1 Corinthians 12:12-29
"The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body" (vs 12).
Wow, envision the body of Christ, all believers, as one body - like your body is one and mine is one. Our physical bodies have many parts - eyes, ears, elbows, feet, etc. So what if you had a really painful earache? How would that effect the rest of your body? You would feel really lousy, wouldn't you? You would find it hard to really be active because you hurt so much!
The Apostle Paul analogizes the body of Christ, the church, as being just like our physical bodies. When one part of the body is suffering, it effects every other part...when one person is suffering, it (should) effect us all. Our physical bodies are not divided, we don't think, "well, I don't really need this hand, I'll just lobe it off!" Yet, when we judge, talk against, gossip other believers or whole local gatherings/churches of believers - it is like hurting or dismembering a part of our own physical bodies! WOW.
Also, Paul points out that each member of believers has been given at least one spiritual gift - a gift, something given by the Holy Spirit to be used in building up and helping the whole body of believers grow/heal/be fed/etc. He lists some of those gifts in 27-31; this is not an exhaustive list. Other Scripture speaks to additional gifts God gives, in Roman 12:6-8 and Ephesians 4:11-13 for example. Paul states that just like individual members of the body of Christ, each gift is needed - no one gift is "better or more important" than another gift. That goes against our worldly thinking, doesn't it?
If we are honest, each one of us has thought, "oh, I'm glad I have this ____ instead of ____; or, I wish I could _____like him/her." When we do that we discount how God has made others and ourselves. We actually discount God. Each one of us are needed, valued, and necessary. In fact, Paul points out that unlike the world that thinks those who are weak/dishonorable can be put away or forgotten, the body of Christ is to actually honor those who are weak!! .....And all of us have weakness - the Scripture says, in fact, that we 'can boast in our weakness, for God's power is perfected in our weakness, then when we are weak, we are strong" (2 Corinthians 12:9,10)!!!
"Lord, forgive us for putting others down, ourselves up as well as ourselves down and others up. Forgive us Lord for shunning those members and gifts that we think are less honorable or weak or less important. God, heal our minds in such ways that we think the way You do, that we honor others as well as ourselves in the body of Christ. That we know, realize, and accept/receive that each one of us are 'fearfully and wonderfully made; that each one is valuable and precious" (Psalm 139). Oh God, give us Your eyes to see, Your heart to know, and Your Spirit to live. Thanks for loving us God. We love You. More Lord, more."
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Many Gifts, the Same Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
"Now about spiritual gifts, brothers [and sisters], I do not want you to be ignorant...There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men [people]" (1 Corinthians 12:1,4,5,6).
This chapter of Scripture is one of the most controversial in the church. It is interesting that this is so, because in reading the words of this chapter, it seems quite clear. The only phrase that may not be quite as clear is "to another speaking in different kinds of tongues" (vs 10). Some interpret this to mean different known languages (English, Spanish, Aramaic, Greek, Hebrew etc.) that one speaks without having learned them. Others interpret it as a language that is not decipherable to people, but is a heavenly language that must be interpreted by someone who has a gift of interpreting the heavenly language, if it is spoken in the midst of the assembly. For the purposes of this meditation, I'm not going to outline the reasoning behind these different interpretations. If you are interested in understanding more (and I hope you are), let me know and I will recommend some commentary to you.
Perhaps the most controversial issue related to spiritual gifts, is whether or not some gifts of the Holy Spirit are operable today - whether or not God still moves in the gifts of physical healing as well as words of knowledge and wisdom, and prophecy. What some might think of as the more miraculous gifts.
Simply stated (because there are reasonings behind these positions that are quite involved, which you can read much more about if you are inclined - let me know and I can sent you some references to check out), there are believers who think that God has ceased to move in many of the ways described in the book of Acts (and in this chapter) - that God has certain dispensations (theological term) in which He acts throughout the ages. Others think that God acts in the same ways today as He did in the past and will in the future.
One of the greatest difficulties for believers to deal with is how there are many abuses and missuses of gifts of healing as well as signs and wonders. Therefore, instead of "testing the spirits" (1 John 4:1-6) to discern whether or not the supernatural acts are from God, the demonic or the flesh, some believers dismiss the manifestation of the Spirit in these ways altogether (because we have the flesh and the demonic who can mimic God's movement through healing, prophecy, words of knowledge and wisdom). It can be very uncomfortable and scary to be in the midst of signs and wonders, and not be sure if it is God, the demonic, or the flesh - people 'faking' it for all kinds of reasons.
John Piper has stated that:
“So what I think I can say for our guidance is this, [Are Signs and Wonders for Today?]:
1. On the one hand, we ought to honor the uniqueness of Jesus and the apostles and of that revelatory moment in history that gave us the foundational doctrines of faith and life in the New Testament.
2. On the other hand we ought to be open to the real possibility that this too might be a unique moment in history, and in this moment it may well be God's purpose to pour out his Spirit in unprecedented revival—revival of love to Christ and zeal for worship and compassion for lost people and a missionary thrust with signs and wonders.
I want to have my keel [center structure,frame (of a ship)]deep and stable in the once-for-all biblical revelation of God, and I want to have my sails unfurled to every movement of God's Spirit upon the deeps” (http://desiringgod.org/resource-library/sermons/are-signs-and-wonders-for-today).
I join John Piper, stating that I want to keep my footing firmly rooted in the revealed Word - Jesus and the Apostles - and be open to God's movement by the Holy Spirit in and through people, even as was true in Paul's day - as recorded in the book of Acts and written of in 1 Corinthians 12. Scripture says that the Gospel message is not about words, but power - see for example: 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, 1 Thessalonians 1:5.
What gift(s) have you been given by God? Are you yielding to the Holy Spirit to see these gifts used through you to the body of Christ and others for the common good?
"Lord, forgive us for times that we have relied on our own strength and abilities, convictions and commitments, understandings and tradition, instead of on Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, in the full counsel of God. Have Your way Lord - thanks Jesus for leaving so that the Holy Spirit would be sent by the Father...even so Come Holy Spirit, Come (John 14:15-27).
"Now about spiritual gifts, brothers [and sisters], I do not want you to be ignorant...There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men [people]" (1 Corinthians 12:1,4,5,6).
This chapter of Scripture is one of the most controversial in the church. It is interesting that this is so, because in reading the words of this chapter, it seems quite clear. The only phrase that may not be quite as clear is "to another speaking in different kinds of tongues" (vs 10). Some interpret this to mean different known languages (English, Spanish, Aramaic, Greek, Hebrew etc.) that one speaks without having learned them. Others interpret it as a language that is not decipherable to people, but is a heavenly language that must be interpreted by someone who has a gift of interpreting the heavenly language, if it is spoken in the midst of the assembly. For the purposes of this meditation, I'm not going to outline the reasoning behind these different interpretations. If you are interested in understanding more (and I hope you are), let me know and I will recommend some commentary to you.
Perhaps the most controversial issue related to spiritual gifts, is whether or not some gifts of the Holy Spirit are operable today - whether or not God still moves in the gifts of physical healing as well as words of knowledge and wisdom, and prophecy. What some might think of as the more miraculous gifts.
Simply stated (because there are reasonings behind these positions that are quite involved, which you can read much more about if you are inclined - let me know and I can sent you some references to check out), there are believers who think that God has ceased to move in many of the ways described in the book of Acts (and in this chapter) - that God has certain dispensations (theological term) in which He acts throughout the ages. Others think that God acts in the same ways today as He did in the past and will in the future.
One of the greatest difficulties for believers to deal with is how there are many abuses and missuses of gifts of healing as well as signs and wonders. Therefore, instead of "testing the spirits" (1 John 4:1-6) to discern whether or not the supernatural acts are from God, the demonic or the flesh, some believers dismiss the manifestation of the Spirit in these ways altogether (because we have the flesh and the demonic who can mimic God's movement through healing, prophecy, words of knowledge and wisdom). It can be very uncomfortable and scary to be in the midst of signs and wonders, and not be sure if it is God, the demonic, or the flesh - people 'faking' it for all kinds of reasons.
John Piper has stated that:
“So what I think I can say for our guidance is this, [Are Signs and Wonders for Today?]:
1. On the one hand, we ought to honor the uniqueness of Jesus and the apostles and of that revelatory moment in history that gave us the foundational doctrines of faith and life in the New Testament.
2. On the other hand we ought to be open to the real possibility that this too might be a unique moment in history, and in this moment it may well be God's purpose to pour out his Spirit in unprecedented revival—revival of love to Christ and zeal for worship and compassion for lost people and a missionary thrust with signs and wonders.
I want to have my keel [center structure,frame (of a ship)]deep and stable in the once-for-all biblical revelation of God, and I want to have my sails unfurled to every movement of God's Spirit upon the deeps” (http://desiringgod.org/resource-library/sermons/are-signs-and-wonders-for-today).
I join John Piper, stating that I want to keep my footing firmly rooted in the revealed Word - Jesus and the Apostles - and be open to God's movement by the Holy Spirit in and through people, even as was true in Paul's day - as recorded in the book of Acts and written of in 1 Corinthians 12. Scripture says that the Gospel message is not about words, but power - see for example: 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, 1 Thessalonians 1:5.
What gift(s) have you been given by God? Are you yielding to the Holy Spirit to see these gifts used through you to the body of Christ and others for the common good?
"Lord, forgive us for times that we have relied on our own strength and abilities, convictions and commitments, understandings and tradition, instead of on Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, in the full counsel of God. Have Your way Lord - thanks Jesus for leaving so that the Holy Spirit would be sent by the Father...even so Come Holy Spirit, Come (John 14:15-27).
Sunday, October 17, 2010
"Doing more Harm than Good"
1 Corinthians 11:17-33
"For the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it" (1 Corinthians 11:17, 18).
Paul has continued his instruction regarding issues that were brought to his attention, in order that he might help resolve them. Paul is quite direct, as is his style and pattern as we read his letters. He tells the gathered at Corinth that when they come together to celebrate the Lord's Supper - Communion as we call it in the church - it does more harm [for them] than good!
The purpose of them coming together for the Lord's Supper was, and is today, to strength their fellowship of faith in Christ, reminding them of what Christ did on their behalf. In Corinth, the practice of the culture was to come together for a meal and then the Lord's Supper. Paul describes some as coming to the meal and being gluttonous as well as some getting "drunk"! There were some who didn't get anything to eat. And then, in those frames of mind and heart, they would proceed to the Lord's Supper.
Paul's exhortation was that no one ought to come to the Lord' Supper "in an unworthy manner" because they would be "sinning against the body and blood of Jesus" (vs 27). While it is not the general practice to eat a meal as the gathered church before partaking in the Lord's Supper, there are many other ways in which we could come to the Lord's Supper in an "unworthy manner."
If we come with unconfessed (known) sin in our hearts - having discord and dissension with another, having an offense that is unresolved - unresolved as it concerns ourselves ( we cannot 'make' another person reconcile, but we can practice Matthew 5:23-25 which instructs us to go, ask forgiveness and be at peace as far as it concerns us), then we would be coming to the Lord's Supper in a manner unworthy. This is how the Corinthians were coming to the Lord's Supper...and Paul said it not only was not good, it caused [them] harm!
Today, there are differing interpretations of what Christ meant when He said, "This is my body." Some believe the the wine and bread actually become Christ's physical blood and body (transubstantiation). Others believe that the bread and wine remain unchanged, but Christ is spiritually present with the bread and wine. Still others believe that the bread and wine symbolize Christ's body and blood (transignification). However, Christians generally agree that participating in the Lord's Supper is an important element, in the Christian faith and that Christ's presence, in some way, strengthens us spiritually. (p2080 NIV Study Bible).
"Lord please forgive us for the times we have come together as Your people, and done 'more harm than good.' Lord, alert us by Your Spirit as individuals when we approach Your Table with attitudes, actions, thoughts that are not of You. We know God that we will not be perfect on this earth, but You have made away for us to have a clean heart and conscience - through the blood and body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit for new life. Thank You Lord."
"For the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it" (1 Corinthians 11:17, 18).
Paul has continued his instruction regarding issues that were brought to his attention, in order that he might help resolve them. Paul is quite direct, as is his style and pattern as we read his letters. He tells the gathered at Corinth that when they come together to celebrate the Lord's Supper - Communion as we call it in the church - it does more harm [for them] than good!
The purpose of them coming together for the Lord's Supper was, and is today, to strength their fellowship of faith in Christ, reminding them of what Christ did on their behalf. In Corinth, the practice of the culture was to come together for a meal and then the Lord's Supper. Paul describes some as coming to the meal and being gluttonous as well as some getting "drunk"! There were some who didn't get anything to eat. And then, in those frames of mind and heart, they would proceed to the Lord's Supper.
Paul's exhortation was that no one ought to come to the Lord' Supper "in an unworthy manner" because they would be "sinning against the body and blood of Jesus" (vs 27). While it is not the general practice to eat a meal as the gathered church before partaking in the Lord's Supper, there are many other ways in which we could come to the Lord's Supper in an "unworthy manner."
If we come with unconfessed (known) sin in our hearts - having discord and dissension with another, having an offense that is unresolved - unresolved as it concerns ourselves ( we cannot 'make' another person reconcile, but we can practice Matthew 5:23-25 which instructs us to go, ask forgiveness and be at peace as far as it concerns us), then we would be coming to the Lord's Supper in a manner unworthy. This is how the Corinthians were coming to the Lord's Supper...and Paul said it not only was not good, it caused [them] harm!
Today, there are differing interpretations of what Christ meant when He said, "This is my body." Some believe the the wine and bread actually become Christ's physical blood and body (transubstantiation). Others believe that the bread and wine remain unchanged, but Christ is spiritually present with the bread and wine. Still others believe that the bread and wine symbolize Christ's body and blood (transignification). However, Christians generally agree that participating in the Lord's Supper is an important element, in the Christian faith and that Christ's presence, in some way, strengthens us spiritually. (p2080 NIV Study Bible).
"Lord please forgive us for the times we have come together as Your people, and done 'more harm than good.' Lord, alert us by Your Spirit as individuals when we approach Your Table with attitudes, actions, thoughts that are not of You. We know God that we will not be perfect on this earth, but You have made away for us to have a clean heart and conscience - through the blood and body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit for new life. Thank You Lord."
Monday, October 11, 2010
"Follow me as I follow Christ"
Food for Life:
1 Corinthians 11:1-16
"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ" (1:1).
Paul continued to respond to questions as well as actions/behavior/attitudes in the Corinthian Church. Recalling that the Word was not written as the New Testament at this time, folks who were new believers - from Jewish and Greek tradition - couldn't pick up the Word and learn of and from Christ in that manner. So, Paul exhorts them to follow his example, of action/behavior/attitude, as he follows the example of Christ. Wow, talk about the awesome responsibility Paul had - folks couldn't go to the written Word to discern and judge what was of Christ and not; they had to rely on a living Apostle.
Today, we ought to be able to say as Paul, "follow me as I follow Christ." And yet, we know that our imperfection and sin is not the 'final word' by example, of what it means to follow Christ (although we ought to be as concerned about our testimony of Christ in our lives) - folks have the Word of God and the Holy Spirit Presence to guide, direct, follow, walk along side, and within!
The verses following 1:1 - 16, focus on public/congregational worship. Apparently headcoverings were an issue of the day in society - "In Corinth long hair on men was thought to be a sign of male prostitution in the pagan temples. And women with short hair were labeled prostitutes" (p 2079 NIV Study Bible). Paul was instructing the new believers about how to be set apartby appearance from the pagan culture. These verse are not a command about our present day appearance related to long and short hair and hats.
Paul speaks to issues of 'headship'; which today is an explosive issue within and outside the church. Paul's focus was inside the Corinthian Church; he was not speaking about marriage or any other relationship. Among his issues of focus - which are most important for us today are: respect for one's spouse, reverence and appropriateness in worship, and God being the number one focal point of our lives. "In the Lord, however, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God (vs 11).
"Lord thank You that Jesus Christ came to earth for our salvation and as an example of how to walk with You our God. Thank You that we, by the power of the Holy Spirit, can also say with Paul, "Follow me as I follow Christ." Thank You that You have given us Your Word, which when empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are able to live out here on earth. Thank You that as men and women we are interdependent, and that we all are dependent upon You. We love You Lord, Thank You for Loving us. Use our lives to draw others, by Your Spirit, to Yourself, thank You Lord."
1 Corinthians 11:1-16
"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ" (1:1).
Paul continued to respond to questions as well as actions/behavior/attitudes in the Corinthian Church. Recalling that the Word was not written as the New Testament at this time, folks who were new believers - from Jewish and Greek tradition - couldn't pick up the Word and learn of and from Christ in that manner. So, Paul exhorts them to follow his example, of action/behavior/attitude, as he follows the example of Christ. Wow, talk about the awesome responsibility Paul had - folks couldn't go to the written Word to discern and judge what was of Christ and not; they had to rely on a living Apostle.
Today, we ought to be able to say as Paul, "follow me as I follow Christ." And yet, we know that our imperfection and sin is not the 'final word' by example, of what it means to follow Christ (although we ought to be as concerned about our testimony of Christ in our lives) - folks have the Word of God and the Holy Spirit Presence to guide, direct, follow, walk along side, and within!
The verses following 1:1 - 16, focus on public/congregational worship. Apparently headcoverings were an issue of the day in society - "In Corinth long hair on men was thought to be a sign of male prostitution in the pagan temples. And women with short hair were labeled prostitutes" (p 2079 NIV Study Bible). Paul was instructing the new believers about how to be set apartby appearance from the pagan culture. These verse are not a command about our present day appearance related to long and short hair and hats.
Paul speaks to issues of 'headship'; which today is an explosive issue within and outside the church. Paul's focus was inside the Corinthian Church; he was not speaking about marriage or any other relationship. Among his issues of focus - which are most important for us today are: respect for one's spouse, reverence and appropriateness in worship, and God being the number one focal point of our lives. "In the Lord, however, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God (vs 11).
"Lord thank You that Jesus Christ came to earth for our salvation and as an example of how to walk with You our God. Thank You that we, by the power of the Holy Spirit, can also say with Paul, "Follow me as I follow Christ." Thank You that You have given us Your Word, which when empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are able to live out here on earth. Thank You that as men and women we are interdependent, and that we all are dependent upon You. We love You Lord, Thank You for Loving us. Use our lives to draw others, by Your Spirit, to Yourself, thank You Lord."
Friday, October 8, 2010
A Way Out
1 Corinthians 10
"These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (vs 11-13).
Good News! The verses that come before - 'these things happened' - are from the Old Testament saints experiences...when they set their hearts on evil, we see what happened.
And now, we who live in the 'fulfillment of the ages'...which is the age in which Jesus has come; salvation has been accomplished through the God & Man Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit has been given...we do well to not take pride in ourselves in thinking we stand (apart from Christ) and will not give in to temptation. We are all vulnerable.
Yet, Paul assures us that we will not encounter any temptation, that others before us have not encountered (including the Man Jesus Christ - who did so without sin, without giving in). Paul reaffirms that God is faithful! God will be with us in any temptation we encounter - not just watching and waiting to see what we will do - sin or not - BUT God is faithful and is with us, showing us a way OUT of the temptation, so that we do not have to give in!! Hallelujah! What a Savior!
"Lord, I pray this day for You to give me eyes to see where You are and the way out You are providing, when I encounter temptation today. Lord, reveal Yourself in the Spirit to my brothers and sister too, that they will see You and Your way out. Because, temptation WILL come today, for each one of us...You are more powerful and fully faithful, to empower us through the way out, to not give in, but to say YES Lord....and run, walk, turn, jump, whatever it takes. Lord, let us be a people of 'whatever it takes', to follow You. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit. Even today, fill us Lord. We love You."
"These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (vs 11-13).
Good News! The verses that come before - 'these things happened' - are from the Old Testament saints experiences...when they set their hearts on evil, we see what happened.
And now, we who live in the 'fulfillment of the ages'...which is the age in which Jesus has come; salvation has been accomplished through the God & Man Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit has been given...we do well to not take pride in ourselves in thinking we stand (apart from Christ) and will not give in to temptation. We are all vulnerable.
Yet, Paul assures us that we will not encounter any temptation, that others before us have not encountered (including the Man Jesus Christ - who did so without sin, without giving in). Paul reaffirms that God is faithful! God will be with us in any temptation we encounter - not just watching and waiting to see what we will do - sin or not - BUT God is faithful and is with us, showing us a way OUT of the temptation, so that we do not have to give in!! Hallelujah! What a Savior!
"Lord, I pray this day for You to give me eyes to see where You are and the way out You are providing, when I encounter temptation today. Lord, reveal Yourself in the Spirit to my brothers and sister too, that they will see You and Your way out. Because, temptation WILL come today, for each one of us...You are more powerful and fully faithful, to empower us through the way out, to not give in, but to say YES Lord....and run, walk, turn, jump, whatever it takes. Lord, let us be a people of 'whatever it takes', to follow You. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit. Even today, fill us Lord. We love You."
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Free
1 Corinthians 9
"...I have emptied out my cup, so that You can fill it up, now I'm free, I just want to be, more available to You. Lord, I'm available to You, my storage is empty, and I am available to You. Paul's declaration in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 reminds me of this song. It is a song of prayer, emptying of self, asking for the in-filling of the Holy Spirit, and making a commitment to the Lord to be available. In His Power, in His Strength, by His Leading and Direction.
Paul is telling the Corinthians that he belongs to " no man", no person owns him, he is free. And he states that because he is free [free in Christ] he chooses to make himself "a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible" (vs 19)!! He is compelled by the love of Christ, and what Christ did for him, to go and do likewise! To empty himself out, to choose not to exercise all his freedoms, but to exercise them in way a that he 'becomes all things to all people!" He is determined to be used by the Lord with anyone and everyone God give him to...to the weak he shares his weakness, to those under the law - he puts himself under the law, to those not having the law - he becomes like one not having the (Jewish) law.
Paul is determined to put away anything that may be seen as dividing, separating, putting walls between him and others....because of Christ. This is why I thought of the song from which the above excerpt comes. The picture is of one who is SOLD OUT. Giving up all rights for the purpose of Christ. Emptying self of self with all it's particulars. Asking the Holy Spirit to fill, and be available. No conditions. No criteria. No qualifications or preferences. "I will not do that, I will not go there, that isn't my style, I couldn't possibly be in the midst of that...." No. Paul said "whatever", meaning "whatever You say Lord, wherever You lead Lord...in another portion of Scripture, Paul says, "I've been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and delivered Himself up for me" (Galatians 2:20).
Are you in a place that is perhaps not your preference? I've been there. Are you doing something that you'd rather not be doing? I've done that. Are you among a people not of your choosing? I've lived that. Have you found yourself in a position that you've said or thought, "I will never!" I've been there too.
Chances are any one of us may be experiencing the above right now! Or you have. Or you will. It is called life on this earth. What is your response? Are you bucking it? I have done that before. God help me. God help you. Today, will you join me in asking the Lord to help you at whatever point you are at with this?
" Lord, I empty myself, Lord would you help me to empty myself? Lord, please fill me with Yourself. Help me like Paul, to be so compelled by You that I will be willing and be all things to all people that some might be won. I'm available Lord, Help me Lord to wanna' be available, help me to be available. Use me Lord - to show someone the way... Thank You Lord."
"...I have emptied out my cup, so that You can fill it up, now I'm free, I just want to be, more available to You. Lord, I'm available to You, my storage is empty, and I am available to You. Paul's declaration in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 reminds me of this song. It is a song of prayer, emptying of self, asking for the in-filling of the Holy Spirit, and making a commitment to the Lord to be available. In His Power, in His Strength, by His Leading and Direction.
Paul is telling the Corinthians that he belongs to " no man", no person owns him, he is free. And he states that because he is free [free in Christ] he chooses to make himself "a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible" (vs 19)!! He is compelled by the love of Christ, and what Christ did for him, to go and do likewise! To empty himself out, to choose not to exercise all his freedoms, but to exercise them in way a that he 'becomes all things to all people!" He is determined to be used by the Lord with anyone and everyone God give him to...to the weak he shares his weakness, to those under the law - he puts himself under the law, to those not having the law - he becomes like one not having the (Jewish) law.
Paul is determined to put away anything that may be seen as dividing, separating, putting walls between him and others....because of Christ. This is why I thought of the song from which the above excerpt comes. The picture is of one who is SOLD OUT. Giving up all rights for the purpose of Christ. Emptying self of self with all it's particulars. Asking the Holy Spirit to fill, and be available. No conditions. No criteria. No qualifications or preferences. "I will not do that, I will not go there, that isn't my style, I couldn't possibly be in the midst of that...." No. Paul said "whatever", meaning "whatever You say Lord, wherever You lead Lord...in another portion of Scripture, Paul says, "I've been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and delivered Himself up for me" (Galatians 2:20).
Are you in a place that is perhaps not your preference? I've been there. Are you doing something that you'd rather not be doing? I've done that. Are you among a people not of your choosing? I've lived that. Have you found yourself in a position that you've said or thought, "I will never!" I've been there too.
Chances are any one of us may be experiencing the above right now! Or you have. Or you will. It is called life on this earth. What is your response? Are you bucking it? I have done that before. God help me. God help you. Today, will you join me in asking the Lord to help you at whatever point you are at with this?
" Lord, I empty myself, Lord would you help me to empty myself? Lord, please fill me with Yourself. Help me like Paul, to be so compelled by You that I will be willing and be all things to all people that some might be won. I'm available Lord, Help me Lord to wanna' be available, help me to be available. Use me Lord - to show someone the way... Thank You Lord."
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Love and Freedom
1 Corinthians 8
"So the weak brother [sister], for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. When you sin against your brothers [sisters] in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother [sister] to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him [her] to fall" (vs 11-13).
Paul is talking about the freedom we have in Christ, and how to walk in wisdom, as we walk in our freedom. All of us have what Paul may call 'weak' areas. The things that tempt me are not the same things that tempt you. Particularly when I was a new believer, I had things that if more mature believers exercised their freedom in certain areas, would have caused me to stumble, fall, and/or sin. But even as a more mature believer, each of us have 'blind spots', areas in which we are particularly vulnerable. Wisdom would tell us that it is important for us to know those areas for ourselves. And yet, Paul is pointing to an area of responsibility, which is predicated - in the context of - Christian Love, in the Love of Christ as the body of Christ. Paul highlights that walking in Love for others, is more important than walking in our freedom! It is more important to Love than to have the last word, or win the argument....(ouch).
By way of illustration (like Paul illustrates his point through the eating of foods/meat, sacrificed to idols - which was clear to the folks of his day), I share with you about the 'red dress.' This experience is from years ago. I was part of a body of believers in which my church tradition was different...actually, I didn't really have a church tradition because I was not raised attending church.
One Sunday, a dear 'mother of the church' came up to me quite serious and with a warning in her voice. She is now gone to be with the Lord. At the time she was @ 65 ish years of age, a matriarch of the community, raised in an African-American church tradition. This dear Mother pulled me aside and said, "only 'ladies of the night' wear red...never wear a red dress to church!" "Ladies of the night' is my translation of Mama's phrase which was in her own, Mother style :):). (some of you are saying, "Mother of the church...what is that?...because you are from a different tradition than one in which their are older women who are viewed as 'mother's of the church body" :)).
I was stunned, felt really sorry that I offended her, and didn't quite know what to say! I think I stammered and apologized. I had never heard of this understanding. Yet, as I prayed about the situation, I was led to not wear a red dress to the church again! At the time I'm not sure if I came to that decision because I wanted to 'fit in' or if I didn't want to offend this dear one, or anyone else who thought that way. The outcome however, relates to Paul's admonition. If my red dress, caused Mother to think about brothels and the like, then I didn't want to be a stumbling block to her! One may argue that she needed to 'understand' that wearing a red dress, just like Paul's illustration of eating meat, didn't mean anything....But - it was likely that this ingrained idea in Mother's mind was not going to change. I was "free in Christ" to wear a red dress... but really, was it more important for me to wear a red dress, or for Mother's mind and heart to be focused on Christ?
So, what is it today, that is cause for others to stumble, that is part of my Christian liberty? How about you, is there something that if you ceased, would be cause to help another continue to grow in their walk w/Jesus? This is a matter of prayer - because there isn't one 'rule', instead it is something that through prayer, the Holy Spirit will reveal to you and to me.
"Lord, show each of us today, anything that, while I'm free in You to engage in, it does not edify another and actually is cause for anothers stumbling. Give me the wisdom and grace to see this, and with humility follow You in it. Lord, help me not to judge another in this, but instead to act in and through Love...because while I pray over this/these situations, others are praying to not be a stumbling block for me. The ground at the cross is level, and we all stand there. Thank You Lord."
"So the weak brother [sister], for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. When you sin against your brothers [sisters] in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother [sister] to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him [her] to fall" (vs 11-13).
Paul is talking about the freedom we have in Christ, and how to walk in wisdom, as we walk in our freedom. All of us have what Paul may call 'weak' areas. The things that tempt me are not the same things that tempt you. Particularly when I was a new believer, I had things that if more mature believers exercised their freedom in certain areas, would have caused me to stumble, fall, and/or sin. But even as a more mature believer, each of us have 'blind spots', areas in which we are particularly vulnerable. Wisdom would tell us that it is important for us to know those areas for ourselves. And yet, Paul is pointing to an area of responsibility, which is predicated - in the context of - Christian Love, in the Love of Christ as the body of Christ. Paul highlights that walking in Love for others, is more important than walking in our freedom! It is more important to Love than to have the last word, or win the argument....(ouch).
By way of illustration (like Paul illustrates his point through the eating of foods/meat, sacrificed to idols - which was clear to the folks of his day), I share with you about the 'red dress.' This experience is from years ago. I was part of a body of believers in which my church tradition was different...actually, I didn't really have a church tradition because I was not raised attending church.
One Sunday, a dear 'mother of the church' came up to me quite serious and with a warning in her voice. She is now gone to be with the Lord. At the time she was @ 65 ish years of age, a matriarch of the community, raised in an African-American church tradition. This dear Mother pulled me aside and said, "only 'ladies of the night' wear red...never wear a red dress to church!" "Ladies of the night' is my translation of Mama's phrase which was in her own, Mother style :):). (some of you are saying, "Mother of the church...what is that?...because you are from a different tradition than one in which their are older women who are viewed as 'mother's of the church body" :)).
I was stunned, felt really sorry that I offended her, and didn't quite know what to say! I think I stammered and apologized. I had never heard of this understanding. Yet, as I prayed about the situation, I was led to not wear a red dress to the church again! At the time I'm not sure if I came to that decision because I wanted to 'fit in' or if I didn't want to offend this dear one, or anyone else who thought that way. The outcome however, relates to Paul's admonition. If my red dress, caused Mother to think about brothels and the like, then I didn't want to be a stumbling block to her! One may argue that she needed to 'understand' that wearing a red dress, just like Paul's illustration of eating meat, didn't mean anything....But - it was likely that this ingrained idea in Mother's mind was not going to change. I was "free in Christ" to wear a red dress... but really, was it more important for me to wear a red dress, or for Mother's mind and heart to be focused on Christ?
So, what is it today, that is cause for others to stumble, that is part of my Christian liberty? How about you, is there something that if you ceased, would be cause to help another continue to grow in their walk w/Jesus? This is a matter of prayer - because there isn't one 'rule', instead it is something that through prayer, the Holy Spirit will reveal to you and to me.
"Lord, show each of us today, anything that, while I'm free in You to engage in, it does not edify another and actually is cause for anothers stumbling. Give me the wisdom and grace to see this, and with humility follow You in it. Lord, help me not to judge another in this, but instead to act in and through Love...because while I pray over this/these situations, others are praying to not be a stumbling block for me. The ground at the cross is level, and we all stand there. Thank You Lord."
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Married or Single follow-up
Dear Ones,
Below is a reply I received based on yesterday's thoughts from 1 Corinthians 7. Under that response is my reply. It is so good to receive responses to the readings and devotionals. Please feel free to respond with your insights, comments, questions, etc. Hit 'reply all' if it is something you'd be willing to share with everyone. Otherwise, I can take out any identifying information and share it so others can benefit!
Blessings of God's grace and forgiveness, His Love and Compassion today! May you call on His empowering Presence to address, walk through, respond to whatever today presents!
Excerpt from a dear one:
"sometimes I think I would be able to do more for God unmarried, but I know that it is like a mirror. I am constantly aware of my shortcomings while I am with my spouse...it is a character building life for sure...and a blessing in many ways that I don't even understand yet..."
"Yes ! I've heard many say that in marriage, it is discovered how selfish we are (although I certainly see that through singleness as well :)). Marriage is ordained and called by God - He uses marriage relationship as illustrative of Christ's relationship with us, the church. Paul was speaking to folks that were in the midst of having received Christ and wondering....should I marry, should I divorce (to focus on God!!) - Paul was exhorting them to 'stay as they were' - if married, married; if single, single (pointing out the serious commitment of marriage...)
One of the first human relationships Satan attacks is marriage b/c of it's importance in God's Kingdom...the relationship that is to promulgate the Kingdom through raising children in Christ...God help us today - it is a battle for the hearts and minds of our children...
Well, bless you my sister in the Strong Name of Jesus as you seek the Lord in your marriage and family - yours is an awesome responsibility and joy, with the empowering Presence of the Holy Spirit, who is able!"
Below is a reply I received based on yesterday's thoughts from 1 Corinthians 7. Under that response is my reply. It is so good to receive responses to the readings and devotionals. Please feel free to respond with your insights, comments, questions, etc. Hit 'reply all' if it is something you'd be willing to share with everyone. Otherwise, I can take out any identifying information and share it so others can benefit!
Blessings of God's grace and forgiveness, His Love and Compassion today! May you call on His empowering Presence to address, walk through, respond to whatever today presents!
Excerpt from a dear one:
"sometimes I think I would be able to do more for God unmarried, but I know that it is like a mirror. I am constantly aware of my shortcomings while I am with my spouse...it is a character building life for sure...and a blessing in many ways that I don't even understand yet..."
"Yes ! I've heard many say that in marriage, it is discovered how selfish we are (although I certainly see that through singleness as well :)). Marriage is ordained and called by God - He uses marriage relationship as illustrative of Christ's relationship with us, the church. Paul was speaking to folks that were in the midst of having received Christ and wondering....should I marry, should I divorce (to focus on God!!) - Paul was exhorting them to 'stay as they were' - if married, married; if single, single (pointing out the serious commitment of marriage...)
One of the first human relationships Satan attacks is marriage b/c of it's importance in God's Kingdom...the relationship that is to promulgate the Kingdom through raising children in Christ...God help us today - it is a battle for the hearts and minds of our children...
Well, bless you my sister in the Strong Name of Jesus as you seek the Lord in your marriage and family - yours is an awesome responsibility and joy, with the empowering Presence of the Holy Spirit, who is able!"
Monday, October 4, 2010
Married or Single?
Food for Life:
1 Corinthians 7
Please read this chapter prayerfully and thoughtfully. It is power-packed and easily misunderstood. A few observations, by way of summary are in order. Paul had been asked by the church at Corinth many questions pertaining to daily life - living as Believers. There culture was similar to ours today - much immorality and sexual temptation at every turn...."whatever" goes. Paul's basic premise and exhortation was - whatever situation you find yourself in, stay that way for the present - if married, stay married, if single stay single.
He even stated that he would prefer everyone be as he was, single - because those who are married need to be concerned about the affairs of spouse, children, and home. Single folks had time to for more devoted focus on the Lord's work and ministry.
However, he was NOT criticizing marriage...marriage is ordained by God! He did stress the utmost importance of prayerfully considering marriage, before marrying - marriage is a life-long commitment through the trials and joys of relationship and life!
Once one is married, it is then imperative to focus on your spouse, children, and home only second to your love relationship with Jesus.
Both singleness and marriedness bring the same life issues, only in different context - in both states of life people struggle with the same issues: loneliness, sexual temptation, satisfaction of one's deepest emotional needs, life difficulties. The commentary author wrote, "Marriage alone does not hold two people together, but commitment does - commitment to Christ and to each other despite conflicts and problems. As wonderful as it is, marriage does not automatically solve every problem" (p 2072).
As a single person, Paul's admonition resonates with me, "An unmarried woman is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world - how she can please her husband" (vs 34). I have found this to be true. does this mean I've not had the desire to be married? No. It does mean tho' that as long as I'm single, my time is devoted singly focused rather than divided by the affairs of husband and home.
Paul goes on to say, An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs - how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world - how he can please his wife - and his interests are divided" (vs 33.34). Paul is letting single folks know how life changes when married - as far as focus - and rightly so! A married man or woman, after their first love with Jesus, is to love, respect, care for, provide, nurture, raise, their families.
SO - if you are single, how are you spending your time? If you are married, how are you spending your time? What are the priorities?
As we read through this chapter we see Paul giving very clear answers - directions and guidance - to the questions posed to him regarding marriage, singleness, divorce, remarriage, sexual temptation - we would do well to ponder the admonitions.
"Lord, thank You that there is nothing of this life that You have left up to us to 'figure out' apart from Your Word, and Your Holy Spirit to empower us to carry out. This life on earth is not heaven. Jesus said there would be trouble here, but we can 'take heart' and 'be of good courage' because He has overcome this world. You help us on the path we are on and making choices along the way that will bring Honor and Glory to You, will be for our good, and for the good of others. Thank You Lord."
1 Corinthians 7
Please read this chapter prayerfully and thoughtfully. It is power-packed and easily misunderstood. A few observations, by way of summary are in order. Paul had been asked by the church at Corinth many questions pertaining to daily life - living as Believers. There culture was similar to ours today - much immorality and sexual temptation at every turn...."whatever" goes. Paul's basic premise and exhortation was - whatever situation you find yourself in, stay that way for the present - if married, stay married, if single stay single.
He even stated that he would prefer everyone be as he was, single - because those who are married need to be concerned about the affairs of spouse, children, and home. Single folks had time to for more devoted focus on the Lord's work and ministry.
However, he was NOT criticizing marriage...marriage is ordained by God! He did stress the utmost importance of prayerfully considering marriage, before marrying - marriage is a life-long commitment through the trials and joys of relationship and life!
Once one is married, it is then imperative to focus on your spouse, children, and home only second to your love relationship with Jesus.
Both singleness and marriedness bring the same life issues, only in different context - in both states of life people struggle with the same issues: loneliness, sexual temptation, satisfaction of one's deepest emotional needs, life difficulties. The commentary author wrote, "Marriage alone does not hold two people together, but commitment does - commitment to Christ and to each other despite conflicts and problems. As wonderful as it is, marriage does not automatically solve every problem" (p 2072).
As a single person, Paul's admonition resonates with me, "An unmarried woman is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world - how she can please her husband" (vs 34). I have found this to be true. does this mean I've not had the desire to be married? No. It does mean tho' that as long as I'm single, my time is devoted singly focused rather than divided by the affairs of husband and home.
Paul goes on to say, An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs - how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world - how he can please his wife - and his interests are divided" (vs 33.34). Paul is letting single folks know how life changes when married - as far as focus - and rightly so! A married man or woman, after their first love with Jesus, is to love, respect, care for, provide, nurture, raise, their families.
SO - if you are single, how are you spending your time? If you are married, how are you spending your time? What are the priorities?
As we read through this chapter we see Paul giving very clear answers - directions and guidance - to the questions posed to him regarding marriage, singleness, divorce, remarriage, sexual temptation - we would do well to ponder the admonitions.
"Lord, thank You that there is nothing of this life that You have left up to us to 'figure out' apart from Your Word, and Your Holy Spirit to empower us to carry out. This life on earth is not heaven. Jesus said there would be trouble here, but we can 'take heart' and 'be of good courage' because He has overcome this world. You help us on the path we are on and making choices along the way that will bring Honor and Glory to You, will be for our good, and for the good of others. Thank You Lord."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
