Tag: teach

Posted on

Holy, Holy, Holy; Immanuel

Isaiah 6-8 and Psalm 98

The reading today covers a lot of territory: Isaiah’s call to ministry, the infamous prophecy about the birth of Jesus and the warning to trust God above all others.

Isaiah’s ministry to the southern kingdom came at a time when the northern kingdom, a huge number of Israelites, was swept away into exile. Isaiah 6:1 pinpoints the date, “In the year that King Uzziah died,” to give us some perspective of the time in history. King Uzziah (Azariah) ruled the southern kingdom (from 792 to 740 BC) while Jeroboam II ruled the northern kingdom before the Assyrian invasions began (734 and 722 BC).

Isaiah’s call to ministry begins with a vision of God in his throne room; complete submission to the Creator:

“Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Isaiah 6:5-8

I’ve heard this preached many times. The awe and wonder of the Lord of all that takes away the sin of the world. Incredibly amazing. I pray that my response would be like that of Isaiah, “Here am I. Send me!” Next week, thousands of pastors and supporting ministries will gather at Exponential and no doubt hundreds will hear the call and answer, “Send me” to plant a church, to expand Christ’s church on earth. Many churches will be birthed as a result. It’s an exciting time!

God sent Isaiah to advise Ahaz (Uzziah’s grandson) that the invading forces would fail, those who said, “Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves, and make the son of Tabeel king over it.” (Isaiah 7:6). The Lord provided this answer:

“‘It will not take place,
it will not happen
Isaiah 7:5-7

The text suddenly switches from a contemporary issue to the future:

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign:
The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,
and will call him Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14

The Remnant, a consistent theme throughout the prophets, ties the old with the new, the ancient with the contemporary. It also provides a warning that perhaps the masses are not right in their thinking. Following the crowds is obviously not always the best idea; careful consideration is required, great discernment is needed.

And though a tenth remains in the land,
it will again be laid waste.
But as the terebinth and oak
leave stumps when they are cut down,
so the holy seed will be the stump in the land.”
Isaiah 6:13

The ways of the world seem right to many, but they don’t often have a clue. The shocking news, not surprising, is often wrong:

This is what the Lord says to me with his strong hand upon me,
warning me not to follow the way of this people:
“Do not call conspiracy
everything this people calls a conspiracy;
do not fear what they fear,
and do not dread it.
The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy,
he is the one you are to fear,
he is the one you are to dread.
Isaiah 8:11-13

The call to look to God is the key, to lean on the prompting and teaching of the Spirit is more important than those who shout on the street corners or publish news to sell ads. Focus on God’s word, his teaching.

Posted on

Lovers Revel in Each Other

Song of Songs 5-8 and Psalm 95

As we read through the second half of Song of Songs, we should take a diversion and consider how the poem should be interpreted. Is this a story of two lovers? Or is this a love story of Christ and his church? Or God and Israel? In other words, is this an allegory that depicts God’s great love for his people and therefore the church or is this a book that simply honors sexual relations within the bounds of holy matrimony?

There are lots of resources available, this one appealed to me most: link. I especially like the concept of this being an ancient musical in which the beauty of intimacy in marriage is both honored and used to teach young couples. It’s impossible for me to understand a woman’s perspective, but it is reasonable for me to know that hers is different than my own.

I was surprised to see such an array of interpretations as I searched for answers. One one extreme, the appeal of the allegory is rather safe. By taking this approach I don’t have to talk about sexual intimacy and I can safely discuss Song of Songs 5:2-8.

I slept but my heart was awake.
Listen! My beloved is knocking:
“Open to me, my sister, my darling,
my dove, my flawless one.
My head is drenched with dew,
my hair with the dampness of the night.”
I have taken off my robe—
must I put it on again?
I have washed my feet—
must I soil them again?
Song of Songs 5:2-3

As an allegory, this would be interpreted as Christ stands at the door knocking and by disregarding the knock, the subsequent withdrawal is painful:

I opened for my beloved,
but my beloved had left; he was gone.
My heart sank at his departure.
I looked for him but did not find him.
I called him but he did not answer.
Song of Songs 5:6

Interesting, yes? While this might be the right approach, it seems to me that a more literal view is in order. There are many lessons to be learned about intimacy in marriage. No matter how I want to approach the subject it’s awkward. Do I sit down with my daughters and exposit this text? For pre-marital counseling, do we ask the man and woman to write their interpretation and guide them along? Can we use this text to explain the copulation of virgin bride and groom?

We would do well to learn when and how to properly address the subject in a safe environment, but not to shy away from a more literal perspective. Young couples who are committed to honor a marriage covenant, seeking to maintain their virginity for their marriage, would benefit from mature and wise counsel.

They would learn that it’s ok to be excited about their spouse and find comfort in expressing their love in words:

You are as beautiful as Tirzah, my darling,
as lovely as Jerusalem,
as majestic as troops with banners.
Turn your eyes from me;
they overwhelm me.
Song of Songs 6:4-5

While I might not say my wife’s hair is like a flock of goats, or teeth like sheep, the words here provide a prompt: say something man! Somehow we have to erase the Hollywood version of lust and sex and enter into a place of love and intimacy. In our culture, this is a stretch, but the reward of a lifetime of love between one man and one woman is worth the struggle.

I belong to my beloved,
and his desire is for me.
Song of Songs 7:10

Simply said, these words are incorporated in our marital vows in one way or another.

Many waters cannot quench love;
rivers cannot sweep it away.
If one were to give
all the wealth of one’s house for love,
it would be utterly scorned.
Song of Songs 8:7

Perhaps we need to be reminded that love is truly precious, we can’t buy love. We may know this intellectually, but love is not an cerebral commodity. The very nature of love is emotional and these emotions are a gift from God, deeply wired in our DNA. We were meant to love and the pleasure that is found in marriage should not be understated.

How amazing is our God that he would wire us this way. How wonderful and glorious is our Lord:

Come, let us bow down in worship,
let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
for he is our God
and we are the people of his pasture,
the flock under his care.
Psalm 95:6-7

I prefer to read Song of Songs as a literal love song between husband and wife. It reminds me to show my wife affection and encourages me to enjoy our time together. When we’re apart for days or weeks, the anticipation of reuniting is better by reading these words.

Posted on

All is Meaningless Under the Sun

Ecclesiastes 1-3 and Psalm 91

Before diving into Ecclesiastes, here’s some assurance:

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
Psalm 91:14-16

These last few weeks have been challenging, not the end of the world, but difficult nonetheless. We faced the trials knowing that God would be with us and his perfect plan was in action, even though we have a hard time understanding just what that plan is at times! It’s comforting to read the words of the psalmist, “I will be with him in trouble.” Thank you Lord–all glory to God in the highest!

Meaningless

In January of 2015, Pastor Mark Gasque led Hope Fellowship through an 11-part series titled Meaningless, Applying Meaning Through a Study of Ecclesiastes. It’s kinda funny when I think this was the first teaching series we heard after moving to Anderson. Welcome to South Carolina, everything in meaningless! We had no idea what was in store for us over the course of the past two years. Life is interesting.

Before diving in and getting completely depressed by Ecclesiastes, I had to fast-forward to Solomon’s conclusion:

Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all mankind.
For God will bring every deed into judgment,
including every hidden thing,
whether it is good or evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

As we read through Ecclesiastes, it’s important to remember Solomon’s fundamental point: without God, everything we do is indeed meaningless.

I imagine that King Solomon, as the ultimate wise judge, heard it all. Reading through 1 Kings we discovered that surrounding countries were amazed at his wisdom, so they came to him to ask the toughest of questions. Rather than just dismissing them with the phrase, “believe in God you fools,” or some such rhetoric, Solomon heard their arguments and wisely provided answers for those earnestly seeking an answer. In my mind, this was one of the motivations for writing Ecclesiastes, a remarkable book that lays out all the cards on the table — all face up — no secrets.

For those who are far from God, I hope these words will encourage you to seek the truth found in the Bible. For those who are committed to Christ, I hope we will gain understanding of what it must be like to live without the assurance we have in Jesus, increase our empathy, and become a better witness. Without God, all is indeed meaningless. Here we go!

Wisdom, pleasure, folly, toil — all meaningless

For with much wisdom comes much sorrow;
the more knowledge, the more grief.
Ecclesiastes 1:18

For the wise, like the fool, will not be long remembered;
the days have already come when both have been forgotten.
Like the fool, the wise too must die!
Ecclesiastes 2:16

What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor under the sun? All their days their work is grief and pain; even at night their minds do not rest. This too is meaningless. Ecclesiastes 2:22-23

I’ve read through a handful of books on Christian Apologetics which explore the arguments for the existence of God to encourage the atheist or agnostic to consider such philosophical ideas. If I were to embrace a worldview in which God does not exist, I can imagine reading Ecclesiastes and nodding in complete agreement. It’s easy to move toward moral relativism if there is no centerpiece.

Ecclesiastes challenges us to consider what a world would look like without God. There is much wisdom in the words here. I still hear the song by the Byrds playing in my head, Turn! Turn! Turn!, that uses the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.

He has made everything beautiful in its time.
He has also set eternity in the human heart;
yet no one can fathom
what God has done
from beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:11

No one can fathom, but all can observe and see the beauty that God was placed before us. We are curious beings, bent on asking questions and filling our minds with lofty thoughts. We’re wired to question everything. Solomon feeds that hunger with words that entice us, the invite us to partake. The song, Beautiful Things, has been playing in my mind all morning. Lord, you make beautiful things out of dust–an amazing thought.

The featured image for this post is that of a banquet hall for a feast, tables and chairs with white linen are set anticipating a great party. The door is open for those who would choose to venture in, there are plenty of seats. Lord, help us to learn through your words here, to gain understanding and insight into the hearts that are far from you so we can be the ambassadors of Christ you have called us to be.

Posted on

Proverbs 10 of 14 – Thirty Sayings of the Wise

Read: Proverbs 22:17-24:22

Seems like my family is on my mind this morning as these two sayings in particular speak to my heart. I’ve met several new people on this short trip and in the course of events the common request happens, “tell us about yourself.” At my age and season in life, there are two sides to the answer: my parents and my family.

Saying 17
Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
Buy the truth and do not sell it—
wisdom, instruction and insight as well.
The father of a righteous child has great joy;
a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.
May your father and mother rejoice;
may she who gave you birth be joyful!
Proverbs 23:22-25

Just last week, my daughter Katrina and I went out for coffee and donuts and she encouraged me to reminisce about my father and the ancient days when I got the chance to work with him at Krispy Kreme. Such fond memories of going to the donut shop (as we called it) at 4:30am on Saturday morning to “help” make donuts. Dad ran two shops in Baton Rouge just before the installation of the donut making machines that are essentially the same as the ones we watched make hot donuts last week. In my memory, this happened frequently, but as a parent, I know it probably only happened a few times. Still, the memory is etched in my brain.

My father was kind and strong. He was the proverbial father who never spared the rod (and I’m sure it was appropriate!). He was one of those guys who never met a stranger, who would give his shirt to someone in need. My mom was as well, though she could be feisty at times! Her last days were incredibly difficult as she suffered from Alzheimer’s. My older sister did 99% of the work by moving in with her, but there was one week in the last year of her life on earth when it was my turn to care for mom while Charlotte took a much deserved break. It was frustrating and difficult for me to take care of mom that week, but I learned so much about the real meaning of love. The proverb above is written in a negative tense–I prefer: Love your mother, even when she is old.

I’m sure I wasn’t the easiest of children to deal with, but I pray that the joy I saw in my parents’ eyes years ago outweighed the grief and pain. Great examples of faith, they raised me on the Bible.

Gloating Like Daddy

On a family vacation in 2005 (ish), we had the chance to play of game of four-square with the girls: I won a game!! To celebrate, I gloated over the girls, the old man still has moves!! Oh yeah! Great fun and perhaps a teachable moment. We coined the infamous phrase, “gloating like daddy!” Ask any of our four and they will immediately remember the moment, but the lesson we hoped to impart was serious.

Saying 28
Do not gloat when your enemy falls;
when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice,
or the Lord will see and disapprove
and turn his wrath away from them.
Proverbs 24:17-18

It’s probably too soon to know if we did well in teaching the lesson, but I remain hopeful. My prayer is that we taught them to be compassionate people, not judgmental, adults that appreciate circumstances in this life change quickly. I hope they have learned something from our silly game of four-square.

These days my desire is for them to not only know and affirm Jesus in their lives, but to earnestly seek to become a disciple that follows Christ; one who learns well then teaches others as disciples who will make disciples. The wisdom in Proverbs provides a wealth of tools; timeless thoughts that beg us to be mature in Christ. Jesus started with this wisdom and provided practical words to be sure, but his life on earth was so much more than being the great teacher that he was.

Just weeks before Easter 2017, I pray that we, the big we, will invite others into this understanding of Christ, the crucifixion and most notably the resurrection! Not with gloating, but with wisdom, care and concern for we know the great Good News.

Posted on

Proverbs 4 of 14 – Anatomy of Seduction; Wisdom’s Call

Read: Proverbs 7-9 and Psalm 87

Two chapters on adultery are not enough! Today we read about how easy it is to be seduced by adultery followed by a chapter that begs us to choose wisdom.

As I let the words wash over me, I’m drawn to the theme of selfish desire, of me, me, me. What gives me pleasure right now? Our classic comeback for our girls was, “I want doesn’t live here,” but does it? How often does “I want” creep into our lives? The lure of adultery is all about I want, some temporary fix where one is convinced it’s ok to be completely self-indulgent. It may be nurtured in loneliness, anger, bitterness, etc., but it is not God’s plan for our lives. My prayer is we learn to re-think church as the community of believers where we can lean on each other, to transparently express feelings not as a dumping ground, but as a means of asking for help to focus on God above all else when these feelings of loneliness invade our minds. I’m convinced that the more we are able to live in a community of believers, the more we will grow in our faith and stay far from the path of temptation.

Chapter 7 provides a narrative story of how adultery creeps in and destroys. This reads like a script from many movies and TV shows, except the adulterers are not honored here, they are not the heroes. When did the movies change in this country? It seems like they once attempted to portray family values that honored marriage, but I guess that became too commonplace, so they had to be edgy to get the attention of movie-goers; followed by television shows and now a plethora of cable/streaming channels.

The intro to the warning about adultery this time begins with a call for wisdom:

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
and to insight, “You are my relative.”
They will keep you from the adulterous woman,
from the wayward woman with her seductive words.
Proverbs 7:4-5

It is clear that when we seek God first, when we lock arms with Jesus and ask for wisdom, we will not stray into the streets of temptation. Lord help us to keep your perspective as we look out our windows at the streets below. Hold us tight and remind us of your desire for marriages you arranged.

Chapters 8 & 9 eloquently lay out the case for choosing wisdom. I need to be reminded of this often, especially the thought that wisdom does not originate from with me!

Choose my instruction instead of silver,
knowledge rather than choice gold,
for wisdom is more precious than rubies,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Proverbs 8:10-11

There are several nice little videos floating around the internet these days, well at least on Facebook. They show people rising above all odds, overcoming obstacles and failure because they believed in themselves. Up until that last point, I’m moved by the imagery, but this is a false god, a lie meant to teach us to look inside for truth, wisdom and courage. I grew up listening to Simon & Garfunkel and playing I Am A Rock with enthusiasm. The ironic lyric was meant to discourage such individualism, but it came at a time when dust to stardom was the dream of our culture.

“Now then, my children, listen to me;
blessed are those who keep my ways.
Listen to my instruction and be wise;
do not disregard it.
Blessed are those who listen to me,
watching daily at my doors,
waiting at my doorway.
For those who find me find life
and receive favor from the Lord.
But those who fail to find me harm themselves;
all who hate me love death.”
Proverbs 8:32-26

Find wisdom indeed! Wisdom is interwoven in the pages of the Bible, sometimes as direct as Chapter 8, other times by showing us examples of foolishness. In the 21st century we have the privilege of reading the words that many did not. May we spur each other on to gain wisdom from God. We should not do this life alone. It’s messy and difficult, but I would rather stumble while surrounded by a group of true Christ followers than out on my own. The “do it myself” culture needs to give way to do it in community. A tall order and lofty dream for sure, but when we put Jesus in the center, the focus of all, this is not so difficult to imagine.

Posted on

Jehoshaphat, the Rest of the Story

Read: 2 Chronicles 18:1-21:3 and Psalm 81

Jehoshaphat was a strong leader that loved the Lord with all his heart. In all my years hearing sermons, reading the Bible and other teaching, I don’t recall a sermon series on Jehoshaphat, but much is to be learned from this king that rules over Judah during a tumultuous time in history. His main flaw was trying to advance his personal agenda ahead of God’s plans for Israel. This is complicated and I’ll only scratch the surface this morning. What I hope is that we will learn from this example as we see Jehoshaphat’s great decisions among his misled ideas.

Fast-forward to the end of today’s reading and we read rare words about the kings of this age:

He followed the ways of his father Asa and did not stray from them; he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 20:32

He sent officials to teach throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the Lord; they went around to all the towns of Judah and taught the people (2 Chronicles 17:9). He wasn’t swayed by the people of the northern kingdom, though aligning himself with Ahab and later Ahaziah was dangerous.

Ahab was one of the worst kings in the history of Israel (see: Ahab Rejects Warning and Dies for some details). It seems that Jehoshaphat has set his sites on converting Ahab or at least showing him that there is only one God, the true God of all, and not the false gods and idols Jeroboam established in misleading the northern kingdom. Psalm 81 reminds us of their senseless reliance on their own devices. Sad. Lord, help us to be careful as we sit in lofty places while reading stories of old. Help us to see our own misguided thoughts that often get swept away in the tide of a society that is out of step with you.

Chapter 18 provides an example where the two kings meet to discuss a joint battle strategy. Ahab gets his prophets together and they predictably say what he wants to hear. Jehoshaphat has a better idea:

But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no longer a prophet of the Lord here whom we can inquire of?”
The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, “There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.”
2 Chronicles 18:6-7

Jehoshaphat is not afraid to speak his mind, his immediate reaction: “The king should not say such a thing,” (2 Chronicles 18:7b). They sent for Micaiah while Ahab’s prophets kept on proclaiming great victory for their king. If it weren’t so tragic, it would be comical, but this is a deadly serious matter.

Micaiah arrives at the scene where all of these prophets are spouting words of victory:

When he arrived, the king asked him, “Micaiah, shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I not?”
“Attack and be victorious,” he answered, “for they will be given into your hand.”
The king said to him, “How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” 2 Chronicles 18:14-15

Someone please light the sarcasm sign! Ahab really doesn’t like Micaiah, but it gets worse.

“So now the Lord has put a deceiving spirit in the mouths of these prophets of yours. The Lord has decreed disaster for you.” Then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah went up and slapped Micaiah in the face. 2 Chronicles 18:22-23

Zedekiah was offended and he takes it out on Micaiah by slapping him, an incredible insult. Imagine that happening at staff meeting! Undeterred, Micaiah knows the word he has provided is from the Lord. Soon afterward his prophecy becomes reality.

The crazy battle that ensues is discussed in my earlier post, but it never ceases to amaze me how ridiculous this arrangement is and how amazing that God would protect Jehoshaphat in this battle while Ahab is killed by a random arrow.

Chapter 19 begins with a prophet speaking against Jehoshaphat’s decision to help Ahab. It seems that Jehoshaphat is trying to reunite the kingdoms while God is trying to teach them a lesson–he’s out of step with the Lord’s plans, but doesn’t get it.

Jehu the seer, the son of Hanani, went out to meet him and said to the king, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Because of this, the wrath of the Lord is on you. 2 Chronicles 19:2

It’s a double-edged sword. Jehoshaphat is doing many good things, but keeping company with those who are opposed to God is in fact a bad idea.

Jehoshaphat continues his reforms by establishing judges and enticing people to follow the Lord.

Chapter 20 provides an great example of Jehoshaphat’s reliance on God for direction, especially when nations rage war against Judah. They sought the Lord and he provided–the battle was the Lord’s, no way for man to take credit.

Later, Jehoshaphat attempts to connect with Israel again, but another prophet is sent to correct him:

“Because you have made an alliance with Ahaziah, the Lord will destroy what you have made.” The ships were wrecked and were not able to set sail to trade. 2 Chronicles 20:37

Up and down, Jehoshaphat rides the rollercoaster of relying on God for the high points and relying on his own strength as low points. Much to learn about his life. I found this post well written: http://thebiblestudy.co.uk/study/king-jehoshaphat/ if you want to read more about Jehoshaphat.

 

Lord help us to rely only on your word, your will. As we go on mission in this world, give us a discerning heart that sees evil for what it is, yet loves people for who you want them to become. Help us to be in this world, but not of the world.

 

Posted on

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem

1 Chronicles 13-15

Chapter 13 provides the narrative of David’s desire and attempt to return the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. Ezra (assuming he’s the author of Chronicles), places this narrative out of sequence, up front, perhaps to emphasize David’s heart and desire to please God and the people. The first few verses show that everyone agreed this was a good idea; however, no one apparently remembered to proper procedures — or perhaps they were afraid to tell the new king he was making a mistake. Interesting thought.

David wanted to make a big production out of transferring the ark–all good intentions–but failed to properly transport the ark as laid out the law. Only the Levites (specifically the Kohathite clan (see Exodus 25:12-15 and Numbers 4:15) were supposed to carry the articles of the temple and even they were further instructed on how to carry it with certain poles, etc.

He failed. Uzzah died.

It’s interesting that verse 10 says, “the Lord’s anger” followed by verse 11, “David was angry.” David’s party was a bust and he knew he blew it in front of all of Israel.

David was afraid of God that day
1 Chronicles 13:12

This is real fear, the kind of fear born from guilt and recognition that he was mistaken, that perhaps he had his focus too much on his own glory. I feel bad for David. Years of hiding and running from Saul are finally over and he has assembled an incredible army of devoted fighting men. God is certainly on his side. So many times we see amazing, gifted leaders, filled with the Holy Spirit, get out of step with God’s plan. Unintentionally, they let their personal agenda out-rank that of God’s plan. The results are always disastrous. The only real question is when, not if; they will fall?

David’s reaction is to leave the ark in the nearby village:

The ark of God remained with the family of Obed-Edom in his house for three months, and the Lord blessed his household and everything he had. 1 Chronicles 13:14

God honored those who cared for the ark, again my presumption is simple: Obed-Edom sought to honor God above David; therefore, the Lord blessed them.

David got his act together quickly and the Lord blessed him with many children (though I’m hard-pressed to understand the “many” wives idea). In Chapter 14, the narrative shows David asking God for direction, then promptly defeating the Philistines, not once, but twice.

Now David is on the right path, he is walking in step with the Lord.

It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the Lord our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.” 1 Chronicles 15:13

“We” seems a little defensive, but perhaps David was given bad advice, so it may be that he is simply deflecting the blame and letting the people know he was part of the “we.”

Chapter 15 shows a careful account of moving the ark properly, complete with the combined worship teams and full celebration! Here we go–try #2!

I love this thought:

So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. 1 Chronicles 15:25

“With rejoicing.” There is nothing like ministry when everyone is in step, when all hearts and voices are honoring and praising the Lord! It’s difficult to put into words, perhaps impossible, but the sense you get when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that what you’re doing in the moment is exactly what God wants you to be doing is sensational. That’s the sense I get from the phrase, with rejoicing, here. So cool.

But wait, there’s Michal watching from afar. She is not so moved by the show. The details in 2 Samuel 6:14 show that David was dancing with all his might, undignified in her eyes, so she despised David. Sad to read the result in 2 Samuel 6:23, she had no children to the day of her death.

So goes the roller-coaster of ministry here on earth where God’s imperfect people try to do their best. Lord, don’t let the downs outweigh the ups! Help us to celebrate freely and not be so focused on those who want to selfishly point out our mistakes. Grace to grace. Your will above ours. Teach us to love each other:

…being like-minded,
having the same love,
being one in spirit and of one mind.
Philippians 2:2

Yes, Lord, help us to be that community of believers that leans on each other. I hope and pray that we can do this while keeping you the center of all.

Posted on

Elihu’s Speeches; Almighty God

Job 32-37

My intention this morning was to read just a piece of Elihu’s argument; however, I found I could not arbitrarily stop until reading the entire narrative. I’m really glad I did and I encourage anyone who has a chance to bathe in the beauty of these words as he argues against Job and his friends by painting an incredible portrait of our God, the Almighty, the Creator, the lover of my soul.

Elihu “became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.” (Job 32:2-3)

Apparently, Elihu has been quietly waiting in the corner as his elders spoke, but he is no longer able to contain himself.

not one of you has proved Job wrong;
none of you has answered his arguments.
Job 32:12

Elihu presents himself as one who is wise, even though he is young; one who will reveal the issues that no one else has been able to articulate. “My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know.” (Job 33:3). He’s being careful and respectful as he begins, but he is answering the call of the Spirit to speak truth.

God does all these things to a person—
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them.
Job 33:29-20

Elihu boldly tells Job to listen to his speech and if he has something to say to speak up. He sums up Job’s entire argument with this: “For he says, ‘There is no profit in trying to please God.’” (Job 34:9). Listen, men of old, and hear this clear message:

It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
Who appointed him over the earth?
Who put him in charge of the whole world?
If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath,
all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.
Job 34:12-15

God is the Almighty, he is to be honored above all else. Elihu begins his argument by realigning his friends thoughts. To underscore the power and majesty of God, he presents these questions:

If you sin, how does that affect him?
If your sins are many, what does that do to him?
If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?
Job 35:6-7

The rhetorical question is answered in part in the next verse: “Your wickedness only affects humans like yourself, and your righteousness only other people.”

Here we have a very interesting theme presented in the middle of the mayhem: sin disrupts our fellowship. The moral right and wrong is not for adding to our heavenly reward account, it is for the body of Christ, for the building up of each other. How can we make disciples is we are focused otherwise? We simply can’t be effective. God doesn’t need our sacrifices and he certainly doesn’t need our approval.

Elihu makes the case against Job. God does not respond to the cries of the arrogant,

How much less, then, will he listen when you say that you do not see him,
that your case is before him and you must wait for him,
and further, that his anger never punishes and he does not take the least notice of wickedness.
So Job opens his mouth with empty talk; without knowledge he multiplies words.”
Job 35:14-16

The case against Job and his friends is a lengthy one, but here’s a wonderful verse to keep hidden in your heart:

God is mighty, but despises no one
Job 36:5

Elihu continues his vivid description of God well into the next chapter, words that provide perspective, comfort and fear all at the same time. God is powerful, amazing, dancing in the lighting, bathing in the depths of oceans–God is so powerful and majestic while at the same time caring and compassionate. Awesome God indeed!

As he comes to a close of his colorful speech, Elihu leaves a question for Job:

“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders.”
Job 37:14

All our troubles pale in comparison to God. This may not alleviate the temporary pain of this life, but when held in proper perspective, my cries out to God to explain himself to me fall short and, quite frankly, seem embarrassing. Who am I to question God? When I see the psalms question God, does that give me liberty to lash out at our Creator?

Lord, help me to hear the words of Elihu and learn. As the words flow through my mind this morning I am comforted, humbled, sad, elated, filled with joy and ashamed–all at the same time. In the end, though, I think I have regained some perspective on the present difficulties and my cup of hope is filled, even overflowing. Teach me, Lord, to share this with others. Help me to find words and actions that demonstrate this lesson.

Posted on

Zophar – Round 2 and Job’s Reply

Job 20-21

Zophar picks up his line of reasoning by expressing his personal disdain for Job’s words:

“My troubled thoughts prompt me to answer
because I am greatly disturbed.
I hear a rebuke that dishonors me,
and my understanding inspires me to reply.”
Job 20:2-3

How could someone like Job possibly rebuke Zophar? Zophar is doing fine, checking his lists, living in self-righteousness. He left his home to comfort a friend who has “obviously” committed some grievous sin as evidenced by the disaster that has fallen upon him. From his perspective, Job is not the victim of some injustice, rather he is the victim of his own misgivings and therefore unqualified to offer suggested remedies, much less rebuke those who have taken time from their busy lives to help poor old Job. “I hear a rebuke that dishonors me…” comes from this pious position.

“…my understanding inspires me to reply.” Zophar is so secure in himself that he has the ability to impart his special wisdom on Job. Here is Zophar’s incredible insight:

  • godless people don’t last long
  • these people will perish like dung
  • like a dream, they flitter away
  • he will swallow the evil that is so sweet in his mouth
  • snakes in his stomach will destroy him
  • God will inflict his punishment

In other words, my friend Job, all of this you are seeing is your own doing–you brought this on yourself.

When we sit with those who have far less material resources than we do, is it possible that these thoughts run through our minds? How did you get here? What mistakes did you make to land in your sibling’s house with two other families? “Obviously” you’ve made mistakes or you wouldn’t be here. Let me console you with my wisdom, then drive away in my car to my well-deserved house.

I’m not proposing a poverty or prosperity theology, only suggesting that we must guard against this line of reasoning. Perhaps we should teach something like a Zophar Test before heading into the mission field. Or perhaps on a more positive scale, a Mother Theresa test to be sure our hearts are in the right place.

Side note: Isn’t it interesting that we tend to focus on those who are outwardly struggling, those who have little income and few resources to overcome that which has set them back. The guy that just drove by me in a shiny new Porsche is probably farther from God than the man who sits on the porch on disability, unable to hold a job to support his family.

Zophar’s conclusion:

“Such is the fate God allots the wicked,
the heritage appointed for them by God.”
Job 20:29

Here we are in the center of Job, lost in the world’s definition of success, of cause and effect logic, as we witness how easy and absurd it is to slip down the path of self-righteous indignation. So much to learn from these extreme characters, but we’re not done yet!

Job Replies

Job counters Zophar’s line of reasoning with his own observations about the wicked:

  • Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?
  • Their homes are safe even though they are far from God
  • Bulls breed, cows calve — no problems there!
  • They have lots of happy children dancing about
  • The live and die in prosperity

Explain that Zophar! You’ve seen it. You’ve seen those who are far from God live in apparent prosperity while never darkening the steps of a church or even considering their sinful, self-indulgent behavior. How does that work, O most wise Zophar?

Job keeps pointing to God while his friends keep pointing to themselves. Interesting. “Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since he judges even the highest?” (Job 21:22). All are equal in God’s eyes, rich or poor, strong or weak, able or crippled. Job keeps prompting his friends to take a broader view of life.

Even in his personal pain and agony, Job offers this insight as he ends this round:

“So how can you console me with your nonsense?
Nothing is left of your answers but falsehood!”
Job 21:34

If I learn nothing else from this round, I hope that I learn to withhold judgment based on circumstantial evidence. God can certainly see beyond the temporal issues of today and see deep into the soul. I know I can’t look that deeply, but I can look beyond the surface if I would simply stop and pray for wisdom.

Posted on

Eliphaz Speaks, Job Replies

Job 4-7

As Beth pointed out in yesterday’s post, the story of Job is set in Abraham’s time. In these ancient days before the temple was established, before judges and kings, people still had to deal with the lifelong debate about why bad things happen to good people. As part of the wisdom literature, this singular work shows up in the middle of the Bible alongside of Psalms and Proverbs.

Here we are called to learn many lessons from the debates that ensue. One of the most important lessons seems to do with true friendship, the permission to say what is on your mind with one another in love and respect. In the discourses that follow we certainly see truth come from the words of Job’s friends, but they are the most friendly of words! I watched a Tim Keller talk yesterday that reminded me of the core reason behind this tension: we have a tendency to believe we are smarter than God. This arrogance isn’t so obvious as that sounds–we assert our pious positions unknowingly and probably far too often. This is the beauty and the wisdom wrapped in the book of Job. It’s honest and real and encourages us to listen to one another in ways that are deep and true. Sometimes, as Dr DelHousaye would say, the volume of “our response needs to be turned all the way down to shut up!”

Job breaks the silence in the previous chapter with resounding words of complaint and a great desire not only to die, but to never be born! Now, the first of his friends enters the conversation to help him understand what is going on.

Eliphaz begins by asking permission to speak, then immediately reminds Job of all the good things he’s done and taught, but he quickly calls Job’s attention to that very teaching and lets him know:

“Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed?” Job 4:7

Eliphaz reminds Job that he should repent, there is no way to be righteous before God (Job 4:17), that trouble is a part of life (Job 5:7) and it’s wonderful to be corrected by God! (Job 5:17). In the middle of this first round of debate, Eliphaz is not shy to offer his advice:

“But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him.” Job 5:8

Because, of course dear friend, Job hasn’t already done that! Seriously? Is this your best advice dear friend?

Job is not pleased with this advice, to say the least. His reaction smacks his friend in the face with some reality and a pound of bitterness:

But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams…Now you too have proved to be of no help; you see something dreadful and are afraid. Job 6:15,21

Job begs his friends to show him the err of his ways, reveal the mistakes, help me understand. These are somewhat rhetorical questions, but also clues to his friends to listen and help him unpack the calamity that has beset he and his family.

Job quickly turns his attention to God. He honors God by extolling his right to give and take. In a way, Job reveres God’s great position as giving him permission to complain: God wants us to express ourselves, to be completely transparent before him.

“Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit,
I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.” Job 7:11

One of my favorite quotes here, and in a few of the psalms, is quoted by C.S. Lewis implicitly and explicitly in his writings. If nothing else, take time to soak this in:

What is mankind that you make so much of them,
that you give them so much attention,
that you examine them every morning
and test them every moment? Job 7:17-18

How is it, Lord, that we are worthy of your attention? Do you really love us so much that you would stop to consider our pain and suffering? Humble me this morning, Lord, and nourish my soul, my inner most being with your love. Show me in ways that words and music fail to express. When I hear the bird chirp to see the genuine smile from a friend, remind me that your love is oceans greater and my pettiness is unfounded. Teach me through the words of Job and his friends we can be real with one another.

Proudly powered by WordPress