Listening in faith and trust

For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, 

we will share in all that belongs to Christ.  (Hebrews 3:14 NLT)

Let’s focus on the story of King Jesus’s birth - the Christmas story.  For many of us, this is a story we’ve heard year after year after year and it’s pretty familiar to us.  We sing many songs during the Christmas season about the angels' message to the shepherds and can lose some of the amazement in the original story.  

Although God spoke regularly to his people in the Old Testament, especially through the prophets, between the time we now call the "Old Testament" and the "New Testament" were 400 years of silence.  The Israelites lived for 400 years without a message from the Lord.  So when God "suddenly" starts speaking to people in our Christmas story, we have to realize how surprising this must have been to them.  And, then, we must consider the messages that were given to the people!!

The first angel visitation in the Christmas stories in Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2 was when the archangel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah, an elderly priest.  The angel’s message that he and his wife Elizabeth would have a baby in their old age, was met with doubt and disbelief. Truthfully, if you were old and childless, would you have responded any differently?  

 

The second message Gabriel carried was to a teen girl named Mary, engaged to be married, but still living with her parents. Gabriel’s greeting was, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”  Depending on the translation, it says Mary was “startled,” “troubled,” or “perplexed.”  I think I’d be, too, if an angel showed up to talk with me.  I’d probably doubt what I was seeing and hearing. Gabriel follows by saying, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.”  

 

Then Gabriel tells Mary she will have a baby who will be the Savior of her people.  Mary’s response is HOW this can happen if she’s an unmarried virgin? Gabriel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called the Son of God.”  

 

Ok, so let’s pause a moment in this story.  Imagine you’re a maybe 14 or 15 year old Jewish girl, living with your parents in Roman Empire-occupied Judah, just going about your normal life.  Suddenly, an angel shows up to give you a message that you are “favored” and, therefore, will have a baby - without having a husband first.  This seems like a bit of a stretch from the reality you would have known.  Unmarried girls don’t just have babies without husbands - in that culture adultery is a sin punishable by death.  

 

So, Mary has a choice: to listen to the voice of her culture or to listen to the voice of the angel.  To doubt or believe the angel’s message.  What response should she give to this messenger of the Lord?

 

Again, if you have heard this story, you know that Mary’s answer was simple and direct.  She said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.”  She listened to and believed the spoken Word of God that Gabriel brought.  She had faith in the angel’s message.  And she responded with trust in her God.  

She believed - she had faith - and she trusted.  

 

These are strengths that I expect each of us hope to have in our relationship with God. 

Word of God,

Thank you for speaking to us through your Word, Holy Spirit, dreams, visions, prophecies, and so many other avenues. Thank you that even when a message seems surprising, it never goes against your Word and your ways.  Help us to have the deep faith and trust of people like Mary and Joseph so that we know and believe what you tell us to do.  And give us great wisdom and courage to face the realities of this life.  Remind us that you goodness and your loving-kindness last forever and are poured out on your children as they seek you.  Strengthen our relationships with you so we honor you with all we are and receive all you have to give us.  In Christ's name we pray, Amen. 

"Jesus answered, “This is the work of God: that you believe 

[adhere to, trust in, rely on, and have faith] in the One whom He has sent.” 

(John 6:29 AMP)

"Immediately the father of the boy cried out [with a desperate, piercing cry], saying, 

“I do believe; help [me overcome] my unbelief.” 

(Mark 9:24 AMP)

I Will Believe Now and in the Future - Psalm 37

 Adapted from Psalm 37

I will not fret because of those who are evil, for like green plants they will soon wither and die away.

I will trust in the Lord and do good, dwelling in God and his safety.

I will take delight in the Lord and he will give me the desires of my heart.

I will commit my way to the Lord.

I will trust him and he will make my righteous reward and my vindication shine like the dawning light that turns to midday sun.

I will be still and I will wait patiently for God.  

I will not fret when the wicked succeed in carrying out their wicked schemes.

I will refrain from anger and turn from wrath. 

I will not fret - it only leads to evil.

I will believe that evil people will be destroyed and I will hope in the Lord and inherit the land.

I will believe that in a little while the wicked will not be found because they are no more.

I will believe that those who humbly depend on the grace and goodness of God and are not arrogant toward others will inherit the land. 

I will believe - in the future and for my future - that I will enjoy peace and prosperity.

I will believe that the Lord laughs at the wicked who plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them because he knows the day of vengeance is coming. 

I will believe that when the wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy and slay the upright, their swords will pierce their own hearts and their bows will be broken.

I will believe the righteous are better with little than the wicked are with wealth. 

I will believe - now and in the future - that the power of the wicked will be broken.

I will believe - now and in the future - that the Lord my God, strong and mighty, invincible in battle, will uphold the righteous. 

I will believe the blamelsss will be under the Lord's care, will not wither in times of disaster, will enjoy plenty in days of famine, and forever will have their inheritance.

I will believe the Lord's enemies - as common as flowers in the field - will be consumed like in smoke and will perish.

I will believe those the Lord blesses will inherit the land, but those he curses will be destroyed. 

I will believe the Lord firms up the steps of the ones who delight in him. They may stumble but will not fall because the Lord upholds them with his hand.

I will believe the righteous will never be forsaken or their children begging bread.

I will believe that when we turn from evil and do good we will dwell in the land - God's land - forever.  

I will believe that the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. 

I will believe wrongdoers will be completely destroyed and the offspring of the wicked will perish.  But the righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.

I will believe the mouths of the righteous speak wisdom and justice, because the law of their God is in their hearts. 

I will believe that although the wicked be in wait for the righteous, intent on destroying them, the Lord will not leave the righteous in the power of the wicked or let them be condemned. 

I will hope in the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt me to inherit the land and I will see the flourishing wicked and ruthless people destroyed.

I will believe that the blameless and upright who seek peace will have a bright future, but sinners and the wicked will be destroyed and have no future.

I will believe the salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord, their stronghold in times of trouble. 

I will believe the Lord helps the righteous and delivers them from the wicked.  He saves them because they take refuge in him. 

God of Justice and Mercy,

Thank you for your righteousness and justice and that all you do is good.  Thank you for the promises that you will break the power of the wicked and uphold the righteous.  Thank you that you love the just and will not forsake your faithful people.  Strengthen our courage and our faith in these days of trial and strife.  For your children, be the protection and peace in the midst of the demonic storms that swirl around us.  But destroy the power of the enemy of our souls and destroy all those who will not turn from their wickedness, injustice, and evil. We pray in the strong name of Jesus Christ our Savior, AMEN and AMEN. 

Day 20 - Intense Treatment - Working through our past and unlocking doors to our future

Alluring God,

Thank you for calling us to a place of rest when we are in Christ.  Thank you that while we have to "work out" our salvation, we don't have to "work for" our salvation, because the grace of Christ has already provided for that.  Thank you that your Word is alive, active, sharper than a two-sided sword, and penetrating to a person's inmost being.  Thank you that your Word judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart, leaving us to not judge others but trust in you for judgement.  Thank you that because Jesus is our great high priest, we can hold firmly to the faith we profess and approach your throne of grace with confidence.  

Thank you for alluring us when we go astray.  You are the one who makes places of disappointment in our lives into places of new opportunity and hope for a new future.  So, help us to confess, receive forgiveness, and move forward from the past and its regrets and bitterness.  Help us to allow you to prune us so we are a sweet, not bitter, offering to you.   We receive mercy and find grace to assist us in our time of need.  Help us to throw off everything that hinders us - especially the sin that so easily entangles us - so that we can run with perseverance the race marked out for us as we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.  We know that running the race of life means you will discipline us for our good, in order that we may share in your holiness and produce a harvest of righteousness and peace.  Help us to make every effort to be at peace with everyone and allow you to do that disciplining, so that we can be holy and see God.  Do not let us fail to lay hold of the grace of God.  Do not let bitter roots of pride, animosity, rivalry, or anything else harmful to others grow up and cause trouble within and around us.  

Unlock the doors of hope in our lives.  Give us mercy as you renew your covenant with us.  May we be connected - betrothed - to you forever in righteousness, justice, love, compassion, and faithfulness as we acknowledge you as Lord.  Plant us in the land of covenant blessing you have for us.  Flow through us the new wine and oil of your Spirit as our lives come into agreement more fully with the Abundant Life you have for us.  Since we are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken, may we be thankful and so worship you acceptably with reverence and awe, for you, our God, are a consuming fire.  With the empowerment of Holy Spirit and in the fiery name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray, Amen!

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13 NIV)

A Sabbath-Rest for the People of God

4 

Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. 2 For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.[a] 3 Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said,

“So I declared on oath in my anger,

    ‘They shall never enter my rest.’”

And yet his works have been finished since the creation of the world. 4 For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: “On the seventh day God rested from all his works." 5 And again in the passage above he says, “They shall never enter my rest.”

6 Therefore since it still remains for some to enter that rest, and since those who formerly had the good news proclaimed to them did not go in because of their disobedience, 7 God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted:

“Today, if you hear his voice,

    do not harden your hearts.”

8 For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.

12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Jesus the Great High Priest

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.  (Hebrews 4: NIV)

12 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.  

God Disciplines His Children

4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,

“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,

    and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,

6 

because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,

    and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”

7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Warning and Encouragement

14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. 16 See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.

The Mountain of Fear and the Mountain of Joy

18 You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; 19 to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them, 20 because they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” 21 The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.”

22 But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, 23 to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24 to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

25 See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? 26 At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” 27 The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.

28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our “God is a consuming fire.”  (Hebrews 12 NIV)

“Therefore I am now going to allure her;

    I will lead her into the wilderness

    and speak tenderly to her.

15 

There I will give her back her vineyards,

    and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.

There she will respond[b] as in the days of her youth,

    as in the day she came up out of Egypt.

16 

“In that day,” declares the Lord,

    “you will call me ‘my husband’;

    you will no longer call me ‘my master.’

17 

I will remove the names of the Baals from her lips;

    no longer will their names be invoked.

18 

In that day I will make a covenant for them

    with the beasts of the field, the birds in the sky

    and the creatures that move along the ground.

Bow and sword and battle

    I will abolish from the land,

    so that all may lie down in safety.

19 

I will betroth you to me forever;

    I will betroth you in righteousness and justice,

    in love and compassion.

20 

I will betroth you in faithfulness,

    and you will acknowledge the Lord.

21 

“In that day I will respond,”

    declares the Lord—

“I will respond to the skies,

    and they will respond to the earth;

22 

and the earth will respond to the grain,

    the new wine and the olive oil,

    and they will respond to Jezreel.[g]

23 

I will plant her for myself in the land;

    I will show my love to the one I called ‘Not my loved one.’

I will say to those called ‘Not my people,’ ‘You are my people’;

    and they will say, ‘You are my God.’”  (Hosea 2:14-23 NIV)

Idea from:  https://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word_pf.html?ID=25704 

Some notes from:   NIV Study Bible (c) Zondervan, 2011

Day 15 Intense Treatment - Faith for changing times and spiritual power for miracles, signs, and wonders

Faithful God,

In this time and season it seems like everything is changing very quickly.  Even as things change, create new faith in us so we can do what you need us to in your Kingdom.  Help us to maintain our rootedness in you and not let perceived rejection keep us from moving forward into your plan for us.  May we always stay amazed at who you are and what you do.  Give us faith to remove the obstacles in our lives - especially our wealth - so we can trust you more deeply.  May we have the faith of the first disciples to preach repentance, drive out demons, and anoint the sick with oil so they are healed.  We know that this may seem impossible, but with you all things are possible.  Cultivate a climate of faith for healing and miracles.  May all who eat from the spiritual loaves and fish you provide be satisfied; may all who touch the edge of your spiritual cloak be healed.  May we have the faith to call the opening of ears into reality so your Word can be heard.  Give us faith for healings, miracles, provision, conversions, and signs and wonders in this rapidly changing time we live in.  And use our faith to further your Kingdom and give glory to the Lord!  In Christ's name and under the empowerment of the Holy Spirit we pray, Amen. 

When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed....4 Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 He was amazed at their lack of faith.  Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits...They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.(Luke 6:2, 6, 7, 12 NIV)

Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. 44 The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand. (Mark 6:41-44 NIV)

As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus.55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed. (Mark 6:54-56 NIV)

33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). 35 At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly.  (Mark 7:33-35 NIV)

13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. (Mark 10:13-16 NIV)

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the richto enter the kingdom of God!”

24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”

27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”  (Mark 10: 23-27 NIV)

52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. (Mark 10:52 NIV)

 Idea from:  https://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word_pf.html?ID=25704 

Day 13 - Intense Treatment - Jesus's transformation in our lives leads to good living

Jesus,

The example of love and giving that you taught on and exemplified is amazing - and impossible.  I know myself.  So, help me to know how you view good and evil so I can make discerning choices as to how to interact with other people.  Purify my heart so the fruit I produce is good fruit.  When I am persecuted, give me grace and mercy to bless and pray for my enemies.  Help me to overcome evil with good and, as far as it depends on me, to live at peace.  May your transforming, renewing power overtake my mind.  Motivate me in a new way so my faith will strengthen and operate at an increased level. Build my faith so I have more love.  In your name I pray, Amen. 

- love heals someone, even if it breaks man's rules

- blessed are the poor, hungry, or grieving for they will be satisfied with laughter in the kingdom of God

- blessed are you when people hate you, exclude you, insult you, and reject your name as evil because you follow Jesus

- love your enemies and do good to them

- do good to those who hate you

- bless those who curse you

- pray for those who mistreat you

- do to others what you want them to do for you

- be merciful as God is merciful

- do not judge or condemn, but forgive and give generously

- a good heart produces good fruit

- offer yourself as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God

- do not conform to the pattern of this world

- be transformed by the renewing of your mind

- know what is evil and what is good - hate evil/love good

- be devoted to one another

- honor one another

- keep your spiritual fervor

- be joyful in hope

- be patient in affliction

- be faithful in prayer

- share with those in need

- practice hospitality

- bless and don't curse those who persecute you

- rejoice with the joyful, mourn with the sorrowful

- live in harmony with one another

- hang out with people of low position

- don't be conceited

- don't repay evil with evil

- do what is right in the eyes of God

- live at peace with everyone, whenever possible

- let God take revenge

- overcome evil with good

Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath

6 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. 2 Some of the Pharisees asked, “Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”

3 Jesus answered them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4 He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” 5 Then Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

6 On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. 7 The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. 8 But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Get up and stand in front of everyone.” So he got up and stood there.

9 Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?”

10 He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored. 11 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.

The Twelve Apostles

12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: 14 Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, 16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

Blessings and Woes

17 He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coastal region around Tyre and Sidon, 18 who had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. Those troubled by impure spirits were cured, 19 and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all.

20 Looking at his disciples, he said:

“Blessed are you who are poor,

    for yours is the kingdom of God.

21 

Blessed are you who hunger now,

    for you will be satisfied.

Blessed are you who weep now,

    for you will laugh.

22 

Blessed are you when people hate you,

    when they exclude you and insult you

    and reject your name as evil,

        because of the Son of Man.

23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.

24 

“But woe to you who are rich,

    for you have already received your comfort.

25 

Woe to you who are well fed now,

    for you will go hungry.

Woe to you who laugh now,

    for you will mourn and weep.

26 

Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you,

    for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.

Love for Enemies

27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Judging Others

37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

39 He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.

41 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

A Tree and Its Fruit

43 “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. 45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

The Wise and Foolish Builders

46 “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”  (Luke 6 NIV)

A Living Sacrifice

12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Humble Service in the Body of Christ

3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Love in Action

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

    if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[e]

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  (Romans 12 NIV)

Idea from:  https://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word_pf.html?ID=25704 

March 17, 2021 Prayer - For Miracles, Signs, and Wonders in our Day

God of Miracles,

We give thanks to our Lord and call upon your name.  We sing praise to you for all your deeds and wonders, for all your glory, and for your strength.  We seek your face continually, longing to be in your presence.  We remember with gratitude your marvelous deeds which you have done, your miracles and the judgements from your mouth.   When we remember all the mighty deeds you have done, all your holy ways, all your power displayed in miracles, we joyfully praise you!  Blessed is the King of Kings who comes in the name of the Lord!   God, we know of your renown and stand in awe of your work.  But in this day and age, we cry out to you - we beg you - to make your good works known today.  Even though there is great darkness upon this earth, you have not completely abandoned your people; in your wrath, may you remember mercy.  Revive your people in this time and place; revive your renown among those who do not know you as Lord and Savior.  God, pour out your Holy Spirit through the revelation and power of faith.  Pour out your miracles, signs and wonders in this day.  Pour out your Healing Power and your Convicting Presence in such a way that every person knows it was you who did the miracles.  We know that where there is unbelief, you cannot do many mighty miracles, so we pray for a great outpouring of belief upon us.  We know that our belief shouldn't be rooted in religious laws but in the Way, the Truth, and the Life in Jesus Christ and because of the Power of Holy Spirit.  So, help the lovers of God teach your Truth so that your Life is opened up within all who hear it and your instruction delivers us from the ways of death.  We pray in the name of Jesus for a great outpouring of your Spirit, especially manifest in signs, wonders and miracles in this day!  Amen.  

"O give thanks to the Lord, call on His name;

Make His deeds known among the peoples.

Sing to Him, sing praises to Him;

Speak of all His wonders.

Glory in His holy name;

Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.

Seek the Lord and His strength;

Seek His face continually [longing to be in His presence].

Remember [with gratitude] His marvelous deeds which He has done,

His miracles and the judgments from His mouth..." (1 Chronicles 16:8-12 AMP)

"I will remember the deeds of the Lord;

    yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.

I will consider all your works

    and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”

Your ways, God, are holy.

    What god is as great as our God?

You are the God who performs miracles;

    you display your power among the peoples." (Psalm 77:11-14 NIV)

"[T]he whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 'Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!  Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!'" (Luke 19:37-38 NIV)

"O Lord, I have heard of your renown, and I stand in awe, O Lord, of your work. In our own time revive it; in our own time make it known; in wrath may you remember mercy." (Habakkuk 3:2 NRSV)

"Their unbelief kept him from doing many mighty miracles..." (Matthew 13:58 TPT)

"What does the lavish supply of the Holy Spirit in your life and the miracles of God’s tremendous power have to do with you keeping religious laws? The Holy Spirit is poured out upon us through the revelation and power of faith!"  (Galatians 3:5 TPT)

"Jesus explained, “I am the Way, I am the Truth, and I am the Life. No one comes next to the Father except through union with me. To know me is to know my Father too." (John 14:6 TPT)

"When the lovers of God teach you truth, a fountain of life opens up within you, and their wise instruction will deliver you from the ways of death." (Proverbs 13:14 TPT)

January 27, 2021 Prayer - Faith like Daniel

Most High God, Revealer of Mysteries,

Thank you for being the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  Thank you that you have established your laws, your covenants, and your grace to show us what is righteousness and to save us from our sin.  Thank you for the deep wisdom and discernment you offer to us through the work of Holy Spirit.  God, today we ask that you give each of your children the humility, discernment, tact, and courage of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.  When they were abruptly transported to a new world and had to adapt, you gave them grace, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to deal with the new world.  Thank you for their model of consistent faith in your laws and your ways.  Thank you that, like them, when we say no to the pleasures and "good food" of the world, we can be rewarded with health, wholeness, and even wealth.  Thank you that when we refuse to adapt to the worship of other gods, you will be with us in the fires of persecution, keeping us unbound and unharmed from the attacks of the enemy.  Thank you for giving us - like Daniel and his friends - knowledge and understanding so that we can know how to learn and operate according to your principles in this new world.  As we walk through this chapter of life, we pray you would keep our hearts pure so that we are trustworthy and not negligent or corrupt, we are respectful of authority, but we are asking questions that may bring enlightenment and freedom.  Holy Spirit, give us the freedom that comes from living life deeply connected to you, our Wisdom, Courage, and Truth.  In Christ's name we pray, Amen. 

"Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6 NIV)

"But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way." (Daniel 1:8 NIV)

"To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds." (Daniel 1:17 NIV)

"When Arioch, the commander of the king’s guard, had gone out to put to death the wise men of Babylon, Daniel spoke to him with wisdom and tact. He asked the king’s officer, “Why did the king issue such a harsh decree?” Arioch then explained the matter to Daniel.  At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him." (Daniel 2:14-16 NIV)

"The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.”  (Daniel 2:47 NIV)

"Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.  If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:16-18 NIV)

"He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”  Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!”  (Daniel 3:25-26 NIV)

"At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent." (Daniel 6:4 NIV)

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (2 Cor. 16:17-18 NIV)

Mysterious

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV)

You are the GOD who does wonders; You have made known Your strength among the peoples. (Ps. 77:14)

Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." (John 13:7 NIV)

When I was in seminary in the mid-1990's the large mainline denominational church of which I was a part was (collectively) bemoaning how it had shrunk since the 1950's - that children weren't coming back to the church, evangelism efforts were spotty at best, and the great buildings that had been built during that era had a mostly older fraction of the former population.

There are many factors that have contributed to this "decline" - some obvious ones being the demographic impact of the Baby Boomers, the rise of anti-religious rhetoric in the popular culture, and the resistance of people to established institutions. Yet, while many of the statistics mainline churches (and others) see as negative, I see as God the Holy Spirit continuing to move in different churches, missions, ministries - in different ways - to continue the work of the Kingdom and spreading of the Gospel. Perhaps I am right (or partly right or wrong or partly wrong...) but, at any rate, what we see and understand is not necessarily how God sees things.

Tonight I talked to a close friend of mine whose early-30-something daughter is in the hospital, possibly with a small stroke or even undiagnosed multiple sclerosis. The mother is tired and trying not to "borrow trouble," but you can hear the worry in her heart. This family has been through five or six years of medical problems and are wondering if they are now back on that roller coaster. Why her? Why again? we wonder.

We probably each have examples of things we don't understand. For as much as the Bible tells us about God, it still leaves a great deal of space for the mystery of God. Perhaps this 200 year old hymn will help us find some resolution:

God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.

His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter,
And He will make it plain. (William Cowper)

So, God, we pray that we would seek your face when we are trapped in mysterious places. When we are seemingly lost, please find us. When we are struggling with what seems like a breaking down of sacred or secure things, help us trust you in that process. When we are discouraged or despairing help us to look to you for our help - that you would be our shield, watching over us and protecting us. When we are tasting something bitter, help us to look to you for the sweet flower. God, continue to reassure us of our security in you, even as we watch you move in mysterious ways. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.