Romans 5:20-6:2
The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
If we confess, God's grace continually outweighs our sin. But just because God is so merciful, loving, gracious, and forgiving doesn't mean that we are to do whatever we want. As believers, we are to die to our sins. Sin should not reign in our lives. One of the biggest misconceptions of Christianity is that believing in Christ is enough to be saved. This is one of the biggest problems that I have with children's ministry. We grow up hearing the incomplete truth. A relationship with Christ isn't a one time thing. It's ongoing! It's a daily battle of sinful desires versus what God has called us to do.
Each time we walk in sin, we are effectively saying a few things. The first thing that we are saying is that we don't appreciate the crucifixion. Jesus went through all of that so that you could be SAVED from your sin, not for you go use Him as a lifeline when you are doing things that you shouldn't be. True repentance isn't "Oh hey God, I'm sinning again. Please forgive me" and then continuing to indulge in that sin. Repentance is the acknowledgment that not only sin is wrong but getting as far away from it as possible, knowing full well that indulging in it will continue to detract from your relationship with Christ. We are called to be holy as God is holy. (1 Peter 1:16).
The second thing it says is that our sin is better than what God has to offer. We neglect that God is offering us the chance to join him in eternity and that sin leads to condemnation. We say that living in the here and now is better than what is to come. When my family goes to a buffet for dinner, we usually don't each lunch. We withhold from eating even though we are hungry, knowing greater things are to come. Sometimes I crack and snack before the buffet and by the time I get there, the buffet is ruined because I don't have an appetite. Similar situation here. We need to have a bigger outlook on what's going on. It isn't just about now. It's about eternity.
We don't know when we will be called home. My family didn't know that my cousin would leave us at such a young age. It's important for us to get our act together NOW. This is something that we cannot afford to procrastinate on. Living for Christ should look something like this: Walking away from sin and walking towards God and continually growing in your relationship with him. Don't be fooled. Just because you go to church doesn't mean your a Christian. Just because you prayed the prayer doesn't mean you're a Christian. Just because you've served in church doesn't mean your a Christian. You can fool everyone around you but you cannot fool God. Jesus said in Matthew 7 that you can tell false prophets from disciples by the fruit they produce. What fruits have you been producing?
*I don't mean to target this at anyone. I recently saw a video (as referenced in my roommate's blog) and it triggered convicting thoughts upon my heart.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Stress Week
Psalm 23:4-6
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
God is constantly with us. King David looked directly into the face of death, surrounded by enemies, and still placed his faith in God. As he put it, God's "rod and staff" comfort him. Back in those times, a rod was used to ward off predators, such as wolves. A staff was used to guide the sheep. In essence, God will not only protect us but will provide for us as well. David continues to see the bigger picture as well in verse six when he says that he "will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." Not only does David trust God in his present danger but is also looking ahead for what is to come. He's not just living in the moment but living with the bigger picture in mind.
These next few days look like busy ones to me. Exams, lab reports, meetings, so much to do in so little time. It would be very easy for me to focus on myself and work towards my goals and allocate all of my time towards achieving them. Even though my back is up against the wall, my response shouldn't be able my desires. It should be about turning to God, praising Him and thanking Him in all things. Instead of stressing and worrying, I am to trust the Lord for He will provide for me (albeit not exactly in the way that I expect most of the time). And there is hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. In my present situation, things look stressful but greater things are yet to come. What is going on in my life, all the stress and worries, is nothing when placed in the context of an eternity with God. Be hopeful. Be joyful. Be praise-ful.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
God is constantly with us. King David looked directly into the face of death, surrounded by enemies, and still placed his faith in God. As he put it, God's "rod and staff" comfort him. Back in those times, a rod was used to ward off predators, such as wolves. A staff was used to guide the sheep. In essence, God will not only protect us but will provide for us as well. David continues to see the bigger picture as well in verse six when he says that he "will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." Not only does David trust God in his present danger but is also looking ahead for what is to come. He's not just living in the moment but living with the bigger picture in mind.
These next few days look like busy ones to me. Exams, lab reports, meetings, so much to do in so little time. It would be very easy for me to focus on myself and work towards my goals and allocate all of my time towards achieving them. Even though my back is up against the wall, my response shouldn't be able my desires. It should be about turning to God, praising Him and thanking Him in all things. Instead of stressing and worrying, I am to trust the Lord for He will provide for me (albeit not exactly in the way that I expect most of the time). And there is hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. In my present situation, things look stressful but greater things are yet to come. What is going on in my life, all the stress and worries, is nothing when placed in the context of an eternity with God. Be hopeful. Be joyful. Be praise-ful.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Just Sheep.
I have gotten into a bad habit of putting meaning into God's word rather than taking truth from what the Word says. I come in with my own thoughts and predispositions in mind when I read the Bible. I fail to read the text for what it is and seek God through it all. That's something that I need to start doing. While I don't think I have been misled yet, putting my own personal meaning in the Bible has the potential to lead me down the wrong path as I am following my own direction rather than that of God.
Psalm 23:1
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
The imagery here is obvious of a shepherd tending to his flock. Being from the city, I really don't understand shepherds and all that fun farm stuff but one thing that I've learned from children's stories is that shepherds provide for their sheep. They protect the sheep from wolves. They guide the sheep to where they need to go. They provide food and water. They value each sheep to the point where they will look for one lost sheep. What David is writing here has great value. He knows that the Lord is watching out for Him, protecting and providing for him every step of the way. God leads him to "green pastures" and "quiet waters". The purpose of the shepherd is to care for the sheep and provide for their every need.
God is willing to do the same thing with us. God is our shepherd, constantly watching out for our well being. He knows our every need and provides continually for us. He leads us to places that we could not get on our own. He opens doors and opportunities for us that we cannot open. If God is leading me, I have two options, to follow his lead or to take the lead myself. I need to stop doing the latter.
I got my Organic Chemistry exam grade back today. The whole day, I've been criticizing myself over a B. I've been telling myself I need an A, that I need to work harder, study harder, and mess around less. If I want to get into pharmacy school, I need an A in this class. What I didn't do was lift it up to God and acknowledge that He is in control, that He is the shepherd of my life. God knows my needs better than I do and He will provide in due time. My response is to trust in God and the direction that He is leading me in, knowing full well that He will provide for my needs every step of the way. I don't need A's. I don't need pharmacy school. I don't need to push everything out of the way in my pursuit of pharmacy school and alleged happiness. I need God.
Psalm 23:1
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
The imagery here is obvious of a shepherd tending to his flock. Being from the city, I really don't understand shepherds and all that fun farm stuff but one thing that I've learned from children's stories is that shepherds provide for their sheep. They protect the sheep from wolves. They guide the sheep to where they need to go. They provide food and water. They value each sheep to the point where they will look for one lost sheep. What David is writing here has great value. He knows that the Lord is watching out for Him, protecting and providing for him every step of the way. God leads him to "green pastures" and "quiet waters". The purpose of the shepherd is to care for the sheep and provide for their every need.
God is willing to do the same thing with us. God is our shepherd, constantly watching out for our well being. He knows our every need and provides continually for us. He leads us to places that we could not get on our own. He opens doors and opportunities for us that we cannot open. If God is leading me, I have two options, to follow his lead or to take the lead myself. I need to stop doing the latter.
I got my Organic Chemistry exam grade back today. The whole day, I've been criticizing myself over a B. I've been telling myself I need an A, that I need to work harder, study harder, and mess around less. If I want to get into pharmacy school, I need an A in this class. What I didn't do was lift it up to God and acknowledge that He is in control, that He is the shepherd of my life. God knows my needs better than I do and He will provide in due time. My response is to trust in God and the direction that He is leading me in, knowing full well that He will provide for my needs every step of the way. I don't need A's. I don't need pharmacy school. I don't need to push everything out of the way in my pursuit of pharmacy school and alleged happiness. I need God.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
The God Who Is
We sang this song in service today and even though worship is never about us, it really spoke to me. God will reign for eternity. We have absolutely nothing to fear. The God that created the universe, delivered His people out of Egypt, flooded the Earth, led His people to victory, paved a way for us to join Him in eternity, that loved us enough to send His only Son to die on the cross, the God that loves, the God that is...that God is in control. He reigns and will forever do so. We have nothing to fear for God is good. The more I learn about God, I realize that I don't praise Him and thank Him enough for who He is.
On a side note, my final thoughts on the funeral have led to a revelation about the love of God. Losing a loved one is never easy. When my dad had cancer, I wept at the thought of his passing. When my grandfather passed in his old age, my father wept and wept..and wept as did the rest of my family. The pain and the grief that it causes people is unbelievable, even the death of a believer. I cannot imagine ever having to bury my own child. The pain would be so great and so severe that I believe my heart would be crippled. The very child you raised from birth, through all the joyous moments, your pride and joy...gone. Imagine how God felt when He sent His son, Jesus to die on the cross. God's very son...the sorrow, the pain, the anguish. But that's how much He loves us. His love for us, people so unworthy of anything and everything except for eternal condemnation for our sins, is so great that He sent His Son so the cross.
I'm a terrible person. Sometimes I can't even make it a couple minutes into the day without sinning. I break the rules God has set out for me. I shouldn't be an object of affection but rather one of scorn and judgement and yet I am redeemed by my Savior's death and resurrection, by His grace, mercy and love. A perfect love that came at the ultimate cost.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
A Life of Hope
The reality of this world is that we are surrounded by death. It sounds morbid but ignoring that fact is to ignore the truth. Each day, people lose loved ones for unexplainable reasons. I attended a funeral today and even though I barely knew him, I was nearly knocked off my feet. Filled with grief and sorrow, I had to fight harder to hold the tears after each passing minute. This world comes at your hard and without warning. Without the peace that comes with knowing Jesus, I am absolutely positive that I would cave under pressure, raise the white flag, and crawl into my bed and never leave. The weight of this world is too much for any one individual to bear. We live in a world surrounded by a suffocating darkness that becomes more impending with each passing breath. Fortunately, God offers us a way out. Through Him, our hope in eternity and the victory over sin is secure. As believers, death is nothing to be afraid of. Greater things are yet to come in a believer's death. As Paul said in Philippians, "For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain."
Friday, September 25, 2009
David Crowder Band - I Need Words
I need words
As wide as sky
I need language large as
This longing inside
And I need a voice
Bigger than mine
And I need a song to sing You
That I’ve yet to find
I need You
Oh, I need You
I need You
Oh, I need You
To be here now
To be here now
To hear me now
To hear me now
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Can Only Imagine
I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk
By your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes will see
When your face
Is before me
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
[Chorus:]
Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
When that day comes
When I find myself
Standing in the Son
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
[Chorus]
I can only imagine [x2]
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever, forever worship you
I can only imagine
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Psalm 27:8
My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
Your face, LORD, I will seek.
Often in society, face defines who a person is. You can look at a person's face and say "Oh, that's so and so!" Regardless of a persons actions, thoughts, or desires, the face is what externally defines a person. So here when it takes about seeking God's face, the psalmist is saying to seek God for who He is. In earlier parts of the psalm, David talks about how awesome God is. He mentions characteristics of God and praises Him for that.
So many times I wish I could be faithful like that, to seek God and praise Him for who He is and not just what He does. When I reach hardships, my response is usually to turn inward and "take control". Often, my response to God is solely dependent upon what He's been doing for me lately. Much like an all-star baseball player gets boo'd at a home game in which he homered in the first at bat and then struck out three straight times, I often neglect God in times of trouble. Such is the problem with only seeking the hand of God. Times will home when God will seem distant. In Psalm 27, David talks about all the people that are out to kill him and yet He praises God for who He is. That should be our response as well. Yes, praise God for what He's done in our lives. We don't deserve any of it but yet He endlessly pours out blessings upon us. But what happens when we hit a rough spot? Seek God's face.
My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
Your face, LORD, I will seek.
Often in society, face defines who a person is. You can look at a person's face and say "Oh, that's so and so!" Regardless of a persons actions, thoughts, or desires, the face is what externally defines a person. So here when it takes about seeking God's face, the psalmist is saying to seek God for who He is. In earlier parts of the psalm, David talks about how awesome God is. He mentions characteristics of God and praises Him for that.
So many times I wish I could be faithful like that, to seek God and praise Him for who He is and not just what He does. When I reach hardships, my response is usually to turn inward and "take control". Often, my response to God is solely dependent upon what He's been doing for me lately. Much like an all-star baseball player gets boo'd at a home game in which he homered in the first at bat and then struck out three straight times, I often neglect God in times of trouble. Such is the problem with only seeking the hand of God. Times will home when God will seem distant. In Psalm 27, David talks about all the people that are out to kill him and yet He praises God for who He is. That should be our response as well. Yes, praise God for what He's done in our lives. We don't deserve any of it but yet He endlessly pours out blessings upon us. But what happens when we hit a rough spot? Seek God's face.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Planting Seeds
Galatians 6:7-10
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
This passage makes a lot of sense in the context of the society we live in. When it comes to studying, you can be foolish and not study and reap failure in all of your classes. There are consequences for our actions. If we continue to live in our sin, we will reap the consequences of sin. When planting a seed, you don't see immediate growth. It takes him to cultivate and nurture the seed to become a plant. In the same way, whatever seeds we are planting take time to grow. Seeds of the sinful nature are fueled by an indulgence in sin. However, if we are continually living by the Spirit (Gal 5:16), we will one day reap the benefits of following Christ, eternal life.
We have a choice: who do we follow? Do we follow our own desires or listen to those of God? Regardless of which one we choose, the truth will prevail and we will reap the consequences of our decision. Sometimes we get snubbed for doing good. Loving others requires sacrifice on our part. Maybe it means studying less for an exam and getting a lower grade than you could have gotten. Sometimes it means staying up late with a person to talk to them when they need a friend to talk to. Sometimes it means driving out of your way to pick someone up even though you don't want to. It may require giving up our rights as humans, like giving up partying or not partaking in malicious gossip even if everything you are saying is true. Sacrificial love is the same kind that Jesus showed, a love that desires the best for those around Him even at His own expense. It may hurt now and it may cost us, but hold on. Our reward is much greater than the sum of our daily problems. Our reward is eternal life with our Creator.
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
This passage makes a lot of sense in the context of the society we live in. When it comes to studying, you can be foolish and not study and reap failure in all of your classes. There are consequences for our actions. If we continue to live in our sin, we will reap the consequences of sin. When planting a seed, you don't see immediate growth. It takes him to cultivate and nurture the seed to become a plant. In the same way, whatever seeds we are planting take time to grow. Seeds of the sinful nature are fueled by an indulgence in sin. However, if we are continually living by the Spirit (Gal 5:16), we will one day reap the benefits of following Christ, eternal life.
We have a choice: who do we follow? Do we follow our own desires or listen to those of God? Regardless of which one we choose, the truth will prevail and we will reap the consequences of our decision. Sometimes we get snubbed for doing good. Loving others requires sacrifice on our part. Maybe it means studying less for an exam and getting a lower grade than you could have gotten. Sometimes it means staying up late with a person to talk to them when they need a friend to talk to. Sometimes it means driving out of your way to pick someone up even though you don't want to. It may require giving up our rights as humans, like giving up partying or not partaking in malicious gossip even if everything you are saying is true. Sacrificial love is the same kind that Jesus showed, a love that desires the best for those around Him even at His own expense. It may hurt now and it may cost us, but hold on. Our reward is much greater than the sum of our daily problems. Our reward is eternal life with our Creator.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Freedom in Christ
Galatians 5:13
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature, rather, serve one another in love.
When Paul talked about freedom here, he wasn't referring to what we often think of as freedom. The sociocultural view of freedom implies that people have the ability to do as they please without consequence. Freedom in college is what makes college..well, college. A lot of people see college as the opportunity to sleep all day, party all night, and enjoy life. Mommy and Daddy aren't around to say otherwise so why not? Is that the type of freedom that Paul talked about?
Paul was referring to freedom from sin. We have the ability to live life knowing full well that sin no longer reigns in our life but that Jesus Christ lives in us. We are free from death and the consequence of sin, eternal condemnation and separation from God. Many times, we interpret this freedom as wordly freedom. Since I can continually repent and God forgives, I can do whatever I want! So what if I lie, drink, or steal? It's all good, right? Not really. Clearly, Paul states that we are to no longer indulge in our sinful nature. By indulging in our sinful nature, we are essentially telling God that we enjoy sin more than his presence.
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature, rather, serve one another in love.
When Paul talked about freedom here, he wasn't referring to what we often think of as freedom. The sociocultural view of freedom implies that people have the ability to do as they please without consequence. Freedom in college is what makes college..well, college. A lot of people see college as the opportunity to sleep all day, party all night, and enjoy life. Mommy and Daddy aren't around to say otherwise so why not? Is that the type of freedom that Paul talked about?
Paul was referring to freedom from sin. We have the ability to live life knowing full well that sin no longer reigns in our life but that Jesus Christ lives in us. We are free from death and the consequence of sin, eternal condemnation and separation from God. Many times, we interpret this freedom as wordly freedom. Since I can continually repent and God forgives, I can do whatever I want! So what if I lie, drink, or steal? It's all good, right? Not really. Clearly, Paul states that we are to no longer indulge in our sinful nature. By indulging in our sinful nature, we are essentially telling God that we enjoy sin more than his presence.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Transformation Part 3: Precious Moments Forsaken
God is good all the time and all the time God is good. With that said, it's impossible to know the mind of God. I just got off the phone with my dad and I found out a distant cousin passed away last night at the young age of 23. I can't say that I'm torn over the situation as I barely knew him. At most, I saw him during the annual family Christmas party.
Despite how little we interacted, his death sits heavily upon my heart. He was a great guy. He did well in school and got a scholarship to play soccer in college. He recently found a job in this messy economy. By all worldly standards, he was extremely successful. However, life comes down to just one thing: is Jesus Christ the Lord and Savior of your life? It would be of great comfort to know this but I can't say. Like I said, I barely knew him.
I continually have the opportunity to engage people in spiritual conversations but I rarely take the chance to. I always think that there is a tomorrow or a tomorrow after tomorrow. I go to bed each night expecting to see the same faces the next day and for that matter, I usually do. I need to stop doing that. Like is says in the book of James, tomorrow is not promised.
Transformation. As a Christian, our lives should be marked by change. We are instructed to love our neighbors but what does that look like? Love desires the best for another person. To love others would manifest itself in a desire to make Christ known. Jesus is the best thing that can happen to a person. I know this is going to sound forceful but I believe that to be the truth as a Christian. If Jesus were to come back tomorrow, the reality is that many of the people that we know and love would be caught on the wrong side of the fence. I don't want to turn this into the whole..."Oh man, what if I just shared with him?" conversation because it is ultimately God that changes lives and not the words that I speak but seriously, stop and think for a moment. Doors that are open today may not be open tomorrow.
Life is too short to focus on things that don't matter. Love others as Jesus loved you. Desire for the lost to become found, that we may one day rejoice with them in heaven, praising the one and only true God.
I know this blog seems extremely random. My mind is drowning in a symphony of thoughts and emotions right now.
Chris Tomlin - I Will Rise
There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
Despite how little we interacted, his death sits heavily upon my heart. He was a great guy. He did well in school and got a scholarship to play soccer in college. He recently found a job in this messy economy. By all worldly standards, he was extremely successful. However, life comes down to just one thing: is Jesus Christ the Lord and Savior of your life? It would be of great comfort to know this but I can't say. Like I said, I barely knew him.
I continually have the opportunity to engage people in spiritual conversations but I rarely take the chance to. I always think that there is a tomorrow or a tomorrow after tomorrow. I go to bed each night expecting to see the same faces the next day and for that matter, I usually do. I need to stop doing that. Like is says in the book of James, tomorrow is not promised.
Transformation. As a Christian, our lives should be marked by change. We are instructed to love our neighbors but what does that look like? Love desires the best for another person. To love others would manifest itself in a desire to make Christ known. Jesus is the best thing that can happen to a person. I know this is going to sound forceful but I believe that to be the truth as a Christian. If Jesus were to come back tomorrow, the reality is that many of the people that we know and love would be caught on the wrong side of the fence. I don't want to turn this into the whole..."Oh man, what if I just shared with him?" conversation because it is ultimately God that changes lives and not the words that I speak but seriously, stop and think for a moment. Doors that are open today may not be open tomorrow.
Life is too short to focus on things that don't matter. Love others as Jesus loved you. Desire for the lost to become found, that we may one day rejoice with them in heaven, praising the one and only true God.
I know this blog seems extremely random. My mind is drowning in a symphony of thoughts and emotions right now.
Chris Tomlin - I Will Rise
There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Transformation Part 2
Wow. That's all that I have to say right now. Back in junior high, I bought an album called "The Rest Is History" by Jin, the first mainstream Chinese rap artist. Jin's claim to fame started out during freestyle battles in which he would go head to head rapping against other local rappers. During a 6 week "king of the hill" competition, Jin calmly flamed each and every opponent. He was the best. With a mic in his hand, he displayed the swagger of Michael Jordan. He was the best and he knew it. Jin later won the competition and signed a record deal with Ruff Ryders. Like most mainstream rappers, Jin sang about sex and drugs. He was a "complete thug" or so my dad said. If you told me that one day, I would call this man my brother in Christ, I would have told you to get the out and quit joking. Well well...The God Almighty works in mysterious and wonderful ways!
In my last blog entry, I mentioned how God transformed and used Paul. Powerful story and yet so distant at the same time. Sometimes Bible stories are a bit hard to related to because they happened so long ago. You read how Paul persecuted Christians and yet you sometimes don't get the full picture of how bad it really was. I don't want to say Jin is as bad as Paul was but clearly he was not walking with the Lord..and now He is. The old has gone and the new has come!
So then, on a more personal level, I feel that God is telling me to have hope. God turned this "thug" rap artist into a forgiven child of God. Have faith in God and his transforming power. Continually pray for those that once walked with the Lord and have ceased to do so. Have faith in God's response. It's something that I need to work on.
In my last blog entry, I mentioned how God transformed and used Paul. Powerful story and yet so distant at the same time. Sometimes Bible stories are a bit hard to related to because they happened so long ago. You read how Paul persecuted Christians and yet you sometimes don't get the full picture of how bad it really was. I don't want to say Jin is as bad as Paul was but clearly he was not walking with the Lord..and now He is. The old has gone and the new has come!
So then, on a more personal level, I feel that God is telling me to have hope. God turned this "thug" rap artist into a forgiven child of God. Have faith in God and his transforming power. Continually pray for those that once walked with the Lord and have ceased to do so. Have faith in God's response. It's something that I need to work on.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Transformation
Still in the first chapter of Galatians (verses 11 through 24). In these verses, Paul explains and compares his former self to his latter self. In another book, Paul claims to be the worst of sinners. While living a life in Judaism, Paul attempted to destroy the church. He constantly persecuted and killed Christians and here he is writing letters of encouragement and reproach to the churches. God used this man, of whom wanted to destroy the church, to spread the Word.
So what happened? According to Paul, God "called [him] by His grace" and "reveal[ed] His Son so that [he] might preach among the Gentiles". So God called Paul to teach and what was Paul's response? He went IMMEDIATELY. We see that Paul surrendered to God through his obedience to God's command.
This is an example of the transforming power that comes in a relationship with God. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
So then, are we living as a new creation? Are we continually walking with Christ and being transformed? Do we see the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) in our life?
Yesterday, I found myself struggling with this. I had change in my life and yet, it seemed like everything reversed itself last night. Same cocky self with the same self-seeking study habits. I don't doubt God's transforming power but I feel like that reversion was due to my list of priorities. It just so happens that I blew off God yesterday. Instead of lifting up prayers and praise to Him, I passed out during prayer meeting. (Even though it looks like I might have been praying since I was facedown with my arms out, let me assure you that I was fast asleep. This wasn't intentional). Instead of spending time with God, I hit the anatomy books. Instead of turning to God in praise for all the blessings He has poured out, like my ability to learn quickly, I praised myself for being so "awesome".
So yes, God can transform our lives but be wary. Don't become complacent.
Galatians 5:16 - So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Galatians 5:25 - Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
So what happened? According to Paul, God "called [him] by His grace" and "reveal[ed] His Son so that [he] might preach among the Gentiles". So God called Paul to teach and what was Paul's response? He went IMMEDIATELY. We see that Paul surrendered to God through his obedience to God's command.
This is an example of the transforming power that comes in a relationship with God. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
So then, are we living as a new creation? Are we continually walking with Christ and being transformed? Do we see the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) in our life?
Yesterday, I found myself struggling with this. I had change in my life and yet, it seemed like everything reversed itself last night. Same cocky self with the same self-seeking study habits. I don't doubt God's transforming power but I feel like that reversion was due to my list of priorities. It just so happens that I blew off God yesterday. Instead of lifting up prayers and praise to Him, I passed out during prayer meeting. (Even though it looks like I might have been praying since I was facedown with my arms out, let me assure you that I was fast asleep. This wasn't intentional). Instead of spending time with God, I hit the anatomy books. Instead of turning to God in praise for all the blessings He has poured out, like my ability to learn quickly, I praised myself for being so "awesome".
So yes, God can transform our lives but be wary. Don't become complacent.
Galatians 5:16 - So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Galatians 5:25 - Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Galatians 1:10 "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
Not saying that the two are mutually exclusive but a lot of the time there's a distinct choice, serve God or love this world. So often, we live based upon the opinions of others. Back in high school, I never prayed at lunch because I was scared of what others would say or think. In an attempt to avoid conflict and remain comfortable, I pushed God out. How often do we push God out to uphold an image? Is it worth it? How often do we do things or say things that we know do not please the Lord and yet we do them anyway because they make us feel good or give us face in the presence of others? Is another person's opinion or some feel good story worth more than God's opinion?
Not saying that the two are mutually exclusive but a lot of the time there's a distinct choice, serve God or love this world. So often, we live based upon the opinions of others. Back in high school, I never prayed at lunch because I was scared of what others would say or think. In an attempt to avoid conflict and remain comfortable, I pushed God out. How often do we push God out to uphold an image? Is it worth it? How often do we do things or say things that we know do not please the Lord and yet we do them anyway because they make us feel good or give us face in the presence of others? Is another person's opinion or some feel good story worth more than God's opinion?
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Recap of my day:
Woke up ridiculously exhausted. I woke up, got of bed, and wanted to collapse. I prayed to God for physical strength to make it through the day. Now its 12:41 AM and I made it through the day full of energy without taking a nap. I started to feel a bit drained around 4 pm at the library while studying organic chemistry. Without asking, Sharon made me a mocha and placed it on my desk. Talk about good timing! Praise God for the strength and energy that He gave me throughout the day!
That organic homework assignment was really frustrating. There was one problem that barely made any sense. I had the opportunity to get the answers in a way that would fly in the face of integrity but decided against it. Later in the library, I was studying with a friend. It just so happens that my friend's friend comes by and starts talking. Turns out that he's in pre-pharmacy as well. We started talking about classes and all that other fun pre-pharmacy stuff and then I asked him about the headache of a problem. He was nice enough to explain it to me even though 1) I just met him 2) I'm technically his competition for pharmacy school slots. Praise God for His provision!
Lately, my humility has ceased to be humility and turned more into a self-pity of "oh man, anatomy and organic chemistry are going to kick my butt and I'm going to fail!" With an anatomy exam coming up this Thursday, everyone is talking about how hard this exam is going to be and without really looking at it, I bought into the idea of failure. I felt defeated before even cracking the book to study. Well, today I started studying. I tried the practice test and it actually wasn't that bad. My self-pity turned into confidence, something that I needed. Praise God for building me back up! With confidence always comes a warning however. Don't be over-confident and remember that your talents are God-given.
I didn't realize a lot of these things until I a conversation that I had with a friend moments ago. Sometimes in all the noise and chaos, God is just a gentle whisper. He's there but He's so subtle that it's easy to overlook Him.
Woke up ridiculously exhausted. I woke up, got of bed, and wanted to collapse. I prayed to God for physical strength to make it through the day. Now its 12:41 AM and I made it through the day full of energy without taking a nap. I started to feel a bit drained around 4 pm at the library while studying organic chemistry. Without asking, Sharon made me a mocha and placed it on my desk. Talk about good timing! Praise God for the strength and energy that He gave me throughout the day!
That organic homework assignment was really frustrating. There was one problem that barely made any sense. I had the opportunity to get the answers in a way that would fly in the face of integrity but decided against it. Later in the library, I was studying with a friend. It just so happens that my friend's friend comes by and starts talking. Turns out that he's in pre-pharmacy as well. We started talking about classes and all that other fun pre-pharmacy stuff and then I asked him about the headache of a problem. He was nice enough to explain it to me even though 1) I just met him 2) I'm technically his competition for pharmacy school slots. Praise God for His provision!
Lately, my humility has ceased to be humility and turned more into a self-pity of "oh man, anatomy and organic chemistry are going to kick my butt and I'm going to fail!" With an anatomy exam coming up this Thursday, everyone is talking about how hard this exam is going to be and without really looking at it, I bought into the idea of failure. I felt defeated before even cracking the book to study. Well, today I started studying. I tried the practice test and it actually wasn't that bad. My self-pity turned into confidence, something that I needed. Praise God for building me back up! With confidence always comes a warning however. Don't be over-confident and remember that your talents are God-given.
I didn't realize a lot of these things until I a conversation that I had with a friend moments ago. Sometimes in all the noise and chaos, God is just a gentle whisper. He's there but He's so subtle that it's easy to overlook Him.
Monday, September 14, 2009
James 4:13-17
13Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Coming into this school year, I had elaborate plans for my future. Study my butt off, get into pharmacy school, get a pharmacy job, get married, have kids, and live life happily ever after. I'm a pretty smart guy and I know it so I never saw a reason to deviate from such plans. The problem is, God wasn't included in my plan. I didn't leave room for the fact that God is the one that's in control and that He may lead down a different path than what I'm expecting.
How will I respond if God changes such plans? I faced this once before. Going into my senior year, I was almost 100% sure that I was going to the University of Michigan. Clearly, that didn't happen as I'm sitting in my dorm here at Purdue University typing this up. In that time, I actively sought God's answer and He made it clear to me. I can't really say that I've done the same when it comes to what my major should be. To this point, my plans have been self-centered rather than God centered. I have no clue what's going to happen tomorrow! I can't really rely on myself for direction. That's something that only God can give.
13Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Coming into this school year, I had elaborate plans for my future. Study my butt off, get into pharmacy school, get a pharmacy job, get married, have kids, and live life happily ever after. I'm a pretty smart guy and I know it so I never saw a reason to deviate from such plans. The problem is, God wasn't included in my plan. I didn't leave room for the fact that God is the one that's in control and that He may lead down a different path than what I'm expecting.
How will I respond if God changes such plans? I faced this once before. Going into my senior year, I was almost 100% sure that I was going to the University of Michigan. Clearly, that didn't happen as I'm sitting in my dorm here at Purdue University typing this up. In that time, I actively sought God's answer and He made it clear to me. I can't really say that I've done the same when it comes to what my major should be. To this point, my plans have been self-centered rather than God centered. I have no clue what's going to happen tomorrow! I can't really rely on myself for direction. That's something that only God can give.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
One day when I was little, I decided to go through my mom's coin purse. Out of it, I pulled a shiny penny and a dull dime. When I asked my mom which one she would prefer, she said the dime since it's clearly worth more. I begged to differ. I wanted the penny because it looked better. I didn't care that it was worth less than the dime. Something about that shiny bronze penny beckoned me!
This is the same scenario that goes on in our hearts so many times. Here we are on Earth with the opportunity to pursue what the world says is good or enter into a relationship with our Lord and Savior, our Creator, our Messiah. God is offering us something so much greater than anything in this world could ever offer. We gives us the opportunity to enter into His kingdom as beloved sons and daughters of the King of all kings who seated upon his majestic throne. And yet, we choose that shiny penny that's worth so little. There's something about this Earth that grasps our attention and seizes our hearts. Instead of resisting and choosing something that's so much greater, we settle for less because it's superficially attractive.
There are so many things that I think I need. My credit card bill and firefox search log serve as a dynamic living testimony to this. Lately, I've spent a lot of time looking at JDM's because I think that I NEED a car to be satisfied. I tell myself that I NEED to get good grades because I NEED to get into pharmacy school since I NEED a secure job in the future. These things fade away and yet I choose them over spending time with my Lord. I've whored myself out to the things of this world. I've neglected what is eternally important and replaced it with some stupid shiny little penny.
There's a certain beauty behind it all. I'm not talking about the wrestling that goes on inside my heart. That's straight ugly. God's unchanging love is what continually humbles me. I've sold myself out, rebelled against God and his commands, and prayed for forgiveness and change just to rebel all over again. My sin and disobedience disqualify me from a deserving love and yet God still loves me whole heartedly.
Can you even begin to imagine what it was like for God to send His son to the cross and to witness Him get flogged, mocked, beaten, and murdered? I can't imagine witnessing anyone go through that let alone my very own son. All for love. All of us. All so that we could have the opportunity to one day join Him in heaven, reigning in victory over sin.
Whatever this world offers, it's not worth it. In God's eyes, status, money, and all those things that the world says is good mean absolutely nothing. In our pursuit of happiness, chasing all these grandiose things, we come up empty. Happiness apart from God doesn't last.
One day, that shiny penny faded and became dull and rusty and lost it's appeal. Suddenly, taking that penny didn't seem like such a good decision. It was completely worthless! It not only looked worse than the dime but it was worth less. From the start, that dime was always worth more. When presented with this in real life, what am I going to choose, Jesus or the world?
The prayer of my heart going into exam week is that I choose Jesus. No matter how hard or how stressful things become, I don't need to go all out studying to get an A. I don't need the A. That's just what my heart wants, which isn't necessarily a bad thing but that's a different issue. What I need is to spend time with my Savior and to meet with Him that I may continue to worship Him with my lifestyle.
Hillsong - All for Love
All for love a Father gave
For only love could make a way
All for love the heavens cried
For love was crucified
Oh how many times have I broken Your heart
But still You forgive
If only I ask
And how many times have You heard me pray
Draw near to me
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You
Let me sing all for love
I will join the angel song
Ever holy is the Lord
King of Glory
King of all
Oh how many times have I broken Your heart
But still You forgive
If only I ask
And how many times have You heard me pray
Draw near to me
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You (x2)
All for a love a Saviour prayed
Abba Father have Your way
Though they know not what they do
Let the Cross draw man to You
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You
This is the same scenario that goes on in our hearts so many times. Here we are on Earth with the opportunity to pursue what the world says is good or enter into a relationship with our Lord and Savior, our Creator, our Messiah. God is offering us something so much greater than anything in this world could ever offer. We gives us the opportunity to enter into His kingdom as beloved sons and daughters of the King of all kings who seated upon his majestic throne. And yet, we choose that shiny penny that's worth so little. There's something about this Earth that grasps our attention and seizes our hearts. Instead of resisting and choosing something that's so much greater, we settle for less because it's superficially attractive.
There are so many things that I think I need. My credit card bill and firefox search log serve as a dynamic living testimony to this. Lately, I've spent a lot of time looking at JDM's because I think that I NEED a car to be satisfied. I tell myself that I NEED to get good grades because I NEED to get into pharmacy school since I NEED a secure job in the future. These things fade away and yet I choose them over spending time with my Lord. I've whored myself out to the things of this world. I've neglected what is eternally important and replaced it with some stupid shiny little penny.
There's a certain beauty behind it all. I'm not talking about the wrestling that goes on inside my heart. That's straight ugly. God's unchanging love is what continually humbles me. I've sold myself out, rebelled against God and his commands, and prayed for forgiveness and change just to rebel all over again. My sin and disobedience disqualify me from a deserving love and yet God still loves me whole heartedly.
Can you even begin to imagine what it was like for God to send His son to the cross and to witness Him get flogged, mocked, beaten, and murdered? I can't imagine witnessing anyone go through that let alone my very own son. All for love. All of us. All so that we could have the opportunity to one day join Him in heaven, reigning in victory over sin.
Whatever this world offers, it's not worth it. In God's eyes, status, money, and all those things that the world says is good mean absolutely nothing. In our pursuit of happiness, chasing all these grandiose things, we come up empty. Happiness apart from God doesn't last.
One day, that shiny penny faded and became dull and rusty and lost it's appeal. Suddenly, taking that penny didn't seem like such a good decision. It was completely worthless! It not only looked worse than the dime but it was worth less. From the start, that dime was always worth more. When presented with this in real life, what am I going to choose, Jesus or the world?
The prayer of my heart going into exam week is that I choose Jesus. No matter how hard or how stressful things become, I don't need to go all out studying to get an A. I don't need the A. That's just what my heart wants, which isn't necessarily a bad thing but that's a different issue. What I need is to spend time with my Savior and to meet with Him that I may continue to worship Him with my lifestyle.
Hillsong - All for Love
All for love a Father gave
For only love could make a way
All for love the heavens cried
For love was crucified
Oh how many times have I broken Your heart
But still You forgive
If only I ask
And how many times have You heard me pray
Draw near to me
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You
Let me sing all for love
I will join the angel song
Ever holy is the Lord
King of Glory
King of all
Oh how many times have I broken Your heart
But still You forgive
If only I ask
And how many times have You heard me pray
Draw near to me
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You (x2)
All for a love a Saviour prayed
Abba Father have Your way
Though they know not what they do
Let the Cross draw man to You
Everything I need is You
My beginning, my forever
Everything I need is You
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Future's Not So Scary Afterall...
The stark reality of it all is that nothing that I'm doing now is going to matter in the context of eternity. One day, the things of this world are going to seem like pure foolishness. It won't matter what kind of car that I drove or how big my house was. My career choice and salary will be distant memories. Even the friendships that I've made will pale in comparison for what's to come.
One day, I will be in heaven before the throne of our very Creator in awe of His beauty and His majesty. The suffering and the persecution, the hardships and pains of this world...none of it will matter anymore because I'll be in God's presence. My mind is having a hard time grasping the context of eternity but let me tell you, it's a beautiful picture. All believers past, present, and future will be praising our God! Sin will cease to exist and it'll be God and us, just like the original intent.
I don't want to say that I'm apathetic to what's going on but things that once felt so important suddenly don't matter as much as they used to. For once, I feel that my heart is truly at peace and in full acknowledgment that God is in control and that His will will be done. I used to be so anxious about what was to come. Sometimes I would think to God "Man, can't you just tell me what's going to happen? I really want to know and I want to know now!". We know God to be faithful and God's promise is crystal clear to believers. Whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. What a joy it is to be able to say that in confidence, not in my flesh but in God's character.
Hillsong - Soon
Soon and very soon
My King is coming
Robed in righteousness
And crowned with love
When I see Him, I shall be made like Him
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
I'll be going to the place He has prepared for me
Then my sin erased, my shame forgotten
Soon and very soon
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
See the procession
The angels and the elders round the thrown
At His feet I lay
My cries, my worship
Soon and very soon
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Though I have not seen Him
My heart knows Him well
Jesus Christ the Lamb, the Lord of heaven
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
One day, I will be in heaven before the throne of our very Creator in awe of His beauty and His majesty. The suffering and the persecution, the hardships and pains of this world...none of it will matter anymore because I'll be in God's presence. My mind is having a hard time grasping the context of eternity but let me tell you, it's a beautiful picture. All believers past, present, and future will be praising our God! Sin will cease to exist and it'll be God and us, just like the original intent.
I don't want to say that I'm apathetic to what's going on but things that once felt so important suddenly don't matter as much as they used to. For once, I feel that my heart is truly at peace and in full acknowledgment that God is in control and that His will will be done. I used to be so anxious about what was to come. Sometimes I would think to God "Man, can't you just tell me what's going to happen? I really want to know and I want to know now!". We know God to be faithful and God's promise is crystal clear to believers. Whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. What a joy it is to be able to say that in confidence, not in my flesh but in God's character.
Hillsong - Soon
Soon and very soon
My King is coming
Robed in righteousness
And crowned with love
When I see Him, I shall be made like Him
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
I'll be going to the place He has prepared for me
Then my sin erased, my shame forgotten
Soon and very soon
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
See the procession
The angels and the elders round the thrown
At His feet I lay
My cries, my worship
Soon and very soon
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Though I have not seen Him
My heart knows Him well
Jesus Christ the Lamb, the Lord of heaven
I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
Salty Freshwater?
James 3:9-12
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
I like the way James challenges us in this passage. A spring is characterized by the type of water that flows from it. You can go up to a spring, drink the water, and clearly distinguish what kind of spring it is. It's quite obvious which one it is because saltwater and freshwater are opposites. The two cannot coexist in the same spring. You either have one or the other.
The same should be the case with our words. From the way you talk and the things that you say, can people tell that you're a Christian? Last year, I had an awkward TA for one of my classes. My friends and I would sit in the back and crack jokes and complain about her all the time. If you were to ask them if I was a Christian, their response would be a no. The words that were coming out of my mouth were no different than theirs and yet I claim to be a follower of Christ. I knew this full well and yet there was something comforting about ragging on a TA that handed out low scores so I continued. I placed my desire before God's and it reflected in my speech. Matthew 15:18 says that "the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean'". Here lies the root of my problem: my heart.
What comes out of my mouth reflects what is on my heart. This furthers the importance of meeting with God everyday and looking for Him to continually teach me. There is no room in my heart to fill it with pluralism.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
I like the way James challenges us in this passage. A spring is characterized by the type of water that flows from it. You can go up to a spring, drink the water, and clearly distinguish what kind of spring it is. It's quite obvious which one it is because saltwater and freshwater are opposites. The two cannot coexist in the same spring. You either have one or the other.
The same should be the case with our words. From the way you talk and the things that you say, can people tell that you're a Christian? Last year, I had an awkward TA for one of my classes. My friends and I would sit in the back and crack jokes and complain about her all the time. If you were to ask them if I was a Christian, their response would be a no. The words that were coming out of my mouth were no different than theirs and yet I claim to be a follower of Christ. I knew this full well and yet there was something comforting about ragging on a TA that handed out low scores so I continued. I placed my desire before God's and it reflected in my speech. Matthew 15:18 says that "the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean'". Here lies the root of my problem: my heart.
What comes out of my mouth reflects what is on my heart. This furthers the importance of meeting with God everyday and looking for Him to continually teach me. There is no room in my heart to fill it with pluralism.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wait, but I'm not Catholic...
After a long hiatus, I'm back in the book of James. Today's reading comes from James 2:14-26
Faith and Deeds
14What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 18But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds."
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.
19You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.
20You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is uselessd]">[d]? 21Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,"e]">[e] and he was called God's friend. 24You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.
25In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
....................................................................................................................................................................
This passage has always been a bit confusing for me. Martin Luther preached faith alone while the Catholic church preached faith and works as a means for salvation. How does one reconcile this verse about faith without works being dead and Ephesians 2:8 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." ?
In the past , I think I neglected the context of the book of James. James was writing to Jewish Christians of whom were being persecuted at the time. He warned them against both hypocritical behavior and being Christians by mouth alone.
James isn't saying that works are necessary for our salvation. He's saying that works should be the outcome of our faith in Christ. If we say that Jesus is Lord and yet neglect His teachings, do we really believe that Jesus is Lord? My dad and I have a close relationship and I trust him deeply. Suppose for a second that I was going around talking about how much I trust my dad and boasting about it. The next second, my dad comes by and asks to borrow my ipod because he wants to listen to a song, promising that he'll give it back when he's done. Afraid that he won't give my ipod back, I decide not to give it to him. Well, somethings gotta give. My words say that I have faith in my dad's word while my actions say otherwise.
James gives us two very clear examples of faith in action: Abraham and Rahab. In the case of Abraham, God promised him a son and that son did not come for many years. God promised lots of stuff for Abraham and his son and Abraham was faithful. He waited upon the Lord. Now fast forward and Abraham and Sara have Issac, the son that God promised. Issac grows up and Abraham has the joy of being a father and also can rest assured that God will fulfill his promises about Abraham and the generations to come. Next thing you know, God tells Abraham to sacrifice Issac on an alter. Wait, what the?! How is God going to keep His promises if the lineage ends when Issac dies on an altar? Well, those would have been my thoughts anyway. Good thing I'm not Abraham. Abraham responded in faith by obeying God and taking His son to the altar only to be rewarded in his faith by not having to sacrifice Issac afterall.
Abraham said he was a man of faith and it showed. He listened to God even when it was tough. He obeyed when it made him uncomfortable. He followed God when things didn't make a lick of sense. He trusted God even when God's will and his will were in conflict. That is faith and deeds, not just saying all this stuff but really living it up for God.
That's a huge challenge to me. Am I growing in my faith? Is my faith something that's transforming the way that I act? Is my faith one that only serves God when its easy or is it one that continually trusts God when the darkness sets in and my back is against the wall? To be honest, I find myself in the latter of those two way too often. I'm fearful. I'm scared of getting mocked. I'm scared of possible outcomes and scenarios. Time to pray for change.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
If You're Not First, You're Last
Revelation 2:4 "Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love."
I used to think of this song in the context of the bad Lifehouse. A couple years ago, Lifehouse released a song called "The First Time" and in that song, they sang about the feeling that a person has when he falls in love for the first time. The wonder and awe of a brand new relationship is something of wonder. As Lifehouse puts it "It's like feeling alive all over again." Does God really want me to be super emotional and balls out crazy for Him? Maybe, but being in some emotional high the rest of my life sounds unrealistic. And even so, some people aren't emotional people to begin with. The first love concept in terms of human emotion is something that is merely relative rather than concrete. Let's take a hypothetical situation. Let's suppose that I was in that period of first love and my response was "meh..", does that mean that I could just say "meh.." about serving God? I don't think so..
When the world first is used in this verse, I don't think its referring to that emotional state though. I think it's talking more so about position relative to other things. The first and greatest commandment is to "love the Lord with all your heart". In this case, first refers to primary and most important. God SHOULD be our primary love but is He really? Or is our primary love worldliness, materialism, self ambition, and the like? Here's a scary thought. If God isn't our first love, He holds this against us. But "if God is for us, who can be against us?" so says scripture. Well, what if He's against us? The thought of the One that spoke the universe into motion being against me is not something that puts me at ease. I think it's only fair to take a hard look in the mirror after this and really evaluate where my heart is at. Is God my primary love? Is His glory the driving for in all that I do? Does my heart desire to serve Him and serve Him only?
One thing that my track coach used to say "If you're not first, you're last. " You either win conference or no one remembers how well or poorly you did. I feel like such is the case with this verse too. Either God is first in your life or He isn't. Even if I study really hard and put studying before God and push God to a narrow second, He isn't my primary love anymore, is He?
I used to think of this song in the context of the bad Lifehouse. A couple years ago, Lifehouse released a song called "The First Time" and in that song, they sang about the feeling that a person has when he falls in love for the first time. The wonder and awe of a brand new relationship is something of wonder. As Lifehouse puts it "It's like feeling alive all over again." Does God really want me to be super emotional and balls out crazy for Him? Maybe, but being in some emotional high the rest of my life sounds unrealistic. And even so, some people aren't emotional people to begin with. The first love concept in terms of human emotion is something that is merely relative rather than concrete. Let's take a hypothetical situation. Let's suppose that I was in that period of first love and my response was "meh..", does that mean that I could just say "meh.." about serving God? I don't think so..
When the world first is used in this verse, I don't think its referring to that emotional state though. I think it's talking more so about position relative to other things. The first and greatest commandment is to "love the Lord with all your heart". In this case, first refers to primary and most important. God SHOULD be our primary love but is He really? Or is our primary love worldliness, materialism, self ambition, and the like? Here's a scary thought. If God isn't our first love, He holds this against us. But "if God is for us, who can be against us?" so says scripture. Well, what if He's against us? The thought of the One that spoke the universe into motion being against me is not something that puts me at ease. I think it's only fair to take a hard look in the mirror after this and really evaluate where my heart is at. Is God my primary love? Is His glory the driving for in all that I do? Does my heart desire to serve Him and serve Him only?
One thing that my track coach used to say "If you're not first, you're last. " You either win conference or no one remembers how well or poorly you did. I feel like such is the case with this verse too. Either God is first in your life or He isn't. Even if I study really hard and put studying before God and push God to a narrow second, He isn't my primary love anymore, is He?
Monday, September 7, 2009
One Body, Many Parts, One Purpose
Praise God for the awesome weekend! God really blessed me with a better picture of what the Church really is this weekend. I'm not talking about individual churches like CFC, CCUC or CStone but rather the Church with a capital C, the body of believers.
I have played in a church sponsored basketball tournament every year since sixth grade. It started off as something fun. Go to church, play basketball with a bunch of your friends, and hopefully win so you have some bragging rights over everyone else until the next year's tournament. With age, the competition grew tougher and tougher and the wins became more sparse. Even though I'm not a serious baller, I HATE losing. Once I got to high school, I prayed before every tournament that I would carry myself in a manner that would glorify God. And every year since then, I left the tournament disappointed. The weight of missed shots, sloppy passes, isolationist offensive strategies, and lost games placed a large burden on my heart. In the heat of the moment, playing in this tournament ceased to be about God and became about performance on the court and the final box score. That was the case until this past weekend.
I came into this tournament with very much the same attitude that I had in past years. I changed teams from last year because my friends lured me in by inflating my head and ego with the idea of winning the ever so elusive championship. This team was not like most. They played with intensity on offense and defense. They worked offensive possessions by moving the ball around. They had a bunch of six-footers on the roster to play in an Asian tournament where your average dude is 5'5. How could I pass that up?
From tip-off to the final buzzer, the first game was a disaster. The other team won the tip off and score on a floater 10 seconds into the game. Our defensive rotation, or lack there of, led to lots of threes which hit nothing but net. Attitudes flared and one of our opponents provoked us with both his mouth and his antics. We complained about bad calls and had less than encouraging words for our fellow teammates. Long story short, we lost both the game and the spiritual battle. For a team that was supposed to win it all, this was not what we envisioned.
After the game, we sat down and talked. We didn't talk about basketball or the missed plays but about the reason why we're playing. As we were talking, we all looked at our jerseys which read "Promote Christ" across the chest. We failed to live up to our name. Thank God for second chances. That game was a wake up call, not to play harder, but to be representatives of Christ on the basketball court.
The games after that, win or loss, were spectacular. We weren't two different teams trying to beat each other. We were different people with different backgrounds playing for one purpose and one purpose only: to serve the God we love and make him known through our actions. Through the postgame prayers, this was so evident as our teams gathered into a huddle and lifted up praise to God.
It's awesome to see stuff like this, seriously. You take two people with nothing in common, different languages, schools, churches, hobbies, talents, and all that other fun stuff and you see that none of that matters. What brings us together is something so simple and yet so very profound at the same time. We are children of God of whom He loves deeply. It's His love that unifies us. It's that love that holds us together even though we have nothing else in common. It's that very love that gives us the same purpose and allows us to relate to brothers and sisters of whom we've never met before. The message is all the same. While we were still sinners, God reached out to us. In our depravity, He took the necessary steps for us to be redeemed even though we did things contrary to His desires. In our sin, He continues to love us and bear with us in patience.
Church isn't just a building. It isn't the place that you go to fellowship. It isn't just the people you see every Sunday and sit next to during service and sing songs with. The Church is the body of believers from all backgrounds and ways of life coming together to know our Savior and to make Him known.
As I sit here and reflect upon the weekend, it isn't the basketball plays that stand out. It isn't our 3-2 record with a third place trophy either. What stands out the most is the opportunity that God blessed our church with to fellowship with dozens of other churches from the Midwest unified under one roof to glorify our God. What a blessed weekend.
I have played in a church sponsored basketball tournament every year since sixth grade. It started off as something fun. Go to church, play basketball with a bunch of your friends, and hopefully win so you have some bragging rights over everyone else until the next year's tournament. With age, the competition grew tougher and tougher and the wins became more sparse. Even though I'm not a serious baller, I HATE losing. Once I got to high school, I prayed before every tournament that I would carry myself in a manner that would glorify God. And every year since then, I left the tournament disappointed. The weight of missed shots, sloppy passes, isolationist offensive strategies, and lost games placed a large burden on my heart. In the heat of the moment, playing in this tournament ceased to be about God and became about performance on the court and the final box score. That was the case until this past weekend.
I came into this tournament with very much the same attitude that I had in past years. I changed teams from last year because my friends lured me in by inflating my head and ego with the idea of winning the ever so elusive championship. This team was not like most. They played with intensity on offense and defense. They worked offensive possessions by moving the ball around. They had a bunch of six-footers on the roster to play in an Asian tournament where your average dude is 5'5. How could I pass that up?
From tip-off to the final buzzer, the first game was a disaster. The other team won the tip off and score on a floater 10 seconds into the game. Our defensive rotation, or lack there of, led to lots of threes which hit nothing but net. Attitudes flared and one of our opponents provoked us with both his mouth and his antics. We complained about bad calls and had less than encouraging words for our fellow teammates. Long story short, we lost both the game and the spiritual battle. For a team that was supposed to win it all, this was not what we envisioned.
After the game, we sat down and talked. We didn't talk about basketball or the missed plays but about the reason why we're playing. As we were talking, we all looked at our jerseys which read "Promote Christ" across the chest. We failed to live up to our name. Thank God for second chances. That game was a wake up call, not to play harder, but to be representatives of Christ on the basketball court.
The games after that, win or loss, were spectacular. We weren't two different teams trying to beat each other. We were different people with different backgrounds playing for one purpose and one purpose only: to serve the God we love and make him known through our actions. Through the postgame prayers, this was so evident as our teams gathered into a huddle and lifted up praise to God.
It's awesome to see stuff like this, seriously. You take two people with nothing in common, different languages, schools, churches, hobbies, talents, and all that other fun stuff and you see that none of that matters. What brings us together is something so simple and yet so very profound at the same time. We are children of God of whom He loves deeply. It's His love that unifies us. It's that love that holds us together even though we have nothing else in common. It's that very love that gives us the same purpose and allows us to relate to brothers and sisters of whom we've never met before. The message is all the same. While we were still sinners, God reached out to us. In our depravity, He took the necessary steps for us to be redeemed even though we did things contrary to His desires. In our sin, He continues to love us and bear with us in patience.
Church isn't just a building. It isn't the place that you go to fellowship. It isn't just the people you see every Sunday and sit next to during service and sing songs with. The Church is the body of believers from all backgrounds and ways of life coming together to know our Savior and to make Him known.
As I sit here and reflect upon the weekend, it isn't the basketball plays that stand out. It isn't our 3-2 record with a third place trophy either. What stands out the most is the opportunity that God blessed our church with to fellowship with dozens of other churches from the Midwest unified under one roof to glorify our God. What a blessed weekend.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Hillsong London - You Are Here
There is a love that I know
A strength for the weak and the broken heart
My Shepherd and King
I find You within me
For you are here
My Lord forever
You are here
Verse 2:
You carried the cross for the world
Gathered the lost and the fatherless
My Shepherd and King
I find You within me
For You are here
My Lord forever
You are here
Chorus:
In this place, you are here
By Your mercy, I draw near
In my heart, take your place
You are here
Verse 3:
Your word is the light of the earth
Your glory resounds in the universe
My Shepherd and King
I find You within me
For You are here
My Lord forever
You are here
Chorus
Vamp
You are here
You are here
You are here
Bridge:
The same power that conquered the grave
Lives in me, Lives in me
Your love that rescued the earth
Lives in me, lives in me
Vamp:
You are here
You are here
You are here
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
James 1:22-25
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.
Spirituality aside, I'm a much better talker than do-er. At the beginning of each day, I have detailed plans for how I plan to use my free time, whether it be to run or to study or something else. Very rarely do my plans ever become reality. I'm a pretty lazy person with a lack of self-discipline. Now put that in the context of my walk with Christ. Very often, I hear the word of God, store it in my head, and move on with my life. I say that I desire to walk with Christ yet my actions don't reflect this. I let convictions pass on by because acting upon them would be too uncomfortable. I've tried and tried to change this on my own only to fall back down to where I started. But as I read yesterday, God answers our prayers when we come to Him in faith. I think it's time that I depend on God's transforming power rather than my own.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.
Spirituality aside, I'm a much better talker than do-er. At the beginning of each day, I have detailed plans for how I plan to use my free time, whether it be to run or to study or something else. Very rarely do my plans ever become reality. I'm a pretty lazy person with a lack of self-discipline. Now put that in the context of my walk with Christ. Very often, I hear the word of God, store it in my head, and move on with my life. I say that I desire to walk with Christ yet my actions don't reflect this. I let convictions pass on by because acting upon them would be too uncomfortable. I've tried and tried to change this on my own only to fall back down to where I started. But as I read yesterday, God answers our prayers when we come to Him in faith. I think it's time that I depend on God's transforming power rather than my own.
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