection. We have so many beliefs that are rooted in Christian folklore and not founded in Your word. Even this morning as I tackle my sermon prep, give me courage to “go there” in scripture.

The Scarlet Letter "U"

Scripture: And the priest shall offer the burnt offering and the grain offering on the altar. Thus the priest shall make atonement for him, and he shall be clean. Leviticus 14:20

Observation: God spent a lot of time in Leviticus outlining the policies and procedures for dealing with various skin conditions, such as a boil or rash. Someone with such a condition was to be declared unclean. This designation was not intended to describe their spiritual condition—they were not being judged by God. But they were called unclean and separated from the rest of the people in order to preserve the holy. To keep the rest of the community clean.

The good news is that this ritual unclean state was not permanent. There were procedures not only in how to separate people, but how to reintegrate them. The hope and goal of separation was always restoration. Full fellowship. When the condition changed, and the cleansing was complete, the priest was to announce they were clean.

I wonder, however, if there were aftereffects from being called unclean. Even though the priest had declared them clean, were there people afraid to shake hands, invite them over for dinner, greet them with a kiss? Was there an invisible scarlet ‘U” hung around their necks? We see in Acts just how seriously God’s people took clean and unclean foods. Even when God declared a food to be clean, some struggled to embrace them. How much more would this have been with people?

Application: What God has made clean, do not call common. Acts 10:15 What God has declared clean, is clean, whether I like it or not. Food, clothing, and yes, even people. If God declares them clean, either through ritual in the case of skin or regeneration in the case of a heart, I must also accept as clean. I cannot hold prejudices or withhold touch. I don’t consider myself that kind of person, but perhaps below the surface, I too struggle to embrace those whom God calls clean. Maybe I project that scarlet letter "U" on others who have genuinely been cleansed.

Prayer: God, I want to declare your power to cleanse by embracing what you embrace. Will you show me if there are areas or people or even people groups that you have cleansed in Christ, yet I hold back from. Will you open my eyes to any vestiges of legalism or judgmentalism?

Small Matters and Hard Cases

Scripture: And they judged the people at all times. Any hard case they brought to Moses, but any small matter they decided themselves. Exodus 18:26

Observation: Moses is quickly overloaded with the volume of his responsibility. His father-in-law tells him to select able men to help lead the people. Moses is able to focus his attention on what God truly needs from him through the power of delegation.

Application: The thing that caused me the most stress in 2010 was micromanaging. I enjoy having input, and it can be easy for me to drill down into a task far beyond where I am needed. This causes me stress as my time is quickly consumed with the urgent, and not spent on the important. Recently, I realized I need to set clear expectations, and then back away and see they are met, rather than being unclear, and continuing to give input. I do not have time for that.

Prayer: God, I need you to walk me through this in 2011. It may be a pride or control issue, or even a lack of faith. Help me to select able people, then clearly communicate with them my expectations, and then let them handle all the matters they can decide themselves. Show me the hard cases I should be devoting power and energy to. Please help me take a step forward in that today in the conversation I have planned.

The Missing Component in My Parenting

Scripture: You shall tell your son on that day, ‘It is because of what the LORD did for me when I came out of Egypt.’ Exodus 13:8

Observation: After engineering his people’s escape from Egypt by his own strong hand, God sets forth a feast to help his people always remember their salvation. In the instructions for this feast, God calls parents to tell their children what the ceremonies mean.
But three words in this command make it personal. “Did for me.” God is calling parents to get personal with their faith and their kids. Not just to give dry religious lectures, not to just cover the bases of spiritual talk or check off the list, but to tell their kids what God did for them.

Application: I think I am doing better at trying to help my kids learn about what God has done. But I don’t think I share enough about what God has "done for me." The facts of faith can be passed on without the reality of it in my life. My kids need more than to hear information; they need to see transformation in my life. I want to share more with them about the whys of my faith—why I pray, why I worship, why I follow Christ. How I feel about what the Lord has "done for me."

Prayer: God, help me to tell my sons and daughter “what the Lord did for me.” Give me opportunities to go below the surface and share my story with them. Help me to listen when they ask questions, and not just give them the theological definition. Let me share my heart as I share my faith.

When Jesus Doesn't Want Us To See Him

Scripture: But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. Luke 24:16

Observation: After the resurrection, Jesus appears to two men on the road to Emmaus. But God prevents them from recognizing Jesus. Why? Why would God conceal His presence? wouldn’t it more powerful to have them instantly recognize Jesus? If they were going to get a day to spend with the risen savior, wouldn’t that day be better spent knowing they were with Christ?
Or maybe not. Perhaps this was a much more dramatic lesson than even the revealed Christ could have taught. This was a way for them to learn a lesson about trusting what God has said, even when they could not see it. This was a chance for this mysterious stranger to retell the story of faith, to help them restore their faith before revealing his identity. The walk to Emmaus was a walk of faith, not of sight.

Application: We sang a song in church yesterday, “Like a River Glorious.” One line drew me to God: “They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.” God wants me to trust him, even when I cannot see him. As I walk down the road, He is calling me to believe what he has said and to trust He will bring it to pass. To trust him wholly, and find him wholly true.

Prayer: Jesus, May I trust you this week even when I do not see you. You are walking with me, teaching me, stretching my faith. Let me believe you.

Unstable as Water

Scripture: Unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence…Genesis 49:4

Observation: Jacob is dying, and has called his 12 sons to him to bless them and call forth their future. He tells his oldest, Reuben, that he has lost his standing as the firstborn because of Reuben’s sexual sins. Instead of being morally stable, he is unstable as water. Then Jacob tells Simeon and Levi that they will experience a scattering of their descendants and a loss of their strength because of their anger problems. In these three cases, leadership loss happens as a direct result of sin.

Application: As a leader, I am acutely aware of how sin impacts not only me, but my leadership ability. It scares me to think these pronouncements could be made about me one day. That I would lose my opportunity to serve God due to sin. Failing to be stable sexually, or failing to bridle my anger could have repercussions beyond my own life. They could compromise my ability to lead my family, my friends, my church. I want to make sure that I do not let instability now ruin my future.

Prayer: God, I pray for your help. I desire sexual stability and emotional self control. You put that desire in me, and also put in me the power to be stable in these areas. Please help me to continue to yield to you and seek your strength so that I am ready and able to serve at your calling.

Years Seem Like Days

Scripture: So Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him but a few days because of the love he had for her. Genesis 29:20

Observation: Simply a great description of how hard work is worth it when you are working with and for the one you love.

Application: I have served with my wife for over 12 years now, and they feel like a few days because of the value and love I have for her. I need to make sure she knows that even though marriage is work, years feel like days when you love someone.

Prayer: God, thank you for my marriage to my wife. I pray you protect us from the attacks of the enemy. Grow us strong to have confidence in your plan in and though our lives together.

Circumcision and Faith

Scripture: Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. Genesis 17:24

Observation: God chose circumcision as a mark of his covenant promise with his people. The focus of the cutting could be to draw attention to the offspring of Abraham, through whom the Messiah would come. In a sense, being circumcised meant, “I believe in God and his promises.” Still, it is a dramatic demonstration of trust when Abraham at 99, and his son at 13, and his whole household of grown men follow the Lord in this rite.
Abraham’s track record of obedience is spotty. In Genesis 15, he is commended for refusing to help himself to the reward of men. In Genesis 16, he “helps” God’s plan by sleeping with his wife’s mistress to produce a child. Then in Genesis 17, we see him help his son and other men to yield their own bodies as an act of faith. Abraham succeeds when he acts in faith, and fails when he acts on his own.

Application: There are times I act in faith, and times when I feel God needs some of my “help” to accomplish his work. It is a constant struggle for me to act by faith and not by power. To know the difference between acting in my power and God’s. Sometimes these are not as clear as I would like.

Prayer: God, sometimes obedience requires action. And sometimes it requires patience. Help me have strategic patience. To not rush to get things done in my time and power. At the same time, if you call me to drastic action, give me strength to act with faith.

This Town's Not Big Enough for the Both of Us

Scripture: Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.” Genesis 13:8-9

Observation: Abram and Lot have come to the realization that this town just isn’t big enough for the both of ‘em. Their flocks are too large and the pasture is too small. It is time to separate for the sake of the relationship. In doing so, Abram shows Lot great honor by giving him the choice of the better land.
In this, we do not get a sense that Abram or Lot had failed, or that God was displeased at their inability to get along. In fact, it seems that Abram is to be praised for the gracious way he handled the separation.

Application: Is there a time to separate for the sake of the relationship? I am not talking about commitments like marriage, but rather, temporary partnerships. Maybe two friends who try to be roommates. Perhaps a husband and wife that decide to work in the same office. Maybe someone who realizes there is too much baggage at their church for them to stay. Or two people realize they are better friends than partners.
Could it be that sometimes, things just are not going to work out? And for the sake of future relationship, and for the resolution of present strife, that a separation is in order? Could it be that this is not necessarily a failure in God’s eyes, especially if it is resolved well and handled with grace? Paul and Barnabus did the same thing—separation for the sake of the relationship. And God was able to bless both their journeys in new ways.

Prayer: Lord, I do not know what this means, other than maybe you offering me freedom from guilt and responsibility when a separation has to occur. If handled with graciousness, maybe what seems like an ending is a beginning of new opportunities for ministry and friendship. Help me think more about this and see your direction in how this would affect my life.

Preparing the Way

Scripture: Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough places shall become level ways, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God. Luke 3:5-6

Observation: Luke quotes Isaiah’s prophecy about the coming of the Messiah, and attributes it to John. John is the voice crying in the wilderness for people to get ready. His role was to help the Jews get right with God now, so that when the Messiah came, they could see and receive him easily. This is a poetic passage, describing the filling up of holes, the smoothing down of obstacles, and the straightening of crooked paths. It implies the raising up of the humble, the knocking down of the proud, and the correcting of the dishonest. These are the preparations for the Messiah.

Application: This morning I was reading a news article about a group of people that believe Christ will return this year, on a certain date. These people believe so strongly that some have left jobs and homes to travel and tell people. Right or wrong, they are ‘preparing the way’ for the Messiah.
So how am I preparing the way for me to receive the Messiah in 2011? How am I making His path into my life smoother? Am I filling valleys, removing obstacles, and straightening crooked paths in my life? I need time to engage in some of these questions this month during my sabbatical day. I know Jesus wants to come to me all throughout this year. Will his path into my life be smooth?

Prayer: Jesus, I want to receive you again and again in this year. I know that meeting you in your word is a primary way for me to do that. I invite you in and pray you would help me prepare the way.