Shrinking Back

But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. 

For, “Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.”

But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. Hebrews 10:32-39, ESV

I once knew a very successful man who announced (since he could now afford it) he would no longer endure dull razor blades. The man could look like Paul Bunyan in two days, so his razors did indeed get a work out. Now, with success, a new razor blade was poised and ready in his medicine cabinet every day.

A famous television football analyst and former coach didn't like airplanes. Forced to fly as a coach, he negotiated the right and means for a private bus to travel to all of his games as a network football commentator. A new razor blade each day is a small thing; even a bus, in a bloated network budget, is a relatively small  thing. Truly for these men both were "necessary" things. The concessions came as rewards for hard work and success. As concessions beget more concessions, one can imagine there were more conveniences for both men as well. With success often comes a sense of entitlement--the thinking that one deserves certain considerations or "perks." Of course entitlement thinking can come from struggle and loss, too: because of a difficult life; perhaps because of one's lack of success, the thought or question of entitlement also can arise. In either case, the question of entitlement is, "Don't I deserve better?" 

Whether through success or hardship-- over time--one's tolerance for enduring difficulties erodes. It is easy to drift toward accumulating things or experiences that might make life better. Conversely, there is a growing aversion to discipline and privation, i.e., "doing without" or "making do." A growing list of  "needs" and a growing list of things one will "not put up with" begins to emerge. In effect, the perimeter of one's "comfort zone" (those things that make a person more comfortable) swells.

To be sure, some people experience very painful things,sometimes unimaginable and unbearable things, and bear the deep scars of significant emotional trauma. It is understandable in those cases if someone cannot revisit those experiences. Yet at the beginning of the passage above, the Scriptures identify some fairly traumatic difficulties that many experienced--and did so faithfully, and willingly. God's Word to us in Hebrews gently reminds,

Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. 

Confidence? Endurance? From things we don't ever want to experience again? How does that work? Well, we are warned that if we do not have those things we will be tempted to "shrink back."

"Shrinking back"--what does that look like? I sense the author of Hebrews is describing the behavior of withdrawing from the pain, struggles, and (frankly) the things we no longer wish to do. He describes the narrowing of one's outward focus and the enlarging of one's inward focus. That narrowing can be especially noticeable in regards to activities and attitudes involving faith.

The idea of "shrinking back"  was heard in the voice of Moses, Gideon and others who were frightened and initially overwhelmed by their calling. It was not present in the lives of people like David or Daniel. Yet, courageous faith became the legacy of anxious people like Abraham, Moses, Gideon, and Mary. "Shrinking back" is the legacy of bold Solomon when his heart turned to pleasures, politics, and acquiescence rather than the firm and uncomfortable convictions of faith.

Living by faith requires spiritual energy and as people get older the youthful (and often fleshly) bravado with which they once approached life's challenges is no longer available. PTL! The unguided and unbridled enthusiasm of youth has sometimes advanced causes that didn't need advancing. But for the present and the future, believers still need to advance God's Kingdom and will need the energy  that only comes by reconnecting anew with the power of the Spirit made possible by faith--a re-energized faith.

Who re-energizes? Only God. Only God (Phil 2:12,13). How does it happen?

And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." And Mary said to the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?"   Luke 1:30-34 ESV

Mary's question is revealing. She had just been told an incredible promise, and her question is "how?" To be sure, Mary was not just questioning the biology of the process. She was rightfully worried about the social ramifications of God's promise, too. Best case scenario, Mary believed she would be divorced and humiliated. Worst case? Death.

But Mary placed her life in God's hands. Perhaps frightened to the bone about her immediate future, she replied, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word (10: 38)."

As we race toward Christmas, well-intentioned people keep asking us what we need, what we want, or what gift would "make our Christmas!" The unfortunate result is a focus on gifting (rather than giving); sadly, we are guided and drawn to focus on ourselves--and our contentment goes out the window as our gaze is drawn to those things we believe we deserve and would make our lives so much better.

Let us reassert that Christmas is about giving, and about serving, and about honoring our Savior and doing all sacrificially. As believers let us ask ourselves if we are willing to keep walking by faith; are we willing to embrace our uncertainties with a bold and renewed trust of (or confidence in) God?

We can shrink back to self-made comforts; we can withdraw to more peaceable confines; we can push the demands of life out and crowd all the comforts we can afford in. We can say "no" more and "yes" to just those few things we trust to be comfortable. In doing so, we will shrink away from the life God called, designed, and hoped for us.

The Bible is filled with heroes (like Mary) who said "yes" to very frightful things. Not surprisingly, since they were responding to God's calling, those frightful things became the greatest blessings in their lives.  

What DO you have?

The Feeding of the Five Thousand was an incredible miracle and such a great teaching tool. It continues to have instruction (on many levels) for us today. Looking at just one aspect of this account we find Andrew making a claim that was representative of the other disciples, but probably contained a tiny bit more hope than the others.

Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.” One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” John 6:5-9 ESV

The verse that follows recounts that Jesus immediately asked the disciples to tell the people to sit down—i.e., get ready to eat. In view of prior discussions, Christ’s response is not logical.

Earlier, John’s Gospel tells us that upon seeing the gathering crowd, Jesus had asked the disciples where one could buy food for this large group of hungry people. Philip had concluded that two hundred days’ worth of wages would not be enough to buy the food necessary—if they could even find that much in the neighboring villages. Clearly, though Jesus had compassion and wanted to feed the people, there just was no earthly way He could do it. If two hundred denarii could not buy enough food, why was Jesus preparing to feed the crowd with a child’s snack?

There are many messages in the miracle, but one message jumps off the page! Christ enlisted the disciples’ help in figuring out this ministry opportunity. Basically, He asked them, “How are we going to feed all these people?” It wasn't an “if” question, it was a “how” question. Philip introduced the conventional approach outlining the money needed, the probabilities, the logistics, and so on. Philip outlined all that they didn't have to be successful. Truly, there were too many obstacles; it couldn't be done.

Andrew, however, was bold (or silly) enough to mention what they did have: a boy’s lunch. But, quickly (perhaps hearing laughter or derision in the background) realized how inadequate his suggestion was: “but what are they for so many?”

Jesus then used the resources (the little boy’s lunch) the disciples had concluded was wholly inadequate—and their reason for not even trying—to feed the multitudes! The lessons become pretty transparent at this point:

1. Jesus can do anything, anytime, anywhere!

2. What Jesus intends to do, He can and will do!

3. The very things that argue against success can be used to achieve God’s purposes!

4. It doesn't take much (on our part) to participate in miracles!

            5. Further, suppose they could have bought the food that was needed. What implications would have followed? Jesus was a nice guy; He was thoughtful, generous, a great host, etc. More importantly, what truths about His character and ministry would have been lost?

Sadly, I am more like Philip than Andrew. I have a gift for seeing the obstacles to any great adventure. I have a gift for seeing what is inadequate by design or practice. I find it easy to rule out opportunities that have no earthly chance of working—why waste time and resources on those things when there are plenty of other good, (and proven) methods, or opportunities that need our time and resources?

Jesus was teaching and healing. For Philip and the others those things were already incredible ministry—a hundred times better than what was happening in the temple and synagogues.

But Jesus wanted to do more.

And, it appears, He was able to do so with very little: a little boy’s lunch and twelve weary, human-thinking disciples. This is humbling for all of us who know what good ministry looks like. We know a church needs compelling facilities, a vague and arresting name, easy parking, up-tempo and contemporary music, outstanding musicians, hip staff, great preaching, lifestyle ministry and leisure activities, and great on-line resources. Pity the fools that can’t manage those things.

Or maybe not: Jesus made ten to twenty thousand servings of food from that little lunch—so much so that they had more leftovers than the food with which He started! Truly, God has raised up some great people and great churches to His glory, but statistically that is not the norm, nor is it (necessarily) God's plan. Perhaps (just perhaps) God can still use humble people and humble programs and humble facilities today . . . Perhaps it is still Jesus that matters most in all that we do.

As believers we need to change our thinking and praying to account for the fact that Jesus is the power and inspiration for all ministry. His glory is our goal! If Jesus is not at work, then all our activity is a silly waste of energy anyway.We need open eyes to see the miracles God wants to do in our lives and ministries. We need to move away from our fixation on conventional wisdom or (worse) what we do not have to freely and unabashedly giving our Lord all that we DO have . . . however humble it might be.

To God be the glory, great things He has done; great things He will do!

Worth Remembering

Sticky notes are useful tools for helping us remember chores, appointments, or the things we need from the grocery store. Basically, the sticky note has replaced the rubber band on the wrist, or the string tied to our finger as a memory aid (my problem with the rubber band was trying to remember what I was trying to remember).

Our minds are bombarded with so much interesting but (let's face it) trivial information. For example, having just finished "Shark Week" I know more about sharks than I will ever need to know (we don't commonly encounter them in Idaho).Coincidentally, the more I know about sharks, the less I like them.

Sharks aside, our minds are bombarded, much of the time, by not just trivial information, but trivia that is (also) incredibly incorrect. What, for example, will one learn about life (self-control, relationships, marriage, values, parenting, purpose, etc)  from dysfunctional reality television programs? Don't get me started: much of television does not even give us "conventional wisdom" anymore, but rather dispenses "conventional dysfunction." Now, like the majority of Americans, I do like a good demolition derby now and then; but it is important to view the carnage as entertainment and not drivers' education. In other words, as long as one views reality television as primarily indicative of the wrong things to do, you may be safe.

There are, however, some great things to learn and incredible messages to remember--especially given the steady stream of bad information being peddled in the media. Here are some great messages to write on your sticky notes and display prominently:

• God is a wise, patient and careful builder
• Since God can use anything for His glory, He can use me.
• God loves; God forgives . . .
• We can't do anything to make God love us any less; we can't do anything to make God love us any more. He already loves us completely.
• God is not tired, over-wrought, selfish, distracted, cranky, or too busy for us.
• God can create with a Word, and heal with the hem of His cloak.
• The Lord is good to all (all the time).
• God is faithful, even when we are faithless.
• Our Savior is full of grace and truth.
• He stands besides those in need--a bruised reed He will not break; a smoldering candle He will not extinguish.
• The Lord is the strength of His people.
• He helps us climb to higher places.
• Our God is our Rock, our Fortress, our Deliverer
• Our God is seeking, responsive, generous, compassionate, redemptive, eager to heal . . .

Well, those are just some examples. When reading Scripture, take note about what the verses say about the character of God and then make your own list. 

The believer needs to be anchored in truth so the confusion of the world does not overtake him or her. Remind yourself daily of the greatness of God-- and of His many blessings to you. Those are the things worth remembering.

A Ton of Difficulty

Remember the reality television show "Gold Rush?" The show followed three quite different but somewhat loveable "families" of miners as they ruthlessly pillaged the beautiful Alaskan countryside in search of gold. Turning beautiful forested valleys into jagged and scarred gravel pits, these adventurers sifted mountains of material in search of the tiniest grains of gold.

All over Alaska there are similar stories of individuals, and large companies converting mountains of dirt and rock into small jars of gold. The effort is truly on a monumental scale. The EPA reports that the ratio of overburden (the dirt they don't want), to the gravel that may contain gold can be as high as 10:1. 

At the largest placer gold mine in North America, Cambior, Inc.'s Valdez Creek Mine near Cantwell, Alaska, approximately 34,000 cubic yards of material were extracted daily. Of this, 3,000 cubic yards pass through the wash plant when it is operating, leaving approximately 90 percent of the material moved as waste.[i]

Now consider for a moment the remaining three thousand cubic yards of “ore” that is processed in the wash plant. Depending on its composition, three thousand cubic yards of ore/gravel can weigh from three thousand to forty-five hundred tons! The pay out—in gold—from this enterprise is measured in mere ounces! Converting thousands of tons to tens of ounces is quite a steep drop off.

Feelings about the possible abuse of pristine lands aside, this is a real-life lesson: great things are often refined from piles and piles of not-so-great things. Great works of art may begin as a huge block of unflinching marble. Great books emerge from thousands of discarded pages. Thin dissertations are the result of the prodigious combing of hundreds of source materials.

It should come as no surprise, then, that spiritual growth travels along similar paths. LeRoy Eims has asserted that “God allows a ton of difficulty to come into our lives to teach us one ounce of wisdom.”[ii]

That may seem like a poor exchange (for us), but like gold mining, the value of the final product more than pays for the trouble—because (in our case) it is God’s wisdom we are receiving; worth far more than any amount of precious metal!  (Psalm 19:10; 119:27, 72; Proverbs 3:14; 8:19; 16: 6)

So in life as in mining there is a sifting process to eliminate that which is not useful. Scripture tells that in life (as in mining) there is also a refining process. The recovered gold flakes and dust have to be smelted and refined; gold has a specific melting point (temperature) and it is typically heated with a specific flux that removes its impurities. The caveat is that the gold has to stay in the furnace until it melts, anything less and refining does not occur (at all).

Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tried you in the furnace of affliction. For my own sake, for my own sake, I do it, for how should my name be profaned? My glory I will not give to another. Isaiah 48:10-11, ESV

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7, ESV

As humans and especially independent American humans, the thought of being shaken, sifted, washed, and then placed in the furnace is anathema! It is the very opposite of comfort. It is the very antithesis of “feeling good about ourselves.” And yet, God lovingly shakes, sifts, washes, and heats us up all the time. You may be feeling the heat even as you read this! Rest assured, our trouble is worth it—He is refining the gold of Christ-like character in us! In fact, it is some kind of heavenly alchemy where God takes that which has no worth and makes us into His sons and daughters. PTL!

“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.  Hebrews 12:5-11 ESV

“It is for discipline that you have to endure . . .” God asks us to cooperate with His discipline, even embrace it so that we might “share His holiness” and reflect the “peaceful fruit of righteousness” to a world that desperately needs our Savior.

So “do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord . . ." Do not consider difficult times to be an unfruitful or an unnecessary waste of time. Do not try to escape the furnace until God has accomplished His purposes in you. He is, after all, God, and He knows what He is doing. God—more so than you and I—knows what He is creating and what it takes to get there.

And from personal experience, let me lend another lesson (in process): Trust is paramount, but at some point blind and resigned trust should be supplanted by confident, expectant, understanding and grateful trust! The grand designer is at work! And (even more amazingly) He is choosing to do His great work in me and you!

So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:16-18 ESV

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4, ESV

In memory of Steve Bekkedahl who ably demonstrated how to embrace adversity and glorify God. His words and example continue to challenge, amaze and guide. Happy birthday big brother.

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[i] Environmental Protection Agency, “Technical Resource Document: Extraction and Beneficiation Of Ores and Minerals, Volume 6, Gold Placers” (1.4.2 Extraction Methods, 1-12) [Internet] http://www.epa.gov/osw/nonhaz/industrial/special/mining/techdocs/placer/placer1.pdf

[ii] LeRoy Eims, Daily Discipleship; A Devotional (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 1998)

Time To Pay Attention

“The Word of God is the fulcrum upon which the lever of prayer is placed, and by which things are mightily moved.”    - E.M. Bounds     

. . . You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.  James 4:2b, 3 ESV

More and more I am realizing that many Evangelical Americans (including myself) are content to live without answers to many important questions and spiritual needs. We have so much in the temporal, earthly sense, that a little uncertainty, and a little "doing without"  does little to upset our little boats. It seems that it is only when big storms hit that we get serious about the things of God.But the daily earnestness to know and understand God and what He is doing is often missing. We are like children in the back seat of our parents' car absorbed by games on mom's smart phone--we are just along for the ride.

In short, our praying and Bible reading is weak; we have been lulled into thinking that we cannot expect much from those two exercises. We know they are good for us (like fiber), but we don't enter into praying or reading the Word with any expectation. Further, after re-reading E.M. Bounds, I am humbled at how little I really know about (and practice) either discipline.

Graciously, God has given me some good stress lately (no great calamities), and extra motivation  to learn some things. Both in my studies and teaching, I am encountering concepts and ideas (and gaps between them) for which I really need answers and connections. In effect, I have to put mom's phone down and pay attention.

So, my prayers are for wisdom and a deeper understanding of God (among many other things) and I'm reading the Bible more; and low and behold, verses are jumping off the page like those crazy flying asian carp. And it is not always "new stuff" that jumps off the page, either. For example, ran across these (familiar) verses the other day:

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Philippians 2:12, 13 ESV

Who knew those verses were right next to each other? Wow! what a difference that makes!

God is so patient and He nudges us at the proper time (repeatedly). May God give you extra motivation this week to seek out His will and way; and may you have an incredibly prosperous time in prayer and Bible study.

Biblical Thinking

Pessimists believe they are in touch with reality. They like to think that they see the whole picture. “Eeyore” is their prophet. Pessimists believe that optimists are those who are simply living unaware of the trouble all around them. “Tigger” might be their holy man. These two camps have always existed and rarely convert one another. But both kinds of thinking are unhealthy for the believer.

In our walk with Christ we are continually assaulted with questions, doubts, fears, struggles. For pessimists, sometimes the mere anticipation of possible new struggles is enough to send them over the edge into discouragement and frustration.

Manipulating one’s thinking or widening one’s perspective sometimes helps. Sure there are others with bigger challenges and problems all around us; sure we are lucky in so many respects; but the burden or anticipated burden of our own immediate lives can still be overwhelming. Surprisingly, people are often overwhelmed by a collection of little things more so than one or two big things. You and I can slog along covered with the barnacles of past failures, deadlines, family expectations, crying children and barking dogs, spilled coffee, and car repairs. Ever present, too, is the guilt that we are not “living victoriously” or “fruitfully.” Sometimes one is tempted to conclude that life is too hard—and looks to remain that way for the foreseeable future. Low and behold, as soon as that sorry conclusion arrives another complication pops up. . . “Great, now life is harder.”

I have just described a very common spiritual problem: it is called “unbiblical thinking.” “Outstanding!” you may be thinking. “Thanks for diagnosing another failure.”

As a recovering “realist” (what pessimists prefer to call themselves), I feel your pain. In my efforts to see the whole picture, I often lean toward the negative. Let us understand from the beginning, however that neither pessimism nor optimism are ultimately useful (especially pessimism). Believers are best served by biblical thinking.

Paul’s letter to the Philippians gives us some key instructions about biblical thinking.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Phil 4:4-9 ESV

Paul lists “rejoicing” and “thanksgiving” as great perspective changers. Especially in prayer! If our prayers are a constant reiteration of what needs fixing in the world and our lives, prayer becomes depressing. Paul also tells us that God’s peace guards our hearts and minds (so it isn’t just a mental exercise on our part); in the middle of the passage Paul encourages us to think about positive things—not the negative ones. We pray and give God the things that make us anxious. We praise and thank Him for who He is and what He does. We also must be careful to practice this kind of behavior.

It would be remiss to not acknowledge the value of putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6) in this context. The passages complement one another. Believers are constantly under siege from an enemy that wants us behaving defensively and despairingly. He is constantly shooting darts and arrows of doubt, confusion, anxiety and mistrust in an effort to get us to disengage the battle. He tries to “shock and awe” us away from the battle field knowing his position and weapons are too weak against the kingdom of Jesus. The evil one works constantly trying to undermine our thinking. But biblical thinking is a gift God provides to help us remain connected to Him and His power.

A practical narrative that illustrates this kind of thinking comes from the fourteenth chapter of the book of Joshua. Caleb, at eighty-five years of age, asks Joshua for permission to attack and take possession of the land promised him by Moses forty-five years earlier.

And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, just as he said, these forty-five years since the time that the Lord spoke this word to Moses, while Israel walked in the wilderness. And now, behold, I am this day eighty-five years old. I am still as strong today as I was in the day that Moses sent me; my strength now is as my strength was then, for war and for going and coming. So now give me this hill country of which the Lord spoke on that day, for you heard on that day how the Anakim were there, with great fortified cities. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall drive them out just as the Lord said.”
Then Joshua blessed him, and he gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. Therefore Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord, the God of Israel. Joshua 14:10-14 ESV

The story of Caleb is brought into sharp relief by a similar narrative from Joshua 17 (vs.14-18). There the tribe of Joseph requested more land and Joshua offered them land presently occupied by their enemies. Rather than embracing the gift and provision of God and relying on His power as Caleb had, the tribe complained that the people on their new land were “strong” and had “iron chariots.” Iron implements (especially chariots) were a decided advantage in war—and few countries had access to iron and the means to smelt it. The people of Israel were still using bronze tools and would do so for several decades in the future. So, Josephs’ observation was a valid one. But they made it a confining and determining condition of their obedience. After all, conventional wisdom believed that fighting against iron chariots was just plain crazy . . .

Honestly, were chariots (of any kind) a problem for God? Their objection reveals they were looking at the chariots and not at God. They looked at their earthly problems and not at the God of the universe.

Swimming pools are a welcome relief on a hot and sweltering day. They can be an instant source of refreshment, but one has to jump in to enjoy the benefits.

Pools, however, are inherently dangerous. One must be able to float or swim. The chemicals in the pool need to be balanced, and pools tend to be too shallow for diving. Knowing all those factors, I have stood at the edge of the pool with each of my children and encouraged them to jump in. I did so because
· I was there
· I knew the water was safe
· The chemicals were balanced
· I always caught them and returned them to the safety of the edge of the pool

The first few times, my kids focused on the water (and their fears) as they jumped. Eventually, however, they began to focus on the one catching them—even scooting dad back further from the edge as they jumped further and further out into that dangerous pool. Perspective and focus changed. It’s all a matter of what fixes your attention.

In our walk of faith, believers are continually asked to choose Faith or Fear, Promise or “Reality”, and are asked to choose upon what to place their attention: God at work or the “impossible” task(s) or challenge(s).

Pessimism is Satan’s way of wresting our attention away from the God of all possibilities to focus on that which confuses and dispirits us. Optimism isn't much better; it overestimates our own abilities and discounts the value of iron chariots. Biblical thinking, by contrast, recognizes the threats for what they are, but more importantly, expends more energy and focus on recognizing God for who He is. Oh, how God longs for us to truly know, understand, and trust Him. What new doors that perspective opens!

Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.” Jeremiah 9:23-24 ESV

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1,2 ESV

No Illusions

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:27-31 ESV

Peter and the other disciples had just witnessed Jesus feeding more than five thousand people by sharing a little boy’s lunch. Surely, Jesus was a miracle worker. Now, seeing Him walk on water, their initial fright was turned to even further amazement. Was there anything Jesus could not do?

Buoyed by these spectacular and dramatic events, Peter was moved to participate in what Jesus was doing—walking on water. We are not told why he wanted to do so. Seems like a crazy thing to even want to try. Jesus was the miracle worker; Jesus was the healer; Jesus was the great teacher; Jesus was the confident one—The one who was never afraid. Peter? He was just a curious and impetuous fisherman.

As a fisherman, Peter knew about water—not in the Archimedean sense, but in the practical sense. Peter knew that men had trouble floating, let alone walking on water (outside of hockey season). So, it is very curious why Peter wanted to get out of the boat in the first place. But, given that he did want to, we can assume a couple of things:

1.       Peter believed that if Jesus was walking on water, then he could, too.

2.       Peter knew that if he did walk on water, it would be (totally) Christ’s doing, (again, assuming Peter’s past experience with the density of water).

Peter is demonstrating great theology here with these two assumptions. Specifically, he understands the nature and power of Jesus and understands his own inadequacy for achieving miracles. But, Peter understands a third and perhaps more vital thing:

3.       If Jesus calls, then Jesus equips.

How many times, have you caught yourself thinking, “I know Jesus is capable of doing ____________, it is me that I am worried about.  . . Jesus is all powerful, but I am the limiting factor.”

Those were the very thoughts of the eleven clinging to the gunwales of that little fishing boat. They were not moving! We are quick to shame Peter for sinking, but the rest of the gang was dry but immobile--frozen by fear.

There is some truth to the idea of you and I being the limiting factor in God’s miracle-working. Two examples are clearly shown in this very passage.

1.       Once outside of the boat, gripped by the fear of his overwhelming circumstances, Peter began to sink. He let fear over-ride trust and faith. In other words, though walking on the water under Jesus’ command and power, suddenly Peter became convinced that what he was doing was impossible (for him) to do, and he started sinking. For a few seconds Peter was “above” reality, and then he let his fears allow him to sink back into reality.

2.       Eleven others, who had equal opportunity to walk on the water with Jesus stayed in the boat—and didn’t even try. Well, clearly, it was a crazy idea . . .

Both positions beg the question: “Why (and at what point) did the disciples believe that walking on water was impossible?” More, “why did they believe their abilities (or inabilities) mattered?”

For the love of pizza, Peter, you were out of the boat! You were walking on water! Did you think you were somehow doing something (in and of yourself) to defy the laws of physics?

Plainly, it was always Jesus, all the time.

Fast forward to today. Peter is a rock star! He got out of the boat! You and I are gripping the gunwales, white with fear, wondering if we will survive the storm. At least Peter quit looking at the storm for a few seconds and considered the amazing power and wonder of God. For a few seconds, Peter knew Jesus could do anything and trusted Him wholeheartedly. For a few seconds, Peter wasn't worried about his contribution to the kingdom. For a few seconds, Peter locked his eyes on Jesus and boldly said, “If You are who I think You are, You will enable me to follow You even in impossible circumstances!”

Did Peter believe he could walk on water? NO! Peter suffered no illusions about his own abilities—he had none! He believed, rather, that Jesus could walk on water. And, when called, Jesus would lift him above the waters, too. That is a subtle distinction but perhaps one that may help us get out of the boat next time. 

You see, when it comes to miracles, it is never us; it is always Jesus, all the time.

Can These Bones Live? Part Two

God is indeed a God of the impossible. Faded dreams, dashed hopes, and lost opportunities are His specialty. The Bible is filled with stories of people whom God brought back from the brink of disaster. Often He did so through incredible miracles--and there was no other way to explain it!

For example, the night before Peter was to be tried and probably convicted (and beheaded), God shook him from his sleep, his shackles, and his prison doors (Acts 12).

And, during the time of Elisha, the people of Samaria were threatened by starvation and/or violent death during the siege of the fearsome Syrian Army. But one morning (when hope seemed to be lost) the people of the city awoke to a miles and miles of food, weapons, and plunder left behind by the soldiers God had frightened away (2 Kings 7).

God can make a way where there is no way. 

        Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old.Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?

I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:16-19 ESV

That said, sometimes there are things in our life that need to die. Sometimes the roads we are travelling must end. Sometimes dreams must be abandoned.

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24 ESV

Hearts that do not know God; even hearts that do know Him have desires that are antithetical to the abundant life Jesus promised (John 10:10). In other words, you and I sometimes have hopes, dreams, plans, and goals that are not godly. They may be "good" or morally neutral dreams, but they do not take us closer to God. We can be mistaken, mislead, and misdirected by sin.

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. James 1:14-15 ESV

A loving and Holy God will not help us resurrect a sinful hope. He cannot; and why would He?

This may be a painful subject for some. We may be grieving a lost opportunity (or hoping it is still out there). We may be wondering if we have tried hard enough, prayed hard enough, worked long enough on our dream. Dare we give it up now?

There is a litmus test we can try that Jesus used. Remember the rich young ruler who came to Jesus asking how he could inherit eternal life (Matt 19, Mark 10)? Jesus replied, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me (Matt 19:21 ESV).”

Scripture tells us that the young man went away in sorrow because he had much wealth. In other words, the price was too high! Jesus asked him to give up his greatest treasure to follow Him. Jesus knew our hearts reside with our treasure(s) (Luke 13:34). And we cannot serve God and pursue our treasure at the same time--until our treasure becomes Jesus.

So, if you value a dream more than Jesus, it has to go. If you pine for a hope other than Jesus, it has to go. If you grieve a lost opportunity more than you anticipate the newness that Christ is building in you, let that opportunity die . .  and let those bones turn to dust.

But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ . . .  Philippians 3:7-8 ESV

The Apostle Paul gave up an incredible career, certain wealth, esteem, admiration, and the approval of the religious and political elite to become a itinerant preacher and missionary. He gave up worldly ambitions to endure hardship, beatings, derision, death threats, prison, and privation. AND, he never looked back! Paul liked to use words translated "surpassing" a lot in his letters. His experience with Jesus was "over the top!" Even considering the price he was constantly paying, Paul considered his "profit" inestimable (too high to count)!

Sometimes a bad plan has to die in order for God to give us His best one. As Jim Elliot once said, "he is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep in order to gain what he cannot lose." God wants His best for us, not some poor imitation. That is the testimony of the Scriptures. God's blessings to you as you seek to discern His way.

Can These Bones Live?

The hand of the LORD was upon me, and he brought me out in the Spirit of the LORD and set me down in the middle of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me around among them, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley, and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord GOD, you know.” Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the LORD.”

So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I prophesied, there was a sound, and behold, a rattling, and the bones came together, bone to its bone. And I looked, and behold, there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them. But there was no breath in them. Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, Thus says the Lord GOD: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.” So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived and stood on their feet, an exceedingly great army.

Then he said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. Behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are indeed cut off.’ Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I will open your graves and raise you from your graves, O my people. And I will bring you into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people. And I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I am the LORD; I have spoken, and I will do it, declares the LORD.” Ezekiel 37:1-14 ESV

Let's face it: there are times when we seem to run out of road: our opportunities and hopes evaporate. We can identify with a valley of dry bones; we feel spent, dried up, with no place to go. Despite our optimism--even faith--every now and again we come to the "death" of something. Whether it be opportunity, promise, dream, or relationship. Even calm, mature, and wise folks can get discouraged when they confront discomforting circumstances beyond their control.

The disciples confronted this in the crucifixion of Jesus. There was a holy "now what?"  Jesus had gotten out of tough spots before, but not this time. The disciples were anticipating (or perhaps just hoping and praying for) another miracle. They hoped for some divine deliverance from this catastrophic judgment. But no deliverance came. Jesus died. They buried Him. They mourned Him. "Now what?"

Around my yard are a few large branches I laid among the wood chips in my flower beds. It wasn't my best decorating idea and I planned on cutting them up for firewood this spring. These branches were dead--cut from apple trees and left to dry out, rot or disintegrate. But one branch decided to sprout, instead!

Certainly, there is a perfectly good biological reason for this happening; but none of the other firewood has ever done this. In any case, God used this little  "Easter miracle" to remind me that not every disappointing ending is truly an ending.

Jesus arose! He experienced a painful and humiliating death and three days later calmly walked  out of a sealed stone grave. Death couldn't hold Him!

And God called Ezekiel to prophesy to a people feeling dead that He wasn't through with them yet.

God can do the improbable in His sleep. He can do the impossible just as easily. The God of Easter isn't finished with you and I--nor has He forgotten the promises He has given us. Sometimes old women have babies. Sometimes slaves become rulers. Sometimes prisons can't hold God's people. Sometimes fiery furnaces don't burn them. Sometimes one can nap in a den of lions. Sometimes dead bones are called back to life. Sometimes God is quietly at work breathing life into those hopes you had given up for dead.

At ALL times, however, God is faithful, trustworthy, and loving. In ALL of our circumstances, we can place our trust and faith in Him. God is at work all the time and He is good all the time!

Dare I Pet The Lions?

 Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!” And a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel. Daniel 6:16-17 ESV

Daniel was set up by a group of men jealous of his position and power. Perhaps he held them to a higher standard than they were willing to live. In any case, seeking to discredit him before the king, but finding no fault with his character or work, they crafted a law that would punish Daniel for his devotion to God and prayer.  The punishment was rather gruesome, too; revealing the depth of jealousy and hatred these evil men had for Daniel.

We know by reading the whole chapter that God delivered Daniel from a violent death in the lions’ den. Daniel gives the method in verse twenty-two.

My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.” Daniel 6:22 ESV

But, we also know that the lions were indeed very hungry due to the fate that eventually befell Daniel’s enemies (6:24).  So keeping a number of hungry lions disinterested in Daniel while he sat among them (all night) was quite a miracle.

The big questions for me in this circumstance might be:

·         Is this an anomaly or truly a miracle? Have I caught these lions at a time when they are not hungry, or are very lethargic? How long might this last?

·         Do the lions not see me? Or is there something I’m wearing that is making them wary?

·         Dare I move? Would movement jumpstart their predator instincts inciting them to kill me even though they do not appear to be interested in me at the moment?

·         What am I doing (unconsciously) that I need to keep doing to keep these lions away?

·         Dare I rest?

·         And, if God truly is at work, dare I pet the lions?

Though there is much we do not know about Daniel’s thoughts while in the lions’ den, I am fairly confident that he did not have these kinds of questions. Why? Because those questions reveal a serious lack of understanding about God’s methods, character, and power. Daniel did not seem to be plagued by these kinds of doubts.

When informed of the new law forbidding prayer to anyone other than king Darius, Daniel’s first act was to shrug, and pray anyway.  He immediately knew the reason for the law, that people would be watching, and that a visit to the zoo was around the corner. Daniel’s apparent lack of concern was not due to his confidence that God would rescue him, either. Recall the response of his three friends in the early years of Daniel’s exile:

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18 ESV

Daniel prayed after the new law went into effect, because that was his practice. It was his habit, custom, and means by which he both communicated with and honored God. Though second in the kingdom in terms of authority, Daniel was a man who sought to serve and please God first. He was known for his commitment to God (6:5, 16, 20, 26).

In addition, Daniel trusted God completely, and without reservation. His trust was not based on the hope that he would never encounter harm. Daniel’s trust was based upon the character of God and what God’s Word revealed about Him. From his familiarity with the books of Moses, the Psalms, and perhaps some of the prophets, Daniel knew that God loved His people; he knew that God provided for His people; he knew that God disciplined His people, and He also delivered them. But Daniel also knew that God was just, righteous, and sovereign—raising up some leaders and nations and casting some down, in His own time and for His own glory.

Daniel was a servant of God; yielded to God’s plans and purposes. So he went willingly to prayer before his enemies and went willingly to the lions’ den, too. Once there, Daniel was abandoned to God’s will in that moment: whether it be death, life, or any stop in-between.

So was Daniel surprised to survive his first minute in the lions’ den? I think he was. But once he gathered himself, Daniel embraced the miracle around him. Daniel knew immediately that there was nothing he was doing to keep the lions at bay. Perhaps he even saw the angel waiting there for his arrival. In any case, Daniel did not worry all night about the miracle wearing off. He didn’t consume himself with thoughts about how he could stay away from the lions. He didn’t worry about what he could do to sustain the miracle. You see, only God does miracles. And if God is doing a miracle, the work is complete without our help.

I like to think that after picking himself up off the floor of the lions’ den, Daniel praised God, introduced himself to each of the lions, petted them, and then went to sleep. You see, God is good all the time--and He is at work all the time. Even if you find yourself cast defenseless into a den full of hungry lions, God is at work; and if He is at work, you have nothing more to do than rest in Him.

Journeys and Destinations

In the second year, in the second month, on the twentieth day of the month, the cloud lifted from over the tabernacle of the testimony, and the people of Israel set out by stages from the wilderness of Sinai. And the cloud settled down in the wilderness of Paran. They set out for the first time at the command of the LORD by Moses. Numbers 10:11-13 ESV

With the Exodus behind them, the days of preparation of the Tabernacle behind them, and the organization of the people by tribe and camp accomplished, the people of Israel set out for the Promised Land. What anticipation and excitement must have filled the camp! They were leaving the desolate wilderness, finally! Soon (they believed) they would be enjoying the building of a new nation and a new land and enjoying the fruits of their labors. Life was moving again. They were not just stuck waiting for something to happen.

Moses must have been excited, too. God’s call and promise, begun months ago, was truly unfolding. 

But, not everyone expressed enthusiasm about the journey. The eleventh chapter of Numbers bears witness to a sizeable group of people who felt they were trapped in no-man’s-land. They had left Egypt and slavery, but were not yet to the “better place” promised by Moses. They began to complain about the lack of variety in food—missing their slave rations because they had meats, vegetable and fruit back then. Hard to imagine that fruit would seem more important than freedom, but their eyes had narrowed to focus on only what they were missing, not what they had gained.

In the next chapter (Numbers 12), even Miriam and Aaron began to doubt the leadership of Moses. All was not well in the camp. Their uncertainty was growing now that God’s promise was at hand.

But one has to wonder if Moses knew how long this journey would take them. Did he know they would wander in Sinai for the next forty years? Had he known that, would he have taken the job? Or, did this Promised Land even matter to him? Was the journey with God sufficient?

In other words, which was the bigger blessing: the journey with God or the destination with God? That is kind of like asking which is better: Peace and joy with Diet Coke, or Peace and Joy with Diet Dr. Pepper? Peace and Joy with water is pretty dog-gone good; would one quibble about the choice of soft drink? The gifts of Peace and Joy trump the drink options! Given Peace and Joy one might even drink Pepsi products! No big deal. The operative phrase in this whole discussion is “Peace and Joy.” 

Likewise, the operative phrase for Moses and the Israelites was “with God.” The Israelites already had their treasure with them! The God of the Exodus, the God of the Red Sea, the God who was daily providing all of their needs!

Whether or not that was sufficient or not depended not on reality, but on perspective. 

The complainers were all caught up in the “journey/destination” debate, and many were not “journey” people. They hated the wilderness; they hated manna; they hated tents, they hated hiking with all their stuff; they hated the uncertainty of where Moses (actually God) was leading them.  For them, the phrase “with God” was absent. They were debating journey and destination as concrete, tangible, discreet subjects. They were debating the harsh realities in front of them versus the dream of something better. “Journey” (alone) never wins that battle. 

Most of the Israelites missed the point. How about us? Which is more encouraging for us: the journey with God or the destination with God? What is the next thing we are waiting for? What is that new land for which we hope? Does the promise become bigger than the giver of the promise? Do we become dissatisfied with the tedium of the present because we are too busy longing for that future event or experience or destination? God is at hand! Now. Here.

It is worthy to note that if we have trouble being content “with God” here and now, we will likely be just as dissatisfied later when we arrive wherever we are longing to arrive.

The Great News? Eternity begins today! Our abundant living (Psalm 1:1-3; Jeremiah 17:7-9; John 10:10) “with God” can begin anytime and in any place—even in our wilderness! May God bless and encourage you as you seek Him where you are.

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13 ESV

In the Meantime

Perhaps like me you have prayed earnestly over a matter and nothing happened. Worse, perhaps the very thing you prayed against did happen. Those are humbling and bewildering times. As a chaplain I spent a lot of time at the bedside praying for healing; I joined with others in praying for friends and family, too. Sometimes people were healed and sometimes they were not--at least not physically. 

Admittedly, my praying is not fully mature, but my faith in God's providence is sure. The strength of my prayer or your prayer is not the question, rather is the God to whom we are praying willing and able to heal? Is He willing to provide for our needs? The answer to both questions is an emphatic "yes!" Consider for a moment how willing you are to help your children when they poorly articulate a need. So stands God ready and willing to come to our aid. But, He desires to give those gifts that are often beyond our imagination (Ephesians 3:20).

For instance, you may determine that you need something and begin to desperately pray for that thing. On the other hand, God, in heaven, full of mercy, grace, and wisdom, sees only heartache in your request. Or perhaps, like Paul (2 Corinthians 12:9), He has given you some thing or circumstance that is unpleasant in order that you might avail of His grace and power to overcome it. You pray for escape, but God sees much benefit in the struggle.

Our prayer life often follows this timeline: 1) we discover a need, 2) begin to pray about the need, and then 3) wait for God's answer. I would commend to you that the time between our discovery and God's answer is   "the meantime."

"In the meantime" is a phrase that connotes waiting and turning our attention to other things. For example, "I have lots of work to do on the computer, but the internet is down; so, in the meantime I will vacuum the house." As you can see from that example, often the "plan B" we choose to do "in the meantime" is not as appealing as our first plan.

The meantime in prayer is likewise unsettling. We are earnest about something; we have urgency in our prayers because often there is urgency in our needs. So when we pray and God does not respond with the same urgency it is perplexing and uncomfortable, and sometimes discouraging. I would suggest to you that the "meantime" is God's weight room for building strength in our faith and prayer.

One of the worst things we can do is evaluate God and His performance based solely upon our experience with Him. Perhaps we begin to think, "Prayer is really a gamble, I have no idea if God is going to help or not." A review of more stable sources (like God's Word) would reveal that God is a loving "keeper" (Psalm 121); He abounds in steadfast love (Psalm 145); He delights in delivering His people (Psalm 50); God is a shield, our glory and the "lifter of our heads" (Psalm 3); He is a God of the impossible (Romans 4); He is our hiding place, preserving us from trouble (Psalm 32); God helps us maneuver in the tough climbs of life (Habakkuk 3); He is our rock and fortress (Psalm 18); and stands beside those in need (Psalm 109). Well, you get the point, there are thousands of verses that speak of God's love and provision; there are thousands of witnesses to God's deliverance. It is better to evaluate God based upon those testimonies than our limited experience.

So, when we investigate God's Word about His love, care, and provision, we see a more accurate picture of who He is and how He works. Praise the Lord! We serve an amazing God!

Now bear with me as this is a work in progress and the mood of this statement is brighter than it sounds, but I have come to believe this statement,

God is a God of love, care, and provision. He may not always provide what I am praying for, but because God is trustworthy and steadfast in His love, I can rest securely in Him. My faith does not rest on His deliverance but upon His character; not on my experience, but on His Word! In the meantime, God will take care of me; and He will give meaning, hope, anticipation, encouragement, and even joy as I follow Him!

As one radio pastor recently put it, our minds are like tea cups and God's mind is bigger than all of our oceans. Consequently, there will be times when we do not understand what God is doing. But, since I know His love and grace are equally unlimited I will trust Him! That is what I will do in the meantime. It is the best thing I can do.

I pray God's encouragement for you as you wait (too)!

Biblical Decision-Making

January is already flying by!

Perhaps we finished the year 2012 triumphantly, or wearily, or in full disrepair—and maybe we feel all of those things! With a new year upon us, now may be the best time to assess our strengths and weaknesses. What did we do well in 2012, and in what areas did we struggle?

For example, did you make good decisions this past year? Did you have trouble making decisions? Do you still have big decisions before you and are feeling overwhelmed and perplexed? Let me offer some brief and borrowed wisdom on the subject.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:5, 6 ESV

 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Hebrews 11:6 ESV

First we must understand that God wants us to know what we need to know. God may not reveal the action plan for every day of the rest of our life, but He does want us to know our next step. This presupposes, of course, that you and I want to learn what God wants us to do—AND we are willing to obey Him. So, if God has brought you to the point where you are ready and willing to be obedient to Him, here is a simple guide for biblical decision-making.

Step One: Regarding the decision, are there any Scriptures that directly relate to the subject matter? Are there passages in the Bible that expressly affirm or forbid some of your options? For example, perhaps you are wondering if you should take a job that (unfortunately) will cause you to miss Church most of the time. The following verses probably apply--

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25 ESV

The passage in Hebrews (among others) advises us that we should not neglect going to church. A decision that interferes with our spiritual growth or witness is usually the wrong decision.

Or say you have a brilliant friend who proposes a business opportunity to you. Because of your friendship and common interests you wonder if you should pursue this very attractive opportunity. Though very moral and full of integrity, your friend rarely attends church and has little interest in doing so. Further,  though she considers herself a “Christian” she uses the term in a cultural sense, not a personal one —in other words, she is not Jewish, or Muslim, or Hindu, or a Whirling Dervish. Should you become partners in a business together?

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 ESV

The Scriptures (obviously) do not forbid knowing, befriending, helping, and/or serving unbelievers, but simply warns about the types of close associations and relationships where clashes of values and philosophy will come into play. No matter how positive you may feel about a non-Christian friend or associate, your allegiances and perspectives are quite different and will be a source of contention. Further, your identity (to others) can be colored and damaged by the actions and attitudes of your partner.

Step Two: If there are no direct Scripture references affirming or forbidding something, are there spiritual principles (themes) that give guidance? For example, suppose your decision regards buying a new car or motorcycle. Unfortunately, there are no Bible verses that give explicit guidance on this subject,  but there may be biblical principles that might help:

·         Stewardship Principles (Prov 3:9, 10; 27:23-27; Mal 3:10; Rom 14:12; 1 Tim 5:8, 16-18; Gal 6:6-10)

·         Responsibility Principles  (1 Cor 6:12, 20; 10:23,24; 2 Cor 5:9)

·         Appearance and Example Principles (1 Thess 5:22; Titus 2:7, 8)

There are many themes within the Scriptures that can guide a host of decisions. To be of any benefit to us, however, we need to become very familiar with God’s Word to learn what those themes are and where they are located.

Step Three: Important and appropriate decisions can always benefit from the counsel of others-- if (indeed) you seek good and wise counsel, and not just seek the opinions of those who agree with you.  Regarding the decision, when you cannot think of any Scriptures or scriptural principles that affirm or warn against your decision, seeking advice from wise counselors is the next step. Because of their experience, study, or background they may be able to more objectively analyze your decision and offer practical considerations as well as Scriptures that you may have overlooked. For example, in the car or motorcycle decision, they may ask why you feel the need (now) to buy one. They may ask if you compared the value of repairing your old car to the cost of getting a new one. Regarding the motorcycle, they may say, “Are you crazy?” You know, helpful things like that . . . Seriously, though, they may be able to ask things like, “Are you worried your current vehicle will break down? Is that an impending reality or just a fear? If fear, should that be a driving motivation to act?” They may direct you to the principles of trust and prayer in Proverbs 3:5,6 or Philippians 4:6-8. If there is an underlying element of envy or status-building, they may remind you of Matthew 6. They also might ask, “Do you believe God would have you go into debt to buy a car right now?”   

Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors. Psalm 119:24 ESV

Where there is no guidance, a people falls, in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs  11:14  ESV

For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory. Proverbs 24:6   ESV

Step Four: Consider the following questions.

·         Which decision or course of action best honors your family, friends, or church?

·         Which course seems to best agree with your calling, gifts, and interests?

Calvin Miller once shared that he had long dreamed of owning a new Corvette. As a pastor and church planter it was a far-fetched dream—until he began selling books. After much soul-searching and good stewardship the day came when he was going to buy “the car.” A staff member and friend reminded Dr. Miller that their church was currently in a building program, “How will it look to our parishioners if you are asking them to give sacrificially and then you buy an expensive car?” Pastor Miller answered, “But I’ve given sacrificially, too. This is just some of book money I have been setting aside.” His friend nodded, “I know, but how will it look to others?” Though buying a nice car was certainly appropriate and above reproach in this case, Calvin Miller didn’t buy the Corvette due to his concerns that some might misunderstand and be offended. Miller, instead, bought the very antithesis of a Corvette—the Mustang II. Ouch!

Lest you cry that Miller was dealt a great injustice, bear in mind that it was his decision to buy that abominable little Ford and he did so because he valued his ministry and the people in his care more than any blasted car.

Step Five: If there are no warnings or directives from Scripture, no scriptural principles are violated, and wise counsel tells you that either choice or course of action is honorable;  and if either decision honors your family, friends, and church; and if either choice agrees well with your calling, gifts, and interests, THEN ask yourself, “What is my preference?”

Suppose IBM offered you a big promotion and raise and gave you two options for relocation. You could move to Fairbanks, Alaska or St. Petersburg, Florida. After visiting both locations, you note that both have great churches, schools, shopping centers, and nice homes in your price range. Your extended family is very supportive of both places as are your counselors and friends. Your spouse and children see positives either way. The differences, other than location, are actually very small between the two choices. Though you grew up in Georgia, you have always been a fan of Jack London . . .

There is no wrong answer in this hypothetical decision because it just boils down to personal preferences. God will be pleased with either choice. So, you may have to build a pro and con list and / or then just go with the option that has the most appeal. I know which one I would choose!

It is important to note that our “preferences” are not insignificant (in God's eyes); they do matter. The wise decision-maker, however knows when to subject them to more important considerations. Using some type of framework like this can make decision-making a more thoughtful, prayerful, and deliberative process. Good luck and Godspeed in 2013!