Taste of Eternity

"But not the wicked! They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. They will be condemned at the time of judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly. For the Lord watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction." Psalms 1:4-6

I read somewhere recently the suggestion to go through Psalms and write down what you learn about God in each one. I've never done that before, so I'm giving it a shot. Today, I read Psalm 1, and I learned that God separates the godly from the wicked. He sees them differently, and he treats them differently. This idea was expanded in the other passage I read for the day from John 3.

"Jesus replied, 'I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit... God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son.'" John 3:5,17-18

Between these two passages, I learned that God separates the godly from the wicked, and has very specific conditions that need to be met in order to be considered "godly". Those are:

1. Believe in God's Son, Jesus, through whom we have salvation.
2. Be born again

If someone meets those requirements, there is no judgment against them--which I find to be a remarkable statement--and the Lord watches over their path. However, if anyone doesn't believe in Jesus, they have already been judged for their unbelief. They have been judged, they will be judged, and their path will end in destruction. This is both a warning for those who don't believe, and a sobering reminder for those of us who are responsible for sharing the truth with those who have not heard it. It tells us what is at stake, and helps to explain the state of our culture, especially in the United States.

In our culture, many people have refused to believe in Jesus and God, and their lives lack all true peace, joy, and hope. Depression, suicide, wickedness, selfishness, apathy, and mental health illness are all on the rise. See the way the book of Romans describes the lives of unbelievers, and the consequences that have resulted because of their unbelief:

"But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. 

As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. 

So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. 

As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 

That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. 

Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved. 

Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. 

Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too." Romans 1:18-32

This passage describes the progression of a life full of death. First, God reveals himself, but people refuse to acknowledge him. Then, they replace him with worthless things. So, God abandons them to do what they wish. This results in sins and shameful acts that carry with them natural consequences, which God allows them to experience. And, with them continuing to refuse God's authority, they live lives that are full of wickedness, and empty of God. They still have God's law written on their hearts (otherwise known as morality - see Romans 2:15), yet they do not obey it. As a result of all of this, they experience a taste of death even while they live. This is the judgment that unbelievers experience while in this life.

However, their judgment is not final--not yet. While their lives on this earth continue, there is still opportunity for them to turn to God and experience the blessings of having him for them instead of having him against them. There is still time to abandon their sin, believe in Jesus, and have his blood wash them clean of their wickedness. On the other hand, if they instead continue as they are, a final judgment is coming, from which there is no escape.

What a contrast this story is to the story of the believer! When someone acknowledges God, believes in Jesus, and abandons their life of sin, they are given a life that is so new that it is referred to as being "born again"! Jesus baptizes the believer in the Holy Spirit, which equips that person to be changed from the inside out on a daily basis. Every moment, the believer has access to God's counsel, his comfort, his correction, his peace, his joy, and his love. Everything God is, he offers to those who come to him. That constant access is a little taste of what eternity will be like in God's presence. And it is the exact opposite of the abandonment that is experienced by the unbeliever.

Thinking about these things this morning made me realize that believers are not the only ones in the world who are being given a taste of their eternity. Believers are experiencing new life, and it gives heaven a present reality for them that refreshes the soul and gives the heart hope for what is to come. Unbelievers, on the other hand, are experiencing death and decay in their hearts on a daily basis. Their only hope is that things will one day get better for them. But the reality is, they are simply experiencing the eternity they are destined for: an existence without God.

I don't know about you, but for me, this reflection has given me a fresh compassion for those who are perishing, and a fresh perspective for what they are truly experiencing in their daily lives. Our motivation for sharing the Gospel with people is often to save them from the hell they are headed for, but what about the hell they are living in now? If we only think about their eternity, we get to excuse ourselves with the assurance that there's still time. But not only is more time not guaranteed, but we also need to keep in mind that every day we are experiencing a taste of our eternity, so are those around us. For better or worse, light or darkness, life or death. Every day they live without God is another day of hell. Yes, the actual hell will be worse, just like the actual heaven will be better. But let's not forget that the constant access we have to God's presence makes all the difference in being able to face another day on this dying earth. And for every day we give excuses, we are withholding that life from those around us.

Now I feel I understand better what "cold love" can look like, that Jesus referred to in Matthew 24:12. It's a love that stares a dying person in the face, has compassion for his condition, but passes by without offering the salvation that he needs. I always thought that "cold love" was something that was going to happen in the future. But now I have to ask myself, is that the character of the Church today? Cold love?

I also feel like I better understand what valuable weapons distraction and delay are in the hand of the Enemy. This brings to mind the passage from Luke 21, which, along with Matthew 24, is another account of Jesus warning his disciples about the end of ages:

“Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 (emphasis mine).

I guess what I'm saying is that, if our love as a church has grown cold, that in itself is a sign of the coming of the end. And if the end is indeed nearer than we thought, it is all the more important to throw off all distractions and hinderances. They do not equip us to stand, to keep standing, and to still be standing when Jesus returns for us.

So what now? I can think of a couple of responses, depending on where each person is:

1. If you are living in the present reality of a future death, respond by turning to God. Acknowledge his authority over your life, confess that Jesus is your only hope of salvation, and then ask him to save you. His sacrifice can cover over all the sinful and shameful things you've done in your life, and his resurrection is the promise of the life he has the authority to give to you in replacement. Once you've done that, connect with a church to learn more.
2. If you are surrounded by those who are experiencing this taste of an eternity without God, and you hold the key to their life, but have been resisting the command of God to offer it, stop resisting. Repent of your delay, distraction, and dullness. Ask God to fill you with new power and boldness, and then go in his grace. Don't worry about what to say. Just like Peter and John did when they encountered the crippled beggar at the temple (see Acts 3:2-8), don't offer what you don't have. Just give them what they truly need.
3. If you don't know what you're supposed to do--or if you're like me, and God has a different role for you in this story--pray. Ask for his direction on what to do with this information. For me, I am to pass it on to others, because I have been gifted with teaching. I am also praying for the unbelievers on my heart, begging God to send someone to do for them what he has called me away from doing. And I, too, am examining my heart for dullness, coldness, delay, and distraction. I encourage you to do the same.

Now, if you're a believer, and you've been convicted by the Holy Spirit, do not be afraid. Time may not be on your side, but God is. 

"Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?" Romans 2:4

God's correction is kindness, and it is his kindness that changes us. So if you've discovered that you're off the path of obedience, I encourage you to turn around, and let his kindness lead you back to him. After all, for the believer, there is no judgment, and your life is a taste of a wonderful eternity to come.

Be Ready

For those who don't know, I'm currently 34 weeks pregnant. I'm reaching the stage where I need to write a birth plan and pack a hospital bag, set up the car seat, and assemble the crib. This is because my baby could arrive at any time, and I don't know when he'll make his appearance.

Before bed one night this week, I was overcome by a sense of urgency. I was convinced that my hospital bag needed to be packed right now. As in, do not wait until morning. This sensation was probably part of the "nesting" instinct. But while I was packing a spare set of PJ's into my suitcase at 10:30 at night, I was struck by the sad realization that my sense of anticipation for this baby should be matched by my anticipation for Jesus' second coming. As I was packing, a verse from the Bible kept repeating in my head: "Be ready in season and out of season" (2 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭2 ESV‬). I realized the fact that it's most likely that my baby will wait a while longer, but that wasn't stopping me from preparing for an early arrival anyway. Whereas, Jesus could come back literally any moment, but I've let my heart believe that he'll wait a while longer, and I've let that be an excuse to let go of my sense of urgency and anticipation.

As this failing has been revealed to me, I've also been shown a few areas in my pattern of behavior that reflect my new attitude of anti-anticipation:

1. I put things off. For example, if it's put on my heart to check in with someone, I wait until morning. Or if there's someone at church who I need to greet or engage with and encourage, but others are grappling for my attention, I let myself say, "I'll talk to that person next week". But the truth is, God has a time for everything. And when he prompts me to do a good thing, the time for it is now. Not the next day, and not the next week. We never have a guarantee for a next day or a next week, and I've not been acting like that.

2. I will occasionally skip my God time for the day because I don't anticipate needing him. What I mean is, my schedule is clear, and I'm not going to be interacting with more people than I can handle, so I let myself off the hook for subjecting my day to his will. However, God is teaching me that this attitude is like the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25 who did not equip themselves with extra oil for their lamps. In the end, they ran out of oil right when they needed it most. I'm not saying that I'm going to be kicked out of the Kingdom of God for skipping my Bible time. The danger in this situation is the attitude that I know what's best, and that I only need to turn to the Holy Spirit for grace when I'm facing something more challenging than I think I can handle. But the truth is, I don't know what each day holds. I have no real idea what challenges are waiting for me.

The truth is, the Bible has warning after warning about complacency. The parable of the Ten Virgins is one example. Others include:

“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭41‬ ESV

“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭44‬ ESV

“Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.” Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭34‬-‭36‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭ESV‬‬

In view of these warnings, and the dozens more like them, I am repenting of my own complacency. I pray to have my sense of urgency renewed, so that when Jesus arrives--with justice in hand--I may be found ready to face him, having accomplished all he has given me to do.

Dog Class

"I am writing to remind you, dear friends, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning."

2 John 1:5 NLT

If you have been to my house at any time in the last 11 years, chances are you've been greeted by my little dog, Dixie. Either in "person" or vocally from her kennel in the other room. She has an issue with barking at strangers, especially strange dogs. This wasn't really an issue until March of 2018, when we adopted back a dog whom we had raised to be a service dog. This new dog, Cambria, had just retired from service, and, as her "puppy raisers" my family was offered the chance to take her into our home again. We said yes.

Everyone was on board with this plan. Everyone, that is, except Dixie. No matter how much we tried to convince her to get along, she had chosen to make Cambria her arch-nemesis. Dixie had always been a bossy dog, and had not yet met with a dog that was willing to stand up for itself. But Cambria did. She refused to be pushed around. The result: daily dog fights. This led to several vet visits, and even one or two trips to the "people doctor" for those of us who dared intervene. After this, we decided it was time to do something. So we started by keeping the two trouble-makers separate. However, that didn't feel like a permanent solution, especially for Dixie, who just needed to learn to chillax and enjoy life. Therefore, we found a professional dog training service.

We were taught how to help Dixie calm herself down and follow the new rules, no matter what distractions were present. New rules were put in place for her, not to restrict her, but to free her from having to find the right path for herself.

But why tell you all of this? I have a dog with issues, but why should you care? Because I want to tell you about what happened next.

We finished our sessions with the trainer, and were invited to attend "graduate class" at any time. You see, this trainer holds free weekly group sessions for everyone who has gone through their program. Well, our life got crazy, so it was several months before I could attend my first graduate class. I was super nervous. I was so afraid of how Dixie would act around all those strangers and their dogs, that I didn't even bring her along the first time. I went to dog obedience without my dog! 

I showed up early. It was held at a park near my house, but I'd never been there before, so I left myself plenty of time to get lost and then un-lost before I had to be there. But I didn't end up having any trouble, so I had a chance to get my bearings with my environment. That helped my nerves a bit. Then the dogs started gathering.

I knew it was unusual to come to doggy class as a pup-less person. So I was a bit reluctant to join the party. But even more than that, I was afraid of what people would think of me. You see, Dixie was still having issues. Our training had fallen on the back burner for a while. We were still keeping her and Cambria separate. The lack of progress made me feel like a failure. So, there I was, about to face all these people who could bring their dogs into public without fear, while I had left my little terror at home. And all I could think of was excuses for the questions I “knew” would come. 

However, as soon as I walked over to the gathering, I simply found a spot to stand and watch for a few minutes while everyone got organized. There were about fifteen or twenty dogs there, and as I watched, I saw that every single one of them was having trouble. Some were more nervous, some were too excited, and a few had to stand a couple yards away from the group in order to stay calm. Every one was different, but I realized that they were also the same. They all had issues, just like my dog did. And it wasn't something that drew judgment, but understanding from those around them. Instantly, I felt better. And as the class progressed, I grew confident that I could handle it. And so could Dixie.

Just as I was hesitant to bring my dog to the class, I find myself feeling that same pressure at church to “be normal”. It’s not an outside pressure, but a pressure that comes from within me that makes me not want to stand out. I’m sure I’m not the only one. However, as I attended the dog class that morning, I was reminded that church is a place for people with problems. We don’t have to leave our “issues” at home. That dog class exists to connect people who have “problem dogs”, to support them in their efforts to keep going with their training, and to answer any questions that come up. It’s the same with church! It is a place where we can connect, gain support, and have our day-to-day issues or questions addressed.

Now, I’m not saying that church is perfect. How could it be, when it’s made up of “problem people”? Not every church even cultivates such a welcoming environment for those who are living life and want to bring it with them when they attend. However, at its core, the Church exists to serve as a gathering of those who are united in Christ, and are pursuing the holy life that he lived. It is a place where we can “love one another” (1 John 3:11), and “encourage each other and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). It is a place where we can “serve one another” (Galatians 5:13), “bear with one another” (Epheisans 4:2), “instruct one another” (Romans 15:14), “spur one another on towards love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24), and “speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs” (Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19). Finally, it is a place where we can “accept one another” (Romans 15:7).

I want to be clear that the Church is not called to accept those who are living in sin and are unwilling to leave it. That is where the shepherds must protect the sheep by first instructing, then correcting, and then refusing to associate with someone if they refuse to repent. Both Paul and Jesus taught regarding this subject, in Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-5; and Titus 3:10. I am, instead, trying to encourage Christians to connect with their own church in such a way as will allow them to bring their troubles, sorrows, doubts, and fears, and find a caring community that is willing to bear their sorrows with them. “It is not good for man to be alone” was the reason God gave for creating woman (Genesis 2:18). How much more is it true for those of us who are facing a corrupt and hostile world on a daily basis? Therefore, God has given us the community of believers that we call “church”. 

Church is more than a place where we walk into a dark room, sing for a bit, listen to the word, and leave. It is more than just another place where we put forth a polite, polished, prideful, and perfect persona. Those attitudes leave room for multiple excuses to “skip this week” or even leave the church altogether (which is forbidden in Hebrews 10:25). If, on the other hand, we put forth the effort to cultivate real relationships, share our burdens, discuss the Scriptures, and serve one another, we will find ourselves virtually inseparable.This is the place where we may find friends who “stick closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). Where we may “flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22, emphasis mine). This environment will be more attractive and welcoming than all the coffee shops and light shows in the world!

Now, you may be wondering how you can find a church that provides you with all this acceptance, comfort, and support. Wake up! You are called to serve the Church just as much as the pastors, elders, and deacons. The Church does not exist only to serve you. If you want to see change in your church, make it happen. Get connected by reaching out. Who do your kids hang out with in Sunday School? Who sits behind you every week? Who do you watch from across the room, whose faith and devotion you admire and want to emulate? Who else stays behind after the service to connect and relate with others? Then, once you’re connected, establish trust by meeting together often. I know, it’s inconvenient. You’d rather have your nice family Sunday lunch at your favorite restaurant every week than bring a crockpot to church to serve a meal to others. You’d rather keep your family game night small and special than invite your kids’ friends’ family to join you. But let me encourage you with a personal testimony.

My family used to have hamburgers every Sunday after church. My dad makes good hamburgers. However, when I was in high school, God called my parents to start bringing lunch to church every week instead. You know that feeling you get when you’re going to a family reunion, and you don’t know if there will be anything brought that you’ll actually want to eat? Try having that feeling replacing the joy of knowing you’ll be eating a delicious hamburger every week without fail. Yeah, I was not a fan. However, as time went on, and we kept inviting people to join us, more families started coming regularly and bringing lunch to share. Our group is not big by any means, but fairly consistent. I made good friends, and not just with people my age. I have, through my parents’ obedience and faithfulness (and insistence), found a true community that I can depend on. Not only that, but it provides constant opportunities to make new friends, too. Any time a new family walks into church, my mom invites them to join us at “lunch bunch”. And, though many people have come and gone at our church in the twelve years since “lunch bunch” started, there is a core of families now that can’t imagine leaving each other except by the call of God. It’s extremely hard to explain how much of a blessing it has been. I’ll suffice it to say that when I was talking about what church should be like, it’s because I’ve experienced it that way.

Now, I still have trouble sometimes with the temptation to pretend that everything is OK when it’s really not.I want to leave my “problem pup” at home. However, because my church is my community, I know that “problem people” are not only allowed, but encouraged to come and be accepted. Therefore, if you have problems, don’t be afraid to bring them to church. If you have a faith community, good! If you attend church, but don’t have that connection, fix that. Finally, if you are not connected with any church, find one. Don’t expect perfection. Only make sure that they follow and preach the Bible with accuracy. Then, the people who are shepherded there will be able to accept such a change as you can bring.

The Ultimate Marriage Proposal

"You have captured my heart,

    my treasure, my bride.

You hold it hostage with one glance of your eyes,

    with a single jewel of your necklace."

-Song of Songs 4:9 NLT

Let's face it. Most of us love the thought of love. Especially true love. But what does that really look like?
Personally, when I hear the phrase "true love", my mind instantly goes to the movie The Princess Bride. Other things that spring to mind are magic kisses, a beautiful dress, and happily ever after (in other words, the plot of what feels like every book and movie ever). But the reality is, there is only one love that is truly fulfilling. There's only one love that will never fade. Only one that will never disappoint. Only one that will never make a mistake. That is the love found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

I expect that most of you who are reading this will be aware of this fact--that Jesus is the only one who can fulfill our hearts' deepest desires. But what's the harm in exploring the concept a little more?

I have found a new way of thinking about Jesus, that I find rather beautiful. I thought I'd blogged about it long ago, but apparently I haven't. So here we are!

This new way of thinking of Jesus stems from the concept of the Church as Jesus' Bride. Now, Jesus used the illustration of a wedding very often when referring to his return to earth as the victorious King of kings. And in many other places of the Bible, God refers to Israel as his wife. I could walk you through every single reference I know of that refers to God illustrating his relationship with his people as a marriage, and I wouldn't even cover them all! It's so rewarding to read the Bible from this perspective, and to discover for ourselves the richness of the illustration. I highly encourage you to do so, because it is evident from the first chapter of the Bible to the last.

What I want to do here, however, is to bring that illustration into a cultural context. Jesus did this as well. He took concepts that were well known to his audience--such as building houses, farming, as well as wedding celebrations--to help bring his Word into a greater meaning for those listening. He does the same today. All we have to do is look around us to see illustrations and evidence of God's character and his love for us. But the picture I want to look at today is the marriage proposal.

Since we as God's people are considered to be Christ's Bride according to Scripture, we must have been proposed to, right? Of course! I'll give you a hint: we celebrate Jesus' marriage proposal not just every year at Good Friday and Easter, but also every time we celebrate Communion. Check out this video from Tenth Avenue North (it's only 5 minutes, and so worth it!):

So that illustrates a marriage proposal from the culture of Jesus' day. But what about from our own culture?

Here, as you know, when a man wants to propose to a woman, he usually goes to one knee, presents a ring, and says some variation of "will you marry me?". At that point, the girl either says "yes" or "no". If she says "yes", then the guy puts the ring on her finger. She keeps the ring on until it's replaced or joined by a wedding band when they've said their vows.

If you think about it, there is so much significance in this process, which is why I love it so much! First of all, the man has to buy the ring before he knows the girl's answer. He picks a ring that he hopes will demonstrate to the woman how much she means to him. It is a picture of her value in his eyes.

But no matter how much the ring cost him, it doesn't buy him more than a chance to invite the woman to become his forever. It makes a way for her to be set apart for him, but it doesn't buy her answer. It's the same way with Jesus. When he came to earth, he humbled himself, like a man who kneels before a woman when he proposes to her. When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, he wasn't guaranteed a "yes" from those he loved. He was simply making a way, while at the same time demonstrating our value to him. He was buying the chance to ask.

It's still our choice to say "yes" or not. So it is when a woman is proposed to by a man today. If she says "no", the relationship is usually over. But if she says "yes", then the ring is placed on her finger. This signifies that she is taken. It sets her apart for the one who gave her the ring, marking her as his until such a time as they can take their vows and live together forever.

It's the same with Jesus' invitation for us. He already paid the price. He's already gotten down on one knee. And if we say "no", we miss our chance to be with him forever. But if we say "yes", he marks us with his Holy Spirit in order to show the world that we belong to him. We're taken. We're committed. We're set apart for the day when we come together at last, and begin our lives together.

When the proposal is accepted, the next step is to get ready for the wedding! The man prepares for the life they will have when they're married, and the woman surrounds herself with those she wishes to celebrate with. There is a lot to prepare for the big day. But before any of that can happen, the first thing she does--the first thing she wants to do--is announce the engagement to those near to her. She is filled with such joy and love, she wants to shout from the rooftops her good news!

That same joy is ours! We have recognized and accepted Jesus' marriage proposal, and now we want everyone we know and care about to be invited to the wedding! Even those who don't know the bride may recognize her because of her joy, and because of her ring. Oh, that it would be the same with us! May we announce our engagement from the rooftops! Let us not be embarrassed by the ring on our finger, but instead display it for all to see. We have found the One with whom we want to spend the rest of our lives, and he has demonstrated how precious we are to him through the price he paid to make the way for us to be together. That is Good News, and deserves to spread like wildfire!

Once the announcement is given, and the invitations sent, it is time for the bride to prepare herself for the moment she's dreamed of: the day she walks down the aisle to meet the one she loves and be joined with him forever. So while she waits, she prepares herself. She clothes herself in white, signifying her faithfulness in keeping herself apart for her groom. She adorns herself in jewels, hoping for a chance to catch his eye with their radiance.

That is the stage we are now in, as Christ's intended. His death and resurrection have purchased for us the purity we need to present ourselves to him. He has marked us with the Holy Spirit, who reminds us of the truth that we are set apart for one man, and one man only. And believe it or not, he has also gifted us with jewels to adorn ourselves with, so that he can enhance our beauty. These jewels are traits and characteristics that come from him, such as grace, mercy, gentleness, joy, humility, wisdom, etc. As the Bible says in 1 Peter 3:3-4,
"Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God."

So let us clothe ourselves in the righteousness he has gifted to us, and let us adorn ourselves with these heavenly qualities. Not to earn any extra favors, but simply to catch his eye.

While we are preparing for him, he is also preparing for us! He is getting his house ready, and purifying us so that our joy with him in the end may be complete. He has an ever-perfect plan that he set in motion at the beginning of time, to redeem us, refine us, and renew us. All so that he could live with us, and so we could rule by his side. For we were made in his image, to work alongside him as a partner and a companion, bringing his glory to the ends of the earth.

We cannot take any credit for this role we have. Jesus did all the work. He gave all he had to give, in order to make it possible to be with us forever. That is the reason behind the cross and the resurrection. It's you! You are the pearl beyond price that he spoke of in his parable in Matthew 13:45-46. You were "the joy set before him when he endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2).

So if you have already accepted his marriage proposal, I hope your joy is restored, for you have great value the eyes of the man who knelt before you and offered to mark you as his own.

If you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior and Lord, I encourage you to consider what it cost him to even make it possible. Many things can distract us from the basics of Christianity. It can be easy to make it all about what people are doing wrong, and make it about what they need to do to be righteous. But the reality is, Christianity is all about Christ. It's about what he did on our behalf. And he did it, not because we deserve it through our own merit, but because he saw us and loved us. A man cannot forget the woman he truly loves. He cannot help but do everything in his power to show her how much she means to him. And even if it is possible for a human man to be unfaithful or neglectful, it is never possible with Jesus. He has already given us everything he owns. He even gave up his life for us, and came back to life to give us also a way to live a new life. He kneels before you now in humility, though he is the King of kings. He has displayed the extent of his love through the cross. He wants to live with you forever. He wants to clothe you in white, and see you sparkling with gems that he has gifted you with. But he leaves you free to make your answer, and he is waiting for it with great anticipation.

To accept his proposal, you need only do three things:
1) Admit to God that you are a sinner, and ask his forgiveness. Ever since man's first act of disobedience, it has been human nature to not live up to the standard of holiness that is required in order to live in God's presence. That is why the sacrifice of Jesus is necessary. It makes a way for us to put God's wrath for our sin on Jesus' shoulders, and to take his perfect life as our own. God is willing--even eager--to make this happen. He is willing to forget your sin. But he loves to be asked. So ask.
2) Believe that Jesus died on your behalf, and that he lives again. His resurrection is a promise to give you new life as well. You will not be the same once you've encountered him. But that isn't a bad thing. Think of it more as "love at first sight".
3) Confess Jesus as the Lord of your life. Put him in charge. He has shown that he loves you, and he has promised to work all things together for the good of those who belong to him (Romans 8:28). So trust him to take care of you, by walking in obedience.

Why are all these steps necessary?
The Bible says, "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved." (Romans 10:9-10).

The Bible is our way to learn what God requires, and to find our way to him. It shows us his character, man's nature, and the amazing process of redemption that God has been working in the world through his people. If you want to learn more about God, that is the place to start.

The other place to go is church. You want to find a community of people who have been on this journey for longer than you. They will be able to help you understand what the Bible says, and to encourage you to stay faithful to your new bridegroom.

Once you find a community that will keep you accountable and who will teach you according to the truth found in the Bible, you should be baptized with water. This is a chance to profess your faith in Jesus before reliable witnesses. It helps you participate with--through symbolism--the death and resurrection of Jesus. It will launch you into your new life, and give your community a chance to celebrate with you.

Finally, you should ask your new mentors--those who have committed themselves to be your friends and teachers--to lay their hands on you and pray for you to receive the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus sends us the Holy Spirit to guide us, to remind us what he has said, and to enable us to live beyond our limits as human beings. The Holy Spirit lives in our hearts and empowers us to do his work. But it isn't a "possession", like you may have seen in movies when a spirit lives inside a human being. No, this is a partnership. You bring your life to God, and he gives you his. That is how God accomplishes his work in the world: through his people. So don't be afraid, only be ready to listen and obey.



I know the chances are not great that anyone has actually needed to hear the process for being saved, and for being launched into a life of faith. But I do know one thing: I didn't want anyone leaving this page thinking, "you said we could accept Jesus' proposal of marriage, but you never said how". It's an important thing to cover, so thank you for indulging me as I did my best in describing the process.

For the rest of you who have already been given new life through Jesus, I hope this topic has helped you understand anew how much you are worth, and how much he loves you. I know it has for me.
Happy Easter, everyone!

The Beginning of Wisdom

I've often been recognized for the insight God has given me. I have often recognized this insight in myself. To be honest, I've taken pride in the fact that God opens his Word to me so clearly, and gives me the ability to see practical applications to my life, as well as the ability to pass my knowledge on to others. And though it's true, it's not something I've done for myself. It truly is a gift from God.

I don't say this to boast. On the contrary, I've recently been struck with how little wisdom and knowledge I truly have. I had a moment with God in my Bible study and prayer time yesterday that made me feel like I had been blind my whole life. I love those moments, don't you? I love that they can happen anywhere, at any time. You don't need to be at church, or at a conference with lots of flashing lights and a room full of energy. God meets us just as willingly in our bedrooms, sitting rooms, studies, porches, yards, etc. Anywhere we are, God is too. 

But that's a discussion for another day. Today, I want to go over the new beginning of wisdom that I discovered in my quiet time yesterday. And of course, it has its origins in "the fear of the Lord".

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. "
Proverbs 9:10 NIV

For context, I was reading in Exodus about the plagues God inflicted on Egypt. I was watching the different reactions of Pharaoh and his officials. While Pharaoh was hardening his heart, he was gradually being cowed. At first, he was treating God like an inferior being. Pharaoh believed he himself was a god, and a powerful one at that. But as things progressed, he gradually started treating God like an equal, and was negotiating with him like he would with another head of state. Finally, he started treating God like a superior. When requesting that Moses appeal to God to remove the plague of the hail in Exodus 9, Pharaoh uses the phrase, "I have sinned" for the first time (Exodus 9:27). This phrase implies Pharaoh's acknowledgement of God's authority over him. Not to the point of a true change of heart and change of ways, but it was certainly a change from the man who said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go?” (Exodus 5:2).

Pharaoh's officials, too, had learned to respect God's authority and power. First it was the magicians, who, when God did something they couldn't replicate, told Pharaoh, “This is the finger of God.” (Exodus 8:19). Then, when God warned Pharaoh of the incoming plague of hail, some of his officials listened to the warning, and took the steps God had laid out to preserve the lives of their servants and livestock:

"'Give an order now to bring your livestock and everything you have in the field to a place of shelter, because the hail will fall on every person and animal that has not been brought in and is still out in the field, and they will die.’ Those officials of Pharaoh who feared the word of the Lord hurried to bring their slaves and their livestock inside. But those who ignored the word of the Lord left their slaves and livestock in the field."

Exodus 9:19-21 (emphasis mine)

Through these plagues, God was teaching the Egyptians the fear of the Lord. One thing in particular, that God said to Pharaoh, stood out to me: "For by now I could have stretched out my hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth." (Exodus 9:15).

In that one sentence, I found something that I've lost: the fear of the Lord. This is kind of ironic to me, because for a long time now God has been working with me to not be motivated by guilt or fear. But that fear I've been avoiding, and that God has been bringing me away from, is the fear of punishment. Like 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."

Because of our faith in Jesus, we have no need to be afraid of God's punishment. We are free to love him, and to serve him out of that love. However, may it never enter our minds that God is not God. He is the only reason we are alive. We cannot turn one hair on our heads white or black. He sustains us, cares for us, and gives us purpose in his plan. So we need to acknowledge him as sovereign, and keep him on the throne of our hearts. That is the fear of the Lord that I truly discovered for the first time yesterday.

I wrote down what I was learning, and gave God a chance to expound on it. Here's what we said:

Me (notes on what I just read): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Proverbs 9:10.

A part of faith is acknowledging that we cannot keep ourselves alive. We cannot earn God's mercy. He is sovereign, and there is no hope without him. Yet, he himself has given us hope. He has given us ample proof that he keeps his promises, and then he gave us the promise of eternal life, to anyone who puts their faith in his Son, Jesus. He raised Jesus from the dead to prove that he has authority to give us that life. So there's no point in trying to earn brownie points from God. There's no chance he could ever owe us anything.

(Here, I start addressing God directly):It never occurred to me that the fear of the Lord could be such a comforting thing. For me, the greatest comfort is knowing that to not try and earn anything special is actually an act of wisdom. Instead, being humble and completely reliant on your grace is better than earning favor through something as cheap and worthless as good works and religious observances.

At the same time, though, I cannot take your grace for granted. I shouldn't willingly act in a way that betrays the law you've placed in my heart. For you who gives mercy has the authority and right to take it away, and no one could dispute it.

God: I oppose the proud. Those who are so in love with themselves and their sin that they harden themselves against my rebuke. 

But I give grace to the humble. I have given you my Spirit to keep your heart soft before me, and to advocate for mercy on your behalf. That's why it's so important to turn to me when you sin. To do otherwise is to turn away. There is no fixing yourself. To try makes you an idol in your own heart. And there's no ignoring sin, either. To ignore it is to indulge it, and to indulge in sin is an act of all-out rebellion. Death is the end of that road. Death, pain, and loneliness are the only consequences of sin. But I am a good Gardener. I know the wheat from the tares of your heart. I know what brings you life, and what sucks you dry. So leave me in charge of your little garden. For I am God, but I am also your loving Abba. I care for you. I love you. I give my life for you. So follow me on the road that leads to life. It is a road where you may be struck down, but will not be destroyed. You may experience pain and fear, but you'll never have to face them alone. So always, always, turn to me with your sin. Don't let fear stop you, for I have chosen you to receive my mercy and grace.

So, the basic concept I've learned is this: There is no hope for me except Jesus, but in Jesus my hope is complete. Yes, God is worthy of being feared, but since he has chosen to grant me mercy, I do not have to let my fear keep me from approaching him, even in my sin.

'For the word of God is alive and active.
Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow;
it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.'
Hebrews 4:12-16

That's everything I have on the fear of the Lord. However, one thing that is also comforting to think about is that this awesome God we serve is on our side. We don't have to read the plagues of Exodus from the perspective of the Egyptians. We get to read them from the perspective of Israel, who got to sit back and watch as God answered their prayers for deliverance in a mighty and unforgettable way. This is the God who is always with us. This is the God who brought us salvation, and who is always available to talk about the smallest details of our lives. That's where David got the faith to face a giant. That's where Isaiah, Jeremiah, and the other prophets got the voice to speak out against sin, when sin was celebrated by those around them. That's where Daniel, Mordecai, and others got the courage to set themselves apart from the culture around them, and to instead pursue God even in a place of exile. With God on our side, we can face armies, rivers, oceans, fires, famine, plague, wickedness, and darkness without fear. For our fear of the Lord assures our hearts that nothing can stand in his way.

Freedom Fruit: the Fruit of Self-Control

What's the balance between living rightly and living freely?
We know that we need not behave well to be considered righteous. So how do we look at the fruit of self-control correctly?

"The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." (Matthew 26:41b)
There is a battle going on between our willing spirits and our earthly, weak flesh. The battle is decided by which side we YIELD to. (Romans 8:11-15)

"Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation." (Matthew 26:41a)
Self-control is keeping watch over your life to recognize temptation and be on guard against it. And it is praying for grace and mercy (Hebrews 4:16) to overcome it when it does come against you.

When I was doing my word study on the Fruit of the Spirit, "self-control" (or "temperance") wasn't an act of doing something to be disciplined or righteous. It was simply an attitude of abstinence. Self-control is a defense, not an offense. It's about yielding to the desires of the Spirit rather than the desires of the flesh.

So that's the definition of self-control. Now let's examine how it's applied from a place of freedom.

Jesus' sinlessness is what gives him the authority to condemn sinners or have mercy on them (John 8:7). He uses that authority and his position of favor to plead on our behalf (Hebrews 4:15; Romans 8:33-34). That is why we can approach God's throne with boldness (remember Matthew 26:41: "...pray so that you will not give in to temptation") to ask for the grace we need, and for mercy in those moments when we do yield to temptation (Hebrews 4:16).
Because just as no one would dare accuse Jesus of sin, so no one would dare accuse us in his presence (Romans 8:33-34).

That's how self-control is lived out as a freedom. Because it comes from a place of forgiveness and right standing with God through the death and new life of his Son (Romans 8:33-34).

Another cool link between self-control and Jesus' intercession on our behalf:
1. The Greek word for intercession in the context of Romans 8:34, according to Strong's concordance, is entugchanō (pronounced "en-toong-khan'-o"). This word has two roots: en, which means "a fixed position" and tugchanō, which means "to affect". So put together, entugchanō means, "to entreat (in favor or against)", "to deal with", or "to make intercession". Basically, to have a "fixed position" and to use it to "affect" a judgement pertaining to someone else. Like a lawyer uses his position of favor with the law and the court to act as an intermediary on behalf of a citizen or a corporation.
2. The Greek word for "self-control", in the context of Galatians 5:23, is egkrateia (pronounced "eng-krat'-i-ah"). The root for this word is egkratēs ("eng-krat-ace"), which is derived from that same root en ("fixed position"), as well as the word kratos, which means "strength", "power", or "dominion". So egkratēs literally means "a fixed position of dominion" or "a fixed position of power" or "a fixed position of strength", and is therefore translated as "masterful". The phrase used in Galatians 5:23 adds a feel of containment or restraint to this base word, and applies it to yourself. So it could literally means, "to fix yourself in a position as your own master".

So, basically, one word describes a person whose position gives him authority over another person, to speak either for or against them. The other word describes a person whose position gives him/her authority over him/herself. However, in our case as Christians, we know that to exercise authority over ourselves is to act in rebellion against God's authority over us. So instead, we subject ourselves to the authority of Jesus, and let his will rule over ours. That is self-control: to yield ourselves to Jesus. To give him a fixed position in our hearts as our master. Yet he is also our intermediary. Therefore, he is both our advocate and our master. In other words, he is both our High Priest and our King. The ultimate authority for our "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9).

This was God's Plan All Along! And It's Exciting!

Okay, so I'm super stoked to share this with you. I want everyone to hear about it! What better way to do that than to post it on the Internet?

I want to document this event as a wonderful day in history. Yesterday, on March 13, 2020, all of America, it seemed, decided to shut down. First one school system closed, then another. Then sports events followed. Movie productions were delayed, concerts were canceled, and many other plans were put on hold. Finally, churches, too, decided to protect their flocks by shutting down their buildings.

Now, many people's reactions, including my own, were predictable: It felt like our entire culture--our entire faith, even--had the ground ripped out from under it. Surprise, uncertainty, and fear were all present, and understandably so.
God's reaction however, was anything but what I expected. When the churches closed their doors, he said "FINALLY!"

Let me explain: He isn't displeased by our fellowship. Far from it. He simply wants to spread it around! Because when the Church leaves the building, big things happen. 

Just think about what happened in Jerusalem when Steven was stoned: in Acts 8, the early Church scattered, and everywhere they went, they preached the Gospel. That's how Samaritans were first brought into the family. And Ethiopians. And Romans (Acts 10). It also led to Saul of Tarsus following the disciples to another town, where on the road he had an encounter with Jesus that changed not only his life, but the course of history (Acts 9). Finally, in Acts 11, this scattering of the Church led to the foundation of the church in Antioch, where followers of the Way were first called Christians, and from which, in Acts 13, Paul and Barnabas were launched on their missionary journeys throughout Asia Minor and Europe. That event was a turning point in our faith, and I believe that this is too. Why? Because God told me it would happen. Months ago.

You see, at the end of last year, I was going through a really hard season. I was warring with anxiety, and losing. So at the end of December, when God asked me what I wanted from him for Christmas, I asked for clarity. I figured that if I knew why I was on this road, it would be easier to have faith through the process. Well, he answered that prayer. He told me that he was putting me through a fire to purify me and to prepare me for what lay ahead. Then, on January 1, 2020, he also told me what he was about to do. Fortunately, I write down our conversations in my journal, so you can now hear everything just as I heard it:


"January 1, 2020. Wednesday
Me: Dear Heavenly Father, I can't believe the things you've done in the last week, let alone the last year. What do you want to do in 2020?

God: What do you see?

Me: I'm standing in a land of darkness, and there's high stone towers on either side, with a stone wall in front of me blocking my view. I think it's a prison yard.

God: That's your perspective. Now see it from mine.

Me (after my viewpoint switches): Well, looking at the structure from above, it doesn't seem so big anymore. And there's a flood of shining, silvery water approaching. It's a mass so huge, it dominates the prison yard and fills the valley in which it sits.

God: That's right. And what do you think will happen when the water--the mighty flood--reaches the prison?

Me: I think it will break it apart, with everything and everyone inside being swept away in the water. Then the whole valley will be filled up. And who knows? Maybe the flood will keep on going. The supply is limitless.

God (notice, he specifies that he's referring to Christians here): That's right. You see, my people have built for themselves these high stone walls in an attempt to contain me and make me something of their choosing. They want to control me. But the only ones being contained are the people themselves. These walls have shut them in, so they can't even see any longer the valley they are supposed to reach--the world in which I have placed them. They've shut themselves into their own little world. But my Spirit is going to come in like a flood! 
So when you feel the ground shaking beneath your feet, and the structure around you crumbling, know that that is me making a way for myself to come in. My people will be swept up in a wave that they can't contain or control. 
Now, be watching for it. The shaking will come first, and those who trust in their walls to preserve the little world they've built for themselves may not remember to place their trust in the Creator of the flood. They'll be forced to choose: Me or the world. As the two move in opposite directions, they will no longer be able to have both. Their faith and loyalty is about to be tested, for the world cannot tolerate forever those who belong to me.
This is where each person gets marked: Either they will place my name on their thoughts and actions, or they will mark themselves with the name and number of my Enemy. But whichever they choose, my flood is coming.
This flood does not contain my wrath; that will be the fire that follows. No, my flood is a wave of cleansing and power. It will wash away all the dirt and muck that my children have been playing with, and will carry them to the ends of the earth where they belong.

Me (this is a question we could all be asking now): So what's my role?

God: Continue as you are. Keep your footing on the true foundation while you anticipate the flood and the fire. And teach those I have given you to do the same.

Me: This was incredible! Teach your people to trust that you're in control. Help us see just how big you are. And I invite you to both invade and destroy this little world of compromise that we've indulged ourselves with. Do as you have said. Engage your people in the mission you've given them. And please start here. Start in my city. But don't just use me and my church. Unite and use all the churches here. May you break through, cleanse your people, empower them, and sweep them up and carry them to the ends of the earth. 
I love you, and I praise you for the things you've done, the things you are doing, and the things you've promised to do. Boil our hearts in your furnace so that we will burn with unquenchable passion. And yes, I know what I'm asking for--I know what it will take to set the American Church apart from the world. But do it. Don't just give yourself some elbow room so you can move and work a little more. Give yourself all the room you need to initiate and create real change. And I pray that your people would respond to you."

From this journal entry, I draw two conclusions:
First, God's work is only just beginning. He is answering our prayers to move in our country and in our world. Why should we be surprised?
Second, we as a Church have work to do.

As this whole situation with COVID-19 has been playing out, God reminded me of another conversation we had a few months ago. I was walking my dog, so I didn't write that one down. But basically, I was walking at sunset, and as I looked up, I saw the first couple stars coming out in the sky above me. I could hardly see them, because the sky was still lit by the sun. But as it got darker, I knew that the stars would become more and more visible. God reminded me in that moment that the stars are always there. We just can't see them while the world is lit by the sun. It's when the sky gets dark that the stars become more visible.
We as Christians are like the stars. We've been here all this time, but so far we've blended with the rest of the world. But as the world gets darker, us stars will become more visible against the darkness. So let's shine!

"Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. "
Philippians 2:12-15

"You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father."
Matthew 5:14-16

Our foundation is unshakable. Our faith is not contained in a building anymore than our God is. He has established his presence in each of our hearts so that we can bring him to the world! So this circumstance isn't a disaster that robs us of our power. No, my friend. This is God's plan for our Church, for our country, and for our planet. And he will see his will accomplished.

So how will you respond? 
As for me, I choose to respond as Isaiah did when he was standing in the presence of our Almighty God:
"'Then I heard the Lord asking,
“Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?”
I said, “Here I am. Send me.”'
Isaiah 6:8