Not A Man

Num. 23:19  God is not a man, that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent.  Has He said, and will He not do?  Or has He spoken and will He not make it good?

I bought cereal recently.  What caused me to buy this particular brand was the picture on the box of a highly magnified spoon piled high with golden bran flakes, plump raisins and crunchy, oversized granola clusters.  I could hardly believe that a single spoon could hold the promise of such abundance.

But once I opened the box and began to pour, I quickly realized that I had been misled and deceived.  Boy, was I disappointed!  What I found as I filled my bowl was not-so-golden bran flakes, fewer and much skinnier raisins, and microscopic granola clusters.  How could what I was promised be so far from what I received?

The point I want to make is this.  Man can and will disappoint.  All of us, at one time or another, have been disappointed by someone or have been lied to by another.  And sometimes it's those who are closest to us, our friends, that let us down.  Our trust can easily be misplaced and betrayed by the half-hearted promises or downright lies of men.

But God is not a man.  He is not capable of telling a lie.  That's just who He is.  Every word He speaks is truth.  Every word He speaks finds fulfillment and is accomplished (Isa. 55:11).  His promises are always yes and amen (2 Cor. 1:20).  So, our trust in Him will never be misplaced.  What God says in His Word, He will do.  What God has spoken, He will bring to pass.  There is no greater assurance we can have than knowing with absolute certainty that we can trust God simply because of who He is.  He is not a man!


Sock Monkey Snippet:   We can trust God simply because of who He is.

Seeing Salvation

Lk. 2:30-31  With my own eyes I've seen Your salvation; it's now out in the open for everyone to see... (MSG)

The Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon that he would not die without first beholding our Savior.  And being led by this same Spirit to the temple, sure enough he saw the Child Jesus.  Realizing that what had been revealed by the Spirit had now been fulfilled, Simeon (v.28) took Jesus in his arms and blessed God.  Not only did he get to see Jesus, he held and embraced Him.  I suppose at that moment Simeon must have felt inadequate or unworthy to be given such an honor and privilege.  Can you imagine holding the very Son of God in your hands?

Simeon rejoiced, acknowledging not only his Savior but the Savior of us all.  The Holy Spirit led him to Jesus and he now joyously proclaimed that this Savior was available for all to see. 

Christmas is the busiest time of the year for most of us.  Between the shopping, traveling, cooking and cleaning, in addition to our normal routine or schedule, it is very easy to lose sight of that which is most important.  So let's take time this holiday season to reflect and acknowledge that the birth of Jesus Christ provided the gift of God's salvation for us all.  By the leading and revelation of the Holy Spirit, we can see it and understand it just like Simeon did.  And may we, likewise, embrace Jesus and joyfully give thanks to the Father.  For when we behold the Child, we are seeing salvation!

Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  When we behold the Child, we are seeing salvation.

Engraved

Isa. 49:16  See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands...

Engraving is the process of cutting or incising, usually letters, into a surface so as to create a permanent, unchangeable reminder.  Think of the many things that we engrave.  Jewelry, plaques, even the headstones that fill our cemeteries.  Our intention is that a person, an event or other important information is not forgotten.  Even the Ten Commandments were cut by God into tablets of stone.

I am engraved (inscribed) on God's hands.  YOU are engraved on God's hands.  What an amazing thought!  He can not and will not forget us.  We are so important to Him and so loved by Him that He forever remembers us.  He has established a permanent and unchangeable reminder, an engraving that is ever before Him.  He can't and won't stop thinking about you and me.

We have the constant attention of the God of all creation!  Think about that for a while.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  God can not and will not forget us.

Looking Ahead

Exod. 16:2-3  Then the whole congregation of the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness.  And the children of Israel said to them, "Oh, that we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat and when we ate bread to the full!  For you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger."

In the middle of a trial, have you ever found yourself wondering why things couldn't just go back to being like they were before?  So did the Israelites.  These people had seen God, in the not too distant past, deliver them in a miraculous way through the plagues on Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea.  Undeniably, God had a plan for them and was moving on their behalf.  And yet here they were, wishing to be back in bondage only that they might have something to eat.  Oh, if only things could be like they once were.  But the promised land, God's intended blessing for them, wouldn't be found by looking back.  Only by trusting Him and looking ahead.

Our deliverance lies in our future and not in our past.

God has a plan for our lives.  Can we not see Him moving on our behalf?  Are we blind to the miraculous things He does for us?  When we find ourselves in a wilderness situation, we need to trust God for what lies ahead without complaining or wishing things could be as they once were.  He will deliver us.  Our promised blessing awaits.  Trust Him that we might see it by looking and moving ahead.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Our deliverance lies in our future and not in our past. 

Make A Statement

Ps. 3:3  But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head.

What does it mean to "make a statement"?  It is to declare fact.  And it is important to do so because our position on a matter may be unclear or uncertain to others or even to ourselves.  But the timing of the statement can be equally as important.  Words fitly spoken (said at the right time) make a difference (Prov. 25:11).

David is surrounded by trouble.  He is on the run and being hunted down that he might be killed.  His enemies increase in number while his friends seem to be few.  Both camps are wondering if God has forgotten him.  David has to be wondering, too.

So, David chooses to make a statement.  In the middle of everything that is going on, he declares what he knows to be true.  That God is his protection (surrounding shield), his praise (glory), and his promotion (the One who lifts up his head with joy).  He expresses his confidence and faith in God.  With perfect timing.

In times when trouble seems to surround us and we wonder if God has forgotten us, let us remember David's example here.  Let us choose to declare what we know to be true, what we believe.  That God is our shield, our glory and the lifter of our heads.  Our protection, our praise and our promotion.  When trouble surrounds you, declare God's truth.  Make a statement!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  When trouble surrounds you, declare God's truth.

Alive Day

1 Cor. 15:22  For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.

I watched a segment on the evening news recently about Alive Day.  For those of you (like me until now) who don't know, each seriously injured war veteran recalls the day when, involved in fatal circumstances, they didn't die but miraculously managed to stay alive.  Some even choose to celebrate it like a second birthday.  And it makes perfect sense because on that day, they were essentially (re)born.  Given a new life.  And I'm sure these individuals are thankful beyond words.  Determined that their new beginning has special purpose.

Well, most of you can probably already guess where I'm headed with this blog.

We all have an Alive Day to celebrate.  The day we accepted and confessed Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.  For until that day, we were involved in the fatal circumstances of our sin (Rom. 6:23).  But by grace and through faith (Eph. 2:8), God miraculously saved us.  Our spirits were reborn.  We were given a new life.

When was your Alive Day?  How are you celebrating?  Does each day find you thankful beyond words and determined to live a life of purpose?


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Celebrate your salvation by living each day with thankfulness and purpose.

Unrealized Blessings

Ps. 21:3  For You go before him with the blessings of goodness...

During the Thanksgiving holiday, I ran across the following quote by A. W. Tozer.

Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.

It reminded me that God's blessings completely surround us (Ps. 32:10).  We've enjoyed them in the past, are enjoying them now, and will enjoy them in the future.

It's easy to be thankful and to praise Him for past and present blessings.  We can see them.  But it is difficult, especially if we now find ourselves in the middle of trials or afflictions, to praise Him for future, unrealized blessings because we can't see them.  That's where faith comes in.  It is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not (yet) seen (Heb. 11:1).  It is during these difficult times that we must be convinced, fully persuaded that God has gone before us and has already provided our future blessings.  This "purer" faith, as Tozer puts it, allows us to praise God for them in advance.  For our unrealized blessings.

No better example is given in Scripture of God preceding us with blessings than this:

Rom. 5:8  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

At a time when mankind certainly was in a difficult, hopeless situation, wallowing in it's sinfulness, God went ahead of us and provided the unrealized blessing of Jesus Christ.

In faith, praise God in advance.  Be convinced and fully persuaded that He's already gone ahead of you and provided your future, unrealized blessings.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Praise God in advance for your future blessings.

Silence or Indifference

Ps. 28:1  To You I will cry, O Lord my Rock; Do not be silent to me...

Have you ever had the opportunity to comfort or console someone just by being with them?  Being there but not speaking?  In those situations, absent of words, your presence is what shows that you care.

At times we feel, as David must have, like God has turned a deaf ear to us or that He isn't going to answer (speak to) us.  Or even worse, that He just doesn't care.  That's where we confuse silence with indifference.  Silence means you don't speak, indifference means you don't care.

There may be times when God doesn't speak, but there will NEVER be a time when He doesn't care.

He is always with us (Mt. 28:20).  He will never leave us or forsake us.  The very promise of His uninterrupted presence in our lives is proof that He ALWAYS cares.  Even when He is silent.  Don't confuse silence with indifference.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  There will NEVER be a time when God doesn't care. 

Thanksgiving

Lk. 22:19-20  And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them saying, "This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me."  Likewise He also took the cup after supper saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you."

Many denominations refer to part of their liturgy as the Lord's Supper or Holy Communion.  Some also call it the Eucharist.  As a young boy growing up in the Catholic church, I never really knew what "Eucharist" meant exactly and I guess at the time I was never curious enough to ask.

It wasn't until a few years ago that I discovered and understood that the Greek word "eucharistia" means, you guessed it, thanksgiving.  Expressing gratitude, using grateful language to God as an act of worship.  Jesus gave thanks (eucharistia) when He broke the bread and offered the cup and instructed us to do likewise.

When we celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving, it is indeed fitting that we thank God for all that we have.  But let's understand too, that every time we remember the body and blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ by partaking in the Lord's Supper, Holy Communion or whatever we choose to call it, we do so with thanksgiving (eucharistia).

Of course we can give thanks any time, any place for any thing because thanksgiving is more than just a holiday, it is the expression of a grateful heart.  It is a year-round opportunity for us all to worship God using grateful language.

Give thanks with a grateful heart.  Give thanks to the Holy One.  Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.  Give thanks all the time.

Happy Thanksgiving!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Thanksgiving is the expression of a grateful heart.

Unmistakable Favorites

Ps. 17:8  Keep me as the apple of your eye, Hide me under the shadow of Your wings...

No part of our body is more precious, delicate and carefully guarded than our eyes.  When something comes at our face, especially our eyes, we automatically shield them by either blinking or raising our hands.  Quickly.  How amazing that God gave us reflexes so that we could protect our eyes.  These same reflexes even cause our eyes to close when we sneeze.  It is also equally amazing that our Creator gave us eyebrows, eyelashes, eyelids and a perfectly designed bone structure around our eyes for their natural protection.

The Hebrew word "apple" (iyshon) used in this verse is the pupil, the very center (black part) of the eye.  So David, in this psalm, is asking God to guard and protect him just as carefully, quickly and automatically as He would His own eyes, His own sight.  With a reflex reaction, protecting something of great value and importance.

Have you ever referred to a loved one as "the apple of your eye"?  It means that they are your very special, cherished and unmistakable favorite.  A totally different meaning from the one mentioned and intended above, but I believe no less appropriate.

You and I are the apple of God's eye.  We can appreciate and take comfort in knowing that He carefully guards and protects us.  Just as quickly and automatically as a reflex reaction, like blinking our eyes.  But we can also delight in simply knowing we are His very special, cherished and unmistakable favorites!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We are God's unmistakable favorites.

Spacious, Free Living

Ps. 37:39  But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord...

When I think of salvation, I think of being rescued.  God rescued me from some end and to some end.

The Message Bible interestingly translates the word "salvation" in this verse as spacious, free life.  The spacious, free life of the righteous (a believer) is (a gift) from God.  So then, we can understand that we were rescued from a small, confined, limited, even imprisoned life to a great, boundless, limitless life of freedom because of the righteousness we have in and through Jesus Christ.  God intended for us to enjoy the freedom, fullness and abundance of His kind of (zoe) life and Jesus confirmed it (Jn. 10:10)!

Try replacing the word "salvation" in other Scriptures with the words "spacious, free life".  Here are just a few to consider:

Ps. 68:19  Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our spacious, free life (salvation).

Ps. 91:6  With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My spacious, free life (salvation).

Rom. 1:16  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to spacious, free life (salvation) for everyone who believes...

It is amazing to consider that not only has God rescued us by giving us His only Son, but He also gave us a new and better life!

Jn. 3:16  For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting (zoe) (spacious, free) life.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  The gift of our salvation is a spacious, free life.

Deer Feet

2 Sam. 22:34  He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places.

What makes the feet of a deer so special?  What quality do they possess that makes them something to be desired?  Well, living in western Pennsylvania, the deer we see are usually standing in the middle of a level field or at the edge of a tree line.  But we can understand what makes the deer (and their feet) spoken of here so special because they are found in the mountains, the high places.  Places where the footing was uneven, dangerous and not easy to overcome.  And yet these deer have been given the ability to do just that.  To overcome.  Despite the challenges of rugged terrain, they move about easily, effortlessly and elegantly.  God has given them a sure-footedness.  I've read that, when climbing a mountain, a deer could put it's back (hind) feet in exactly the same spot where it's front feet had just stepped.  Exactly and without error.  With certainty and precision.  With ordered steps.

We all face obstacles in our lives.  Mountains we must climb.  But God has given us the ability to overcome any challenge.  He has given us the feet of an over comer (Lk. 10:19).  The sure-footedness of one whose steps have been ordered (Ps. 37:23).  He makes our feet like the feet of a deer!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  God has given us the ability to overcome.

Cheap Candy

Prov. 26:22  Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you want junk like that in your belly? (MSG)

The dictionary defines gossip as idle talk or rumor.  Idle talk not beneficial or producing anything of value.  Worthless.  Rumor is uncertain, unconfirmed, unsubstantiated and usually untrue speech.  That's right, it is "un" everything!

I think it is interesting that various translations of this verse liken listening to gossip as eating sweet food, dainty morsels and tasty trifles.  It appeals to us.  This particular Message Bible translation, however, more appropriately describes gossip as cheap candy.  Junk food.  And although it may at first seem appealing or desirable, it tastes terrible and isn't at all good for us.  Get the picture?

A few translations read that the words of a talebearer (gossip) are as wounds.  And like a wound, gossip causes pain, irritation and discomfort.  When we listen to gossip, not only are others hurt by us, we too are hurt.  Resentment, jealousy, bitterness and even anger are birthed in our womb, our belly, the innermost part of our body.  Just from listening.  Do you want junk like that in your belly?

Gossip is the fuel that keeps the fire of strife going (Prov. 26:20).  Take it away, and the fire will go out.

Be mindful of what you say and don't be a wound-inflicting talebearer.  Be mindful of what you hear and refuse to eat the cheap candy!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy.

Heaping Coals

Prov. 25:21-22  If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; For so you will heap coals of fire on his head, And the Lord will reward you.

We all would agree that feeding a hungry person or giving water to a thirsty person would be an act of kindness.  But how can either of those two efforts be likened to heaping coals of fire on someone's head?  Well, it seems to me that, however unlikely, this too must be an act of kindness because we are told that the Lord will reward us for doing it.

Notice that we are talking about being kind to our enemy.  Something that doesn't come naturally to us.  Something that would certainly surprise them and be quite unexpected.

At first, I was inclined to think the idea here was that by being kind to our enemies, we would make them feel ashamed or guilty for how they mistreated us.  That they would feel really bad about it or hurt in some way.  But it doesn't make sense to me that God would reward us for making someone else feel rotten.  Even our enemy.

I have read the explanation that, in the Bible, fire was a valued possession.  People nursed the coals from last night's fire to be ready for the next.  To rekindle it.  These coals were carried in buckets or baskets on top of someone's head.  So you see, sharing your embers really would be an act of kindness.  Something that you would usually only do for a friend.

The Message Bible translates verse 22 this way, "Your generosity will surprise him with goodness and God will reward you."  Surprise your enemy with goodness.  I like that.  Share your valued possession of God's love.  Rekindle something in others, especially your enemies.  And God will reward you for heaping coals!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Surprise your enemy with goodness.

Lifter or Dragger

Eph. 4:23  Let the Spirit change your way of thinking. (CEV)

It's not that I haven't made this observation or known this truth before, but it seems lately as though I'm being reminded of it.  Our attitude can affect others.  We, by the way we think and consequently speak and act, influence those with whom we interact.  This is no great revelation, in fact, it seems only to make common sense.

By our attitude, we can either lift people up or we can drag them down.  Are we optimists or pessimists?  Are we encouragers or fault finders?  Are we proud or humble?  Are we patient or impatient?  Are we judgmental and critical or forgiving and kind?  Do we pretend to know it all or quickly admit that we don't?  Do we pretend to be perfect or admit we are far from it?  Do we wallow in self pity or rejoice in blessing?  How we choose to live every day, and it is a choice, can result in others being either lifted up or dragged down by us.  Our attitude, our way of thinking, will make us a lifter or a dragger.  Which would you rather be around?  Which would you rather be?


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Our attitude can either lift people up or drag them down.

The Perfect Getaway

Ps. 27:4-5  I'm asking God for one thing, only one thing: To live in His house my whole life long.  I'll contemplate His beauty; I'll study at His feet.  That's the only quiet, secure place in a noisy world.  The perfect getaway, far from the buzz of traffic. (MSG)

What would be your perfect getaway?  A secluded cabin in the mountains?  A sunny beach on a tropical island?  Generally speaking, it's a place we would visit for a day or maybe a week to rest and relax.  To escape the stress, the noise and the distractions of our usual daily lives.

David, in these verses, describes his perfect getaway.  Living (dwelling) in the house of the Lord every day of his life.  That is to say, having constant communion with Him.  Notice that David doesn't want to just visit God's house, he wants to live there.  It is so much the desire of his heart that he explains it as the one and only thing he asks of God.  He longs for the opportunity to just enjoy and consider fully and deeply God's beauty, loveliness, splendor and grace.  He seeks God's instruction.

Mary found that same perfect getaway.  That same "one thing" David talks about.  Jesus describes it as "the one thing needful" (Lk. 10:42).  She, not being distracted as was her sister Martha, sat at His feet and heard His word.  There she was, contemplating His beauty and studying at His feet.  She was experiencing the perfect getaway!

What we truly desire is what we will diligently seek.  Do our hearts truly desire the "one thing"?  Do we look and long for opportunities to spend time with Him enjoying His beauty and to be taught by Him?  Do we desire a place of His presence and a communion with Him above all else both now (here on earth) and forever (in heaven)?  Not only can we visit such a place, we can live there!  David found it.  Mary found it.  We can find it, too.  The perfect getaway.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  What we truly desire is what we will diligently seek.

If You Can

Mk. 9:23  Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."

Imagine the disappointment of the father who brought his mute-spirited son to the disciples expecting a miracle without receiving it.  He explained to Jesus that this condition had been with his son since childhood and this last failed attempt by the disciples to cast out the spirit surely left him without much hope.  He said to Jesus, "If You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."  Essentially, what he was saying to Jesus was, "If You have power, then You'll see my faith."  Disappointment leads to doubt.  It causes us to really wonder 'if'.

Jesus' response included those same three words.  If you can.  "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."  In other words, "If you have faith, then you'll see My power."  Do you see that power was never the issue for Jesus?  Faith was.

I like the Message Bible translation of this verse.
Mk. 9:23  Jesus said, "If?  There are no 'ifs' among believers.  Anything can happen."

Disappointment can cause us to question our faith., to even question the power and ability of God.  But we must not lose faith.  We must not doubt God by asking if He can when He already tells us, "If you can...".


Sock Monkey Snippet:  There are no 'ifs' among believers.

Amazing Idiots

Acts 4:13  Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled.  And they realized that they had been with Jesus.

Peter and John were brought before the rulers, elders and scribes (and a few others) to explain by what name, by what power or authority they were able to heal a lame man.  The scribes were educated men who would easily be able to dispute or disprove a flawed explanation.  The rulers and elders were powerful men who, should the scribes fail, would easily be able to use their influence to dissuade others.  Certainly, Peter and John would be no match for them.

But what they got from Peter and John was totally unexpected.  They understood that these two were uneducated and untrained.  One translation says unlearned (illiterate) and ignorant men (literally, idiots).  Another simply describes them as ordinary men.  And yet everyone saw their boldness.  They had assurance, confidence, clarity and spoke (filled with the Holy Spirit) convincingly while providing irrefutable evidence.  The rulers, elders and scribes were left speechless (v.14).  In fact, they marveled.  These were two amazing idiots!

Then they all remembered that these were two of the guys who had been with Jesus.  They communed with Him.  They learned from Him.  And now Peter and John were able to stand boldly before the most educated and powerful men who stood against Him.

At times in our lives, we will also be given opportunities to explain by what name, by what power or authority we say what we say and do what we do.  And when that happens, I pray others will see the same Holy Spirit boldness in us and realize that we have a communion, a relationship with Jesus.  We don't need to be highly educated or highly ranked.  God puts extraordinary boldness in ordinary people.  We can be some pretty amazing idiots!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  God puts extraordinary boldness in ordinary people.

A Gentle Reminder

Phil. 4:11  ...for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.

I was recently watching a television show involving people who lived in expensive, extravagant homes and each had spent in excess of $100,000.00 designing and decorating entertainment rooms within them.  I must confess, after watching these people for a while, I found myself thinking, "Why couldn't that be me?  Why shouldn't it be?  Why couldn't my life be that good, that way?"  For the first time during this particular day, the Holy Spirit gently reminded me, by bringing this verse to mind, to be content.  

A short time later, as I sat at the kitchen table, I rested my head in my arms.  It was one of those brief and passing moments when I was feeling old.  Anybody else ever have those?  I found myself thinking, "You really are getting old!"  For the second time, another gentle reminder to be content.

Within an hour or so of my kitchen experience, I logged on to Twitter and happened across the tweet of an individual who was requesting prayer for their one year old baby who was battling cancer and in need of surgery.  This time, I found myself thinking how fortunate and blessed I am with two healthy children.  For the third and unquestionably most profound (and sobering) time, a gentle reminder to be content.

Our contentment can be affected by how we look at our situation if we allow it.  Are we looking at what we have or only at what we don't?  Are we looking at what is truly important or what really isn't?  The fact is our situation, our circumstances, our "state" in this life will never be perfect.  To us, it will always be somewhere between could be better and could be worse.

Through the course of our lives, we are all in uniquely different places.  Whether rich or poor, young or old, healthy or sick, in whatever state we are, we need to learn, as did Paul, to be content in God independent of our circumstances.  May the Holy Spirit always be there to give us a gentle reminder.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Be content independent of your circumstances.

An Effective Gift

Prov. 18:16  A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.

In ancient times, it was naive to think that you could make your way and stand before the king without first presenting him with a gift, an offering that you had prepared.  An effective gift got you noticed.  It was your gift that opened the way, "made room" and created an opportunity for you to stand before a great man.

What gift do you have?  What offering do you bring?  What unique, special ability or talent has God given you to steward, to prepare, develop and present to others?  Your gift was planted in you to serve a specific purpose and to fill a particular need.  It will make a way for you.  It will create opportunities for you.  And in God's perfect timing, it will get you noticed by exactly the right people, the "great men", who need what only you have.  God has given each one of us a purpose-serving, need-filling, way-making, opportunity-creating and effective gift!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Your offering will create your opportunity.

Built To Last

Prov. 24:10  If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small. (NIV)

We all appreciate products that are built to last.  Ones that endure repeated, often times heavy use and don't fall apart.  They certainly tell us a lot about the quality and commitment of the companies who make them.

The dictionary defines wisdom as the knowledge of what is true or right coupled with proper judgment as to the action to be taken.  In other words, wisdom is knowledge given appropriate action.  Note that both components, knowledge and action are necessary.  Knowledge without action is of no use.  Action without knowledge is foolish and dangerous.

This chapter of Proverbs equates wisdom to strength (Prov. 24:5).  A wise man is a strong man who is able to endure or withstand trials and afflictions.  Why?  Because he has an understanding or knowledge of the truth of God's Word and acts on it appropriately and accordingly.

Is it any wonder that Solomon valued it more than anything else?  Is it any wonder that James (1:5) instructs us to ask God for it?  Through wisdom we have overcoming strength.  Strength to endure repeated, often times heavy trials and afflictions without falling apart as Christians.  And in that strength, we and others can tell a lot about our Creator.  By Him, we were built to last!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Through wisdom we have overcoming strength.

Because of Me

Gal. 1:24  And because of me, they praised (gave glory to) God. (CEV)

No greater change occurred in the life of any individual more than in the life of Paul.  The one who formerly persecuted the early church now preached the faith which he once tried to destroy (Gal. 1:23).  The persecutor had become the preacher.  The adversary had become the apostle.  As a result, the unmistakable, transforming power of God that was evident in his life caused others to praise and glorify God.

Every one of us has been forever changed by God.  And the changes were intended to result in not only us giving Him praise and glory but others as well because of how we now live.  Glorifying God should be the desire of our hearts just as it was the desire of Jesus' heart (Jn. 12:28, 17:4).  Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be the glory).

May others see God as the author and source of what they see in my life.  May they see a true and sincere Christian whose life was unmistakably changed by Him and for Him.  May others praise and glorify God because of me!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  May others glorify God because of me.

Our Daily Bread

Mt. 6:11  "Give us this day our daily bread."

The children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron.  Brought out of the bondage of Egypt, they found themselves traveling through the wilderness hungry and wanting for food.  And God provided it in an unconventional way.  In fact, when the bread (manna) rained down from heaven, the Israelites asked each other, "What is it?" because they had never seen anything like it before.  They didn't recognize the supernatural daily provision only God could supply.

God supplies bread to meet our daily needs, too.  He provides nourishment to satisfy and sustain us.

The same God who cares for the birds of the air and clothes the lilies of the field (Mt. 6:33) cares for us and meets our physical needs.  But in addition to meeting our physical needs, He meets our spiritual needs, too.

Jesus described Himself as "the bread of life" (Jn. 6:35) which came down from heaven.  Only He satisfies the spiritual hunger and wanting in us.  He is an endless, inexhaustible supply of life-giving, life-sustaining bread that we enjoy and experience daily through our communion with Him.

May we always recognize God's supernatural nourishment raining down from heaven into our lives, both physically and spiritually.  He supplies all our need according to His riches in glory because of what Jesus did for us (Phil. 4:19).  He will give us this day, and every day, our daily bread!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Thank God for providing our daily bread.

The Strength of the Vine

Jn. 15:5  "I am the vine, you are the branches.  He who abides in Me and I in him, bears much fruit, for without me you can do nothing."

Recently, while trimming brush along the tree line in our backyard, I encountered a grape vine that had entwined itself among the growth.  As I began removing it, or at least attempting to remove it, I was amazed at how strong it was when I tugged on it.

Reading this passage in the gospel of John about the vine and the branches, I've always understood that the Vine, Jesus Christ, is the source of life and only by being connected can we, the branches, have life and produce fruit.  And certainly that's true.  But, also, by being connected, we have access to the incredible strength of the Vine.  Abiding in Him enables His strength to manifest itself in and through us.  There is not only life in the Vine, there is strength (Phil. 4:13) in it, too.  Without that empowering and overcoming strength, we can do nothing.

The beauty of His strength is that the weaker we are, the more it is "made perfect" (2 Cor. 12:9).  His miracle working power matures and is at it's strongest in our weakest moments.

When we are tired and worn out by the constant tugging of life's trials and afflictions, by virtue of our connection to Christ we can always rely on and draw from the strength of the Vine!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Our source of life is also our source of strength.

Word Gifts

Eph. 4:29  Watch the way you talk.  Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth.  Say only what helps, each word a gift. (MSG)

When we give a gift, we want it to be special.  Something that blesses and is beneficial to another.

Think of our words as gifts.  How careful would we be with our conversation if we were always mindful of what we were giving?  If we always watched the way we talked?  The words we speak are received into the life of another with some result.  We speak with intended purpose.  Either intending to edify, bless and benefit or to tear down, curse and bring harm.  Our words can have value or they can be worthless.  The choice of gift we give is ours.  May all we say (and think) be acceptable to God (Ps. 19:14).

Before we speak, we need to ask ourselves, "What kind of word gift am I about to give?"


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Speak only words that edify.  Make each word a gift.

Not Just Rocks

1 Pet. 2:5  And now you are living stones that are being used to build up a spiritual house.  (CEV)

As a building material, stone is substantial.  It is strong, durable and lasts a long time.  But it certainly isn't living.  We can build a very impressive building out of stone but unless it is used, inhabited, and serves some purpose, it is nothing more than just a lifeless pile of rocks.

The temple of the Jewish people was an impressive building, a house where God dwelt.  But Peter explained that God was now building a different kind of house.  A living, spiritual house made out of living stones.  Not an earthly building, but a heavenly kingdom.  Not a lifeless pile of rocks but an active, vibrant family.  Each member, each living stone contributing to build up the whole.

You and I are living stones that are used by God.  WE are God's building (1 Cor. 3:9).  His life-giving (Rom. 8:10, 2 Cor. 3:6) Holy Spirit inhabits us (1 Cor. 3:16, 6:19).  We each serve a specific purpose (Rom. 12:4-5) and we all build up the whole that is His spiritual house.  We are active, vibrant participants in the kingdom of God.  Living stones, not just rocks.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We are living stones in God's spiritual house.

Jesus Christ Version 1.0

Heb. 13:8  Jesus Christ never changes!  He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (CEV)

A software program or computer application is never perfect when it is initially developed.  In fact, it usually starts out in a beta version.  After "bug" fixes, subsequent added or deleted features, and other tweaks and refinements, a "beginning" version, usually dubbed 1.0, is released.  After that, updated versions 2.0, 3.0, etc., follow claiming to have better features and other significant improvements.  End users ultimately need and want a reliable, dependable and stable product.  One we can always count on.  One that is perfect.

Today, reflect on the amazing truth that Jesus Christ, in every way, is the One who is perfect.  Who always was perfect and always will be perfect.  This perfect Version 1.0 is not only the "beginning", the Alpha, but He continues on into forever and is the Omega (Rev. 1:8).  Because He is perfect, He doesn't change.  His character isn't flawed nor are His plans ill conceived or incomplete.  He isn't steadfast one day and wavering the next.  He doesn't help us one day and forsake us the next.  He doesn't love us one day and reject us the next.  He is reliable, dependable and provides a stability on our lives that will extend into all of eternity.  We can always count on Him.  There have been nor will there ever be any required updates.  He is the same perfect One yesterday, today, and forever!  All we need is Jesus Christ Version 1.0.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Because He is perfect, He doesn't change.

Just Our Feet

Jn. 13:10  Jesus answered, "People who have bathed and are clean all over need to wash just their feet.  And you, my disciples, are clean, except for one of you." (CEV)

I've always viewed the account of Jesus washing the disciples' feet as a demonstration of His humility and as an example for us to follow.  And it is certainly that.

But I looked at it today from a different perspective. One that I missed before.  And depending on which Bible translation you are reading, maybe you missed it, too.  In the NIV translation, this verse uses the words "bathed" and "washed".  And although we may use these words interchangeably today, they have entirely different meanings here.  The word "bathed" (louo) means washed completely, totally and fully.  The whole person.  Whereas the word "washed" (nipto) means to wash only in part.  Therein lies, I believe, the hidden beauty of the foot washing.

When Peter asked Jesus to wash not only his feet but his hands and head as well (v.9), Jesus answered, in effect, by saying, "You're already washed completely, now you only need washed in part."  So how were they washed completely?

Jn. 15:3  "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you."

They were washed completely by believing His words, the Word of God.  We then, also as believers, have been washed completely.  Our faith in Christ, the Living Word of God, has completely washed and made us pure.  His shed blood and finished work on the cross have made us able to stand in purity before the Father.

So why then did they (do we) need washed in part?  Their feet were not clean.  There was a part of them that was constantly in contact with the ground, the earth, the world.  And this washing in part was necessary in order to remain completely clean.  Being in the world but not of it (Jn. 15:19, Jn. 17:13-16), and even though we are already "bathed", we will undoubtedly have opportunity to sin.  To get our feet dirty.  Willfully or inadvertently (Ps. 19:13).  But, Jesus stands always girded and ready to forgive us (Ps. 86:5), ready to "wash" us.  Just our feet.

Sock Monkey Snippet:  We're already washed completely, now we only need washed in part.

Entitled to Eat

Mk. 7:27-28  But Jesus said to her, "Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs."  And she answered, "Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children's crumbs."

Jews and Gentiles.  Those who were God's children and those who were little dogs.  Those who were entitled to eat until full and those who were not.

The woman here who begged Jesus to cast a demon out of her daughter was a Gentile.  As such, she was ineligible to receive God's covenant promises made to the Jews.  Yet because of her faith, Jesus responded by delivering her daughter.  No one who approached Him in faith was ever turned away or refused.  Most likely this encounter pointed toward the eventual "grafting in" (Rom. 11:17) of the Gentiles into God's kingdom.  Nevertheless, and even though she received a significant blessing, it was still only a crumb compared to the fullness of what was available to His children.

As God's children, now grafted in, we have an incredible privilege and blessing.  We are entitled to eat, to be filled and satisfied.  We needn't settle for crumbs or even morsels because we are given the whole loaf of bread.  So, are we seated at His table enjoying the bread that is the fullness of His presence, promises and provision?  Or are we scrounging around under the table like little dogs looking only for an occasional crumb?  God has an overwhelming and abundant supply available to all believers, to those having faith in Him.  Don't settle for crumbs.  We are entitled to eat!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Don't settle for crumbs when you are entitled to eat.

When I Consider

Ps. 8:3-4  When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man, that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You should visit him?

Every time I'm outside on a clear night and I look up at a star-filled sky, without fail I am reminded of these verses.  The splendor of God's creation overwhelms me.  How magnificent, powerful and awesome must our God be to create such beauty and to sustain it?  And I think too often we forget that His creation extends immeasurably beyond what we can see, which makes thinking about it, considering it, all the more wonderful and amazing.

If you've ever watched an accomplished pianist perform, you were undoubtedly impressed by their fingering.  Skillful, deliberate, ordered.  And out of what seemed to be little effort, the beauty of music was created.  Did you ever notice in this verse that God used His fingers to create and orchestrate the universe?  It suggests to me that our God is so great, so skillful, that it took only His fingers, a little effort for Him, to create something we can't even begin to comprehend.  Consider that!

And yet, as David writes, God is mindful of us.  Comparatively insignificant beings in the immensity of His creation.  He feeds us, clothes us, protects us, provides for us, and communes with us.  He is concerned for us and about us!  So much so that He has even numbered the hairs on our heads.  He not only macro-manages the universe but micro-manages even the smallest details of our existence.  And He does it all perfectly.  Skillfully, deliberately, and with order.  I don't know about you, but I am blessed when I consider!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  In the immensity of His creation, God is mindful of us.

Reflecting Absence

Jn. 10:10  "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.  I have come that they may  have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."

Next week, the 9/11 memorial is scheduled to open in New York City.  It's design features two square voids, where the World Trade Center Towers once stood, each carved thirty feet deep into the earth.  Surrounding these voids are bronze panels on which are inscribed the names of the 2,983 victims whose lives were tragically taken.  The memorial is appropriately named "Reflecting Absence".  Visitors are to be reminded of what once was.  They are to forever take note that something is missing.  Abundant life that was intended to be was stolen away by evil.  The sin of a few men caused the death of so many others.

Paul explains in his letter to the Romans that through one man, Adam, sin entered the world (Rom. 5:12) also causing death to all men.  To all of us.  The abundant life God originally intended for us was voided by sin.  BUT, the Father loved us so much that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8).  So just as by one man's disobedience we were made sinners, so by one Man's obedience we were made righteous (Rom. 5:19).  Jesus restored to us the abundant life that was always intended to be.

Be reminded today of the abundant and eternal life once stolen away from all of us, reflect on it's absence, and then rejoice in knowing it has been forever restored through Jesus Christ our Lord.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Jesus restored to us the abundant life that was always intended to be.

Common To Man

1 Cor. 10:13  No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man...

It seems reasonable to me to think that when the devil tempted Jesus in the wilderness (Mt. 4:1-11) he did his very best to try and cause Jesus to sin.  So what tactics did he use?  Well, first, knowing that Jesus was hungry from fasting, the devil told Jesus to turn stones into bread, to satisfy the lust of the flesh.  Then he told Jesus to throw Himself from the pinnacle of the temple and have the angels keep Him from harm, to satisfy the pride of life.  Finally, he offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world He could see from a high mountain in return for worship, to satisfy the lust of the eyes.  These were the three areas in which the devil tempted Jesus and in which he will also tempt us.  They are described in Scripture (1Jn. 2:16) as "all that is in the world".  Jesus recognized each temptation and was able to successfully resist it with the written Word of God.  He was tempted in all things, just like we are, yet He didn't sin (Heb. 4:15).  His temptations were those common to man, common to us.  The devil will continue to use the same old tactics to tempt us that he tried unsuccessfully on Jesus.  The CEV Bible Translation says we are tempted in the same way everyone else is (was or ever will be) tempted.  Including Jesus.

For us to be successful, therefore, I believe we must employ the same strategy that Jesus did in resisting temptation and sin.  First, we need to recognize it, to be sober and vigilant (1Pet. 5:8) so as not to get caught off guard by our enemy.  Don't think for one minute that Jesus didn't realize exactly what the devil was doing or that it was only by luck or good fortune that He remained sinless.  And secondly, we must resist it.  If we have hidden God's Word in our heart (Ps. 119:11), when a temptation presents itself we can respond as Jesus did by saying, "It is written."  We can resist the devil and he will flee (Jas. 4:7).

We are all tempted in the same way.  We can all triumph in the same way.  Our victories over temptation and sin can and should be common to man!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We are all tempted in the same way.  We can all triumph in the same way. 

Handpicked

Acts 22:14-15  Then he said, "The God of our fathers has chosen you, that you should know His will and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth, for you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard."

There are reasons for handpicking, whether it be produce or people.  We look for that particular item or person best suited for our specific need or purpose.  One that is ripe or matured, of good quality and character, ready to be used.

Ananias, in this verse, explained that God Himself had handpicked Paul (MSG).  What an amazing thing for Paul to think about!  The God of all creation made a particular choice and deemed him ready to be used and best suited for His purpose, to be His witness to all men.

So it is with us.  God enabled us to know His marvelous plan of salvation, to see Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and to hear His voice through the voice of His Son (Jn. 12:49) in order that we may also be His witnesses (Acts 1:8) to all men.  Think about it.  We are God's chosen (Eph. 1:4, 1Pet. 2:9), His particular choice, His handpicked!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We have been handpicked by God.

Now and Forever

Mt. 5:5  "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."

What does it mean to be meek?  Today, I think most of us picture a meek person as being overly submissive, a doormat that is continually trampled upon by others.  One who has little or no control over his own condition.  We confuse meekness with weakness.

Let's understand meekness by first understanding what it is not.  A meek person is not proud, impatient, quarrelsome, cruel, vengeful or quickly prone to anger.  A meek person, therefore, is humble, patient and enduring, agreeable, kind, forgiving and slow to anger.  Rather than having no control over his condition, he has complete control over it.  Meekness is having or exercising self-control based on humility.  I've read that meekness is absolute power under perfect control.  I like that.  Paul exhorted Titus (Tit. 3:2) and all to be meek, "to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men."  Jesus Christ, our perfect example in all things, was meek (Mt. 11:29).  We should be, too.

The inheritance promised to the Jews was the land (earth) of Canaan.  They considered Canaan to be a type of heaven under the special blessing of God.  As I understand it, the Jewish people also came to commonly refer to any great blessing as "inheriting the earth."  So then, Christ tells us that the meek will possess and enjoy the special blessings of God.  Now and forever.  For certainly now, while we are on earth, we as believers can see God's blessing in our lives and His promises to us fulfilled just as the Jews did entering Canaan.  But we can also look forward to the day when we will inherit a new earth (Rev. 21) and forever experience God's special blessings there.  Perfect health, complete happiness, joy and eternal life.

Meekness is rewarded by God with His special blessings.  Now and forever!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  In meekness, we shall inherit the earth.

Ambushed

2 Chron. 20:22  Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.

Jehoshaphat and Judah faced overwhelming opposition.  A great army approached intending (v.11) to throw God's people out from the land, to prevent them from possessing their promised inheritance.  In prayer, a desperate Jehoshaphat said (v.12) they felt powerless and without direction.  But they made one very important decision.  Instead of focusing on the problem they faced, they focused on the God they served proclaiming, "...our eyes are upon You."  God responded through Jahaziel saying, "Do not be afraid...for the battle is Mine not yours."  In other words, have faith and believe (v.20) in Me for your salvation.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed like Jehoshaphat, convinced that the trials, afflictions and enemies you face are keeping you from receiving God's promises for your life?  That you are powerless to do anything about it and don't know which way to turn?  Then do like he did and focus not on your big problem or circumstances but on your bigger God.  Position yourself in faith and not fear knowing that God will fight your battles and that you are assured the victory.  Begin to praise Him!

Having God's assurance of victory, Jehoshaphat and company began, in faith, to sing and praise the Lord.  And out of that praise the Lord set ambushes against their enemies and they were totally defeated.  He confused the enemy camp so much that they destroyed themselves (v.23) and not an single one escaped (v.24).  The spoil gathered by Jehoshaphat and Judah afterwards was so great that it took three days to collect.  Out of the battle came the blessing.

Our faith-inspired praise can produce the same results.  God's battle-bought blessings await us.  Praise Him now because your enemies are about to be ambushed!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Praise Him now because your enemies are about to be ambushed.

Even More Powerful

Rom. 5:20  The Law came, so that the full power of sin could be seen.  Yet where sin was powerful, God's kindness was even more powerful.  (CEV)

Laws are not made for righteous people (1 Tim. 1:9).  They are made for the unrighteous.  Think about it.  If everyone in our society, any society, behaved perfectly, laws would be completely unnecessary.  They exist only in order to identify to the unrighteous where they transgress or sin.

And so it was with the Law of Moses.  Through it an unrighteous people could see the full condemning power of their sin and the hopelessness of their situation.  Because no matter how hard they tried, they could never fully satisfy or live by it's requirements.  They could never earn their own righteousness.  Their sin was just too powerful.  And the sobering judgment due them, the wages of sin (Rom. 6:23), was death.  An eternal separation from God.

But, we are told that as powerful as the grip of sin was on their lives, God's grace (kindness) was even more powerful!  He provided, through Jesus Christ, the only perfect, sinless and righteous Man by whom we all have been made righteous (v.19)  and in whom the Law was fulfilled (Mt. 5:17).  By God's grace and through our faith (Eph. 2:8) we are saved.  We have eternal life and victory (1 Cor. 15:57) over sin and death because of something even more powerful.  God's amazing grace.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Sin is powerful, but God's grace is even more powerful.

So Walk

Col. 2:6  As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.

If we are to walk in Him the same way we received Him, then the obvious question is, "How exactly did we receive Him?'  We received Him in faith.  Believing what we heard (Rom. 10:17) and what we were taught (v.7).  Trusting in God's Word and trusting in God.

And so it is in that same manner we are instructed by Paul to live out our everyday lives.  Being established, confirmed, stable and constant in our faith.  For without it, we are told (Heb. 11:6), it is impossible to please God.  Just as surely as we trusted Him to save us, we must trust Him to help us with the problems we face each day.  It isn't necessary to run anywhere else.  So walk in Him!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Walk in faith in Him.

His Passion

Jn. 2:17  And it came to the minds of the disciples that the Writings say, I am on fire with passion for Your house. (BBE)

What are you passionate about?  What interest or cause excites you, consuming your time and attention?  For Jesus, that passion was for His Father's house.  Literally, a dwelling or temple but figuratively, a family, the church.  Us.  So much so, Scripture records that it consumed Him.  We drew His complete attention and affection.  WE are His passion!  A passion to which He devoted His entire life.  A passion so great that it led Him to the cross.  Being His disciples, let us also remember as they did.  Today, thank Him for the depth of His love for us (Jn. 15:13), the passion for us that burns within Him like a consuming fire.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We are His passion.

Keep On Asking

Lk. 11:8  "I say to you, though he will not get up and give to him, because he is his friend, still, if he keeps on making his request, he will get up and give him as much as he has need of." (BBE)

I think we all get discouraged at some point in our prayer life when it seems as though our prayers are not being answered.  We become impatient, frustrated, perhaps even angry with God and may finally just give up on our requests.

But Jesus encourages us to do exactly the opposite.  Don't give up, keep on asking.  Some translations of the Bible use the word "importunity" in this verse.  It means to be shamelessly persistent and relentless.  Pressing a matter with a sense of urgency, refusing to be denied.  We are to ask and continue to ask, over and over again  until we receive the answer to our prayer.

Jesus gives the example of a man awakened in the middle of the night by a friend with a need knocking on his door.  And knocking.  And knocking.  The friendly knocker didn't know whether the door would be answered after the first knock or the second or the third.  But he was convinced and never doubted that it would be answered.  The sleeping man finally answered the door only because he determined that his visitor wasn't going away until his need was met.  The friend was not going to be denied.  He was persistent and relentless.  He didn't care that it was midnight on the doorstep of another who had already gone to sleep.  His perseverance was without regard to time, place or circumstance.  Ours should be, too.

If an unwilling man responded to importunity, how much more will a loving, kind and willing God respond to it?  Don't ever give up on anything in your prayer life.  Keep on asking!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Persevere in prayer without regard to time, place or circumstance.

The Price of Forgiveness

Mt. 18:21, 22  Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?"  Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven."

No, not seven times or even seventy times seven.  The point Jesus makes is that there should be no limit on our willingness and capacity to forgive.  Regardless of the offense.

The parable of the unforgiving servant that follows tells of a servant who owed his master a considerable amount of money.  Ten thousand talents (v.24) today would be worth approximately twenty billion dollars.  No servant would even come close to having that kind of money.  I read somewhere that this wasn't the debt of a servant, it was the ransom or price of a king.  Of course, he could not repay it.  But, out of compassion (v.27), the master forgave him the incredible debt that he owed.

A fellow servant owed the now-forgiven servant one hundred denarii.  About two thousand dollars.  In comparison, to twenty billion dollars, two thousand dollars is a very small, almost insignificant amount.  Yet the forgiven servant was himself unwilling to forgive even a penny of it.

Forgiveness requires a compassion.  Even though we may feel hurt or offended by someone, until, out of compassion, we recognize their need to be forgiven above our own self-interest and pride, we can not forgive.  A heart of compassion was found in our Master and must also be found in us.

Forgiveness requires a comparison.  Only when we look at the incredible sin debt from which the Master has released each one of us, can we see the comparatively small price of forgiveness that is sometimes required from us by another person.  God the Father was willing to pay the price of a King, His Son Jesus Christ, to forgive our debt.  So, if a Master forgives a servant a great debt, how much more should that same servant be willing to forgive a fellow servant of a lesser debt?

Forgiveness requires a cancellation.  There can be no score keeping of how many times we have been wronged or offended.  No matter what it might cost us, we should always be willing, seven times or seventy times seven, to pay the price of forgiveness.


Sock Monkey Snippet:  The price of our forgiveness was the price of a King.

An Eternal Reward

Mt. 6:3,4  "But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."

Which would you rather have, an earthly reputation or an eternal reward?  Jesus explains that the motive we have for doing charitable deeds (giving alms) will determine which one we receive.

Hypocrites (v.2), literally those hiding behind masks like actors, are those whose true motives are not in seeing the needs of others met but rather in seeing that their own needs for attention are met.  Their giving is out of conceit and not compassion.  Their glory, obtained through the praise of men, is more important to them than God's glory.  Have you ever been around someone who likes to toot their own horn (sound a trumpet)?  Jesus said their reward will be, at best, nothing more than an earthly reputation.  The praise of men is all they will get.  It is their one-time payment in full.  Notice that Scripture says it is their reward not His.

Our motive and primary concern in doing charitable deeds should be to glorify God through a sincere compassion for others, without drawing attention to ourselves.  In other words, doing them secretly, without letting our left hand know what our right hand is doing.  From God (v.4) instead of man, we will then receive not the one-time payment that a master gives a servant but the abundant, limitless and everlasting blessing that a loving heavenly Father gives to His child.  We will receive His reward, an eternal reward!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Our motive will determine whether we receive an earthly reputation or an eternal reward.

An Excellent Spirit

Dan. 6:3  Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm.

There were one hundred and twenty satraps and three governors in the government of King Darius.  But one, Daniel, stood out.  Something about him caused him to be preferred or placed in rank and office above all the others.  An excellent spirit.

The Latin Vulgate translates it as Spiritus Dei Amplior, the Spirit of God more abundantly.  The spirit in Daniel was overwhelmingly noticeable and it made a difference in his life and eventually brought him before the king.  The word "excellent" literally means hanging over, abundant, more than enough and great.  Yes, that's the Spirit of God!

As believers, the Spirit of God dwells abundantly within each one of us (Rom. 8:9, 1Cor. 3:16) and will distinguish us, too.  Scripture tells us (2Tim. 1:7) that the spirit that God has given us is characterized by power, love and sound judgment.  Power or boldness to overcome any and all obstacles with a holy courage.  Love not based on feelings but by a determined will.  A totally consuming and self-sacrificing love for God.  And a disciplined, sober, well balanced mind demonstrating sound judgment.

If we walk in the Spirit (Rom. 8:1), the same power, love and sound judgment, the same excellent spirit evident in Daniel, I believe, will be overwhelmingly noticeable and distinguishing in our lives, too.  In each one of us dwells an excellent spirit!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  In each one of us dwells an excellent spirit.

Whatever We Do

Col. 3:17  And whatever you do, in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Whatever we do.  That pretty much covers everything.  No matter what it is.  When we speak or act, we are instructed to do so heartily (v.23) and in His name.  Acknowledging His name causes us to remember who we are.

We are dependents on Him and without Him we can do nothing (Jn. 15:5).  A dependent humbly and rightfully recognizes the source of all he has and is.

We are also representatives of Him and we carry His authority and His power (Eph. 3:20).  That power, in us, enables Him to do exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think.  He has equipped us to do mighty things (Dan. 11:32)!  To say or do something halfheartedly is to diminish the fullness of His power that resides in us and can work through us.  An effective representative heartily utilizes all the authority and power given to him.

Our aim is to glorify (1Cor. 10:31) and please God with our lives.  Each new day presents us with unique opportunities to give thanks and glory to the Father by our words and actions in the name of His amazing Son.  Knowing that we serve Him (Col. 3:24) should cause us to do so humbly, as a dependent, with nothing less than our best effort and heartily, as a representative, in the fullness of His power.  Whatever we do!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Serve Him humbly and heartily every day in whatever you do. 

Taking Inventory

Phil. 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things. (NIV)

In my opinion, this is one of those verses in the NIV Bible that is easily misunderstood or not understood at all simply because of the translation.  Listed are six "whatever" things that Paul says we should meditate (NIV) on.  Okay, so whenever I have the opportunity I should think about things that fall into any one of these six categories, conclude my thought process at some point and then get on with my day, right?  Not exactly.

The word meditate (logizomai) means to pay close attention to, not to think about but rather to think on, to study intending to put into practice, to take inventory.  What we have here is a checklist of six attributes that Paul says should be evident in our lives and in the lives of all Christians.  He instructs us, essentially, to take an inventory of ourselves.

Do you keep your promises, fulfill your obligations, honor your friendships and speak without lying or deceiving?  Then you are true.  Are you honest, law abiding and respected by others?  Then you are noble.  Are you fair, equitable and of unquestionable integrity?  Then you are just.  Do you strive to lead a holy, sinless life in thought and deed?  Then you are pure.  Are you kind, friendly and lovable?  Do you have a temperament others can love?  Not sour or crabby?  Then you are lovely.  Are you gracious, courteous, respectful (especially to your parents)?  Do you have a good reputation?  Then you are of good report.

Not a bad self-examination, I think.  So, how did you do when taking inventory?


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Pay close attention to the "whatever" things.

Time Management

2 Pet. 3:8  But beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day.

Successful, productive people almost always practice effective time management.  They make the most of every minute squeezing a sometimes seemingly infinite number of tasks into a finite amount of time.  They have to manage their time because they are constrained by it.  Also, the things they do and the decisions they make need to be timely.  The timing is every bit as important as the task or the decision.  Timing truly is everything.

God however, and as we see here, is not bound by the constraints of time.  Time does not limit or control Him.  He controls it.  He functions in and from the boundless, immeasurable realm of eternity.  From our human perspective of time, He can work quickly or He can be long suffering and move slowly.  But with God the issue is never about getting things done in a certain amount of time.  It is about getting them done at exactly the right time.  In due season.  In the fullness of time.  Not according to any human deadline.  God is usually never early according to our schedule but never late according to His.

When we look expectantly in faith, trusting God to help us in times of trouble or suffering, we must understand that although a single day may seem like a thousand years to us under these circumstances, God will always deliver us at exactly the right time.  Not a minute before or a minute after.  Now that's time management!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  God will always deliver us at exactly the right time.

Treated to a Feast

Ps. 23:5  You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. (CEV)

My daughter and son-in-law came home to visit us this weekend.  As a 28th wedding anniversary blessing for my wife and I (and son), they treated us to an elegant dinner out on Saturday evening.  I'm not talking a meager meal of burgers and fries.  I'm talking a feast with steak and all the fixings.

It has been a difficult year so far for my wife and I.  It seems like our enemy, the devil, has been just throwing one thing after another at us.  We're definitely in a fight.  I've tried my best to see God in the midst of all our trials.  Admittedly, at times it hasn't been easy.

But I couldn't help but see that here we were on Saturday night not struggling or lacking but rather feasting.  While the devil looked on.  Try as he might, he couldn't prevent it, he was forced to watch it and he understood that God provided it.  Through our children.  We were definitely treated to a feast while the enemy watched.  In your face, devil!

The whole weekend, not just the meal itself, was a feast.  Despite our circumstances, it was a wonderful anniversary.  Spending time with family, even for a few short days, when so many families are broken, divided or apart for one reason or another was a full-course blessing all by itself.  I enjoyed every minute of it.

Thanks Stephanie and Mike.  Not just for the exquisite meal, but for your love, God's love.  And for letting me see that, in spite of our enemy, God can and will put a feast right in front of us.  God bless you both!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  In the midst of the fight, look for the feast.

My Greatest Treasure

Prov. 18:22  A man's greatest treasure is his wife, she is a gift from the Lord. (CEV)

Today, my wife and I celebrate our 28th wedding anniversary.  I've always liked this verse found in Proverbs and I think this particular translation says it best.  My wife is my greatest treasure!

God has truly given her to me as a gift.  As a token of His favor or as a sign that He delights in me.  I can always look at her and know that He loves me.

Proverbs 31:10-31 describes the virtuous woman and every time I read about her I see the same qualities in the woman I love.  Dependable, kind, industrious, diligent, faithful, intelligent, compassionate, supportive, encouraging, nurturing, strong in character, optimistic, sensible and thoughtful.  All that wrapped up in one beautiful package!  She is my crown (Prov. 12:4), elevating me above the ordinary and giving me significance.  She makes me feel special.

The Matthew Henry Commentary, speaking on Prov. 18:22, notes that a man finding a wife "has found that which will not only contribute to his comfort in this life, but will forward him in the way to heaven."  I can honestly say that my wife has done more for me in terms of my spiritual growth and development than any other person I know.  She has been my teacher, my guide and my committed partner in faith.

When Jacob served Laban for seven years so he could marry Rachel (Gen. 29:20), the time seemed to him like only a few days because he loved her so much.  I know that feeling because 28 years together have gone by all too quickly.  As husband and wife, we truly have become like one person (Eph. 5:31).  And sharing that bond with her has given me a life of happiness and contentment.

I thought it would be fitting to end by quoting Proverbs 31:28-29.  And with great pride her husband says, "There are many good women, but you are the best!"

My love always.  Happy Anniversary, Debi!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  A man's greatest treasure is his wife.

Into Prosperity

Ps. 68:6  ...He brings out those who are bound into prosperity...

Prisoners are bound.  They have no hope and are destined to live a life without purpose.  Everything has been taken away by their captor.

Peter found himself as a prisoner (Acts 12:6).  Chained between two soldiers in a cell guarded by even more soldiers.  He was as a restrained and hindered as one person probably could be.  It was the very night before Herod would bring him to trial.  No reason to hope.  The purpose God had for his life was certainly not being fulfilled while he was in bondage.  His freedom had been taken away.

An angel appeared next to Peter and the cell was filled with light.  Peter was raised up (v. 7) and in the process, his chains fell off without any effort or struggling.  He didn't have to work for or earn his freedom.  He was instructed to put on his garment (mantle) and follow.  Peter couldn't believe what was happening.  In fact, he thought surely he was dreaming (v. 9).  When he finally came to his senses (v. 11) he said, "Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me."

Sin imprisoned us all.  We were bound by the law which we could not keep.  Stuck in a hopeless situation and destined to live far short of God's purpose for us.  But this verse in Psalm 68 says we were brought out (freed, released) into prosperity (success, abundance, freedom).  Through Jesus Christ, we have been set free (Isa. 61:1, Jn. 8:36).  Not by our own efforts but rather by God's amazing grace (Eph. 2:8).  We have been raised up and our chains are gone.  God has a purpose (mantle) for each of us and we are free to succeed, live abundantly and to follow Him.

When you stop and think about it, what God did for us through Jesus Christ seems just too good to be true.  Certainly our God has delivered us, too.  Like Peter, we who were also once bound have been brought out.  Into prosperity!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  We who were bound have been set free.

How Long?

Ps. 13:1, 2  How long, O Lord?  Will You forget me forever?  How long will You hide Your face from me?  How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily?  How long will my enemy be exalted over me?

Ever felt like God has forgotten you or at least turned His face away?  Ever felt like He didn't care or wasn't concerned about you?  Ever felt like the enemy was winning?  Well, you're in good company.  David felt the same way.  Here he asks God repeatedly, "How Long?".  How long are these trials and suffering going to continue?  Did You forget me?  Don't You care?  Why is the enemy winning?  A short time enduring trials and suffering can seem like an eternity.  Feelings of anxiety, desperation and hopelessness overwhelm us.  David expresses them here.

At some point in our lives, our circumstances can cause us to lose faith and ask the same questions borne out of our troubling situation that David did.  It is then, difficult as it is, that we must walk by faith and not by our sight or our feelings (2Cor. 5:7).

Remember when Peter was asked by Jesus to step out of the boat and come to Him?  It was only when Peter took his eyes of faith off of Jesus and looked at the stormy circumstances around him (Mt. 14:30) that he began to sink.  Jesus never lost sight of Peter.  Peter lost sight of Jesus.

David (v. 3) asked God to "enlighten his eyes".  To allow him to see by faith.  To see God even in the darkness of a storm.  God, enlighten our eyes, too.  May we never lose sight of You during our storm.

God will never forget us (Isa. 49:14-16, Mt. 28:20).  God cares for us (1Pet. 5:7).  And so long as we don't quit, we can and will overcome any circumstances or any enemy.  We are more than conquerors (Rom. 8:37).  In the midst of our storm of trials and suffering, we must keep our eyes of faith focused on the Author and the Finisher of it (Heb. 12:2).  No matter how long!


Sock Monkey Snippet:  Have focused faith not fearful feelings.