The Bible Says
GraceNotes offers Short Devotions that speak to the heart
Updated: 11 min 58 sec ago
Glaring Notices
Photo: Sean Ealy
When I was a teen our family lived on a shoestring budget. One day after school I noticed a glaring, bright orange notice with black letters hanging on the door handle of our front door. It was from the electric company. If we didn’t pay our bill the electricity to our home would be shut off. I was a bit embarrassed by this sign on our door and quickly pulled it off, stepped into the kitchen and threw it on the table.
The Bible talks about glaring notices. The Old Testament prophet Habakkuk questions God’s use of the Babylonians in punishing Israel. When Habakkuk asks God to explain, the Lord said, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it” (Habakkuk 2:2). In other words, God’s warnings can be short and sweet. They can be glaring notices meant to get our attention.
I recently sat with a group of Christian leaders who were planning a special event for our city. The theme for the occasion was the second coming of Christ. As we discussed how to communicate this event, one person questioned the interest people might have in Jesus’ coming. Another member of our group quickly responded, “I find many people I connect with sensing that this world is coming apart at the seams. And they are wondering if the end of the world is going to happen soon. Think of events that have taken place just recently.”
Intensifying Crisis
Our group began ticking off world issues that were causing concern for many: The BP oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico, rioting in Greece, a bomb threat in New York, flooding in Tennessee, the failing economy in the United States, the earthquake in Haiti, the volcano eruption in Iceland, protests in Bangkok just to name a few. What struck me was how easy it is to create a list of major crises without much thought. It seems the events around the world are intensifying.
One day Jesus was talking with a group of religious teachers who wanted to see a “sign” from Christ. Jesus said, “When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times” (Matthew 16:2, 3). It is as if Christ is saying, “I’ve given you notices of My soon coming, but you can’t see them.”
The world does appear to be falling apart at the seams. Are these “glaring notices” pointing at something that will soon happen? For those who are studying the Bible, we will see the signs of the times and be ready. For those who toss them aside, Christ will come as a surprise (1 Thessalonians 5:2). There’s a notice on your door. Can you see it? Are you ready?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
When I was a teen our family lived on a shoestring budget. One day after school I noticed a glaring, bright orange notice with black letters hanging on the door handle of our front door. It was from the electric company. If we didn’t pay our bill the electricity to our home would be shut off. I was a bit embarrassed by this sign on our door and quickly pulled it off, stepped into the kitchen and threw it on the table.
The Bible talks about glaring notices. The Old Testament prophet Habakkuk questions God’s use of the Babylonians in punishing Israel. When Habakkuk asks God to explain, the Lord said, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it” (Habakkuk 2:2). In other words, God’s warnings can be short and sweet. They can be glaring notices meant to get our attention.
I recently sat with a group of Christian leaders who were planning a special event for our city. The theme for the occasion was the second coming of Christ. As we discussed how to communicate this event, one person questioned the interest people might have in Jesus’ coming. Another member of our group quickly responded, “I find many people I connect with sensing that this world is coming apart at the seams. And they are wondering if the end of the world is going to happen soon. Think of events that have taken place just recently.”
Intensifying Crisis
Our group began ticking off world issues that were causing concern for many: The BP oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico, rioting in Greece, a bomb threat in New York, flooding in Tennessee, the failing economy in the United States, the earthquake in Haiti, the volcano eruption in Iceland, protests in Bangkok just to name a few. What struck me was how easy it is to create a list of major crises without much thought. It seems the events around the world are intensifying.
One day Jesus was talking with a group of religious teachers who wanted to see a “sign” from Christ. Jesus said, “When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times” (Matthew 16:2, 3). It is as if Christ is saying, “I’ve given you notices of My soon coming, but you can’t see them.”
The world does appear to be falling apart at the seams. Are these “glaring notices” pointing at something that will soon happen? For those who are studying the Bible, we will see the signs of the times and be ready. For those who toss them aside, Christ will come as a surprise (1 Thessalonians 5:2). There’s a notice on your door. Can you see it? Are you ready?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Worth the Pain
Photo: Hemera
It was dark. The garden was quiet and although he’d brought his best friends with him – he was virtually alone. Although he’d asked them to stay awake and pray along with him – they fell asleep.
Jesus went a stone’s throw away from his three friends and fell on the ground. He cried out, “Oh My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” He wanted to be comforted, but his friends slept. The same men that Jesus had spent nights praying for, could not stay awake for him during his hours of agony.
He called out to the strongest, a fisherman, used to hours of toil and labor. “Peter, are you asleep? Couldn’t you have watched with me one hour?” His agony was not just emotional and as he prayed for strength to fulfill the plan of salvation, “he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood” (Luke 22:45).
I have no idea how that kind of suffering feels. It was superhuman agony and none of us has been faced with similar pain – although each of us can recall when we’ve been in pain and wished to have it removed.
While reading about Jesus in the garden, I was hit with a somewhat flawed and typically human comparison for what Christ may have felt as he asked to be released from his promise to die for our sins.
I'll Never Forget
It was 3 a.m., September 19, 1974. There were some twinges of pain across my back and lower abdomen. Scott was a little late in coming and I was more than ready to deliver the not-so-little bundle from Heaven. Larry and I went to the hospital. It was dark and I was scared. Twelve hours later, my twinges were replaced with full-blown labor pains.
I had decided against general anesthesia – which was very popular for deliveries in the South in 1974 – and I was waiting for my physician to give me the appropriate local anesthesia. It wasn’t a large hospital and my obstetrician was in a solo practice. I could hear him in the delivery room across the hall coaching my roommate of a few hours earlier through her birth. I was in terrible pain. No one but my doctor could give me the anesthesia and he literally had his hands full. What little patience I had vanished as the pains increased. When I heard his kind voice assisting the other woman, I got angrier and angrier and found myself yelling at him to come and help me … now! How dare he ignore me when I was in more pain than any human should possibly have to endure. I honestly didn’t think I could stand one more pain and I would have done anything to be pain free – anything except not have that baby. My goal was to be a mother and nothing could make me quit before I accomplished that.
Now, when I try to describe to Scott how much I love him, I sometimes tell him, “You were worth every pain.” Someday in Heaven, Christ is going to sit under a fruit tree with me and instead of dwelling on the sacrifice he made for me, the drops of blood he shed for me and the pain and agony he suffered for me, he’s going to hold out his arms, draw me close to his heart and tell me, “Dee, you were worth all the pain.”
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Dee Reed. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the New Living Translation © copyright 1996.
Jesus went a stone’s throw away from his three friends and fell on the ground. He cried out, “Oh My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” He wanted to be comforted, but his friends slept. The same men that Jesus had spent nights praying for, could not stay awake for him during his hours of agony.
He called out to the strongest, a fisherman, used to hours of toil and labor. “Peter, are you asleep? Couldn’t you have watched with me one hour?” His agony was not just emotional and as he prayed for strength to fulfill the plan of salvation, “he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood” (Luke 22:45).
I have no idea how that kind of suffering feels. It was superhuman agony and none of us has been faced with similar pain – although each of us can recall when we’ve been in pain and wished to have it removed.
While reading about Jesus in the garden, I was hit with a somewhat flawed and typically human comparison for what Christ may have felt as he asked to be released from his promise to die for our sins.
I'll Never Forget
It was 3 a.m., September 19, 1974. There were some twinges of pain across my back and lower abdomen. Scott was a little late in coming and I was more than ready to deliver the not-so-little bundle from Heaven. Larry and I went to the hospital. It was dark and I was scared. Twelve hours later, my twinges were replaced with full-blown labor pains.
I had decided against general anesthesia – which was very popular for deliveries in the South in 1974 – and I was waiting for my physician to give me the appropriate local anesthesia. It wasn’t a large hospital and my obstetrician was in a solo practice. I could hear him in the delivery room across the hall coaching my roommate of a few hours earlier through her birth. I was in terrible pain. No one but my doctor could give me the anesthesia and he literally had his hands full. What little patience I had vanished as the pains increased. When I heard his kind voice assisting the other woman, I got angrier and angrier and found myself yelling at him to come and help me … now! How dare he ignore me when I was in more pain than any human should possibly have to endure. I honestly didn’t think I could stand one more pain and I would have done anything to be pain free – anything except not have that baby. My goal was to be a mother and nothing could make me quit before I accomplished that.
Now, when I try to describe to Scott how much I love him, I sometimes tell him, “You were worth every pain.” Someday in Heaven, Christ is going to sit under a fruit tree with me and instead of dwelling on the sacrifice he made for me, the drops of blood he shed for me and the pain and agony he suffered for me, he’s going to hold out his arms, draw me close to his heart and tell me, “Dee, you were worth all the pain.”
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Dee Reed. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the New Living Translation © copyright 1996.
Powered by God
Photo: Andrew Purtell
The 21st century cannot escape the need for clean, renewable energy. Automobiles, cell phones, laptop computers and household appliances, all require some kind of power to make them work. Batteries, solar panels, gasoline and electricity provide the needed current. Likewise, our bodies need energy for optimum performance and health. Good food, exercise, water, rest and positive thinking help create a life that is tuned, toned and fulfilling.
But even this isn't enough. If our bodies, vehicles and homes are charged, but our hearts aren't, eventually our souls will languish. There are scores of mirrored panels near Yermo, Calif., that beam the sun's intense rays into the core a large tower. This simple act results in the generation of energy! Wouldn't it be great if every house had one of these?
Spiritual power
In 522 B.C., a leader from the line of David named Zerubbabel, led a group of Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. They encountered many obstacles. On one occasion when Zerubbabel was overwhelmed, God sent him a message through the prophet Zechariah.
"This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel saying, 'not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the Lord of hosts." Zechariah 4:6
In other words, Zerubbabel's work would not be finished in his own strength. The task was too big and the opposition too strong. He could only prevail in God's strength!
We cannot follow God in our own power. We need the reflecting power of His Spirit to energize us each step of the way. This will only happen as we plug into His divine power, through Bible study and prayer.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
Knowing the Judge
Photo: Verapol Chaiyapin
Pastor Kelly tells of an experience he had in jail. It happened as a result of one unpaid traffic ticket. Just how it had remained unpaid, he didn’t say. No doubt, he intended to pay it, but one thing after another in his busy life continued to come ahead of taking care of that little detail.
One day as he was driving through an area where road construction was taking place, Pastor Kelly made an illegal turn. Consequently, he soon spotted flashing lights in his rear view mirror. Pulling over, he waited for the man in uniform to approach his window.
“Good morning,” the officer said. “Did you realize you just made an illegal turn?”
Pastor Kelly began stating his case, explaining his logic in making the turn due to the abnormal driving conditions created by the road construction. Pastor Kelly made a good case, and the officer actually decided to let him off. But when the officer did a routine license check, he then discovered the unpaid traffic ticket.
“I would be willing to overlook the violation of today due to the construction,” said the officer as he returned to Pastor Kelly’s window. “But I can’t forgive the traffic ticket that I just discovered in your name. You’ll have to go to jail.”
Bail
Pastor Kelly' face dropped, knowing there was no defense for this one. He would have to go to jail. It was Sabbath, which made it even worse. But what could he do? When the law has been broken, the offender has to make it right. As Pastor Kelly approached the jail, however, he wondered when he would ever get out. Bail would need to be set, and the judge wouldn’t be available on Sunday. Then Monday happened to be a holiday, so that was out. Pastor Kelly realized that he would be in jail from Sabbath until Tuesday. Unless he could somehow get through to the judge.
After making a couple of nonproductive calls, Pastor Kelly called a pastor friend of his, who happened to also be a friend of the judge. After explaining the situation, Pastor Kelly’s friend made a call to the judge. Soon bail was set and Pastor Kelly would be released before Tuesday.
Naturally, Pastor Kelly was relieved and immensely grateful to his friend for speaking to the judge in his behalf. And as he shared the story with those of us listening, his point was that as powerful as the judge was, the important thing was to know someone who was a friend of the judge.
In the case of our own eternal destinies, we are going to make mistakes along the way. But the critical thing for us to remember is who to call when we are in need of forgiveness. There is One named Jesus who knows the Judge personally and who is ever ready to plead our case.
"If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father (Judge), Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Pastor Kelly tells of an experience he had in jail. It happened as a result of one unpaid traffic ticket. Just how it had remained unpaid, he didn’t say. No doubt, he intended to pay it, but one thing after another in his busy life continued to come ahead of taking care of that little detail.
One day as he was driving through an area where road construction was taking place, Pastor Kelly made an illegal turn. Consequently, he soon spotted flashing lights in his rear view mirror. Pulling over, he waited for the man in uniform to approach his window.
“Good morning,” the officer said. “Did you realize you just made an illegal turn?”
Pastor Kelly began stating his case, explaining his logic in making the turn due to the abnormal driving conditions created by the road construction. Pastor Kelly made a good case, and the officer actually decided to let him off. But when the officer did a routine license check, he then discovered the unpaid traffic ticket.
“I would be willing to overlook the violation of today due to the construction,” said the officer as he returned to Pastor Kelly’s window. “But I can’t forgive the traffic ticket that I just discovered in your name. You’ll have to go to jail.”
Bail
Pastor Kelly' face dropped, knowing there was no defense for this one. He would have to go to jail. It was Sabbath, which made it even worse. But what could he do? When the law has been broken, the offender has to make it right. As Pastor Kelly approached the jail, however, he wondered when he would ever get out. Bail would need to be set, and the judge wouldn’t be available on Sunday. Then Monday happened to be a holiday, so that was out. Pastor Kelly realized that he would be in jail from Sabbath until Tuesday. Unless he could somehow get through to the judge.
After making a couple of nonproductive calls, Pastor Kelly called a pastor friend of his, who happened to also be a friend of the judge. After explaining the situation, Pastor Kelly’s friend made a call to the judge. Soon bail was set and Pastor Kelly would be released before Tuesday.
Naturally, Pastor Kelly was relieved and immensely grateful to his friend for speaking to the judge in his behalf. And as he shared the story with those of us listening, his point was that as powerful as the judge was, the important thing was to know someone who was a friend of the judge.
In the case of our own eternal destinies, we are going to make mistakes along the way. But the critical thing for us to remember is who to call when we are in need of forgiveness. There is One named Jesus who knows the Judge personally and who is ever ready to plead our case.
"If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father (Judge), Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
The Potter's Wheel
Photo: Marja Flick-Buijs
Rick and his wife were artists who lived in an old farm house near my home growing up. I loved to visit them. They were potters who made their living with their hands, their hearts, and their artistry. In the back of their home was a small, but ample studio where their incredible creations took a variety of shapes. From coffee cups and saucers, to intricate vases, their love and craftsmanship was visible in every item that they produced. No wonder their items commanded such a high price all over the world.
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the THE MESSAGE / REMIX ®
They made it look so simple but after trying my hand on the pottery wheel in high school, I came to understand that it is anything but easy. The clay has to be prepared prior to its turn on the wheel, and its consistency and workability need to be just right. The thick, lifeless lump has to be properly centered on the potter’s wheel, and as it begins to turn faster and faster, the right amount of pressure must be applied to bring shape and continuity to it.
My first attempts at making something beautiful were disasters, but after some practice I recognized that good pottery takes time, patience, and a willingness to keep working at it. Most of the time I would go back to the kneading table and start over. I put in hours on the pottery wheel, and then one day I watched in wonder as a vase emerged almost magically between my slurry covered hands. It was a magnificent moment that I will never forget.
Simple and Useful
My mother still has the vase, and keeps flowers in it from time to time. When I look at it now, it seems quaint and simple, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Its beauty lies in its usefulness and in the thought that it was made with loving care. It is a vessel that honors my hard work in school.
It reminds me of the analogy that God often uses in Scripture about how the Great Potter creates something beautiful of our lives.
“So I went to the potter’s house, and sure enough, the potter was there, working away on his wheel. Whenever the pot the potter was working on turned out badly, as sometimes happens when you are working with clay, the potter would simply start over and use the same clay to make another pot” (Jeremiah 18:3,4).
Before we come to our Creator, our lives resemble raw potter’s clay, misshapen and misunderstood. But the Potter sees beauty in every lifeless lump, and through the pressure of eternal, loving hands, our spiritual “shape” changes. It takes work and time on the “wheel,” but the Potter continues to mold and shape us until we become vessels of honor and usefulness. It’s a continual process, but one that brings eternal beauty to our lives.Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Michael Temple. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the THE MESSAGE / REMIX ®
Faith Like a Child
Photo: Dreamstime
I will never forget his face. Looking up at me he appeared close to tears. I felt terrible for putting him through this but I had to finish the process even though it was breaking my heart.
I was sharing morning chapel with a group of fifth graders and had placed three cups of water on a table in front of the class. I proceeded to explain that I added a colorless, odorless substance to one of the cups that could kill them in four or five minutes. Then I asked the question: “Is there anyone who is willing to come forward, choose one of these three cups and drink it?”
I know. Sounds cruel, doesn’t it? But invariably, in the many times I have used this illustration in school groups, someone comes forward.
On this particular day a little red-headed boy raised his hand and soon stood before me and the three ominous cups. I reiterated the situation he faced regarding the deadly substance I had added to one of the cups. The boy’s countenance began to change from confidence to anticipation, and then to fear. I was beginning to wonder if I should ever do this illustration again and if I could be sued for mental cruelty.
With Shaky Hands
Little Ken felt he must go through with his commitment to save face with the class. With shaky hands he took the middle cup and raised it to his trembling lips. I was feeling worse about myself by the minute. Was I scarring this kid for life? Would his dad look me up and do me in?
We all watched as Ken slowly emptied the cup, placed it back on the table and looked up at me with questioning eyes. Placing my hand on his shoulder I quickly assured him, “Ken, you didn’t drink the wrong cup. The clear, odorless substance I added to one of the cups was nothing but more water. If you put your face in it long enough, yes it can kill you. Right?” Ken took a deep breath of relief and offered a weak smile.
I continued by asking Ken the question I always did at the conclusion of this experiment: “Ken, why did you drink that cup knowing you could die if you picked the wrong one?” The answer broke my heart and still does today. Looking up at me, his eyes misty, he softly said, “Because I knew you wouldn’t let me die.” What an incredible model of faith I will never forget! I now understand more clearly why Jesus said, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).
Here is the simple yet profound conclusion: little Ken knew me. By knowing me he trusted me with his very life. I am reluctantly confronted with this question: do I exhibit that same child-like trust in my Savior? I must confess--I too often hesitate to drink the cup.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
I will never forget his face. Looking up at me he appeared close to tears. I felt terrible for putting him through this but I had to finish the process even though it was breaking my heart.
I was sharing morning chapel with a group of fifth graders and had placed three cups of water on a table in front of the class. I proceeded to explain that I added a colorless, odorless substance to one of the cups that could kill them in four or five minutes. Then I asked the question: “Is there anyone who is willing to come forward, choose one of these three cups and drink it?”
I know. Sounds cruel, doesn’t it? But invariably, in the many times I have used this illustration in school groups, someone comes forward.
On this particular day a little red-headed boy raised his hand and soon stood before me and the three ominous cups. I reiterated the situation he faced regarding the deadly substance I had added to one of the cups. The boy’s countenance began to change from confidence to anticipation, and then to fear. I was beginning to wonder if I should ever do this illustration again and if I could be sued for mental cruelty.
With Shaky Hands
Little Ken felt he must go through with his commitment to save face with the class. With shaky hands he took the middle cup and raised it to his trembling lips. I was feeling worse about myself by the minute. Was I scarring this kid for life? Would his dad look me up and do me in?
We all watched as Ken slowly emptied the cup, placed it back on the table and looked up at me with questioning eyes. Placing my hand on his shoulder I quickly assured him, “Ken, you didn’t drink the wrong cup. The clear, odorless substance I added to one of the cups was nothing but more water. If you put your face in it long enough, yes it can kill you. Right?” Ken took a deep breath of relief and offered a weak smile.
I continued by asking Ken the question I always did at the conclusion of this experiment: “Ken, why did you drink that cup knowing you could die if you picked the wrong one?” The answer broke my heart and still does today. Looking up at me, his eyes misty, he softly said, “Because I knew you wouldn’t let me die.” What an incredible model of faith I will never forget! I now understand more clearly why Jesus said, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).
Here is the simple yet profound conclusion: little Ken knew me. By knowing me he trusted me with his very life. I am reluctantly confronted with this question: do I exhibit that same child-like trust in my Savior? I must confess--I too often hesitate to drink the cup.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By David Snyder. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Closet Christian?
Photo: Studiomill
My teen-age son had been bugging me for a motor bike. After putting him off for a while, one day I thought, Why not? He seems responsible enough. So we started shopping. Then we saw the ad for a bike in our local newspaper, and drove out to look it over.
The owner was a friendly guy, and the bike looked good. I asked the owner if he knew of any problem with the bike. He said he was a Christian, and that the bike was in good condition. So, after my son, Rich, had taken it for a short spin around the block, I wrote the man a check, and we left with the bike and one happy teenager.
We soon learned that the motor bike was not okay. When the repair shop checked it out, they found it had major transmission problems. When I called the guy we had bought it from, he made it very clear that we had bought it “as is,’ and that no way would he take it back. I told him, “I thought you said you were a Christian!” His reply: “I am a Christian, but business is business.” His exact words.
Miss It
Someone has said, “If you can have religion and not know it, you could lose it and never miss it.” It seems that some Christians have lost it. And those who do business with them are the ones who miss it.
The Bible says, “You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept…If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand” (Matthew 5:14, 15).
Our world needs shining Christians—not closet Christians. What kind of Christian are you?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE ®.
My teen-age son had been bugging me for a motor bike. After putting him off for a while, one day I thought, Why not? He seems responsible enough. So we started shopping. Then we saw the ad for a bike in our local newspaper, and drove out to look it over.
The owner was a friendly guy, and the bike looked good. I asked the owner if he knew of any problem with the bike. He said he was a Christian, and that the bike was in good condition. So, after my son, Rich, had taken it for a short spin around the block, I wrote the man a check, and we left with the bike and one happy teenager.
We soon learned that the motor bike was not okay. When the repair shop checked it out, they found it had major transmission problems. When I called the guy we had bought it from, he made it very clear that we had bought it “as is,’ and that no way would he take it back. I told him, “I thought you said you were a Christian!” His reply: “I am a Christian, but business is business.” His exact words.
Miss It
Someone has said, “If you can have religion and not know it, you could lose it and never miss it.” It seems that some Christians have lost it. And those who do business with them are the ones who miss it.
The Bible says, “You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept…If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand” (Matthew 5:14, 15).
Our world needs shining Christians—not closet Christians. What kind of Christian are you?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE ®.
God's Plan For You
Photo: Studiomill
Sitting in a quiet corner of the library, I took one more look at my biology notes. It seemed hours had passed since I had started studying, yet the clock told me otherwise. There was a sinking feeling as I realized how much I had to go over for today’s exam. I felt frustration creeping in. I thought of the long years ahead of me as I studied to complete college and then medical school. I silently prayed asking God, "is this really Your plan for my life?"
Some days, it’s hard for me to see what God has planned for my life. The day starts off bad, and everything seems to go downhill from there. Nothing is going right, maybe for the first time today or for the millionth. I ask God for help but He seems so far away. My instinct is to turn to earthly pleasures: movies, music, novels, but these remedies do not suffice. They do not fill the hole that has been created within me.
I may think that by filling my mind with superficial things, the hole inside me will somehow disappear or begin to repair itself. I have to realize that the only solution, the only remedy that could ever make the void I feel slowly fade away is God’s love. God promises me He will always be there, no matter what the circumstance or situation. His plan for me is more than I could ever imagine. I have a window view of what He has set out for me. He has a mountain view of the life He has prepared for me.
Promise
Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “ plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I can hold on to this truth, to the promise that God has made to me. If my trust is in God, there is nothing in this world that can keep me from all that God wants me to accomplish.
When things get rough, and you don't see God's leading in your life, lift this prayer to the Lord.
My heavenly Father, I know sometimes it gets hard to see where You are leading my life. I pray for perseverance and faith in the promise through Jeremiah that You have given me. Thank You for always being with me, no matter the circumstance or situation.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Jennifer Camps. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Sitting in a quiet corner of the library, I took one more look at my biology notes. It seemed hours had passed since I had started studying, yet the clock told me otherwise. There was a sinking feeling as I realized how much I had to go over for today’s exam. I felt frustration creeping in. I thought of the long years ahead of me as I studied to complete college and then medical school. I silently prayed asking God, "is this really Your plan for my life?"
Some days, it’s hard for me to see what God has planned for my life. The day starts off bad, and everything seems to go downhill from there. Nothing is going right, maybe for the first time today or for the millionth. I ask God for help but He seems so far away. My instinct is to turn to earthly pleasures: movies, music, novels, but these remedies do not suffice. They do not fill the hole that has been created within me.
I may think that by filling my mind with superficial things, the hole inside me will somehow disappear or begin to repair itself. I have to realize that the only solution, the only remedy that could ever make the void I feel slowly fade away is God’s love. God promises me He will always be there, no matter what the circumstance or situation. His plan for me is more than I could ever imagine. I have a window view of what He has set out for me. He has a mountain view of the life He has prepared for me.
Promise
Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “ plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I can hold on to this truth, to the promise that God has made to me. If my trust is in God, there is nothing in this world that can keep me from all that God wants me to accomplish.
When things get rough, and you don't see God's leading in your life, lift this prayer to the Lord.
My heavenly Father, I know sometimes it gets hard to see where You are leading my life. I pray for perseverance and faith in the promise through Jeremiah that You have given me. Thank You for always being with me, no matter the circumstance or situation.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Jennifer Camps. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Love Letters
Photo: Viv Van Der Holst
Somewhere deep in the corner of our basement is a cardboard box. Inside this box are several shoe boxes full of love letters that my wife and I wrote each other while dating in college. I told my children they were personal and not to read them. (I think the letters might burn their eyeballs!)
One summer, while working at a Christian summer camp for children, I wrote letters several times a week to her. I enjoyed writing letters to my sweetheart, but it was even more exciting to receive letters from her. Nothing could make my day more special than to receive a love letter from the one I loved (except getting to see her).
Writing love letters is one way lover’s hearts are bound together. Each note may seem small, but over a period of time these personal expressions of love create stronger ties. Like threads around a person’s wrists, a few strands can be easily snapped, but dozens of strands cannot be broken without much effort. Many married couples have lost their first feelings of love for their spouse. Counselors tell us that if they were to repeat some of their early acts of affection those feelings would return.
We are Dear to Someone
God has sent us a love letter—the Bible. In the written word we find expressions of love and commitment. The Lord longs to be with us. God misses us very much and has feelings of affection for us (See Deuteronomy 23:5 and Zephaniah 3:17).This love is so special and life-transforming that it changes our lives for good. We are loved. We are valued. We are dear to Someone.
The Bible also compares Christians to a letter to be given to the world. The Apostle Paul writes: “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody” (2 Corinthians 3:2 NIV). Not only has God sent us a love letter in the Bible, but calls us to be love letters to the world. As we live for Christ, others will read in our lives God’s love for them. The Lord could have chosen angels or even emails to send messages to the world, but God chose you to communicate a precious message of love.
Some people have lost their first love for the Lord. Your life may be like threads that bind people’s hearts to God. When Jesus Christ lives in your heart, it will be like a wonderfully penned love letter to those around you. Paul continues, “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts” (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your life can be a love letter from God to other people.
It’s fun to read old love letters. Perhaps it is time to write some new ones—today.
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Somewhere deep in the corner of our basement is a cardboard box. Inside this box are several shoe boxes full of love letters that my wife and I wrote each other while dating in college. I told my children they were personal and not to read them. (I think the letters might burn their eyeballs!)
One summer, while working at a Christian summer camp for children, I wrote letters several times a week to her. I enjoyed writing letters to my sweetheart, but it was even more exciting to receive letters from her. Nothing could make my day more special than to receive a love letter from the one I loved (except getting to see her).
Writing love letters is one way lover’s hearts are bound together. Each note may seem small, but over a period of time these personal expressions of love create stronger ties. Like threads around a person’s wrists, a few strands can be easily snapped, but dozens of strands cannot be broken without much effort. Many married couples have lost their first feelings of love for their spouse. Counselors tell us that if they were to repeat some of their early acts of affection those feelings would return.
We are Dear to Someone
God has sent us a love letter—the Bible. In the written word we find expressions of love and commitment. The Lord longs to be with us. God misses us very much and has feelings of affection for us (See Deuteronomy 23:5 and Zephaniah 3:17).This love is so special and life-transforming that it changes our lives for good. We are loved. We are valued. We are dear to Someone.
The Bible also compares Christians to a letter to be given to the world. The Apostle Paul writes: “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody” (2 Corinthians 3:2 NIV). Not only has God sent us a love letter in the Bible, but calls us to be love letters to the world. As we live for Christ, others will read in our lives God’s love for them. The Lord could have chosen angels or even emails to send messages to the world, but God chose you to communicate a precious message of love.
Some people have lost their first love for the Lord. Your life may be like threads that bind people’s hearts to God. When Jesus Christ lives in your heart, it will be like a wonderfully penned love letter to those around you. Paul continues, “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts” (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your life can be a love letter from God to other people.
It’s fun to read old love letters. Perhaps it is time to write some new ones—today.
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
To Use, Not to Have
Photo: Studiomill
“Being conservative is a sin,” stated the young guest preacher at our church. “It will kill us.”
I glanced around warily at my fellow parishioners. Didn’t this sleek California boy know his audience? We are Mid-westerners—the children and grandchildren of sturdy, practical homesteaders and farmers. Our forbearers would never have survived the howling winter blizzards or sun-scorched summers of blowing sand without the mottos of “Waste not, want not” and “Save for a rainy day.” Conservation was necessary for survival. No one squandered money, energy supplies or words.
“We must be generous—even lavish—in our responses to Jesus,” the speaker went on. “Christianity is all about Jesus Christ, not about rules or laws or buildings or organizations. Christianity is to use, not to have. An attitude of protectionism will lead us to institutionalism, which is soon followed by death.”
He then pointed out that the goal of Christians should be to “give it away, use it up, pour it out, so you have nothing left when Jesus Christ returns. Christianity can never be a calculated love. It must be a love of abandonment, of total immersion, of surrendering everything to Christ. It’s not about us, or what makes us happy. It’s about Jesus Christ and what He did and is doing for us.”
Given Away
As I mulled over these thoughts later in the day I realized how strong the “protect and preserve” attitudes of my ancestors were and how they have trickled down to me. Yes, some things must be protected and preserved, such as the love between husband and wife. But other things need to be used or given away, not saved up.
So today I am resolving to practice extravagance. When people knock on my door collecting cans for the local food pantry I’m not going to hand them one or two. I’m going to give them all they can carry. I’m going to go through our closets and give away extra coats and gloves and blankets because someone could be using them right now. I’m going to pick the flowers that bloom in the garden and give them away. I’m going to set the table with Grandma’s china every Sabbath. I’m going to use our best sheets and towels for everyday. I’m going to serve the special home canned applesauce whenever anybody wants it. And no matter what, I’m going to hug my teenagers every day.
Most of all I want to be lavish in my love to Jesus Christ. Of course I realize that any love I can give is only a reflection of God’s love already poured out to me. And that love is by far the most generous, the most giving, the most extravagant of all.
"We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Brenda Dickerson. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
“Being conservative is a sin,” stated the young guest preacher at our church. “It will kill us.”
I glanced around warily at my fellow parishioners. Didn’t this sleek California boy know his audience? We are Mid-westerners—the children and grandchildren of sturdy, practical homesteaders and farmers. Our forbearers would never have survived the howling winter blizzards or sun-scorched summers of blowing sand without the mottos of “Waste not, want not” and “Save for a rainy day.” Conservation was necessary for survival. No one squandered money, energy supplies or words.
“We must be generous—even lavish—in our responses to Jesus,” the speaker went on. “Christianity is all about Jesus Christ, not about rules or laws or buildings or organizations. Christianity is to use, not to have. An attitude of protectionism will lead us to institutionalism, which is soon followed by death.”
He then pointed out that the goal of Christians should be to “give it away, use it up, pour it out, so you have nothing left when Jesus Christ returns. Christianity can never be a calculated love. It must be a love of abandonment, of total immersion, of surrendering everything to Christ. It’s not about us, or what makes us happy. It’s about Jesus Christ and what He did and is doing for us.”
Given Away
As I mulled over these thoughts later in the day I realized how strong the “protect and preserve” attitudes of my ancestors were and how they have trickled down to me. Yes, some things must be protected and preserved, such as the love between husband and wife. But other things need to be used or given away, not saved up.
So today I am resolving to practice extravagance. When people knock on my door collecting cans for the local food pantry I’m not going to hand them one or two. I’m going to give them all they can carry. I’m going to go through our closets and give away extra coats and gloves and blankets because someone could be using them right now. I’m going to pick the flowers that bloom in the garden and give them away. I’m going to set the table with Grandma’s china every Sabbath. I’m going to use our best sheets and towels for everyday. I’m going to serve the special home canned applesauce whenever anybody wants it. And no matter what, I’m going to hug my teenagers every day.
Most of all I want to be lavish in my love to Jesus Christ. Of course I realize that any love I can give is only a reflection of God’s love already poured out to me. And that love is by far the most generous, the most giving, the most extravagant of all.
"We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Brenda Dickerson. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Not Mine, His
Photo: Sebastian Czapnik
I close the laptop and rub my forehead in frustration. I feel like my life works around a pattern. A very unpleasant pattern that consists of me making plans, getting way too excited about them, and leaving God completely out of the equation. The only thing that gets me out of my pattern is usually a slap in the face, which came today in the form of a very negative bank statement.It’s a lesson I never learn, it’s not like this hasn't happened before. My mind flashes back to a couple years ago when my favorite artist was releasing a new album. I got really excited, the unhealthy kind of excited, and stayed up past midnight in order to download the album. In the middle of the download, my computer completely shuts off. I should have gotten the message: I was making this album far too important; I was making it a god. But, I did not exactly ‘get the message’. I restarted the computer and tried again.
When I make a plan, not many things can end my resolution to make it come true. In the end, after having bought the album twice and the computer dying, twice, I took a step back and looked at myself. It was nearly 2 a.m and I was showing complete devotion to my plans, more than I had ever shown God. I managed to get the album, but decided that I could wait a few days to listen to it, and spend some time with the real God.
Obsessing Over My Plans
Flash back to the present, and here I am doing it again. Obsessing over my plans for the summer, desperately trying to make money in order to do all that I want to do, never once asking God what His plans for my summer are. I needed that slap today, that negative bank account, in order to take that step back and realize what’s really important.
Fortunately for my pattern and me, God has a pattern of His own. It consists of forgiving me and showing me endless love, no matter how many times I mess up. Two years ago, His pattern led to Him allowing me to listen to the album through a friend of mine who played it in his car. I remember leaning back in the seat and shaking my head with a smile on my face, thinking to myself God, you love me too much. Today, that album contains my favorite Christian song, and never fails to remind me how strong God’s love is. And, today, His pattern cleared the negatives in my bank account.
Did I deserve a happy ending? Absolutely not. But I learned today that God does not wish to deny me the things I want, His only wish is to be in my life, making far better plans for me than I could ever make for myself. I pray that I remember to not focus on my plans or my pattern, but His. I pray that I remember what Proverbs 16: 3 says: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Raquel Levy. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
Rescued from Trouble
Photo: Dreamstime
When I was eight and my sister was six, we lived in a trailer. It was summer, school was out, and we were playing with the kids in the neighborhood. Dad and Mom were working in a plant across the street.
We were playing hide-and-seek. I was “It,” and I could hear the kids running and yelling as they looked for me. I had to find a hiding place quick. As I ran around our trailer, I spied the rear trunk. It’s just the right size to squeeze into, I thought. So in I crawled. The trunk was hinged at the top, so when I let it go, it slammed shut. They’ll never find me in here, I thought.
I was right. I could hear them running and calling as they looked for me. Then everything got quiet. I was smart. After a while, I figured I might as well get out. Then I realized I was not so smart. There was no inside handle. It was pitch dark, with no air, and getting hot and stuffy.
Panic
Then I began to panic. The kids were looking for me elsewhere. Would they ever come back? And, if they did, would they ever think to look in the trunk? Dad and Mom would not come home for a long time. I began to yell and beat on the trunk door.
I had always said my prayers at night. Now it was time for a daytime prayer. I kept on pounding and screaming. Suddenly, the trunk door opened. A little girl had been running by, and had heard me. Fresh air and sunlight had never seemed this good.
God is also good. His Word says, “Pray to Me in time of trouble. I will rescue you, and you will honor Me” (Psalm 50:15).
God keeps His word. You can trust Him. Can He always trust us to keep ours, and to honor Him?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the CONTEMPORARY ENGLISH VERSION ®.
When I was eight and my sister was six, we lived in a trailer. It was summer, school was out, and we were playing with the kids in the neighborhood. Dad and Mom were working in a plant across the street.
We were playing hide-and-seek. I was “It,” and I could hear the kids running and yelling as they looked for me. I had to find a hiding place quick. As I ran around our trailer, I spied the rear trunk. It’s just the right size to squeeze into, I thought. So in I crawled. The trunk was hinged at the top, so when I let it go, it slammed shut. They’ll never find me in here, I thought.
I was right. I could hear them running and calling as they looked for me. Then everything got quiet. I was smart. After a while, I figured I might as well get out. Then I realized I was not so smart. There was no inside handle. It was pitch dark, with no air, and getting hot and stuffy.
Panic
Then I began to panic. The kids were looking for me elsewhere. Would they ever come back? And, if they did, would they ever think to look in the trunk? Dad and Mom would not come home for a long time. I began to yell and beat on the trunk door.
I had always said my prayers at night. Now it was time for a daytime prayer. I kept on pounding and screaming. Suddenly, the trunk door opened. A little girl had been running by, and had heard me. Fresh air and sunlight had never seemed this good.
God is also good. His Word says, “Pray to Me in time of trouble. I will rescue you, and you will honor Me” (Psalm 50:15).
God keeps His word. You can trust Him. Can He always trust us to keep ours, and to honor Him?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the CONTEMPORARY ENGLISH VERSION ®.
Be the Bigger Person
Photo: Simon Howden
No matter how hard you try, there are going to be people in your everyday life that you don't get along with.
My friend and I had a reasonably good friendship. We weren’t the best of friends, but we were there for each other when needed. I had known her for about four years, and we had gotten to know one another on a somewhat personal level. Then one day, we disagreed on something and though we talked it out, it ended up completely ruining what we had.
Have you ever felt like giving up on being the bigger person?
There are days where you may be able to handle being nice to someone who doesn’t return the favor. The first couple of weeks you may tell yourself it’s a phase that will pass. But when it doesn’t, you may feel discouraged. There are times that you want revenge for what that person has done to you, or how they are treating you. You may pray to God for strength, but you still fall into temptation wanting to make that person feel what you feel. When you have no desire left within you to go ahead and show that person the kindness they do not deserve, you may breakdown, and feel like giving up.
Place of Misery
“What is the point?” you may ask yourself. If the person seems to be going on with their life just fine while you seem to be caught in this place of misery, God is the only one who can deliver you. The moment you feel like you are about to crack, with absolutely no strength within you, turn to Him. He is the Deliverer of all. The Lord promises to help us through the tough times we go through.
God loves us no matter what we do, or what we’ve done. It does not matter where we are from or what our past was like. God is always there with open arms to receive us. John 13:34 says, “A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” When it seems like you can no longer be the bigger person, lift this prayer to the Lord:
My Heavenly Father, I know that it will not always be easy to do the right thing. I know that you have commanded me to love others as You have loved us. Give me the strength I need to show kindness to those around me. May Your love shine through me.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Jennifer Camps. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
My friend and I had a reasonably good friendship. We weren’t the best of friends, but we were there for each other when needed. I had known her for about four years, and we had gotten to know one another on a somewhat personal level. Then one day, we disagreed on something and though we talked it out, it ended up completely ruining what we had.
Have you ever felt like giving up on being the bigger person?
There are days where you may be able to handle being nice to someone who doesn’t return the favor. The first couple of weeks you may tell yourself it’s a phase that will pass. But when it doesn’t, you may feel discouraged. There are times that you want revenge for what that person has done to you, or how they are treating you. You may pray to God for strength, but you still fall into temptation wanting to make that person feel what you feel. When you have no desire left within you to go ahead and show that person the kindness they do not deserve, you may breakdown, and feel like giving up.
Place of Misery
“What is the point?” you may ask yourself. If the person seems to be going on with their life just fine while you seem to be caught in this place of misery, God is the only one who can deliver you. The moment you feel like you are about to crack, with absolutely no strength within you, turn to Him. He is the Deliverer of all. The Lord promises to help us through the tough times we go through.
God loves us no matter what we do, or what we’ve done. It does not matter where we are from or what our past was like. God is always there with open arms to receive us. John 13:34 says, “A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” When it seems like you can no longer be the bigger person, lift this prayer to the Lord:
My Heavenly Father, I know that it will not always be easy to do the right thing. I know that you have commanded me to love others as You have loved us. Give me the strength I need to show kindness to those around me. May Your love shine through me.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Jennifer Camps. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
I See You!
Photo: Studiomill
In the realm of Christianity, it is a common understanding and teaching that our omnipresent God sees everything that we do. Some think of this as God keeping an eye on us to make sure we stay in line or maybe to even catch us if we don't! Others believe that God's all-seeing ability is in our favor serving as ceaseless companionship in both joy and sorrow. Either way, we humans seem to think a lot about God seeing us. But how much do we, especially Christians, think about ourselves seeing God? And is it out of line for us to actually “keep an eye” on God?
I think it would be a great benefit for us to adopt a personal endeavor to see God, and yes, to keep an eye on him too! Why? Because the more we look at God, the more we will reflect the image from which we were created. Lately, I've been watching for more and more ways to spot God! Sometimes it's very moving, and sometimes it's just plain fun!
For example, as I saw a tulip tree just beginning to open it's magnificent blossoms just recently, I pulled my car over to look at the sight. Immediately, I heard my voice say in a singy-song fashion, “I see you, God!” Not that I believe that the tulip tree is an image of God, but it's beauty is the work of God's hand. How many ways can you spot God?
Here are some ideas to start:
"See what God has done!" (Numbers 23:23).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
In the realm of Christianity, it is a common understanding and teaching that our omnipresent God sees everything that we do. Some think of this as God keeping an eye on us to make sure we stay in line or maybe to even catch us if we don't! Others believe that God's all-seeing ability is in our favor serving as ceaseless companionship in both joy and sorrow. Either way, we humans seem to think a lot about God seeing us. But how much do we, especially Christians, think about ourselves seeing God? And is it out of line for us to actually “keep an eye” on God?
I think it would be a great benefit for us to adopt a personal endeavor to see God, and yes, to keep an eye on him too! Why? Because the more we look at God, the more we will reflect the image from which we were created. Lately, I've been watching for more and more ways to spot God! Sometimes it's very moving, and sometimes it's just plain fun!
For example, as I saw a tulip tree just beginning to open it's magnificent blossoms just recently, I pulled my car over to look at the sight. Immediately, I heard my voice say in a singy-song fashion, “I see you, God!” Not that I believe that the tulip tree is an image of God, but it's beauty is the work of God's hand. How many ways can you spot God?
Here are some ideas to start:
- Nature! Right now, spring is bursting forth and God's creative power and love can be seen in everything from dandelions to newborn animals. Take a walk and see how quickly you find yourself saying, “I see You!” This happened to me just last Sabbath. I was walking through the campus of Union College, where the squirrels are practically tame and accept food from people's hands. I spotted a squirrel and he spotted me. As I approached, I was delighted that he didn't run. He just looked directly at me and continued to munch on the nut held snuggly between his fingers. Close up, I could more clearly admire his creation and I watched for some time, looking at the details of his auburn fur, his almond-shaped eyes, and plump torso. And as he saw me and I saw him, I couldn't help thinking that I was also seeing God!
- People. Sadly, in this world there is so much trouble that it can seem challenging to spot God very quickly. But it is often in the midst of those very situations that we get a clear picture of God. For example, next time you hear of a hero like the firemen who saved countless lives in the Twin Towers aftermath, realize that you are seeing God in their actions. Or when you see something as routine as a child holding a door for an elderly person to pass through first, you are seeing God. Look carefully and might even see God in your own actions!
- Pain. Strangely, there is a lot of light that can be found in the darkness. Even the darkest depression can be a meeting place with the Comforter. And in that moment of relief, though it may be brief, you have spotted God.
- Praise. Notice your blessings, and actively praise God. God inhabits praise, so when you recognize a blessing, you've spotted God.
"See what God has done!" (Numbers 23:23).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Because We're Broken
Photo: Dreamstime
I’m not sure why it sticks in my mind, but it does. I must have been around six years old at the time. As clear as a video before me I can see myself riding my bike on the sidewalk in front of our house. As I rode I passed a neighbor lady pulling her little boy in a red wagon. Her child was wearing a children’s cowboy hat and as I passed the hat flew off, either by the wind or the boy pulled it off. Anyway, the mother lit into me and let me know I would probably burn in hell fire for my evil ways. I tried to explain that I was innocent, but the verdict was passed down.
This incident troubled me so much that I did something I don’t totally understand to this day. I decided I had to be right with God and the world, so I would go and apologize for something I didn’t do. The following morning I fearfully walked up to her door and knocked. She soon appeared and looked down at me like the Wicked Witch of West. “So, you came to apologize, huh?” she blurted out. I offered a weak “Yes” and ran home.
I share this because there was a desire inside me to be good that God placed in my heart. When I became a Christian I believed I could finally be “good” all the time. After all, I was born again and had joined the church. But reality soon struck and being good all the time just didn’t happen. I felt like Paul, the Apostle, when he announced, “. . . for I have a desire to do what is good, but I can not carry it out” (Romans 7:18). This may sound like a lot of us but it’s not “the rest of the story”, as Paul Harvey used to say.
Recall
We must remember that we are all broken. We just don’t work right and we haven’t since the Garden issue with Adam and Eve. We are broken, and even though the Manufacturer has given us a detailed instruction Book, we fail to follow it as we should. The truth is, we will remain broken until the Manufacturer does a recall at His second coming.
Actually, we don’t have to sin. But we will sin, at least those of us who will admit it. That’s why the Bible offers these hopeful words, “But if anyone does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1). What a Savior!
I still want to be “good.” Not to earn points with God, but because I am compelled by His great love. And when I do blow it, I run to the cross and remind myself what it was all about. God said He would cast my sins to the bottom of the sea.
Do you see the “No Fishing” sign?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By David Snyder. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
I’m not sure why it sticks in my mind, but it does. I must have been around six years old at the time. As clear as a video before me I can see myself riding my bike on the sidewalk in front of our house. As I rode I passed a neighbor lady pulling her little boy in a red wagon. Her child was wearing a children’s cowboy hat and as I passed the hat flew off, either by the wind or the boy pulled it off. Anyway, the mother lit into me and let me know I would probably burn in hell fire for my evil ways. I tried to explain that I was innocent, but the verdict was passed down.
This incident troubled me so much that I did something I don’t totally understand to this day. I decided I had to be right with God and the world, so I would go and apologize for something I didn’t do. The following morning I fearfully walked up to her door and knocked. She soon appeared and looked down at me like the Wicked Witch of West. “So, you came to apologize, huh?” she blurted out. I offered a weak “Yes” and ran home.
I share this because there was a desire inside me to be good that God placed in my heart. When I became a Christian I believed I could finally be “good” all the time. After all, I was born again and had joined the church. But reality soon struck and being good all the time just didn’t happen. I felt like Paul, the Apostle, when he announced, “. . . for I have a desire to do what is good, but I can not carry it out” (Romans 7:18). This may sound like a lot of us but it’s not “the rest of the story”, as Paul Harvey used to say.
Recall
We must remember that we are all broken. We just don’t work right and we haven’t since the Garden issue with Adam and Eve. We are broken, and even though the Manufacturer has given us a detailed instruction Book, we fail to follow it as we should. The truth is, we will remain broken until the Manufacturer does a recall at His second coming.
Actually, we don’t have to sin. But we will sin, at least those of us who will admit it. That’s why the Bible offers these hopeful words, “But if anyone does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1). What a Savior!
I still want to be “good.” Not to earn points with God, but because I am compelled by His great love. And when I do blow it, I run to the cross and remind myself what it was all about. God said He would cast my sins to the bottom of the sea.
Do you see the “No Fishing” sign?
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By David Snyder. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Yet I Will Rejoice
Photo: Jun He
In the three short chapters of the unlikely book of Habakkuk we find a fascinating dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk is explaining to God that things are not going well in his life. Nothing is as it’s supposed to be. Habakkuk complains of injustices, violence, destruction and strife.
But God’s answer in chapter 1verse 5 is exciting: Look, watch, be amazed, because I’m going to do something great! However, Habakkuk doesn’t think God’s plan sounds all that great. It seems that God is going to allow them to be entirely wiped out by their enemies.
Fortunately, the prophet decides to climb up into the watchtower and wait for God to explain the answer. And God does. God also reminds Habakkuk that “if it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed” (Habakkuk 2:3 NLT).
Habakkuk must have been encouraged by God’s second answer because the final prayer he sings states that even though his livelihood is gone and his possessions have vanished, even if the cupboards are bare, “yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
Five Reasons to Rejoice
From reading Scripture we can know that whatever is going wrong, whatever the trials are, we as Christians have at least five biblical reasons to rejoice.
In the three short chapters of the unlikely book of Habakkuk we find a fascinating dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk is explaining to God that things are not going well in his life. Nothing is as it’s supposed to be. Habakkuk complains of injustices, violence, destruction and strife.
But God’s answer in chapter 1verse 5 is exciting: Look, watch, be amazed, because I’m going to do something great! However, Habakkuk doesn’t think God’s plan sounds all that great. It seems that God is going to allow them to be entirely wiped out by their enemies.
Fortunately, the prophet decides to climb up into the watchtower and wait for God to explain the answer. And God does. God also reminds Habakkuk that “if it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed” (Habakkuk 2:3 NLT).
Habakkuk must have been encouraged by God’s second answer because the final prayer he sings states that even though his livelihood is gone and his possessions have vanished, even if the cupboards are bare, “yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
Five Reasons to Rejoice
From reading Scripture we can know that whatever is going wrong, whatever the trials are, we as Christians have at least five biblical reasons to rejoice.
1. We have salvation (Isaiah 61:10).
2. Trials produce strong character (Romans 5: 1-5).
3. Trouble gives us an opportunity to witness (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
4. Enduring hard times focuses our attention on heaven (Matthew 5:11-12).
5. Jesus, our example, rejoiced in suffering (Luke 22:19-20).
I Peter 4:12-13 (NIV) says, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”
To those of us who are in the midst of trials, waiting for God’s glory to be revealed may be very difficult. It can help to remember that trials are temporary. God will eventually make everything right. In the mean time, we can follow Habakkuk’s example and climb up into our watch towers to steadfastly wait for God’s answers. And while we wait we can choose to rejoice through Jesus Christ.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Brenda Dickerson. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW LIVING TRANASLATION and the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Clogged Pipes
Photo: Dreamstime
I recently did some work on our downstairs shower. I installed a new shower faucet handle but I accidentally reversed the hot and cold. When I finally switched the pipes around I discovered the faucet handle had quit working properly. Only a dribble of water was coming out of the showerhead no matter which way I turned the handle. I checked to make sure I had turned all the water back on. Still it just wasn’t working.
So I called a toll free support line for this faucet. The operator was very kind and offered to send out another faucet cartridge at no charge. “Great!” I concluded. When I got the new cartridge and installed it, there was not one bit of difference in how much water dribbled out of the shower head. So I took the cartridge out, cleaned it, checked it over, read the instructions again and put it back in. Same problem.
I called the toll free support line once more. Another friendly operator offered to send out another faucet cartridge. I knew this one would do the trick. I was just having bad luck. But I was wrong. I went through the same routine and ended up with the same results. My patience was starting to dribble like the water out of the shower head.
I "Knew"
A third time I called the toll free support line. The kind operator listened to my whole story and then asked, “Have you taken the showerhead off to see if it might be clogged? Maybe that is where your problem is located.” I hadn’t tried this because I “knew” where the problem was located. But I said I would try this and then call back if it didn’t solve my problem.
I never called back. The problem was not the cartridge. It was somewhere else (a clogged showerhead).
That reminds me of a Bible verse I have often prayed: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting” (Psalms 139:23, 24). I admit that I often think I know where the problem is located, but when I continue to pray and listen to God speak to my heart, I discover the problem is somewhere else.
When you are having a “clogged pipe” experience in your life, slow down and pray this Psalms 139 prayer. Wait on God. Listen. You might discover your problem is not where you might think.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
I recently did some work on our downstairs shower. I installed a new shower faucet handle but I accidentally reversed the hot and cold. When I finally switched the pipes around I discovered the faucet handle had quit working properly. Only a dribble of water was coming out of the showerhead no matter which way I turned the handle. I checked to make sure I had turned all the water back on. Still it just wasn’t working.
So I called a toll free support line for this faucet. The operator was very kind and offered to send out another faucet cartridge at no charge. “Great!” I concluded. When I got the new cartridge and installed it, there was not one bit of difference in how much water dribbled out of the shower head. So I took the cartridge out, cleaned it, checked it over, read the instructions again and put it back in. Same problem.
I called the toll free support line once more. Another friendly operator offered to send out another faucet cartridge. I knew this one would do the trick. I was just having bad luck. But I was wrong. I went through the same routine and ended up with the same results. My patience was starting to dribble like the water out of the shower head.
I "Knew"
A third time I called the toll free support line. The kind operator listened to my whole story and then asked, “Have you taken the showerhead off to see if it might be clogged? Maybe that is where your problem is located.” I hadn’t tried this because I “knew” where the problem was located. But I said I would try this and then call back if it didn’t solve my problem.
I never called back. The problem was not the cartridge. It was somewhere else (a clogged showerhead).
That reminds me of a Bible verse I have often prayed: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting” (Psalms 139:23, 24). I admit that I often think I know where the problem is located, but when I continue to pray and listen to God speak to my heart, I discover the problem is somewhere else.
When you are having a “clogged pipe” experience in your life, slow down and pray this Psalms 139 prayer. Wait on God. Listen. You might discover your problem is not where you might think.
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Curtis Rittenour. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
The Perfect Storm
Photo: Dmitri Zakovorotny
The day had been clear, and the sea calm. Jesus had spent a busy day by the Sea of Galilee, teaching the crowds of people. He had spoken many of His parables explaining the kingdom of God. Jesus had worked many miracles healing the sick. All this activity hadn't allowed Him and his disciples time to eat and rest. So Jesus told His disciples to get into their boat and go to the other side of the lake. It wasn't as inhabited over there, and they would have some time to take a break and relax.
Since Jesus was so exhausted, He went to sleep almost as soon as He lay down in the back of the boat. While He slept, the disciples talked about what they would do during their time off. None of them suspected that disaster would soon threaten. All signs pointed to smooth sailing. But when it got dark, the weather changed drastically. A fierce storm swept in, and their boat was swamped.
The disciples had been in a lot of storms, but never anything like this. They tried everything to save themselves and the ship. Nothing helped. It would take a miracle to save them. They had been so busy in their efforts, they had forgotten all about Jesus. As the lightning flashed, they saw Him lying there asleep. They shook Him and cried out, "Teacher, don't You care that we're about to drown?" (Mark 4:38).
Amazed
Jesus awoke and calmly asked, "Why are you so afraid? You surely don't have much faith" (Matthew 8:26). Then Jesus got up and ordered the storm to stop. It did, and the wind and the waves got calm. The disciples were amazed. They exclaimed, "What kind of man is this, that even the wind and waves do what He says?" (Verse 27).
Aren't we all sometimes like those disciples? When we're all jerked around with life's storms, we often forget all about Jesus, and try to save ourselves. We try to do things in our own strength, until we're worn out, and all our hope is gone. Then, when we finally do think about Jesus, we often wonder if He really cares what happens to us. But when we do cry out to Jesus, He will always hear us and come to our rescue.
Remember, friend, Jesus is the only One Who can give you peace, and calm the storms in your life. When you have Jesus on board, there's no reason ever to be afraid. Why not always make Jesus the captain of your ship? He will bring you safely into port.
The Bible says, "He made the storm stop and the sea be quiet. You were happy because of this, and He brought you to the port where you wanted to go" (Psalm 107:29, 30).
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the CONTEMPORAY ENGLISH VERSION ®.
The day had been clear, and the sea calm. Jesus had spent a busy day by the Sea of Galilee, teaching the crowds of people. He had spoken many of His parables explaining the kingdom of God. Jesus had worked many miracles healing the sick. All this activity hadn't allowed Him and his disciples time to eat and rest. So Jesus told His disciples to get into their boat and go to the other side of the lake. It wasn't as inhabited over there, and they would have some time to take a break and relax.
Since Jesus was so exhausted, He went to sleep almost as soon as He lay down in the back of the boat. While He slept, the disciples talked about what they would do during their time off. None of them suspected that disaster would soon threaten. All signs pointed to smooth sailing. But when it got dark, the weather changed drastically. A fierce storm swept in, and their boat was swamped.
The disciples had been in a lot of storms, but never anything like this. They tried everything to save themselves and the ship. Nothing helped. It would take a miracle to save them. They had been so busy in their efforts, they had forgotten all about Jesus. As the lightning flashed, they saw Him lying there asleep. They shook Him and cried out, "Teacher, don't You care that we're about to drown?" (Mark 4:38).
Amazed
Jesus awoke and calmly asked, "Why are you so afraid? You surely don't have much faith" (Matthew 8:26). Then Jesus got up and ordered the storm to stop. It did, and the wind and the waves got calm. The disciples were amazed. They exclaimed, "What kind of man is this, that even the wind and waves do what He says?" (Verse 27).
Aren't we all sometimes like those disciples? When we're all jerked around with life's storms, we often forget all about Jesus, and try to save ourselves. We try to do things in our own strength, until we're worn out, and all our hope is gone. Then, when we finally do think about Jesus, we often wonder if He really cares what happens to us. But when we do cry out to Jesus, He will always hear us and come to our rescue.
Remember, friend, Jesus is the only One Who can give you peace, and calm the storms in your life. When you have Jesus on board, there's no reason ever to be afraid. Why not always make Jesus the captain of your ship? He will bring you safely into port.
The Bible says, "He made the storm stop and the sea be quiet. You were happy because of this, and He brought you to the port where you wanted to go" (Psalm 107:29, 30).
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Bob DuBose. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the CONTEMPORAY ENGLISH VERSION ®.
Celebrating Sabbath
Photo: Dreamstime
As I read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, I discover that God's Sabbath has been and always will be celebrated. As a gift to man, the Sabbath was given at Creation. It was observed through Old and New Testament times, and is mentioned as a day that will be celebrated even in the New Earth. Why? Celebrating Sabbath honors God as Creator and Redeemer is certainly worth holding on to throughout the ages.
It is also a joy to celebrate Sabbath throughout the phases of our earthly lives. I think of the great family traditions in my own childhood that made Sabbath special. There was the “Sabbath Box” that my mom got out only on Sabbath, which contained various crafts, books, and tapes. And I have to laugh when I think about the special treat of frozen dinners that we would have on Sabbath sometimes. Now my mom is an excellent cook, but for some reason, we thought TV dinners were some great luxury. So when the time-bake oven came into the picture, we could come home from church and smell the aroma of the TV dinners all cooked and ready to be eaten.
When I got older, I enjoyed special Bible knowledge games that my family played together on Sabbath. Music was also a great part of the special day.
Family Fun
When Mark and I married and had our own children, we passed on our love for the Sabbath to them and added some of our own family fun. For example, our kids had matching Minnie and Mickey Mouse sleeping bags. Since they didn't do a lot of camping at that age, they brought them into our room and camped each Friday night beside our bed.
Now that the children have grown up, we are in another phase of life with new traditions. But one thing that time does not change is our love and celebration of Sabbath. There are no kids camping in our room, but that same special presence of God that comes with the arrival of this time each week never leaves. I now enjoy sitting in a comfortable chair reading the Bible or an inspirational magazine or book. Or maybe taking a relaxing ride on the back of Mark's motorcycle and enjoying a scenic destination. A peaceful walk helps us forget for a few hours the cares of the past week and the ones that will, no doubt, be awaiting us in the coming week.
I imagine when we grow older, we will find even more ways to enjoy the Sabbath blessing. Perhaps we'll hold grandchildren on our laps and read them stories about Jesus and teach them songs of praise to God, their Creator. Perhaps age will cause us to nod off now and then during church services. Whatever comes with the years, though, will bring with it a continued love for this weekly celebration that was handed down first from God, then from our parents, followed by our sharing it with our own children.
As the hymn rings, "welcome, welcome, ever welcome, blessed Sabbath day", so ring our hearts with gladness for this special time of fellowship with our Creator and each other.
"The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
As I read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, I discover that God's Sabbath has been and always will be celebrated. As a gift to man, the Sabbath was given at Creation. It was observed through Old and New Testament times, and is mentioned as a day that will be celebrated even in the New Earth. Why? Celebrating Sabbath honors God as Creator and Redeemer is certainly worth holding on to throughout the ages.
It is also a joy to celebrate Sabbath throughout the phases of our earthly lives. I think of the great family traditions in my own childhood that made Sabbath special. There was the “Sabbath Box” that my mom got out only on Sabbath, which contained various crafts, books, and tapes. And I have to laugh when I think about the special treat of frozen dinners that we would have on Sabbath sometimes. Now my mom is an excellent cook, but for some reason, we thought TV dinners were some great luxury. So when the time-bake oven came into the picture, we could come home from church and smell the aroma of the TV dinners all cooked and ready to be eaten.
When I got older, I enjoyed special Bible knowledge games that my family played together on Sabbath. Music was also a great part of the special day.
Family Fun
When Mark and I married and had our own children, we passed on our love for the Sabbath to them and added some of our own family fun. For example, our kids had matching Minnie and Mickey Mouse sleeping bags. Since they didn't do a lot of camping at that age, they brought them into our room and camped each Friday night beside our bed.
Now that the children have grown up, we are in another phase of life with new traditions. But one thing that time does not change is our love and celebration of Sabbath. There are no kids camping in our room, but that same special presence of God that comes with the arrival of this time each week never leaves. I now enjoy sitting in a comfortable chair reading the Bible or an inspirational magazine or book. Or maybe taking a relaxing ride on the back of Mark's motorcycle and enjoying a scenic destination. A peaceful walk helps us forget for a few hours the cares of the past week and the ones that will, no doubt, be awaiting us in the coming week.
I imagine when we grow older, we will find even more ways to enjoy the Sabbath blessing. Perhaps we'll hold grandchildren on our laps and read them stories about Jesus and teach them songs of praise to God, their Creator. Perhaps age will cause us to nod off now and then during church services. Whatever comes with the years, though, will bring with it a continued love for this weekly celebration that was handed down first from God, then from our parents, followed by our sharing it with our own children.
As the hymn rings, "welcome, welcome, ever welcome, blessed Sabbath day", so ring our hearts with gladness for this special time of fellowship with our Creator and each other.
"The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27).
Respond to this article View Reader Comments
______________________________
By Gwen Scott Simmons. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®.
Holy Anger
Photo: Dreamstime
I was sure the entire hallway could hear our angry screams. I was also sure they’d heard my voice before; I wasn’t exactly the quietest of girls, and Sally and I always found some way to argue. I love Sally, but that doesn’t stop me from yelling at her. Just the opposite, I argue with her because I care so much about her.
I have the hardest time convincing people that I am showing care whenever I yell at them. If I claim to care about you, you need only check my voice levels when I’m around you for proof. And if I want to punch your face, and express that particular thought aloud, that is the highest form of love I can achieve. If I didn’t care about you, I would be indifferent to the way you treat me or the choices you make. As Elie Wiesel, holocaust survivor and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize once said, “The opposite of love is not hate, it is indifference.”
At a Bible study one Friday night we were discussing Hosea and how God told him to marry a prostitute so that He could show Israel that they had been unfaithful to Him. Some particularly harsh passages in Hosea 2 had my eyes wide open and my hand over my mouth. God spoke of His anger towards Israel—his wife—in vivid language, threatening to expose her and bring charges against her, strip her naked, slaying her with thirst and making her like a desert. I listened to the words with discomfort until we got to verse 13: “ ‘she went after her lovers, but Me she forgot,’ says the Lord.”
Vulnerable
Those words made the God of the universe, the Maker of all, sound so… vulnerable. I had been shocked at seeing harsh words come from a God that everyone had told me was loving and compassionate, and then I remembered Sally. I love her so much I could not possibly be indifferent to her. God could have, very easily, sat on his throne in Heaven saying, “Okay, go ahead and make horrible choices that will harm you, I will do nothing to stop you. I don’t care what you do, I’ll be okay, because, frankly, I don’t care about you.” How would you respond if your significant other responded with a careless shrug after you confessed you had been unfaithful? You might wonder, did you ever love me at all?
Instead of not caring, God lowers himself to a negative, lowly emotion, caring so much about his unfaithful bride that He follows her through her unfaithfulness, trying to bring her back, and when she does come back He accepts her with open arms. “I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in lovingkindness and mercy” Hosea 2:19 NKJV.
God is not indifferent to us, because He loves us. The anger of the Maker of all can seem terrifying, but God’s anger is not like our anger, it is holy anger. It is not impulsive and it is not to be paired with lightning. God’s anger comes from love; God’s anger is love. Best of all, God’s anger may be great, but it is always followed by His even greater compassion.
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Raquel Levy. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.
I was sure the entire hallway could hear our angry screams. I was also sure they’d heard my voice before; I wasn’t exactly the quietest of girls, and Sally and I always found some way to argue. I love Sally, but that doesn’t stop me from yelling at her. Just the opposite, I argue with her because I care so much about her.
I have the hardest time convincing people that I am showing care whenever I yell at them. If I claim to care about you, you need only check my voice levels when I’m around you for proof. And if I want to punch your face, and express that particular thought aloud, that is the highest form of love I can achieve. If I didn’t care about you, I would be indifferent to the way you treat me or the choices you make. As Elie Wiesel, holocaust survivor and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize once said, “The opposite of love is not hate, it is indifference.”
At a Bible study one Friday night we were discussing Hosea and how God told him to marry a prostitute so that He could show Israel that they had been unfaithful to Him. Some particularly harsh passages in Hosea 2 had my eyes wide open and my hand over my mouth. God spoke of His anger towards Israel—his wife—in vivid language, threatening to expose her and bring charges against her, strip her naked, slaying her with thirst and making her like a desert. I listened to the words with discomfort until we got to verse 13: “ ‘she went after her lovers, but Me she forgot,’ says the Lord.”
Vulnerable
Those words made the God of the universe, the Maker of all, sound so… vulnerable. I had been shocked at seeing harsh words come from a God that everyone had told me was loving and compassionate, and then I remembered Sally. I love her so much I could not possibly be indifferent to her. God could have, very easily, sat on his throne in Heaven saying, “Okay, go ahead and make horrible choices that will harm you, I will do nothing to stop you. I don’t care what you do, I’ll be okay, because, frankly, I don’t care about you.” How would you respond if your significant other responded with a careless shrug after you confessed you had been unfaithful? You might wonder, did you ever love me at all?
Instead of not caring, God lowers himself to a negative, lowly emotion, caring so much about his unfaithful bride that He follows her through her unfaithfulness, trying to bring her back, and when she does come back He accepts her with open arms. “I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in lovingkindness and mercy” Hosea 2:19 NKJV.
God is not indifferent to us, because He loves us. The anger of the Maker of all can seem terrifying, but God’s anger is not like our anger, it is holy anger. It is not impulsive and it is not to be paired with lightning. God’s anger comes from love; God’s anger is love. Best of all, God’s anger may be great, but it is always followed by His even greater compassion.
Respond to this articleView Reader Comments
______________________________
By Raquel Levy. Copyright © 2010 by GraceNotes. All rights reserved. Use of this material is subject to usage guidelines. Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION © 1982.