January 19, 2023 -- Acts 7:1-2; 51-53 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Defending the Reason You Believe

And the high priest said, “Are these things so?” 2 And Stephen said:
“Brothers and fathers, hear me.

“You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, 53 you who received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it.”
Acts 7:1-2; 51-53 ESV

…in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good name may be put to shame
I Peter 3:15-16 ESV

It seems like Stephen launched right into attack mode and gave a defense for what he believed. There seems to be a lack of gentleness and respect. Take the time to read Acts 7, noting that the quotation before us today leaves out 49 verses, a long sermon. The defense of the faith, and the reason Stephen had great and confident hope in Jesus Christ is precisely because Stephen understood that the whole Old Testament points to Jesus. Start to finish the Bible is all about Jesus. That is what Stephen explained in those verses which were left out of Acts 7 in the above quotation.

The Father, Who before the heavens and the earth were created, in His great love chose people for Himself. Jesus Christ was sent to redeem those chosen by the Father and do so by His reconciling blood. Stephen explained how the Spirit displays the rich love of the Father and the tremendous grace of Jesus throughout the whole Old Testament. It points to Jesus. Stephen then explained that through out their history many Jewish people and leaders rejected the Promised Messiah. Those who rejected Jesus in Stephen’s day were proving they were sons of wickedness, rather than sons of Abraham, sons through whom the blessing of Jesus Christ would be applied.

Are you prepared for opposition? Are you prepared for people to question your faith and then push hard against what you believe? Your faith stands in stark and radical contrast to the philosophy of this world. You are strangers and aliens to what the world considers good and right. The world is always setting their standards as a moving target. What the world approves and disapproves changes. The Word of God stands forever. It is right and just and true because the One Who Spoke it and upholds the universe is Right, and Just, and the True One. Therefore, be prepared, always, tired or rested, lonely or in wonderful community, hungry or empty, rich or poor, to give a defense of what you believe. Be ready, sometimes the ones who demand an answer from you will be people you least expected. Perhaps the Spirit of God has prepared hearts and minds as fertile soil to receive the Gospel.

Our Father in heaven, great and holy is Your Name. Help Your people to praise You and bless You with worship, devotion, and love suited to the expansiveness of Your perfects. Spirit of the Living God, whenever we read the Bible, listen to a sermon, or speak with Christians friends sharing the delight of our confident hope in Jesus, may our souls and minds, our lips and attitudes be always at the ready to give a well thought-out defense of our devotion to You. Teach us, King Jesus, at Your throne of grace and mercy, to continually seek You out, loving You, learning of You, asking in Your Name so that, like Stephen, our faces will reflect the radiance of Your glory. Amen

https://youtu.be/uus-vCjW8fg

Getty and Getty: The Lord Is In His Holy Temple

January 18, 2023 -- Acts 6:8-15 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Jesus and Suffering

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

 And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen. 10 But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. 11 Then they secretly instigated men who said, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” 12 And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council, 13 and they set up false witnesses who said, “This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law, 14 for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us.” 15 And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Acts 6:8-15 ESV

Stephen, newly chosen with six others as a leader in the church, very soon after his appointment faced strong persecution. It is exactly what Jesus foretold. “Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours” (John 15:20 ESV). Those who hear you speak about Jesus, or see you living for Him with boldness and joy, will respond. Either you will be loved because those who meet you encounter Jesus and their souls rejoice in Christ; or the people will hate you on account of Jesus.

Stephen’s reaction to this? His face was like the face of an angel. Why is that? The clue is found one chapter earlier. Peter and John, Stephen’s mentors and examples, after being in jail and beaten “left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name” (Acts 5:41 ESV). Jesus’ Name and His followers dedication to Him is so great that they are willing to suffer for His Name so that the Gospel is not compromised, so that the depths of their dedication to Him is proved and those who are being drawn to Jesus see that He is the One Person above all others Who is worthy of all effort, zeal and dedication.

The followers of Jesus are sinners who have had their sins forgiven. The followers of Jesus were (and still are today) men and women who are counted as nothing in the eyes of the world. However, their Savior has shown them the love of the Father in heaven. In the eyes of the Father, we as His children, have inestimable worth. The Father and the Son give to believers the Holy Spirit Who strengths the bond between Jesus and the believer. The Holy Spirit empowers the believer to abandon all the things in life that used to be prized and now cling to Jesus as the soul’s great prize. The Holy Spirit gives a zeal so that all things suffered for the Name of Jesus are evidence the Father counts us His worthy children. Finally, by the gift of the Holy Spirit, believers know all suffering is totally meaningful. By it believers are purified. By suffering believers realize Jesus is more to be prized than gold or silver. By it souls are won for the glory and radiance of Jesus, which makes the suffering even more meaningful and beautiful.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Even making that request in prayer I know I am setting myself apart from most people that are in my life right now—they do not seek to honour or bless Your Name. Therefore, in view of the beautiful work of Jesus Christ, and by the power of Your Spirit, help me to stay faithful to You. Triune God, help me to fight the internal battle against sins that should be hated, but to my shame are often, secretly, cherished. Mighty God of glory and excellence, let all the things of this world be counted as worthless in view of the excellence and beauty of Jesus. Trine God, help me to fight the battle against the world and the devil. When the suffering comes, may I, as saints of old, rejoice that I am counted worthy to suffer for Your Name. Amen.

https://youtu.be/qyUPz6_TciY

Shane and Shane: Though You Slay Me

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January 16, 2023 -- Acts 6:1-6 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Dedicated to the Word and Prayer

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
Acts 6:1-6 ESV

Hellenists are those who are Greek speaking. The early Church was made up of those who’d been Jewish people who offered sacrifices, but stopped when they embraced Jesus, because they acknowledged Him to be the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world. No more sacrifices were necessary. Hellenist widows would be those women of non-Jewish origin. It is a beautiful sign that the Word of God was spreading far beyond the Jewish nation.

Growth brings good problems. In that society a woman alone had no protection and no standing in a court of law. So the widows were in need of food and of protection. The Church had grown so quickly that the early days of every one knowing the needs of all the others was past. Now a more intentional structure would be required to care for the needs of all.

Notice two things. First the emphasis the Twelve disciples had on Bible study and prayer. This is critical. It is the primary work of those who lead in the church: to be committed to Jesus by being obedient in Bible reading and delighting in praying. Prayer is the believer’s conversation with God. It is speaking with the One in Whom the believer's soul delights.

Then, the readiness of the leaders to find a solution, so that all who were genuinely in need had those needs met. Deacons were chosen. That is, men who had the administrative skills and compassion, were appointed. These men were of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom. What a comment it was. These were ordinary believers. Consider the fact that they were dedicated to responding to the love of God in their lives so that their lives had an impact on the world around them. They are powered by the Spirit. They have the grace and wisdom of Jesus Christ. Dear ordinary believer, do you aspire to be a man or a woman who is of good repute, filled with the Spirit and of wisdom?

Father in heaven, hallowed, honoured and blessed be Your Name among Your angel hosts, Your people and through-out creation. Thank You for the powerful Good News of Jesus Christ--the perfect and radiant image of the Father--Who is filled with grace and truth. Mighty Spirit, renew in us the joy of our salvation so that we, as true believers find we have an insatiable appetite to know God the Triune through the Word. Forgive us, God of steadfast love, for our attitude of "good enough" and our lackluster devotion to You. Faithful Father, as Your Word burrows deeper into our conscience by the Holy Spirit's powerful application of it in us, may our actions and joy-filled obedience ever more fully line up with Your will for Your people. Amen.

Church of God, Elect and Glorious
https://youtu.be/RVSVfRAVjU0

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

January 13, 2023 -- Acts 5:27-32 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Boldness in Witnessing

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Acts 5:27-32 ESV

Who is the hardest person to evangelize? Is it a hardened atheist? Is it a family member? Here in today’s passage Peter and John are speaking boldly before the Jewish leadership. These men met Jesus. The Jewish leadership had heard of His miracles. Heard His teaching. They refused to surrender to Him. They were hard soil, for sure. How is it that Peter and John were prepared to face their accusations and persecutions?

First of all they, and all the believers, prayed. Do not miss this. The believers gathered regularly and prayed that the knowledge of Jesus Christ would roll across Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.

Second, the Spirit of God lives in them. Sometimes, erroneously, believers focus on the Holy Spirit as if the Spirit Himself is Whom to be celebrated, hoarded and expressed. Not so. Whenever the Spirit works in power, the Name of Jesus Christ is lifted high and people believe in the Name of Jesus. The Spirit of God fills the believer’s heart in such a way that Jesus Himself is the prize, the treasure of the heart. The Spirit, provoking the heart to see and delight in Jesus, then moves the believer to share the joy of Jesus with all and anyone

Third, Peter and John went where the Spirit directed. They preached boldly because their love for Jesus was so infectious they could not keep quiet. When you and I have laid our lives down before Jesus, the soul’s greatest love, then we will speak with whomever is directed into our path. No matter the cost. Even church members, those in the pews beside you, many of them need more than a spiritual habit of going to church; they need Jesus.

Finally, those who know the love of God through the grace of Jesus Christ will obey God rather than men. Such believers speak the Gospel wherever and whenever they can.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Great Name! Thank You for the beauty of Jesus. Thank You, Father in heaven, for the Spirit Who directs us deeper and further into knowing Jesus Christ and responding to His grace which fills us with the knowledge of Your never-ending love! Inspire us to pray. Bring Christians together in 2023 with a Spirit-fueled desire to see Canada won for Jesus Christ. Open our hearts to be lovingly obedient to Jesus Christ so that by our lives and our words, many will be won to Him. Amen.

https://youtu.be/TLlQOwnsexU

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

January 11, 2023 -- Acts 4:11-12 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Jesus the Only Name by which men are saved

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

 This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:11-12 ESV

Peter and John were at the temple and were confronted by a man lame from birth. In the Name of Jesus and by the power of the Spirit they healed him. They were arrested for this act. The Jewish leaders wanted to know by what name or power this was done. So Peter and John testified to the Mighty Name of Jesus.

Then, and now, it is the Name of Jesus which is a stumbling stone for the people around us. It is okay if Jesus is a great teacher, but to claim Him alone as the path of salvation is to provoke scorn and anger. To say Jesus is the only way to the Father is to incur fury from the people around you. So it was for Peter and John as they faced the Jewish leaders then. Those leaders were angry with Peter and John. They made threats to imprison them and punish them further. They had the authority to do so as well. Those were not empty threats. Peter and John kept on preaching and telling others about Jesus. They faced dire consequences for this.

Consider this. Would you be okay backing down from this claim about Jesus and letting the person before you spend eternity in hell? Just so you can have some compromised peace with that person now? No! It’d be far better to have someone angry enough to think and be provoked enough to consider the claim of Jesus. Then the person you are speaking to might repent and submit to Jesus and be at peace with you for all eternity.

O God, for as much as our strength is in You, mercifully grant that Your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts, through Jesus Christ our Lord—Amen.

Prayer from 492 A.D.

https://youtu.be/Pr2RG-xR2lA

Celtic Worship: “Prince of Peace Rule Over Me”

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January 10, 2023 -- Acts 3:11-16 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Witnesses for Jesus

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

While he clung to Peter and John, all the people, utterly astounded, ran together to them in the portico called Solomon's. 12 And when Peter saw it he addressed the people: “Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we have made him walk? 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. 14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. 16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.
Acts 3:11-16 ESV

The lame man who’d been lame and was now healed, in bewildered joy, clung to Peter and John. He needed to understand what had happened to him. The healing served the purpose of opening his heart to hearing the testimony about Jesus. The healing of this lame man also served the purpose of gathering a crowd who wanted to know what had just happened.

Interestingly, Peter showed how the Patriarchs of Israel all pointed to Jesus. He was direct in telling the people of their sins. This is so critical for believers today who want to share their faith with others. Many stumble on some variation of this question: why are good men who never hear about Jesus rejected by God? The most basic answer: there are no good men. True good for any man or woman or child is to know Jesus Christ. To deny Him or live what others might call a good life, though you do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as He is portraited in Scripture, means you are guilty of His blood. This explains why evangelism is so urgent and necessary, how will they hear, unless believers go and proclaim Jesus Christ?

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for the extravagant gift of Your love, Jesus Christ. He Whom You sent to be the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the World. Jesus, sent to reveal Your radiance, is our righteousness and cleansing. Thank You, Father in heaven, for the wonderful gift of Your Spirit, by Whom we are able to know Jesus and teach others the joy of our salvation. Move us to be mighty witnesses to Jesus and His quickly hastening return in glory. Amen.

https://youtu.be/FcD9uhRC3Ew
Fountainview Academy "Go Light Your World"

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January 9, 2023 -- Acts 3:1-10 -- The Acts of the Apostles: the last sign is Jesus

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. 3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. 4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Acts 3:1-10 ESV

Why do signs, like the healing of this man lame since birth, happen so frequently in the Gospels and in the first part of Acts, but not today? It is an important question. In I Corinthians 3 Paul uses the word “foundation” four times in quick succession (I Cor. 3:10,11,12,14). He refers to the foundation he (and the apostles) laid and of which Jesus Christ is the Cornerstone. That is, Jesus bears the weight of the building and sets the correct direction for the walls. Then, in Ephesians 2:18-22 it is noted that the foundation of Christianity is Jesus Christ; and the apostles and prophets.

When you build one house, how many foundations do you lay? One. Exactly. In order to verify the authenticity of Jesus as the Cornerstone, the God-man to Whom all the Old Testament pointed, He and His disciples gave signs and wonders. Jesus the Cornerstone and the apostles and prophets formed the One Foundation of the New Testament Church. You’ll note that as Acts continues these signs and wonders occur less frequently. Then in the letters and Hebrews there are no more signs and wonders. The second and third generation of Christians do greater things that Jesus did. That is, they do not perform miraculous signs, but the word they preach is accompanied by the power of the Spirit. Even without signs and wonders those who hear are judged to righteousness (that is to life in Jesus Christ) and some are judged to condemnation (that is confirmed as wicked). You can read this more fully in John 16:12-15.

People of God, you have the Bible. It is powerful. It is the Spirit-breathed witness to Jesus. Read it. Tell others about it. As you do, you will see people converted and changed by the power of the Word. This is the fulfilment of what Jesus taught. Focus on learning Who Jesus is through knowing the Word. This is the most powerful sign the people of God have today. “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” (Isaiah 40:8 ESV).

Father in heaven, honoured and hallowed be Your Name, now and always! Thank You for Jesus Christ, Your True and Holy Witness, the Cornerstone for the Church. Thank You for the Spirit Who leads us into all truth. Triune God, let Your Truth sweep across our land so that many will be believe in Jesus Christ to the praise and blessing of the Father Who sent Him. Help us, Spirit of God, in all our trials and hardships, to keep walking in faithful obedience to Jesus Christ. Blessed God, prepare Your church attenders to receive many new converts, so that these men and women will be received, discipled and taught in the glorious way of salvation. Amen.

https://youtu.be/w1YBYrJ8Hzg

Martijn de Groot “The Church’s One Foundation”

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

January 7, 2023 -- Acts 2:42-47 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Accountability

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Acts 2:42-47 ESV

What does your mind focus on when you read this passage? I know some of my family in Christ will focus on the signs and wonders and imagine this must be the focus of the church today. Others will look at the distribution of money and food as the focus. Those who do so are the folks who have a diaconal heart. That is, these have a focus on social justice as instituted by Jesus. In my denomination, whenever this verse is preached, I have heard a strong emphasis on the apostles’ teaching. It is my tongue-in-check observation we, unlike this early church, are already educated well beyond our obedience.

My bias when I read this passage is the mix of attending the temple and breaking bread in their homes. The word preached is then applied in the home setting. There is very personal accountability for how the preached word is applied in the lives of believers. The public declaration of the Gospel is critical. It is one of the means of grace.

My question is this, who has the right, the privilege, to go and visit you and help you see where you are obedient and where your walk with God is out of step with His teaching? Unless the Word preached is also applied to our hearts in our homes, the Word becomes for us a weekly event with little or no impact on our homes, our minds, our actions and our relationships. Every part of life needs to be saturated with the Gospel—the Good News that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead and is seated at the Right Hand of the Father, therefore, we are a completely new people. The way we live and think must be radically different from the world. We are to be radically obedient to Him.

Who has the right to comment on your walk with God? Ask God about this.

Whose walk with God do you have the right to comment on? Who expects you and needs you to hold them accountable before God? Pray about this.

Then act in accord with what the Spirit is showing you. May it be that you and your close circle of influential Christian family will grow closer to Jesus Christ as you delight deeply in the love of Your Father in heaven and express this by Spirit fueled-obedience to God. .

Father in heaven Your love for Your covenant people is vast and endless. Blessed be Your Name. Help us, as Your people, to reflect Your love as we live in obedience to You through the righteousness and grace given us in Jesus Christ. Spirit of the Living God, conquer our pride-filled hearts. Humble us. So that we will vulnerable to Your work and laid bare to the good influences of close Christian family members who also desire to grow, mature, and live out loud for Jesus. Amen.

https://youtu.be/j-k32dEKrsk
NathanPachecoMusic "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"

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January 6, 2023 -- Psalm 16 -- Yearning for the Father's love

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

A Miktam of David.

16 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord;
    I have no good apart from you.”
3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,
    in whom is all my delight.
4 The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply;
    their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out
    or take their names on my lips.
5 The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;
    you hold my lot.
6 The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
    indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.
7 I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;
    in the night also my heart instructs me.
8 I have set the LORD always before me;
    because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
    my flesh also dwells secure.
10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
    or let your holy one see corruption.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16 ESV

A Miktam is a reference to a musical notation. It means this Psalm was used for public worship. So, likely it was something that the people of God learned by heart, sang in worship and through these activities the Psalm was used by the Spirit of God to change hearts. John Owen has a wonderful reflection on this. It is unusual for me, but I will quote his work at length.

     It is clear, then that Christians are the most misunderstood people
     in the world. If Christians say, "Come and have fellowship with us,"
     the world is ready to retort, "Have fellowship with you! Who are you?
     You are a company of foolish people. We despise your fellowship.
     When we intend to leave fellowship with all honest men and with men
     who are worth knowing, then we will come to you." But how sadly
     mistaken is the world! Truly the fellowship with Christians is with the
     Father. Let the world think as they please, but Christians have intimate,
     spiritual, heavenly joys, because their fellowship is a fellowship of love
     with the Father. Christians are looked on as poor, low, despicable 
     persons, when indeed, they are the only great and noble persons in
     the world (II Corinthians 6:8-10). So Christians are indeed the excellent
     in the earth (Psalm 16:3).
     This also shows clearly the difference between true and false
     Christians. Outwardly, both do the same things and enjoy the same
     privileges. But now enter into their secret prayers and thoughts.
     What a difference there is! There the saints hold communion with
     God. Hypocrites for the most part commune with the world and with
     their own lusts. They listen to what their lusts have to say, and then
     make provision for them. The saints, on the other hand, are sweetly
     wrapped up in the the love of their Father. Often it is impossible
     that believers should be better outwardly than those with rotten
     hearts. But this fellowship with the Father true Christians have, of
     which hypocrites know nothing. They have this feast in the Father's
     banqueting house, in which hypocrites have no share. In the
     multitude of their thoughts, the comforts of God their Father revive
     their souls.
     Communion with God. John Owen. Abridged: R.J.K. Law. Banner of
     Truth Trust. reprinted 2018. page 35-36

Father in heaven, blessed and beautiful is Your Name. May Your Named be honoured and adored through-out the earth. Thank You for the writings of those who are giants in the faith. Spirit of the Living God, through the grace given in Jesus Christ and His reconciling blood, help us as believers to yearn for this kind of fellowship with our Father in heaven. So move our souls and minds and hearts that we become insatiably hungry to know God in the way in which John Owen describes, and David celebrates in Psalm 16. As the beauty of this time with God the Father begins to fill our hearts and imagination, and saturate the desires and goals of our life, let the sweetness of such time with God the Holy, displace baser lusts and hypocritical religious fevers. In You, O Father, Son and Holy Spirit, may our hearts be glad and our entire being rejoice. Give what is powerfully depicted here, the knowledge of the path of life, fullness of joy in Your presence and such pleasures at your Right Hand that eternity is not nearly long enough to savour Your goodness and blessedness and perfections. Amen.

https://youtu.be/njKlUFJaBYE
Shane and Shane "Yearn"

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January 4, 2023 -- Acts 2:22-24 -- Acts of the Apostles: The Spirit's Focus on Christ

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power:
   Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it.

Acts 2:22-24 ESV

Take the time to read Acts 2. The whole chapter. If you read it slowly and out-loud to yourself it will take about 6 minutes. That is a really good way to spend your time.

When the Spirit of God was poured out on that Pentecost Day the disciples understood what Jesus taught them. If you recall, Jesus spent forty days, after His resurrection and before His ascension into heaven, teaching His disciples. The Spirit shaped the disciples’ knowledge and added to it holy understanding so that they had the wisdom which comes from the fear of the LORD. The teachings of Jesus made sense because of the Spirit’s presence—exactly as Jesus had foretold (John 16:12-15).

Where did such Spirit-fueled wisdom lead them? To a razor sharp focus on Jesus Christ Himself. The newly Spirit-filled people did not laugh, bark, or fall slain in the Spirit, or see gold dust shooting from the vents. The focus was not on their feelings or on their new power. When the Spirit of God took hold of the disciples, they knew Jesus, once despised (as He was called ‘of Nazareth’) now comprehended Him to be the Son of God in power. The Father’s love communicated through the grace of Jesus’ sacrifice transformed their attitude, minds, hearts and purpose. They were born from above. Peter, who used to be impulsive and always seem half-informed, immediately by the Spirit’s power had the insight to know Jesus. He then understood what had previously been mystery. Peter recognized by the insight of the Spirit that the crowd of people standing before him from those fifteen nations and territories needed to know Jesus Christ. Believers filled with the Spirit long for others to know their sins are forgiveness and the grip of death can be broken and based on this, intimately know the Father’s great love shown so gloriously in Jesus Christ.

O God the Holy Spirit,
That which I know not, teach thou me,
Keep me a humble disciple in the school of Christ,
learning daily there what I am in myself, a fallen sinful creature,
justly deserving everlasting destruction;
O let me never lose sight of my need of a Saviour,
or forget that apart from him I am nothing,
and can do nothing.
Open my understanding to know the Holy Scriptures;
Reveal to my soul the counsels and works of the blessed Trinity;
Instill into my dark mind the saving knowledge of Jesus;
Make me acquainted with his covenant undertakings
and his perfect fulfilment of them,
that by resting on his finished work
I may find the Father’s love in the Son,
His Father, my Father,
and may be brought through thy influence
to have fellowship with the Three in One.
O lead me into all truth, thou Spirit of wisdom and revelation,
that I may know the things that belong unto my peace,
and through thee be made anew.
Make practical upon my heart the Father’s love
as thou hast revealed it in the Scriptures;
Apply to my soul the blood of Christ,
effectually, continually, and help me to believe,
with conscience comforted,
that it cleanseth from all sin;
Lead me from faith to faith,
that I may at all times have freedom to come to a reconciled Father,
and may be able to maintain peace with him against doubts,
fears, corruptions, temptations.
Thy office is to teach me to draw near to Christ with a pure heart,
steadfastly persuaded of his love,
in the full assurance of faith.
Let me never falter in this way.
Valley of Vision: Puritan Prayers and Devotions "The Holy Spirit as a Teacher"

https://youtu.be/n9XFILsrt20
Margaret Clarkson "For Your Gift of God the Spirit"

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January 3, 2023 -- Acts 2:1-12 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Overcoming Babel

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” 12 And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”
Acts 2:1-12 ESV

It both fascinates and horrifies me that the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit should be such a point of division among various denominations. Look at the wide variety of people who were brought together by the power of the Holy Spirit—people from at least fifteen nations and territories and regions heard the 120 followers of Jesus Christ speaking in a variety of languages. Look at verse 11. See that it is both Jews and proselytes, that is people who are not Jewish as well as Jewish people who have been drawn to the worship of the One True God. All these are united by the Spirit to hear the mighty works of God. It is the overturning of Babel, Genesis 11, when the LORD of Glory confused the language of men so that their united rebellion against Him would be restrained. Now the LORD of Glory is uniting people by His Spirit in the work of Jesus Christ.

The people are perplexed and ask what this means (verse 12). It means the work of Jesus is being fulfilled. The focus is not on the Holy Spirit Himself. The Spirit makes Jesus known and through the grace of Jesus believers know the Father's love. When people in the New Testament are empowered by the Spirit, they do not boast about how many people they’ve healed, nor how many lame walk because of their ministry; they boast of their weaknesses and the in mighty power of Jesus Christ. Their focus on Jesus Christ brings in lost sinners. By the power of the Holy Spirit, the people of God are reconciled to the Father by the blood of Jesus Christ. This cause for tremendous rejoicing.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Your plans and purposes are worked out in all of history so that Your glory is being made known, Your people reconciled to Yourself in Jesus Christ, and this by the power of Your Spirit. Thank You, heavenly Father, that Your Spirit continues to conquer the Babel of our hearts and of this world so that believers are joined together under the headship of Jesus Christ. Father in heaven, give to Jesus the reward of His atoning work, so that He is honoured and worshiped through-out the nations of this earth and Your will, our Father, is ever-more-completely the delight of all who know You. Amen.

https://youtu.be/xPsYL9f5J3s
"Come, All You People, Praise Our God

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January 2, 2023 -- Acts 1:6-11 -- The Acts of the Apostles: As Jesus' witnesses

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Acts 1:6-11 ESV

The disciples were asking questions, trying to set their agenda and Jesus didn’t rise to the bait. Instead, He gave them the Father’s agenda and then told them how they’d carry it out, which is by the power of the Holy Spirit. It might have seemed as odd to them then as it does to us today. How can such a small company of people bring the Good News of Jesus Christ into all the world? Jesus answers in these ways.

1. It is the Father Who has the authority over all of time and history. He knows the end from the beginning and the people loved by Him trust Him.

2. The disciples are Jesus’ witnesses. Because of Jesus’ great obedience and Self-sacrifice, we know the love of our Father in heaven. This is why the agenda is set: to declare Jesus so that all who know Him, know the Father.

3. The Holy Spirit will make clear the Word of the Father (the Bible) and the work of Jesus so that those who are God’s will declare him. It is part of their D.N.A.

4. Jesus ascends into heaven. Christians know Jesus is at the right hand of the Father. Directing all things, subjugating all things, until one day even death itself will be defeated and the Son will hand all things over to the Father. Jesus rules in power and because of His saving work, the Father’s love is poured out so that Christians are blessed with Jesus’ resurrection power.

5. There is a goal: Jesus will return. Our LORD of Glory—King Jesus—will return as the Victor and The Devil, Sin and Death will be no more.

It is a final declaration of Jesus’ divinity, that His followers should be His witnesses (verse 8). In the Old Testament we read: “you are My witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and I am God” (Isaiah 43:12 ESV). In the Old Testament the people of God and His prophets, priests and kings were witnesses to the work of the Father and His great covenant love. Now, in Jesus Christ, we see how the Father's love has been so radiantly revealed so we are witnesses for the Father and the Son by the power of the Spirit.

O LORD our God, under the shadow of Your wings let us hope. You will support us, both when infants, and even to gray hairs. When our strength is from You, it is strength; but, when it is our own, it is feebleness. We return to You, O LORD, that from their weariness our souls may rise towards You, leaning on things which You have created, and passing on to Yourself, Who has wonderfully made them; for with You is refreshment and true strength. Amen.
St. Augustine (354 - 430 A.D.)

https://youtu.be/5lfTS6zj2wo
Michael Card "Joy in the Journey"
 

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January 1, 2023 -- Acts 1:1-5 -- The Acts of the Apostles: the important introduction

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
Acts 1:1-5 ESV

Happy New Year one and all! For the month of January the daily devotions will focus on The Acts of the Apostles. The same man who wrote the Gospel of Luke wrote Acts. In the opening verses of the Gospel of Luke the reader learns that Luke was preparing a narrative of all that had been accomplished among them. The work of Jesus, having been carefully researched, would be laid out so that people could understand Who He Is and what He has done.

Here in the opening verses of Acts, we learn the narrative to Theophilus continues, Luke documents the life of the early Christian Church. One critical question that Acts answers is this: “How did the disciples, who walked with Jesus for three years, who misunderstood so much of all He taught, finally grasp so much that they could write the New Testament, evangelize, and plant churches all while facing terrible persecution?” Let's face it, even in Acts 1:6, after spending forty days with His disciples, they misunderstand Jesus, asking if He is going to establish an earthly kingdom for Israel.

The Acts of the Apostles answers this question. But let me give a quick summary. First, Jesus presented Himself alive to them after His suffering, crucifixion and burial. He spent forty days teaching them. Those days of teaching helped them to understand His three years of earthly ministry. Second, Jesus reaffirmed that the Father would gift them with the promised Holy Spirit. This takes place at Pentecost, after Jesus' ascension into heaven. Christians today confess Jesus Christ is Lord in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit makes the word and works of Jesus plain. In the Spirit you have the strength to live for Jesus as you are growing in your understanding of the love of the Father.

Father, the LORD of Hosts, You are faithful and true. Thank You that Your love took on flesh, so that in Jesus Christ we understand how great Your steadfast love is, how just is Your hatred of sin, and how great are the lengths to which You go to bring sons and daughters to Yourself. Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, through Whom we may know You. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, by Whom we are strengthened to know Jesus, obey Him, and walk in good works You have prepared in advance for us to accomplish. At the start of 2023, Father of Glory, help us to live for You; shield us by Your Spirit so that we can endure all that is in store; thank You for the work of Jesus, Who is even now praying for us. Amen.

https://youtu.be/0ZDzcMNJ-vY
Selah "Before the Throne of God Above"
 

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December 31, 2022 -- Proverbs 31:1-3; 10-12 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke ending in the Love of the Father

People loved by the Father, in the power of the Spirit: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him:

2 What are you doing, my son? What are you doing, son of my womb?
    What are you doing, son of my vows?
3 Do not give your strength to women,
    your ways to those who destroy kings.

10 An excellent wife who can find?
    She is far more precious than jewels.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her,
    and he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good, and not harm,
    all the days of her life.

Proverbs 31:1-3; 10-12 ESV
 

The Proverbs end with the summary that there are two ways one can go. King Lemuel’s mother had warned him against the wayward woman who destroys kings. It is the summary of the warning lessons of the book of Proverbs. The brief opening verses of Proverbs 31, words of warning are sharply contrasted by the life of a wise woman. Notice how the first reference to a woman of wisdom likely slipped past you unnoticed. She is King Lemuel's own mother. This wise woman spent her life teaching her son the discipline of the LORD. When King Lemuel is mature, he can recite the way of wisdom and know the difference between foolishness and wisdom.

The excellent wife for a godly man is woman of wisdom. In this final chapter of Proverbs wisdom is personified. You can see all the qualities of one who walks with the LORD. How each part of her life is filled with blessing. Her interactions with others brings blessing to them as well. This personification of wisdom can also be applied to a man who honours the Living God. A man of integrity who is putting into practice all the LORD commands. A single man, or single woman, who serves the LORD as is described in the verses 10 to 31, is a person of humility whose life shines out with the love of God, gives a clear example His grace, and this in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.

2022 with its upheavals and joys, challenges and pains is ended. Who, but the LORD our King, knows what 2023 will bring? A woman of wisdom, or a man of wisdom, laughs at the times to come (verse 25). Such mirth is not scorn or boasting; it is the joy of the LORD. A person of wisdom knows the LORD is the shield and very great reward of His people. The man of wisdom and the woman of wisdom are so reassured of the present Love of the Father that no circumstance of life can ever shake their confidence in Him.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for Your faithful love revealed in 2022. Such love which carried Your people through every trial of joy and sorrow. At the edge of 2023, where all the future is a mystery, thank You for this Truth: He Who knows the end from the beginning is the very LORD of Lovingkindness goes before us and beside us. Thank You for the glorious gift of Jesus Christ, Who is seated on the throne of grace, praying for believers! Thank You for the powerful Spirit, in Whom believers are joined to Jesus Christ, the One Who has overcome every battle and in Whom believers have the victory. Let Your glory shine out in 2023. May the knowledge of the glory of the LORD cover the earth as the waters cover the sea.

https://youtu.be/ryhBhc2IGzs

Toby Mac “Faithfully”

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December 30, 2022 -- Proverbs 30:1-5 -- The Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: the destination is the Father's great love

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.

The man declares, I am weary, O God;
    I am weary, O God, and worn out.
2 Surely I am too stupid to be a man.
    I have not the understanding of a man.
3 I have not learned wisdom,
    nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.
4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down?
    Who has gathered the wind in his fists?
Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment?
    Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is his name, and what is his son's name?
    Surely you know!

5 Every word of God proves true;
    he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

Proverbs 30:1-5 ESV

Can you relate? We’ve spent a month traveling through the Gospel of Luke and Proverbs. Now, at the second to last chapter of Proverbs, Agur, the learned and godly man, who was inspired by the Holy Spirit to pen these words, realizes his own stupidity. All his efforts seem vain. He cannot reach up to heaven. He cannot keep the commandments as he ought to do. Is this all vanity and an empty chasing after the wind? Verse 4 is such a deep prophetic longing. Who is God’s Son. It is the answer New Testament believers know full well. God showed His unstoppable love in Jesus.

Verse 5 shows the kind-hearted love of God which gave reassurance Agur. In faith Agur held onto God. In faith he declared God to be the shield covering every believer who takes refuge in Him. From the vantage point of the New Testament, we as believers know He is the shield of protection and love. What glorious words.

John Owen wrote “So long as the Father is seen as harsh, judging and condemning, the soul is filled with fear and dread every time it comes to Him. So in Scripture we read of sinners fleeing and hiding from Him. But when God, who is the Father, is seen as a father, filled with love, the soul is filled with love to God in return. This is, in faith, the ground of all acceptable obedience (Deut. 5:10; 10:12; 11:1, 13; 13:3; Exod. 20:6)^. You can see how this is the answer to Agur’s exhaustion.

The Father is One Who disciplines over a life-time. He patiently teaches the child the way to go. He knows the weakness of human flesh and in His great love has given the Spirit to overcome such weakness. In His great love, He has given Jesus Christ, so that by His grace, believers have access to this marvelous, fatherly love. In His great love, the Father has given the Holy Spirit, so that the Father's love will be a never-ending stream of love gushing and rushing into every part of the life of the believer, overcoming every doubt, refreshing the soul so that exhaustion abates and the flood of His love lifts our hearts to respond to Him in love. 

^John Owen. Abridged “Communion with God”, reprinted 2018, page 18.

Prayer

Our Father in heaven. What a beautiful title with a glorious meaning it is to call You “Our Father in heaven”. Thank You for Your love for Your people which was kindled before the foundation of the world. Thank You that Your love is unstoppable. We confess this day, how tired we are. How easily we reach the end of our endurance in serving You and at that place realize how feeble our strength is and how puny the results are. With Your servant Agur we hold on to You in faith, trusting in Your Son, Who is full of grace and truth. With Your servant Agur, we believe and know You to be a shield to all who take refuge in You—realizing more fully than did Agur, that Your shield is the Comforter, the Holy Spirit. In the coming year, help us to know Your love more completely and to know it through the grace of Jesus Christ and by the power of Your Spirit Who You have given and therefore is living within us. Honour, love, praise and blessing are Yours, Three-in-One, God of Mercy and Power. Amen.

https://youtu.be/k7KyJGeNoco
Chris Tomlin "Holy Forever"

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December 29, 2022 -- Proverbs 29:3 & 9 & 11 & 17 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: the long road of obedience

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

He who loves wisdom makes his father glad,
   but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
Proverbs 29:3 ESV
 
The general population of those who sit in church pews usually half smile at this and think mildly, “well, I’ve never hired a prostitute”. The precise meaning of this Proverb is easily overlooked as one is busy congratulating himself on his morals. What is your financial plan? Are you looking for an early retirement, times to travel and go on cruises and live at ease for the later part of your life? Perhaps you are closer to being a companion of prostitutes than you think you are. You are looking to squander your wealth on your own pleasures rather than asking: how am I going to use all that God has given me build His kingdom?
 
Consider this, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30 NKJV. Our life’s work is not to be at ease, but to pursue wisdom and to live for Jesus. Such a life consists of sacrifice. Giving money for the kingdom. Freely spending time with those who need the Gospel. Offering acts of service where such help would build the body of Christ. I wonder how many folks in the pew are living for Jesus and including Him as the focus of their retirement plans? In Proverbs the one who is a companion of prostitutes merely pays lip service to God while actually serving himself.
 
If a wise man has an argument with a fool,
   the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.
A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
   but a wise man quietly holds it back.
Proverbs 29:9 & 11 ESV
 
In verse 9 the word “quiet” is rest. The fool will laugh and taunt, nag and stoke up the flames of controversy all the time. It is a fool who says in his heart there is no god (Psalm 14:1). Jesus says of the Devil, and those who are fools following him, lying is their native language (John 8:44). The liar cannot rest or keep quiet because his folly is set ablaze by the very fires of hell, and he is spurred on by the Devil. Telling him this fact will only antagonize him further. Until the Spirit of God opens the blind eyes of the fool, he will not be able to understand his own wickedness and profound need for God His Savior.
 
Verse 11 emphasizes what was already taught in verse 9. A fool is full of hot air that he has no intention of keeping to himself. A wise man, this is the title used of Joseph when he was placed over Egypt. Look at the contrast: the wise man. He is one who keeps company with other wise people. A wise man fellowships up—that is, always seeks company which reflects the character of the Living God. Unlike the fool, the wise man does not need to give full vent to his anger because he knows other wise men will discern a situation and know the truth of a matter without the need for many, useless, empty words.
 
The translation at verse 11 is interesting. A wise man quietly holds it back. In fact, some translations state it slightly differently. A wise man knows how to soothe the other. He can hold his tongue, put the fire of contention out, and only afterward speak. He will not needlessly try to vindicate himself before a fool. He knows it is the LORD Who vindicates (Psalm 43:1).
 
Discipline your son, and he will give you rest;
   he will give delight to your heart.
Proverbs 29:17 ESV
 
The discipline of a son (or a daughter) is a life-long work. The effort given in the early years pays good dividends in the later years. A child who has been taught well—that is discipled to know the LORD and delighting in Him and whenever needed was disciplined and corrected when he was in the wrong—such a child will give you rest. There the word rest has a sense of contentment in it. It is further explained by the next line of the proverb Such a child delights your heart. The word delight is used for food that is delicious or a delicacy. No wonder. In any generation, a child who knows right from wrong, who is a delight to his parents and gives them a sense of joy and contentment in his mature years; that person is a rarity to be relished.
 
 Ah, God! Behold my grief and care. Fain would I serve Thee with a glad and cheerful countenance, but I cannot do it. However much I fight and struggle against my sadness, I am too weak for this sore conflict. Help me in my weakness, O Thou mighty God! and give me Thy Holy Spirit to refresh and comfort me in my sorrow. Amid all my fears and griefs I yet know that I am Thine in life and death, and that nothing can really part me from Thee; neither things present, nor things to come, neither trial, nor fear, nor pain. And therefore, O Lord, I will still trust in Thy grace. Thou wilt not send me away unheard. Sooner or later Thou wilt lift this burden from my heart, and put a new song in my lips; and I will praise Thy goodness, and thank and serve Thee here and for evermore--Amen. 
S. Scheretz (1584-1639)

Fain: pleased, willingly
Countenance: face or facial expression
 
https://youtu.be/P56eSXwGNrc
Selah “Precious Lord Take My Hand/Just a Closer Walk with Thee”

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December 28, 2022 -- Proverbs 28:5 & 14 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: Seek the LORD

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Evil men do not understand justice,
    but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.

Blessed is the one who fears the LORD always,
   but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.
Proverbs 28:5,14 ESV

Is God just? That is a question many ask. It seems to me that what lies behind the question is His apparent favoritism towards His people. That charge is unfair. You can find more than fifty verses in the Bible which command people to seek the LORD. There is a blessing attached to this. When you seek the LORD, you will find Him (Proverbs 8:17 and Jeremiah 29:13). When you seek the LORD, He will give You the joy of knowing Him and the blessing of receiving all the good gifts He has prepared for those who are His children (Matthew 7:7-11). Simply put, God is just. The godly seek Him and receive rich reward. Evil men refuse the abundant blessings He has and then complain about Him. Therefore, they cannot understand justice. They are hardening in their hearts against Him without knowing anything true about Him. They are rushing headlong toward calamity.

The theme “the fear of the LORD” is one you have probably noticed as you read through Proverbs. It is like a distant drumbeat through-out the Proverbs encouraging the people of God to keep in step with His will and His ways. Those who fear the LORD find wisdom and understanding. Those who fear the LORD hate evil. Notice in today’s reading, those who fear the LORD keep their hearts tender or submitted to Him. Those however, who do not fear the LORD fall into calamity. That is a very strong word. It means a disaster that is marked with great suffering or sorrow.

Imagine, if you pursued God with the same intensity with which you played your video games—you’d know Him intimately. Or if you spent as much time Bible reading as you do watching 
video clips or scrolling through social media—you’d have a lot of the Bible memorized. He is your joy and blessing. Seek Him. Let 2023 be the year that stands out in your life as the Year You initiated an intensive seeking of the LORD and you find His presence to be the source of all your delight.

Faithful Father, honoured, glorious and blessed be Your Name. You have given Jesus, the life and the light of men. Jesus shines into the darkness of this world. Spirit of God, our heavenly Father has appointed it so that all who seek Him, will be empowered by Your Presence. You are the Source of Strength given so that the seeker will find the grace of Jesus and through Him the love of the Father. Merciful Father, forgive us for the sin of calling You unfair or worse, uncaring. As we stand on the edge of 2023, may it be known as the year Your people make great effort to seek You, responding to Your invitation to receive blessings always. Amen.

https://youtu.be/BiGb14tTaH4

Big Daddy Weave “Overwhelmed”

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December 27, 2022 -- Proverbs 27 various texts -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: Collected wisdom

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Do not boast about tomorrow,
    for you do not know what a day may bring.
Proverbs 27:1 ESV

What a wonderful thought as we stand on the New Year. We have no idea what this year will bring. So boasting is out of order. It is time for humble prayer to God that He may lead His people in all wisdom.

Faithful are the wounds of a friend;
   profuse are the kisses of an enemy. verse 6

The expression “to kiss up to” means to pretend at friendship or reconciliation. The friend who is at one moment kissing up to you will just as easily, the next moment when you leave the room, mock you or gossip about you. A true friend has faithful wounds, he will bear much in order to prove himself a true, reliable friend. This is the picture of Jesus Christ. See His nail-scarred hands and feet, and His side which was pierced for your transgressions. Jesus’ wounds are the only, truly faithful wounds, for He lives to pray for sinners such as we are. What a Savior!

Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied,
   and never satisfied are the eyes of a man. verse 20

Sheol is the place of the dead; it can mean the grave or hell. Abaddon means destruction, or the place of destruction in the nether world. Think of it. Destruction is never satisfied. Ten plus months in and the Russian aggression against the Ukraine has not ended. Countless hundreds of thousands are displaced, facing a harsh winter with no power and the hungry jaws of destruction keep on chewing up people’s lives. Abortion is never done. Canada keeps speaking of adding to the number of people who can request M.A.I.D. medical assistance in dying.

So too the eyes are never satisfied. Think of how many people cram into big box stores trampling one another to buy things they don’t need in order to hoard things they cannot afford which in the long run add to piles of debt which relentlessly is eroding their financial stability. The eyes of greed are never satisfied. Think of how many ‘boy meets girl romance movies’ are out there, piling up one after another. These are cookie cutter films. The ending is sure. People are happy. The more the eye sees this, the more discontented the heart is with reality, that is, the current living situation—comparing one’s life to such fantasy is the way of the grave. Of course, pornography is evidence of how the eye of man is never satisfied either. It too leads to the destruction of marriage and relationships and drags the soul down to the grave.

The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold,
   and a man is tested by his praise. verse 21

When silver is being purified it must be watched constantly, it can be ruined by the wrong temperature even as one is using the heat to remove the impurities. Praise is a test for any man or woman. Think of King Herod, who was praised by the people who were kissing up to him shouting at his words “the voice of a god, and not of a man!" (Acts 12:22). Herod did not give give glory the One True God, so he was struck down by the angel of the LORD. When you are praised, immediately turn and give the praise to Your Maker. For He has prepared good works for you to do through the grace of Jesus Christ by the power of His Spirit.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. How rich and varied is the beauty of wisdom which You have given to Your people. It takes the effort of a miner to dig deep into the Word in order to bring to light the treasures You have placed in therein. Forgive us, glorious Father, for the languor of our hearts and the fog of our brains which cloud our vision and mock our feeble efforts. Jesus, Faithful, Wounded, Friend, renew in us a holy zeal to find our peace and rest in You. Spirit of God, raise in us so many questions about God the Mysterious and Magnificent, so that as believers we cannot help but search out the Word until we see the Father through the radiance of Jesus. Jesus, Who was born in a stable, now seated on High, preparing to return in glory with all His holy ones. Amen.

https://youtu.be/U1dWXE-B4sw

Home Free “Silent Night”

Copyright © 2022 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

December 26, 2022 -- Proverbs 26:18-26 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: The day after

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death
19 is the man who deceives his neighbor
    and says, “I am only joking!”
20 For lack of wood the fire goes out,
    and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.
21 As charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire,
    so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.
22 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
    they go down into the inner parts of the body.
23 Like the glaze covering an earthen vessel
    are fervent lips with an evil heart.
24 Whoever hates disguises himself with his lips
    and harbors deceit in his heart;
25 when he speaks graciously, believe him not,
    for there are seven abominations in his heart;
26 though his hatred be covered with deception,
    his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.
Proverbs 26:18-26 ESV

Many years ago I used to be a police chaplain and I’d go for ride-alongs with officers. I’d often go on Christmas night. There were several reasons for this. First, Christmas is a busy day for a preacher as I’d preach on Christmas morning and if it were a Sunday I’d preach in the AM and the PM. Second, Christmas is a family time comprised of high expectations, low conflict management skills and, long histories of unresolved conflicts. When families mix in booze, it is explosive. So a chaplain can be a great support. Finally, it was good to go along to encourage officers and remind them of the blessing of Christmas—Christ has come, Christ has risen, Christ will come again.

After Christmas Day there is a greater-than-ever need for Christ’s peace. Proverbs speaks of seven abominations. These can be more or less named as: a madman stoking up quarrels; a jokester whose quips are designed to wound; a gossip who is inciting people against one another; a quarrelsome man who rekindles feuds that have burned low; a whisperer who poisons people against one another; lips that seem to be saying things in order to be helpful when in fact they are hateful; the man or woman who has a history of any such activities as listed above must be approached cautiously, for their gracious words are a cover for greater harm. The man or woman who is a peace-maker does not entertain such abominations.

Those seven abominations are like the approach of Satan—who speaks mostly true words, but mixes them with deceit and lies so that those who listen to him are torn apart and their lives become a train wreck. Discernment is not needed when one is dealing with an obvious sinner. Discernment, wisdom and understanding are most urgently needed when one is with those who claim to be friends, or claim to be Christians, but their conduct does not seem to bear the fruit in keeping with their claims.

If a man cleans his heart of sin and his mind of filthiness, but does not fill himself with greater things (like a closer walk with Jesus, a deeper study of the Bible, cultivating friends who are strong Christians) then such a man opens his heart to seven abominations. Jesus warned that those who have been purged of an unclean spirit must not keep the house clean and swept. That is empty. The house must be rebuilt with wisdom, found in Jesus, established with understanding and each room filled with knowledge, which are the precious truth of Scripture and pleasant riches of knowing the love of God and the grace of Jesus and the fellowship of the Spirit. If this does not take place, one will be filled with seven demons darker and worse then the first unclean spirit (Luke 11:24-26).

Father in heaven, wonderful is Your Name. Help me to live so that Your Name is lifted high and treated as holy. Thank You for the cleansing work of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the grace of Jesus by which my sins have been punished and I have been given the robes of Jesus’ righteousness. Spirit of the Living God, fill me with a holy hunger for the Word, so that I will know Jesus more fully. Spirit of Comfort teach me to delight in His goodness. Spirit of Power equip me to do the good works which the Father in heaven prepared in advance for me to do. Amen.

https://youtu.be/uYHpJnfy2lQ

Casting Crowns: “Make Room in Your Heart”

Copyright © 2022 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

December 25, 2022 -- Proverbs 25:21-22 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: The LORD's reward

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat,
    and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink,
22 for you will heap burning coals on his head,
    and the LORD will reward you.
Proverbs 25:21-22 ESV

Merry Christmas. What a strange quotation for Christmas morning.

First of all, while we were still enemies of God, sinners rebelling against Him, God sent His Son. Jesus fed the hunger of our souls that we didn’t even realize we had. He is living water to all who thirst. He is the burning coal of purification.

Second, the burning coals. When Isaiah the prophet had a vision of heaven, he saw the LORD on His throne. The sheer holiness of God made Isaiah realize his sinfulness—even a good and committed servant of the LORD like Isaiah realized how sinful he when he when is in the presence of Him Who is perfect and is “holy, holy, holy”!

When he confessed himself to be a man of unclean lips, the LORD commanded and an angel took a coal from the altar of the LORD and placed it on Isaiah’s tongue. The angel then declared Isaiah’s sin had been atoned for (Isaiah 6:1-6 ESV).

Third, whenever we preach the Good News of Jesus Christ, we heap burning coals on the heads of the hearers. This verse from Proverbs is picked up in Romans (12:20). The hearers either repent and turn to Jesus, or they will one day experience the condemnation of God against their sin. So, now is the day of salvation. Now is the day to cry out to Jesus!

With the praising multitudes of angels shout out:
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom He is well pleased.
(Luke 2:14)

The LORD will reward you. The reward of Joy. Knowing your sins are fully burned away because of the righteousness of Jesus.

The LORD will reward you. The reward of Peace. Knowing you have been made right with God through His Son and the Devil can not take that from you.

The LORD will reward you The reward of Hope. It is kept alive in you by the powerful presence of His Spirit.

The LORD will reward you. The reward of Love. Jesus is that Love come down from heaven. Jesus Christ is guarded in and sealed into your hearts by the Holy Spirit. He will continually apply the grace of Jesus Christ to you until the Father’s love has brought you to eternity in His presence.

Holy Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Thank You for the extravagant gift of Jesus Christ. Blessed Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, by Whom the treasures of heaven are opened to us. Triune God, help us all to walk in the reward of knowing You. Glory to God in the highest! Amen.

https://youtu.be/yxDZjg_Igoc

Yo-Yo Ma and Alison Kraus “The Wexford Carol”

Copyright © 2022 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.