Friends,
Perhaps you have heard about the guy who fell in love with an opera singer. He hardly knew her, since his only view of the singer was through binoculars - from the third balcony. He was convinced he could live “happily ever after” married to a voice like that. He scarcely noticed that she was considerably older than he was. Nor did he care that she walked with a limp. Her mezzo-soprano voice would take them through whatever might come. After a whirlwind romance and a hurry-up ceremony, they were off for their honeymoon. She began to prepare for their first night together. As he watched, his chin dropped to his chest. She plucked out her glass eye and plopped it into a container on the night-stand. She pulled off her wig, ripped off her false eyelashes, yanked out her dentures, unstrapped her artificial leg, and smiled at him as she slipped off her glasses that hid her hearing aid. Stunned and horrified, he gasped, “For goodness sake, woman, sing, sing, SING!” (From Charles Swindoll, “Strike the Original Match”)
It was easy for the man to think and say that her voice would take them through whatever might come. But he didn’t realize what he was getting into. I suppose that this is why Paul tells the Roman Christians in 12:9-21, “Let love be without hypocrisy.” Words come easy, but actions are not always so easy to follow through. This thought leads off a series of important virtues that Christians are to live in relationship with others. It is these characteristics that we will explore today. Paul tells the Roman Christians that they have a responsibility in their service to the Lord and to one another. There are several principles that they are to maintain in their lives. These also apply to us in helping us to experience good, growing relationships.
Many interpret God’s love to be some “wishy, washy” matter...but Agape love is not about happy, happy, happy (although I love “happy, happy, happy”). It is about doing something for people. It is about being active in our service for someone else. It is “the circulatory system for the spiritual body.” And it needs to be sincere…that is, “without hypocrisy” – there is nothing fake about it. We should strive for honesty and trust in all of our relationships, because these are foundational principles to building relationships.
Paul asks that we show loyalty in our devotion to each other, being concerned that we treat one another with honor. And this is certainly as it should be in our relationship with God. We should be as loyal to Him as He was to us through His Son. This is a virtue that…in a great way…has gone missing in our culture. People will be loyal as long things are good, or as long as it is going their way…but as soon as there are difficulties, many will bolt. They do not realize that it is “weathering the storms” with our friends and church families that draw us even closer, and grow us spiritually.
Diligence is important…having an attitude that is focused upon serving to the best of our abilities….looking for opportunities to do good. I am afraid that this is also often found wanting. Many may serve on occasion, but only when it is convenient…and many are not going to be inconvenienced, or diligent to serve.
Hospitality is shared by those who love one another. This used to always be having people over for dinner…and this is still important. But, many times, it is going out to meals with friends, or even sending them out on a date with a gift card – whatever works.
Paul asks that we share sympathy with one another…that we feel with one another when there are joys and sorrows. These things build our relationships and make us stronger, as well.
Humility is the key to keeping relationships straight…if we are in the wrong, we swallow our pride and seek to make things right. If we have been wronged, then we live with a forgiving heart.
Jesus speaks about how important it is to make peace with one another to the best of our ability (Mark 9:50, etc.)…and Paul says that as far as it depends upon us, this should be the case.
He goes on to tell the Roman believers that their attitudes and actions are regularly under scrutiny by those who are non-believers. We need to be careful that our conduct upholds the standards of our Lord. Even when we do the right things and say the right things, everything is not always going to go right. As Paul indicates, we always need to do what is right, regardless, and often we can win over our enemies or those who oppose us. Christians live at a higher level, returning good for evil. Good for evil requires faith. As we love, serve as our Lord did, we learn to grow in grace, and become better servants for Him!
“Never cast aside your friends if by any possibility you can retain them. We are the weakest of spendthrifts if we let a friend drop off through inattention, or let one push away another, or if we hold aloof from one for petty jealousy of heedless slight or roughness. If there is coolness or unkindness between us, let us come face to face and have it out…quickly, before love grows cold. Would you throw away a diamond because it pricked you? One good friend is not to be weighed against the jewels of all the earth.” – Anonymous
I close with something I wrote a few years ago – freedom to love. True love cannot be the result of decree, force or manipulation. Anything that I do to deprive someone of the right to choose is a violation of his or her personhood. When I sense that my own right to choose is being threatened, then I know that I am not being loved...and the doors to ministry are not open. Paul tells the Corinthians that "love does not seek its own" (13:5b). Many times, the best solution is to yield until I feel free to make the right choice. Many in our society, and even some believers, see submission as a sign of weakness. I think that all we have to do is look to the life of our Lord and Savior to understand that submission is indeed a sign of grace and strength.
Blessings, Don
Showing posts with label maturity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label maturity. Show all posts
Monday, September 2, 2013
Friday, May 3, 2013
Religion of the Heart
Friends,
A man relied upon an experienced guide while crossing a dangerous African swamp. The two stepped from one clump of grass to another as they crossed. The clumps all looked alike to the man, but the guide repeatedly warned about certain clumps. They all appeared to be secure…but, while some of the clumps were fastened to rocks, others were free-floating. The native had learned by experience how to tell the difference between the two. What the guide knew that his follower did not could very possibly save his life. He had learned wisdom through his experience. He knew that if he did not take care to attend to the things that truly mattered, that all could be lost.
This is, in essence, what Jesus is saying in this section of Matthew 15 (vv.1-20). Jesus is dealing with Jewish leaders who had become not only distracted, but corrupt -- their hearts were not right with God. They had indiscriminately stepped, religiously, where they were not supposed to, and this led them down a path away from God. What they needed was a right religion -- one based upon a genuine relationship with God -- that would help them not to please themselves, but to seek God with all their hearts. At times, we believers can say the right things, do the right things, keep all of the correct regulations, traditions…and still be far from God. Unlike the Pharisees, we have every opportunity to make good, spiritual decisions for our lives, and this will ultimately be the difference between whether we sink or swim. As I shared from John’s gospel recently, the Holy Spirit is the Advocate and Helper that we need. God, through the Holy Spirit, is the guide that helps His people to know where to step.
Meanwhile, in an unsurprising development, some Scribes and Pharisees come to test Jesus. They accuse His disciples of breaking “the traditions of the elders.” These traditions (or Mishnah) were a significant number of extra rituals and regulations that the Scribes and Pharisees thought the Jewish people should do as a part of their belief system. Jesus’ disciples were not adhering to the ritual purification cleansings before eating bread. (The stone jars at the wedding at Cana in John 2 were those that were used for such washings). To the Pharisees and Scribes question, Jesus asks a question of His own…and by so doing, tells them that they are violating the Word of God for the sake of their traditions. In a similar situation (Luke 11:37-39), Jesus tells the Pharisees and Scribes that “they clean the outside of the cup, but the inside is dirty”…that is, that they look good on the outside, but that they are full of wickedness. They looked good, sounded good, probably even used their Axe body spray, but they were corrupt in their hearts.
Jesus tells them, in essence, that they know that a Jew is not to speak evil of his father or mother (as seen in the Ten Commandments), yet they neglect their parents by taking their Corban, “retirement money” (similar to social security) “committed” to them and give it to God (as a contribution). In so doing these Jews were claiming to be doing “the righteous thing.” But, they were taking away from their parents, thereby making void God’s Word. (It is what we call “straining for gnats and swallowing camels”…or nonsense). Jesus quotes Isaiah 29:13 and plainly tells these Jews – “you are of two minds” (hypocrites). Their hearts are “far, far away” from God, and because of this, their worship is in vain. Jesus goes even further to explain His words (vv.10-11). "Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth…that is what makes him 'unclean.'" The disciples see it as a parable (v.15), but it is a critical statement. The key thought is that…it is an inner, spiritual religion that matters, not an outer “going through the motions” religion.
Now the disciples come back and tell Jesus…in one of the great “duh” moments in the New Testament…saying – “Do you know that you offended the Scribes and Pharisees?” Yes, He knows. In fact it was possibly a shock value statement for a purpose -- He wants them “to hear and understand.” And not just the religious folks, He wants His disciples to understand that these religious leaders are not reliable as “spiritual” guides. Jesus presents two more images --”plants without roots”, and “blind guides,” in order to cement what He is saying. Peter, speaking for the others (nothing unusual there) expresses confusion concerning what Jesus has been saying. And for His part, Jesus is amazed at His disciples’ lack of understanding. So, He makes one final spiritual application – what goes in the mouth (food, drink) is not as important (in a spiritual sense) as what comes out of the mouth. What comes out of the mouth comes from the heart. The point is -- everyone has a heart condition (spiritual), and it is either good or bad. Jesus goes back to the beginning of the discussion to make His final point…it is not the washing of hands that defiles, but an unclean heart, life, which is the condition of the religious leaders. If our life and religion keep us from seeing Jesus…and more than this, having His heart, mind, living like Him…then something has to change. God is not going to be impressed with our worship on Sunday or any other day of the week (Romans 12:1-2) if it is not from the heart. We must consider Jesus’ admonition to keep the proper perspective and strive to be spiritually focused.
I know that some have seen the following video, but I think it illustrates well…especially concerning those in our fellowship…what Jesus is talking about in this message.
Blessings, Don
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Deal or No Deal
Friends,
A humanitarian group in Africa, noticing the filthy water, sewage, and disease in one particular place, built a clean water and sewage system for a village. Months later, they visited the village…but it was back to square one with filthy water, sewage and disease. The chief told the humanitarian workers: "And what did you expect? These people had been many years without clean water. Then you gave it to them for free in abundance. They took all they could use and more. The people did not work for those water stations. They do not own them, and they could not be persuaded to maintain them." The humanitarians were silent. The chief had spoken truth. The great gift alone had not been enough and the reasons could be clearly observed. Perhaps it is human nature to abuse a gift. The humanitarians returned to their camp and thought long and hard about how they could help the villagers. The next day the humanitarians returned, determined to rebuild the water and sanitation systems with the following conditions -- the villagers would have to pay for water and sanitation. Not more than they could afford, but there would be no gift giving this time. A group of villagers would work with the contractors to build the system and would be taught how to repair every aspect of it. These villagers would, in turn, train others so the system would never fall into disrepair. With the new conditions in place, the water and sanitation systems were restored. This time the people had respect for the systems because they owned them. This time they were able to repair the system when it broke down. To this day the villagers have plenty of clean water and live free of filth and disease. This story could have some elements changed, be moved to America, and have the same issues with regard to a lack of respect, responsibility. But, there could and should be the same resultant changes, as well. God, through Moses deals with some of these issues of stewardship with the people of Israel…and once again, even though the situations may have changed, the principles remain the same.
There are certain responsibilities that we have as God’s stewards. We have the choice as to whether we will deal with our responsibilities or not deal with them…but there is truly only one choice. In Leviticus 25, the focus is on “Israel in their land.” If Israel was going to possess and enjoy their land, they would have to recognize and respect some basic facts…the first of which was that “God owned the land” (vv.2, 23, 38). God also owned “the people of Israel” – He redeemed them from Egyptian bondage. The Jews were expected to work in their fields, but it was “God who gave the increase” (v.21). God was their “Land Lord” in more ways than one. In chapter 23, we came to understand that the Jewish calendar was based on a series of “sevens.” The “seventh day” was to be a Sabbath rest where the Jewish people would not labor. Here, we learn that the seventh year is to be a year of rest for the land, the people and their animals. During the Sabbath year, the people were not to work the fields or have organized harvests. Also during this time, some debts were forgiven and indentured servants were set free. The Sabbath year was the occasion for a “Bible conference” when the priests read and explained the Book of Deuteronomy to the people. See…you all have it easy. J The nation learned the meaning of “give us this day our daily bread,” as God promised to provide for them and protect them throughout the year…if only they would trust and obey (vv.18-22).
The other aspect of all of this is -- at the end of seven sevens of years…or the 50th year…there was to be Jubilee. It would require a great deal of faith for the people to recognize a Jubliee year, because the previous year (the 49th), the Jews would have had a Sabbath year. So, they were to recognize two years of rest back to back. What elements were to be involved in the Jubilee year? There was to be repentance (v.9) and release (of the servants, once again so that they might return to their own lands, families, vv.10-13). Also, there was to be rest (vv.11-12) and restoration (vv.13-17). The land sold since the last Jubilee would revert back to the original owner. The Lord wanted them to have a sense of proprietorship in having it restored to them. In the New Testament, Jubilee is likened to the Good News that is shared with the poor…which would include all people. This is because people’s debts have been paid and completely forgiven in Jesus Christ (as seen in the stories of Luke 7:36-50, and in many other places).
As we know, God certainly wouldn’t fail the people of Israel, but their faith might fail. Unfortunately, there is no Biblical evidence that the Jews ever celebrated a Sabbath year or a year of Jubilee. In fact, the Bible indicates that they did not do so (2 Chronicles 36:21). God ultimately sent Israel into Babylonian captivity for seventy years…in part to give the land the rest it needed. By disobeying the law of the Sabbath year, the Jews robbed themselves, not only of spiritual blessings, but also the strength of the land and of their servants and animals…a costly mistake. We have been released for a purpose. We have an added responsibility as believers in Christ. We have the whole story, the whole knowledge…and complete forgiveness. We really have no excuse. We are going to make mistakes, but we must live as the blameless, accountable people of God…this is our responsibility.
It is a basic principle of life – whatever we keep from God we can never truly enjoy ourselves. One preacher has shared that in his ministry, he has met a number of people who claim that they “withhold their offerings”…only to end up paying extra money for medical bills or auto repairs. In fact, one member brought a budget book to his office just to show him how God had begun to bless him when he stopped keeping from God of what was really His. This isn’t necessarily a message about “contribution”, but the illustration does fit the concept of stewardship that we have been discussing. Everything that we have really belongs to God…it is not ours…we are caretakers. It is incumbent for us to take care of these things…whether it is our contribution of money, our contribution of possessions or our contribution of time. We are to have an important stewardship in these things. We also have a stewardship to ministry. If God has put it on one of us a responsibility to minister in His church and in the community, then we should take our responsibilities seriously, as we will be accountable to Him as to whether we are or are not doing so. We need to take care of what God has given us…this is our stewardship. We do not need to be careless, but use care and concern…whether it is dealing with property, or people. We have a stewardship to love one another as Jesus has loved us…we need to take this very seriously as well. We have every opportunity to be a blessing and to be blessed if we take seriously our responsibilities. It is “deal or no deal.” God has laid it out to us, as He did to the Israelites...and there is really only one correct answer. And you may not win a million dollars, but I guarantee that you will store up treasure in heaven.
Blessings, Don
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Walking with the Spirit (Considering Galatians), Pt. 7
Friends,
Well...better late than never...and it was almost "never." (Not really...but, if one procrastinates or is distracted long enough, it might seem like it :-). However, on to the concluding message from Paul's letter to the Galatians. Paul has spoken about the connection of living spiritually versus living according to the flesh in chapter 5. Paul continues with this theme in chapter 6...and instead of sounding combative, he has a much more conciliatory tone, as at the end of chapter 5. Apparently some have asked the question, "How do we deal those Judaizers (or Gentile Christians, for that matter) who repent of the attitudes and activities of the flesh?" Paul may be thinking about Jesus' message in the Sermon on the Mount, regarding approaching all matters of discerning judgment with humility and love. He offers an interesting expression, "you who are spiritual should restore him gently." But, for those of the Spirit, this must be done with humility...and I believe that he is speaking with regard to the contrast between pride and humility. If those who are "spiritual" are not careful, they will be tempted to be unspiritual, that is prideful, concerning how they go about their business. Once again, Paul appeals to love...as in "the law of Christ," and this, as it is in this letter, runs opposed to the Law of Moses. We must not be prideful or arrogant as it relates to helping others who are in need, or else, we may do more harm than good.
We must not overvalue ourselves, neither should we undervalue ourselves, in relationship to principle of living the Christian walk and serving others. We cannot fool the Lord who is able to evaluate matters accurately with regard to our spiritual walk (vv.7-8). Living according to the flesh will keep us distracted and hinder us from being the servants that God not only wants, but requires for us to be. God has gifted each of His children in a unique way to serve Him...and all believers need to fulfill their service to Him...and especially to those who belong to the body of Christ. I believe this is the principle behind Paul's unusual statement in v.6. regarding instructing and instruction -- if we have been blessed, we need to be a blessing. If we can maintain our spiritual walk as we should...taking time to rest, recuperate as we need...we will not only be a blessing, but we will receive blessings.
In the final eight verses of this letter, Paul apparently takes control of the steering wheel, so to speak. He writes with his own hand, rather than have his amanuensis (secretary) compose for him, as has been the case throughout the letter. Paul claims no professional ability as it relates to his writing, and indeed, seems to be poking fun at himself (v.11). Basically, this section is a recapitulation of everything he has shared up to this point. He does not want the free believers in the Galatian churches...primarliy Gentiles...to be influenced by those who would claim that circumcision (as well as the rest of the principles of the Law) is essential in order to be acceptable to God. The key, once again, is not concerning matters that bind us humans...the Law, the flesh...but it is concerning the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, where all of these other matters find their place and are laid to rest. The Law was not sufficient, but being a "new creation" in Jesus is. The Galatian believers must come back to investigating and appropriating the spiritual matters that they once believed...and not allow themselves to be held captive by doctrines and other matters that are going to take them away from spirituality, and ultimately, eternity. And finally, if anyone would be of a mind to question Paul's credibility (as did some "believers" in Corinth) in writing these matters, he reminds them that he bears scars...physical and emotional...on Jesus' behalf. These marks for Jesus are of a far greater benefit in proving Paul's conviction for truth, perhaps, than anything he could say. Nonetheless, the two walk hand in hand. Paul concludes by appealing to the grace of Jesus Christ for their spirits, a wonderful expression of peace and hope.
Once again, nothing is gained for us today in making the same mistakes as a significant portion of the early believers. Although, I believe that we could concur with the wise sage, Solomon, who shared that "there is nothing new under the sun" in this regard. We must learn and understand that Laws and regulations are not going to produce spirituality in us, but indeed, they take away from it. They hinder our ability to walk as free persons in Christ in much the same way as the flesh also hinders the spiritual walk (and Paul has connected the two). This does not mean that we must not be people of principle...we should be so. But, we must appeal to the same law that Paul appeals to in this letter...the law of love...the law that Jesus Himself commended during His last few days on earth (John 13:34-35, 15:12, etc.). Then, in turn, all other principles gain their proper perspective and place in relationship to the whole of the Christian walk. And as Paul says, early on in the letter, it is this perspective that will make the difference...then and now...as to whether churches grow and prosper or decay and decline.
I hope this series has been a blessing to you...have a great day.
Blessings, Don
Well...better late than never...and it was almost "never." (Not really...but, if one procrastinates or is distracted long enough, it might seem like it :-). However, on to the concluding message from Paul's letter to the Galatians. Paul has spoken about the connection of living spiritually versus living according to the flesh in chapter 5. Paul continues with this theme in chapter 6...and instead of sounding combative, he has a much more conciliatory tone, as at the end of chapter 5. Apparently some have asked the question, "How do we deal those Judaizers (or Gentile Christians, for that matter) who repent of the attitudes and activities of the flesh?" Paul may be thinking about Jesus' message in the Sermon on the Mount, regarding approaching all matters of discerning judgment with humility and love. He offers an interesting expression, "you who are spiritual should restore him gently." But, for those of the Spirit, this must be done with humility...and I believe that he is speaking with regard to the contrast between pride and humility. If those who are "spiritual" are not careful, they will be tempted to be unspiritual, that is prideful, concerning how they go about their business. Once again, Paul appeals to love...as in "the law of Christ," and this, as it is in this letter, runs opposed to the Law of Moses. We must not be prideful or arrogant as it relates to helping others who are in need, or else, we may do more harm than good.
We must not overvalue ourselves, neither should we undervalue ourselves, in relationship to principle of living the Christian walk and serving others. We cannot fool the Lord who is able to evaluate matters accurately with regard to our spiritual walk (vv.7-8). Living according to the flesh will keep us distracted and hinder us from being the servants that God not only wants, but requires for us to be. God has gifted each of His children in a unique way to serve Him...and all believers need to fulfill their service to Him...and especially to those who belong to the body of Christ. I believe this is the principle behind Paul's unusual statement in v.6. regarding instructing and instruction -- if we have been blessed, we need to be a blessing. If we can maintain our spiritual walk as we should...taking time to rest, recuperate as we need...we will not only be a blessing, but we will receive blessings.
In the final eight verses of this letter, Paul apparently takes control of the steering wheel, so to speak. He writes with his own hand, rather than have his amanuensis (secretary) compose for him, as has been the case throughout the letter. Paul claims no professional ability as it relates to his writing, and indeed, seems to be poking fun at himself (v.11). Basically, this section is a recapitulation of everything he has shared up to this point. He does not want the free believers in the Galatian churches...primarliy Gentiles...to be influenced by those who would claim that circumcision (as well as the rest of the principles of the Law) is essential in order to be acceptable to God. The key, once again, is not concerning matters that bind us humans...the Law, the flesh...but it is concerning the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, where all of these other matters find their place and are laid to rest. The Law was not sufficient, but being a "new creation" in Jesus is. The Galatian believers must come back to investigating and appropriating the spiritual matters that they once believed...and not allow themselves to be held captive by doctrines and other matters that are going to take them away from spirituality, and ultimately, eternity. And finally, if anyone would be of a mind to question Paul's credibility (as did some "believers" in Corinth) in writing these matters, he reminds them that he bears scars...physical and emotional...on Jesus' behalf. These marks for Jesus are of a far greater benefit in proving Paul's conviction for truth, perhaps, than anything he could say. Nonetheless, the two walk hand in hand. Paul concludes by appealing to the grace of Jesus Christ for their spirits, a wonderful expression of peace and hope.
Once again, nothing is gained for us today in making the same mistakes as a significant portion of the early believers. Although, I believe that we could concur with the wise sage, Solomon, who shared that "there is nothing new under the sun" in this regard. We must learn and understand that Laws and regulations are not going to produce spirituality in us, but indeed, they take away from it. They hinder our ability to walk as free persons in Christ in much the same way as the flesh also hinders the spiritual walk (and Paul has connected the two). This does not mean that we must not be people of principle...we should be so. But, we must appeal to the same law that Paul appeals to in this letter...the law of love...the law that Jesus Himself commended during His last few days on earth (John 13:34-35, 15:12, etc.). Then, in turn, all other principles gain their proper perspective and place in relationship to the whole of the Christian walk. And as Paul says, early on in the letter, it is this perspective that will make the difference...then and now...as to whether churches grow and prosper or decay and decline.
I hope this series has been a blessing to you...have a great day.
Blessings, Don
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Pressing On
Friends,
As with the church in Corinth, Colossae also has a problem with false teachers. Some who are stirring things up there hold to particular traditions, beliefs that have caused many to stumble. They have an “A list” of rules and regulations. They also proclaim their “great accomplishments,” but Paul says, “We preach Christ Jesus as Lord.” (2 Corinthians 4:5) As we have seen before, Paul can “lay down the message” when necessary. He is an equal opportunity deliverer of challenging messages. The Colossians need to hear his admonition to stay away from the false teachers and their teachings (Colossians 1:28-2:3).
One of the ways that we learn, grow and are able to discern between that which is true and that which is not is through intensive study of the Word of God. We need to commit ourselves to good study habits, so that we will grow and have a proper balance for our lives. We must not forget that in the Word of God is found the power of God. The Bible is “living and active”...in it are the words of life (Hebrews 4:12). The Holy Spirit brings these words to life in our hearts for the sustaining of our spirits and souls. (Ephesians 6:17)
There are four evidences of spiritual maturity revealed here that help us on our spiritual journey. The first evidence is – encouragement. This literally means “with heart.” We Christians face a lot of frustration from the world system, not to mention the circumstances of life. We are able to draw strength from each other during our times of stress and crisis. This is why we come together in fellowship. By encouraging others...particularly our brothers and sisters in Christ...we “give them a new heart.” Genuine encouragement brings out the best in others…we need to seek ways to do this. The second evidence of maturity is – endearment. This literally means “to be knit together in love.” The more time that we are able to spend together, the more time that we are able to serve and build relationships…the more we endear ourselves to one another. We must not forget that every one of us is a part of the spiritual unity of the church. There is not one part that is more significant or less important than any other. Do we have different roles? Yes. Each of them are valuable. Each of us needs to do our part to build the whole...the body of Christ. The third evidence of spiritual maturity is – enrichment. Too many Christians live like spiritual beggars when they should be living like kings. There are no greater riches than spiritual riches. When we commit ourselves to the Lord and His ways, he makes us rich in the ways that really matter. The final “e” is – enlightenment. When we commit our hearts and minds to study and fellowship, the Lord illuminates us spiritually...He provides guidance, direction for our lives. We become a city on a hill that shines forth for Christ, and we have blessed assurance in our hearts that we are children of God. When we make these principles the priority in our lives, we are effectively going to “press on.” Finally, we must join all of these matters together in prayer. Paul strives in prayer for the Colossians like a warrior. It is not just a habit…it is his passion.
To produce one tablespoon of honey, say for one of my wife’s delicious rolls, a typical honey bee makes 4200 trips to flowers. It makes about 10 trips per day to the fields…each trip lasting 20 minutes on average and 400 flowers. To produce a pound of honey, a bee must visit 56,000 clover heads. Since each head has 60 flower tubes, a total of 3,360,000 visits are necessary. Meanwhile, this working bee has flown the equivalent of three times around the world or 36,000 miles. On top of all of this, the bee will fly as far as 8 miles if it cannot find a nectar flow that is nearer. And we think we have a long drive to work. Talk about the ability to press on!
Paul challenges the Colossians to be passionate about life...to work hard...to be a blessing. How are we doing? When we examine ourselves, are we more involved in building-up the body or tearing it down? Are we endearing ourselves to those around us? Are we becoming spiritually enriched through serious Bible study, prayer and fellowship, or have we become spiritually poor and needy? If we are striving in our Christian walk...pressing on toward the goal...we cannot allow sin or self to cloud our love for one another or our passion for life. So, let us edify, magnify and glorify the Lord, and press on!
Blessings, Don
As with the church in Corinth, Colossae also has a problem with false teachers. Some who are stirring things up there hold to particular traditions, beliefs that have caused many to stumble. They have an “A list” of rules and regulations. They also proclaim their “great accomplishments,” but Paul says, “We preach Christ Jesus as Lord.” (2 Corinthians 4:5) As we have seen before, Paul can “lay down the message” when necessary. He is an equal opportunity deliverer of challenging messages. The Colossians need to hear his admonition to stay away from the false teachers and their teachings (Colossians 1:28-2:3).
One of the ways that we learn, grow and are able to discern between that which is true and that which is not is through intensive study of the Word of God. We need to commit ourselves to good study habits, so that we will grow and have a proper balance for our lives. We must not forget that in the Word of God is found the power of God. The Bible is “living and active”...in it are the words of life (Hebrews 4:12). The Holy Spirit brings these words to life in our hearts for the sustaining of our spirits and souls. (Ephesians 6:17)
There are four evidences of spiritual maturity revealed here that help us on our spiritual journey. The first evidence is – encouragement. This literally means “with heart.” We Christians face a lot of frustration from the world system, not to mention the circumstances of life. We are able to draw strength from each other during our times of stress and crisis. This is why we come together in fellowship. By encouraging others...particularly our brothers and sisters in Christ...we “give them a new heart.” Genuine encouragement brings out the best in others…we need to seek ways to do this. The second evidence of maturity is – endearment. This literally means “to be knit together in love.” The more time that we are able to spend together, the more time that we are able to serve and build relationships…the more we endear ourselves to one another. We must not forget that every one of us is a part of the spiritual unity of the church. There is not one part that is more significant or less important than any other. Do we have different roles? Yes. Each of them are valuable. Each of us needs to do our part to build the whole...the body of Christ. The third evidence of spiritual maturity is – enrichment. Too many Christians live like spiritual beggars when they should be living like kings. There are no greater riches than spiritual riches. When we commit ourselves to the Lord and His ways, he makes us rich in the ways that really matter. The final “e” is – enlightenment. When we commit our hearts and minds to study and fellowship, the Lord illuminates us spiritually...He provides guidance, direction for our lives. We become a city on a hill that shines forth for Christ, and we have blessed assurance in our hearts that we are children of God. When we make these principles the priority in our lives, we are effectively going to “press on.” Finally, we must join all of these matters together in prayer. Paul strives in prayer for the Colossians like a warrior. It is not just a habit…it is his passion.
To produce one tablespoon of honey, say for one of my wife’s delicious rolls, a typical honey bee makes 4200 trips to flowers. It makes about 10 trips per day to the fields…each trip lasting 20 minutes on average and 400 flowers. To produce a pound of honey, a bee must visit 56,000 clover heads. Since each head has 60 flower tubes, a total of 3,360,000 visits are necessary. Meanwhile, this working bee has flown the equivalent of three times around the world or 36,000 miles. On top of all of this, the bee will fly as far as 8 miles if it cannot find a nectar flow that is nearer. And we think we have a long drive to work. Talk about the ability to press on!
Paul challenges the Colossians to be passionate about life...to work hard...to be a blessing. How are we doing? When we examine ourselves, are we more involved in building-up the body or tearing it down? Are we endearing ourselves to those around us? Are we becoming spiritually enriched through serious Bible study, prayer and fellowship, or have we become spiritually poor and needy? If we are striving in our Christian walk...pressing on toward the goal...we cannot allow sin or self to cloud our love for one another or our passion for life. So, let us edify, magnify and glorify the Lord, and press on!
Blessings, Don
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