The Biblical Cycle of of Rest

Mark 6:31 (CSB) - "He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat."

Have you ever felt like, "I give so much, but what's in it for me?' or "I'm tired and what I'm doing isn't really appreciated?" We may feel like we need to shut down because of being overly pressured, criticized, or constant worry. We become ill or depressed. We find ourselves being tempted with a little something for ourselves. The temptations are everywhere in many ways. This could be warning us of being on the edge of burnout. Jesus understood and as a man lived a life that was designed to be one of renewal and refueling.

In our culture, we work and then relax. We get things done and then play. But, as we study the Bible we see that God's plan is slightly different. The Biblical day begins with the evening rest and then we awaken in a world in which God is already at work. we can then join Him. Jesus lived this rhythm of life. His first priority was intimacy with Abba and so He would take times and seasons of solitude and silence to pray. His second priority was His ministry to others and this was a natural outflow of His time of abiding in Yahweh. Jesus didn't try too hard, He didn't strain, He didn't over-exert Himself in ministry. We see that the Savior of the World didn't try to be the hero - He sought to bring Glory to the Father.

If Jesus lived this life, shouldn't we? We need to assess and order our thoughts, works, and very being in this Divine cycle of rest and work. We shouldn't think we are able to live any better than our Master and Savior did. Spending time of rest with the Father is vital to maintaining our full functioning ability. If Jesus, as a human, needed to live this way - so do we!

I am very involved in a vast multitude of ministries, and as God has made clear to me, there are seasons that we need to step back, sit down, rest, and take the time to listen to Him. So, I am going to take a short Sabbatical from writing this daily blog in order to re-order my life. Please watch for my return in a couple of weeks. There will be a special posting on July 4th to celebrate true freedom. 

I will return to writing more of what God places in my heart by the middle of July. I encourage you to muse about your life and see if you need to spend a day or longer in abiding in God. Take time not to just talk to Him, stop and listen to Him. Be held in the arms of the loving Father who will accomplish all that really needs to be done through you in His power. Pray for me as I rest and listen to Him.

See you in a couple of weeks. God bless.

Prayer: Jesus, You promised that if we come to You that Your Yoke, Your work is light as we realize that it is You doing the work, and I am just assisting You. Grant us Your peace, rest, and power. May we minister not in our strength, time, and power, but in Yours alone. Amen.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Intercession

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should."

This is the last part of the Spiritual warfare Provisions by God. We have the belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, sword, and prayer. we have been challenged to stay alert - to persevere. The final piece is of the provision is intercession. We are called to intercede for others in our prayers. This seems so out of place - the other pieces focus on our needs - but God knows that if all of His soldiers put on the full armor - and they are interceding for each other - the victory is assured. 

You see, we need each other in the battle. Going at it alone is dangerous in the least and deadly at most. By interceding, we must be intimately enjoined so that we know the needs of others, and they know our needs. We often think of this as accountability groups. We hold each other accountable, and also encourage and strengthen one another. Ecclesiastes 4:12 (HCSB) reminds us - "And if someone overpowers one person, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not easily broken."

Today, consider if you have at least one other person who is praying for you. And, make it a part of your day to pray for others and their specific needs.

Spiritual Warfare Provision - Stay Alert

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should."

Paul challenges his readers to remain alert. Alert means to be ready, watching so that a calamitous tragedy doesn't overtake us. So we pray, asking God to help us be on guard against sin, so we overcome the schemes of the devil, and no one takes us captive through philosophy and empty deception (Ephesians 6:11; Colossians 2:8).

We need to focus our prayers on several areas of life to stay alert. Here are some suggestions:

Luke 22:40, 46 tells us to pray so that we don't enter into temptation.

Acts 20:29-31a calls us to pray that false teachers and false doctrines don't overtake us.

1 Corinthians 16:13 challenges us to pray that we remain strong and steadfast in the faith.

1 Thessalonians 5:16 says to pray that we remain sober, and don't spiritually fall sleep.

1 Peter 5:18 warns us to pray that we're alert, watching for Satan, his schemes, and his deceptions.

And in Matthew 25:13 we are to pray that we're alert, watching for Christ's coming.

Because we're serious about our struggle against the forces of darkness and wickedness, we pray about our spiritual fight. And as a result, we stay alert.

Today, ponder over how you can stay alert in the battle. That you do not fall into the deceptions of the Evil One.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Power of Prayer

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should."

Barnes' Notes comments, "No matter how complete the armour; no matter how skilled we may be in the science of war; no matter how courageous we may be, we may be certain that without prayer we shall be defeated. God alone can give the victory; and when the Christian soldier goes forth armed completely for the spiritual conflict, if he looks to God by prayer, he may be sure of a triumph" (Heritage Edition, Vol. 12, p. 133).

If we equip ourselves with God's armor, we must also be determined to keep a steady line of connection with Him. He is the commander of His spiritual army, and He alone knows how to lead it to victory.

Along with praying for others, it is vital to also pray for ourselves. Our lives are filled with reminders that we can't make it on our own. When we become self-confident, we are most open to the wiles of our enemy. It would be inconceivable to refrain from asking God for the help we so desperately require. We should be sure to keep God's servants in our prayers—and not only His ministers, but all His people. We are in this battle together, and prayer is one of the most effective ways we can support each other, care for each other and fulfill the God-inspired command given to us in Philippians 2:4.

The question to muse over today is that our God stands ready to provide us with the strength, wisdom and courage we need to stand against our enemy, but He wants us first to come before Him and ask for it. Will we?

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - The Sword of the Spirit

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should."

We are going to complete our study of the provisions that God has made for us in the realm of Spiritual Warfare. Today and tomorrow we are going to muse over the two offensive items that God provides, and after Thanksgiving, we will consider two other important aspects of our Provisions.

The Roman gladius has become known as "the sword that conquered the world." The gladius in close range combat made it a fearsome tool in the hand of a skilled Roman warrior. When sharpened, its dual edges wreaked havoc on unarmored foes, while its tapered point could pierce through even heavy metal armor. A Roman infantryman would go into battle armed with more than just his gladius. He would also have a dagger (pugio), several one-time use spears (pila) and lead-weighted darts (plumbatae), but the sword was his main means of attack. The sword is the only weapon Paul lists as part of the Christian arsenal.

God's Word is truth, plain and simple. We can have perfect confidence in the fact that His words are accurate, true and unerring. When followed, they guide us without fail in the paths that we need to walk. We can be destroyed by lack of the knowledge of God (Hosea 4:6), but we will be blessed if we hear and keep the Word of God (Luke 11:28). And the knowledge is not just for us. We are to be ready to answer others who ask us (1 Peter 3:15).

Paul only lists one weapon because we only need one weapon: There is no enemy the Word of God, coupled with His Spirit, cannot defeat. And so, armed only with our sword, we step out to fight our enemies head-on. The struggle is real. It is immediate, and it is in front of us. Our future in God's Kingdom is on the line, and we take up the battle so that we may hold fast to the future He has promised us.

Today, muse over the truth of this offensive weapon that God has provided us. Consider that with the armor in place, and with this weapon in our hand - we have the victory. Why? Because the battle belongs to the Lord.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Helmet of Salvation

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation...."

After that short break looking at Operation Christmas Child, we are back to continue our look at the provisions for our Spiritual Warfare that God has provide. Belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, and now the Helmet of Salvation.

The Roman helmet, like helmets today, protected the head from the attacks of the enemy. There is some evidence to suggest that the Romans had special ceremonial helmets used in parades that denoted rank and standing.

Paul speaks of this being a helmet of salvation. what is Salvation? Salvation basically means to be saved or delivered from something (see examples in Exodus 14:13 and Micah 7:6-8). In the New Testament, as we will see, it is generally used to refer to deliverance from the eternal death penalty of sin and deliverance into God's Kingdom. Every human being has thought and acted in ways that are abominable to God. Sin is so vile to God that it requires the death penalty. God's justice requires that penalty. But God's loving mercy provided the most incredible substitute. Jesus Christ, our Creator, was willing to die in our place! To be saved, we need a Savior.

It is important to understand that salvation cannot be earned. It is a gift from God and not something we can obtain through the right actions, thus obligating God to give it to us. Still, repentance (abhorring our sins and seeking God's forgiveness and help to obey His laws), faith, accepting Christ's sacrifice and coming to the knowledge of the truth are all steps in accepting the free gift. In no way do these efforts make up for our sins that caused the death of our Creator and Savior!

Our enemy hates that we have chosen this path and will stop at nothing to destroy us because of it. Just as the helmet protects the vital but vulnerable head from otherwise fatal blows, the hope of salvation can protect our thoughts from our enemy's attacks and temptations to disobey God. Without the helmet of salvation, we will be unprotected from the "cares of this world" that bombard our thoughts and feelings. Imagine not knowing what the future ultimately holds. The worries and problems produced by living in this world would overwhelm us! With the helmet securely fastened, we can have the same confidence that Paul did that "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18). We understand that it doesn't matter what happens to us now. No matter what trials we face, we know that at the end of it all waits God's Kingdom and an eternity of His perfect reign—and what could be better than that?

We are each individually responsible for whether or not we choose to accept the invitation into God's Kingdom and then to stay on the path of obedience with His help. A good checklist for progress is Paul's description of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Today,ponder on how well you are wearing this helmet - this provision for the spiritual warfare going on around you.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Shield of Faith

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation...."

Belt, breastplate, shoes - when do we get to the Sword? Have patience, it is coming. Right now, God is teaching us about the defensive provisions. Today we will muse over the Shield of Faith. Up to this point we have considered the provisions that we wear. The shield is different. Paul tells us that the shield is something we must take up, something we are required to raise. Just strapping it to our arm won't do any good at all if we don't make the effort to hold it aloft and use it.

The Roman shield—the scutum—was not the standard shield most picture in their minds upon hearing the word. It was instead a very large, slightly curved rectangular shield featuring at its center a large metal knob (called a boss). The scutum was an impressive line of defense. Because of its sheer size (some were three and a half feet tall and almost three feet wide), soldiers were afforded a great deal of protection from enemies. Because of its slight curve, it was able to deflect attacks without transferring the full force of the assault to the man holding the shield. Because of its boss, it was able to deflect even the more vicious blows and function in a limited offensive capacity as a means of knocking an opponent backwards.

So, Paul calls this the Shield of Faith. If faith is "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen," then this has far-reaching implications. Substance is tangible, and evidence is solid proof. Faith is, by definition, not some hazy emotion without any grounding in reality. It is the irrefutable truth. It is real. The Shield of Faith is a real provision to deflect the enemy and protect us from harm. What are some things the shield does?

A shield guards. While a physical shield protects us physically, faith can protect our spiritual lives even in the middle of physical trials. A shield deflects. Satan is always hurling his fiery darts of fear, doubt and worry in our direction, but the only time they can hit us is when we let our shield of faith down—when we stop believing that God is in control; that He is working everything out for our good; that whatever happens is for the ultimate best of everyone involved, however little it seems to be that way. A shield is the first line of defense. While the rest of our armor helps protect us from Satan's onslaught. A shield can incapacitate. The boss (the metal knob in the middle) on the Roman shields allowed soldiers to give their enemies a stun-inducing shove that would allow them to follow through with an attack. Our faith in God can also give Satan a good shove backwards and give us a chance to fight back by doing God's will and work. Because God tells us that faith cannot just be in our minds, it must produce actions—works of obedience and service (James 2:20).

When the Roman army joined its shields together, it became an almost unstoppable force. And if we in God's Church join our shields—that is, strengthen each other with our faith, building up and serving within the Body as we are able—we will become an unstoppable force able to take on any challenge.

Today, consider if you are using your Shield? Are you joining with others to make a difference in the world today.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation...."

Shoes. How is this important. I would again start with the Sword, but God directs Paul to the Belt, the Breastplate, and now --- shoes. I wear shoes, but why are they important in this setting? Shoes allow us to step freely and without fear while we turn our full attention to the battle at hand.

The gospel of the Kingdom, the gospel of Jesus Christ, the gospel of the Kingdom of God, the gospel of the grace of God, the gospel of peace—these are some of descriptions attached to the word gospel in the New Testament. Do all these different qualifiers mean that there are multiple gospels set forth in the Bible? No. The Greek word translated gospel—euaggelion—simply means "good news." This raises a question: The good news of what? The first description used in the Gospels also summarizes all the others: The gospel of the Kingdom. The good news of the Kingdom of God includes the good news about Jesus Christ the King, His grace (unmerited pardon) and His plan of salvation for all mankind. This plan gives us peace now, and will bring peace to the whole world! Believers are sent to announce the good news of God's Kingdom, which will spread His way of peace around the whole world. Having our shoes on, we are ready to move, to spread these glad tidings to others.

The sandals of the Roman soldier "often were fitted with nails, or armed with spikes, to make the hold firm in the ground" (Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible). God's good news and our mission—our marching orders—to preach it serve as our firm foundation. When we truly allow ourselves to take comfort in the good news promised by God, there is nothing from outside ourselves that can trouble our hearts or give us reason to be afraid. Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33), and so we have nothing to fear from it.

Today, stop and muse over the shoes you have on. Not your physical - but your spiritual shoes. Do you know personally the good news of the peace of God? Have you become a born-again believer? With the proper preparation, we can spread the news to a lost and dying world. Check your shoes - and then get into the battle.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Breastplate of Righteousness

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation...."

Yesterday we discussed the Belt of Truth that God provides for us in the Spiritual warfare that surrounds us. Today, Paul calls us to put on another vital piece of defensive equipment - the Breastplate of Righteousness.

The breastplate was a central part of the Roman soldier's armor—it provided protection for the torso, which contains vital organs like the heart, lungs and so on. Without a breastplate, a soldier would be asking for death, as any attack could instantly become fatal. With a sturdy breastplate, the very same attacks become ineffective and useless, as blows glance off the armor.

To be righteous is to do what is right in God's eyes. God's commandments are righteousness. In contrast, lawlessness is sin, and sin is the opposite of righteousness. So to be righteous is to obey God's laws of love. So now we know what the breastplate of righteousness is. Paul gives us the command to "take up the whole armor of God"—the obvious question is, "How?"

An in-depth concordance study of all the scriptures concerning righteousness (there are 301 in the New King James Version!) reveals that servants of God in the Bible who had righteousness all had it because they followed God's way. Though it may seem a sweeping statement, it is through a continuing and dedicated adherence to both the letter and spirit of God's law that we can defend ourselves with His righteousness. Once we have put on the breastplate of righteousness, we must be sure not to remove it. Ezekiel 33:13 shows that wearing righteousness is not a one-time event; rather, it requires a lifetime of action.

Today, let us ponder the  importance of keeping our Breastplate in place. What laws of God do you find yourself most likely to compromise? We can't expect the breastplate to stay securely fastened unless we remain true to His commands. Once you identify your weaker areas, resolve to keep from compromising in them. Pick one area and pay special attention to it. When you do compromise, what prompts this compromise? Is it because of certain conditions, environments, company, etc.? Use this information to decrease your chances of being tempted to compromise, starting today!

Spiritual Warfare Provisions - Belt of Truth

Ephesians 6:14 - 17 (NKJV) - " Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation...."

Let us briefly look at each of the provisions that God has provided. Paul begins with the belt of truth. Why the belt? I might have chosen the mighty Sword to start, but there is logic behind what God discloses.

The belt—known as the cingulum or balteus—played a crucial role in the effectiveness of a soldier's armor. It was the belt that held the scabbard, without which there would be no place to put a sword. Imagine an overzealous soldier, fired up and charging out into battle—but without his belt, and consequently without a weapon! In addition, the Nelson Study Bible says from the belt "hung strips of leather to protect the lower body." The Matthew Henry Commentary says the belt "girds on [secures] all the other pieces of our armor." Truth should cleave to us as a belt cleaves to our body.

The world we live in teaches that truth is what we make it—that good and bad are relative and that there are no absolutes, only equally valid opinions. But the Bible teaches that truth is God's Word—that good and bad are defined by Him and that there are eternal and unchangeable absolutes, uninfluenced by opinions.

Today, ponder over this belt that God provides for us to put on. A belt encompasses the waist. Does our conviction to the truth encompass us? As the above scripture notes, truth must be bound around us and written on our hearts—our conviction must reach beyond an outward show.

Spiritual Warfare Provisions

Ephesians 6: 10 - 13 (NKJV) - "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."

A number of years ago, Frank Peritti had a couple of books - This Present Darkness  and Piercing the Darkness - that was a fictional reminder of the Spiritual Warfare that is waging around us. Paul, in our verse today drives home the point that this warfare is real - and deadly. However, God does not leave us totally helpless in this fight. He has made provisions for us to be able to stand in the the day of evil. I don't know what you think, but I believe we are living in very evil times. It may be that we are in the end of the ages - approaching the Rapture of God's people and the doorstep into the Tribulation.

However, until that time comes, God wants us to be prepared to stand and fight the good fight of faith. And to help us to be the best we can be for Him, He provides what Paul calls the whole armor of God. Paul also refers to parts of this armor in 1 Thessalonians 5:8. In this passage to the saints gathered at Ephesus, he tells them that they need to put on (an action that we are called to do) the panoplia (whole or complete armor). This is both the defensive and offensive provision of God.

we are in a cosmic battle of the ages, not against men but the spiritual forces behind them. Paul describes them as principalities and powers (considered to be the highest hierarchy in the angelic realm), rulers of darkness of this age (kosmokratores - world-rulers) the evil powers directing behind the scenes the world powers, and the very spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly realm (a clear reference to demonic forces, the fallen angels of Scripture).

Paul wants us to be clothed in the armor or provision of Jesus Christ. He is the victor, and the only way that we can be victorious in this battle is by being clothed in His righteousness. The only way to enter into the foray is to have received the covering of Christ's Blood, to have received Him as your Savior and Lord.

Today, muse over the relationship that you have with Jesus. Can you remember a time that you realized you were separated from God, believed and trusted Christ to remove and forgive your sin, and you placed your trust in Him to be your Lord. If not, it is not to late to do that today.

Domestic Violence - Scriptural Applications #3

Today we will muse over a few final Scriptural Applications - I encourage you to search and develop other passages dealing with this issue.

Safety for the abused is a priority and is a validated concern of those who are aware of the issues. The writer of Proverbs 27:12 said - "A sensible person sees danger and takes cover; the inexperienced keep going and are punished." It is ALWAYS a reasonable action to remove the victim(s) from the abuser to a place of safety. A counselor should never instruct a person to return and place herself under subjection to one who is abusing them or their family.

Many times an outside authority is needed to intervene for the victim(s). If the abuser is a member of a local church, they should follow Matthew 18: 15 - 17. It should then become a responsibility of the Church leaders to respond in a timely and competent manner to the issue.

Finally, it is imperative that abusers experience the consequences of their actions. They should not be protected for their sinful behavior. God tells us in Galatians 6:7 that we reap what we sow. God has placed civil and religious authorities in place to protect victims of abuse (Acts 22: 24 - 29). A person with violent tendencies will continue as long as they get away with it. The writer of Proverbs stated in 19:19 - "A person with great anger bears the penalty; if you rescue him, you’ll have to do it again."

Finally, consider that Moses reacted in anger when he struck the rock twice and it cost him - Numbers 20:10 - 12. Listen to what God told him in verse 12 - "But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust Me to show My holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.”

Over the last week we have looked at a hard and very unpleasant situation - Domestic Violence. It has grown in our country and is evident from celebrities to the homeless. It is something that all believers should be aware of, pray over, and seek to be voices to end the suffering of the many silent victims of this sinful behavior.

Domestic Violence - Scriptural Applications #2

Ephesians 4:26 - "Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger...."

Yesterday we pondered the Scriptural application that Domestic Violence is always a sin and abusive speech is never an acceptable way to communicate according to God's Word.

Today, we will consider two other truths that the Bible wants us to understand when it comes to Intimate Partner Violence.

First, let us realize that the Bible makes it clear that violence is never justified - even when it is provoked. We are responsible to respond with wisdom, clarity, and restraint. Paul reminds us in the Ephesian passage above that we are allowed to be angry - but we are not to sin in this anger. Jesus in Luke 6:45 spoke these words - "A good man produces good out of the good storeroom of his heart. An evil man produces evil out of the evil storeroom, for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart." When we react with violence we show what is inside of us - what is on the shelves in our storeroom. The old adage - "What is down in the well comes up in the bucket" is based on this. A person who reacts with anger is in actuality an angry person.

The second muse today is that the Bible teaching on leadership in the home does not give the husband unlimited power over his wife. He does not have the right to remove her choices, or to have his own way with her at any time. Consider what Jesus taught His disciples as far as power and authority - Mark 10:42 - 45 - "Jesus called them over and said to them, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles dominate them, and their men of high positions exercise power over them. But it must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be a slave to all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life —a ransom for many." To be powerful - one must be a servant or slave to the ones they are around.

Paul spoke to this in Ephesians 5. In verses 1 and 2 we read - "Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children. And walk in love, as the Messiah also loved us and gave Himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God." And Paul makes this application to the husband/wife relationship in verses 21 - 29 - a passage often misused to describe male domination over a woman - "submitting to one another in the fear of Christ. Wives, submit to your own husbands as to the Lord, for the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of the body. Now as the church submits to Christ, so wives are to submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her to make her holy, cleansing her with the washing of water by the word. He did this to present the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or anything like that, but holy and blameless. In the same way, husbands are to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hates his own flesh but provides and cares for it, just as Christ does for the church...." Notice - it says to submit one to another. Also muse over the fact that wives are to submit to the husband like the church submits to Christ. Husbands are to love their wives to the point of dying for them. what woman wouldn't submit to a man who is will to die for her.

Tomorrow we will muse over the final Scriptural Applications we are going to make dealing with DV and IPV.

 

Domestic Violence - Scriptural Applications #1

Psalm 11:5 (HCSB) - "The Lord examines the righteous and the wicked. He hates the lover of violence."

The Bible makes it very clear that any form of domestic violence is a sin before God. The author of the Psalm above - believed to be David - speaks out that God hates those who loves (is a friend to) violence is hated by God. Now, this is not speaking to a person's salvation, it does speak to the fact that anyone who is a friend to violence is at odds with God. Their relationship is one that is strained. The word in Hebrew for violence is châmâs and means violence, wrong, cruelty, or injustice.

Other passages that point out that domestic violence is a sin and cannot be condoned or accepted in any fashion would include (all HCSB):

Malachi 2: 16 - 17 - "“If he hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord God of Israel, “he covers his garment with injustice,” says the Lord of Hosts. Therefore, watch yourselves carefully, and do not act treacherously. You have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet you ask, “How have we wearied Him?” When you say, “Everyone who does what is evil is good in the Lord’s sight, and He is pleased with them,” or “Where is the God of justice?”

Colossians 3:19 - "Husbands, love your wives and don’t be bitter toward them."

And in this vein, abusive speech is never an acceptable way to communicate - consider these verses -

1 Corinthians 5:11 - "But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer who is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or verbally abusive, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person."

Colossians 3:8 - "But now you must also put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth."

Take some time today to muse over the fact that DV is a sin in God's eyes. God has never - and will never - condone any form of IPV or DV.

Tomorrow, let us ponder and muse over the facts that violence is never justified and that the husband is the head of the household - but not with unlimited power.

DV - IPV Statistics

We are musing over the vital issue of Domestic Violence - Intimate Partner Violence that has been in the news, and has garnered attention recently. Yesterday we considered the fact that it traces back to the first family - Cain and Abel and the fratricide that was the first sinful result listed following the fall of man in the Garden. Today, I would like to share some stats on the extent of this sinful act.

• Every 9 seconds a woman is assaulted of beaten in the United States.
• Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime. Most often the abuser is a member of her own family.
• Domestice Violence is the leading cause of injury to women - more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
• Studies suggest that up to 10 million children witness some form of domestice violence annually.
• Evry day in the United States, more than three women are murdered by their huisbands or boyfriends.
• Domestic Violence victims lose nearly 8 million days of paid work per year in the United States alone - the equivalent of 32,000 full-time jobs.
• The costs of Intimate Partner Violence in the United States alone exceed $5.8 billion per year, $4.1 billion are for direct medical and health care services. The remainder is productivity losses of nearly $1.8 billion.
• Men who as children witnessed their parents' Domestic Violence were twice as likely to abuse their own wives than sons of nonviolent parents.

As we ponder these facts today, let us lift our hearts and voices to God on behalf of those caught up in this horrible sin. We need to pray for the victims - and their abusers. We need to seek God to intervene in the many situations going on around us. Join me in prayer today for the many who are hurting, the many who are causing the hurt, and those who are forced to watch this hurt.

DV - IPV Background

Recently I have been reading and hearing a lot about domestic violence. Domestic violence appeared shortly after sin entered the world. Cain murdered his brother Abel in Genesis 4:8. Until the mid-1980’s and early 1990’s, marital therapists and mental-health professionals generally ignored the problem of domestic violence. 

Domestic Violence or intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pattern of rage and violence used as a means of control and conflict resolution by one spouse against the other. It often follows a three-step pattern – 

1. Tension builds until the abuser loses control 
2. Battering occurs. Often the batterer feels that the victim deserved it and needs to be taught a lesson. 
3. Remorse. The batterer is sorry and asks for forgiveness and reconciliation. This looks a lot like repentance – usually because the tension is gone. When tension returns, the battering can and probably will return. (Clinton & Trent, 2009) 

Domestic violence is fueled by the batterer’s need to control. Biblical headship as taught in the Bible is based on love and servant leadership, not on a husband’s control over his wife or on physical coercion. 

Many Christian women have been taught that they should never leave their husband at all. They are taught that this is not being submissive to him, and therefore disobeying Scripture. Scripture does not teach that a Christian woman should continually submit herself to an abusive man - separation for safety is a must.

Over the next couple of days, I would like to share some statistics and Scriptural Applications dealing with this important issue. I hope that you will prayerfully muse over this information, and pray for those who are involved in this. 

Clinton, T., & Trent, J. (2009). Marriage and Family Counseling -quick reference guide. Grand Rapids, MI, USA: Baker Books.

Living Free as a Bondslave #12

Galatians 6:14 - (CSB) - "But as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The world has been crucified to me through the cross, and I to the world."

Paul concludes this letter by discussing his relationship with the Savior (6:11 -18). The Legalizers boast in the ceremony of circumcision (6:11-13). They are trying to make a good show while even they do not keep the Law. They want to show the Galatians off as a trophy of their accomplishment.

In opposition, Paul does not boast in earthly accomplishments. he only glories in the message of salvation – the Cross. Paul is stressing that the only thing that matters is if the person is a new creation or not. Then they will find true peace and mercy (eleos).

Paul then testifies concerning his sufferings for Christ (6:17-18). Paul said that no one could cause him concern or trouble because he knew who he belonged to. On his body, he wore the marks of his suffering for Jesus. This is called the stigmata. Stigmata is the plural of the Greek word στίγμα stigma, meaning a mark or brand such as might have been used for identification of an animal or slave. In other words, he was branded as belonging to Christ.

Paul then concludes this letter with the statement that they would have the Grace of Jesus in their spirits. He started this letter with a frustrated, angry tone. He has built argument after argument that there is only one Gospel - The Gospel of Grace.

Salvation is the Cross of Christ plus nothing, minus nothing. Living as Christians is the Cross of Christ plus nothing, minus nothing. Legalism is adding anything to the gospel to get saved or stay saved.

We are free to do as we want [want-to is changed] when we are covered by the blood of Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I show the world my freedom in Christ by the truth of my "want-to's" have been changed. I accept that I am a bond-slave, may I now live like it. Amen.

A Grandparent's Privilege

Linda and I have a great privilege. We get to  babysit our four grandchildren. The grandkids range in age from 18 to 6 years of age. They are great "personal trainers" for us physically and spiritually. We will be put to the test on how our workouts have been. Keeping up with their activities will take a lot of stamina and mental acuity. Yet, it is the greatest opportunity we can imagine. I will share some of the lessons learned. So.... hang on, and here we go! 😅 😅 😅

To begin this time of consideration, consider these are the things Godly grandparents can do:

• Pray for them continually to be immersed in the knowledge and love of God at an early age and even to finding mates of God's choosing. 
• Perceive and reflect their worth and affirm God's calling on their lives. 
• Listen to them any time they want to talk. 
• Gently offer wise counsel to encourage them in their faith and character development. 
• Love them unconditionally…don't be afraid that you'll "spoil" them. 
• Be creative, fun and affectionate. 
• Respect their parents and never undermine their authority. 

Proverbs 17:6 says that "Grandchildren are the crown of the elderly…" No wise person would ever neglect their "crown" or what they value most. Being a God-honoring grandparent is a huge job and when you get it, you're the one who can do it best. It is, however, your decision.

Prayer: Father, may I be the kind of grandparent that helps to guide and direct my grandchildren in the proper way of life. May they see Jesus in me, and may I be a help and not a hindrance to their choice of You. I thank You for the time I have being an important part of their lives. Amen.

Living Free as a Bondslave #11

Galatians 6:9-10 (CSB) - "Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith."

Paul is writing his final instructions to the Galatian believers, reminding them of three laws. First, there is the Law of Sharing and Caring (6:1-5). Paul calls it the Law of Christ. Jesus said that we are to obey His commandments in John 14 and 15. I would say this is one that He meant for us to keep. Too often we as the church “shoot our wounded.”

Paul goes on to show the nature of this Law (6:1-5). Spiritual believers are to gently restore fallen believers back to fellowship. The word trespass means one who has a lapse or deviation from truth and uprightness – a sin, a misdeed  The word restore in the Greek means to make perfect, make one what they ought to be. It is in the present imperative tense. And this is to be in a spirit of gentleness – mildly and meekly. Nowhere are we justified in God’s Word to be overbearing or obnoxious in helping others. Why – because we open ourselves to Satan to be tempted in that very area! We become proud of what we are not (v.3). We are what we are spiritually only by Christ.

We are told to take upon ourselves the weights of others. We are not to place more weight upon the person. But, what about verse 5? Verse 2 is in the present imperative – we ARE to do this. Verse 5 is in the future indicative – it will happen in the future. When we help others to shoulder their burden, they will become capable of doing it themselves.

So, the Law of Christ is that we shoulder the burden of others and help them become what they ought to be.The second Paul talks about the Law of Receiving and Giving (6:6). Those who are taught the Word of God should fellowship with them who has taught them. We should encourage and share with those who have taught us. We should share with one another. We should enter into fellowship, make one's self a sharer or partner with each other. We should receive instruction and be willing to fellowship with the one who instructs. In other words – be generous and do good to those who take time to instruct.

Finally, Paul instructs about the Law of Sowing and Reaping (6:7-10). Paul tells them not to be led astray - God is not mocked – this is a simple statement of fact in the Greek. Interesting way of putting this in the Greek - "whatever a man sows" – tense is that it may or may not happen, "that he will also reap" – tense is that it will definitely happen.

He is stressing that those who sow only sinful desires will reap everlasting death (6:8a). What is good will reap a never ceasing life (6:8b). So, never quit – no matter what (6:9). So, whenever we can – do good, however we can – do good. (6:10).

Prayer: Father, may I follow these laws of my Savior. As a bondslave, I want to do only what my Master desires. Guide my steps in all ways. Amen.

Living Free as a Bondslave #10

Galatians 5:16 (CSB) - "I say then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh."

Yesterday, we mused over the first part of Chapter 5 - our freedom in the Son. Today, we will consider the Fruit of the Spirit working in our lives.

Paul begins by describing the conflict we face the fierce struggle within the believer

(5:16-18). The Contenders in this conflict are presented for our understanding (5:17-18). We start with the first contender - our evil nature (5:17a) – our flesh. Often we say – “The Devil made me do it.”  When in reality, it is our own sinful nature that does it. Our evil nature is why we cannot keep the Law. That brings us to the second contender - The Holy Spirit (5:17b-18). When we are being led by the Spirit, we are no longer under the control of the Law. Yet, we will walk on the right path. 

Paul discusses the Council of God (5:16). “Live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit” (5:16a). “Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves” (5:16b) 

OK, that sounds simple enough. Right! 

Paul now expands this concept – as he talks about ... The children (5:19-26). 

First, he enumerates the fruits of the flesh (5:19-21). Immorality, idolatry, hatred, discord, selfish ambition, envy, drunkenness, etc. When we attempt to become righteous under our own efforts – living by the Law, we find that the flesh is able to sow its own seeds for harvest. And they grow like weeds. Paul is here stating that if one is attempting to get into heaven by his works – it won’t work. Get the message - WORKS WON’T WORK. 

He then turns to the fruit of the Spirit (5:22-26). Paul lists nine attributes of this fruit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, and self-control. Some have thought because of Paul’s emphasis on love that the fruit of the Spirit is love. 

Notice that the word translated Works is plural in the Greek – while the word translated Fruit is singular. The remaining 8 words are adjectives describing this Love. 

• Joy (gladness) 
• Peace (moral peace – a rest with God) 
• Patience (slowness to seek revenge) 
• Kindness (integrity) 
• Goodness (upright heart and life) 
• Faithfulness (character of one who can be relied upon) 
• Gentleness (meekness, mildness) 
• Self-control (one who masters his desires and passions) 

Bearing the fruit of the Spirit is possible when we have crucified the flesh – how? Through Christ – GRACE. 

So catch this truth -- WORKS WON’T WORK, BUT GRACE GROWS THE GARDEN 

If we have received the Spirit – then we walk in the Spirit – not the Law. However, consider whether one would be fulfilling the Law by living in the Spirit? There would be no debate. 

Verse 26 – warns us to beware – when one tries to live by the law, see what they become. Conceited – eager for all the glory [they, after all, are the reason for their own salvation],

irritating – always challenging or confronting [their way does not allow for grace], and, envious - a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another – in other words – breaking the 10th commandment [they are bitter inwardly for not having the freedom that Grace gives]. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, I pry for the grace needed to see my garden flourish and grow. I know that the things I have tried on my own don't work, and when I let You control and run my ife the wonder of Your love flows through me. I can resist the works of the flesh, when I am walking in You. Amen.

Living Free as a Bondslave #9

Galatians 5:1 (CSB) - "For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm then and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery."

Paul will show us in this chapter how the miracle of justification brings about both freedom in the Son and the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

First, consider today the freedom in the Son. We have protection from the legalism of the legalizers (5:1-12). The work of Christ has freed us from the bondage of the law (5:1-4; 6-12) It is not the actual circumcision, but the reason for it. If one places themselves under the Law, they are then required to keep it all.

To “become estranged from Christ” means that He will not be of any future benefit to them. They have been “cut off” from Him. Carrying through the circumcision image. Paul is not speaking about salvation – but our relationship. The statement “Fallen from Grace” is a very misunderstood concept. It is NOT a loss of salvation as some would teach. Notice it does not say fallen out of grace – but from it. They had fallen from the higher plane of grace back to considering the field of keeping the law. Their progress for the Lord and in the Lord has stopped. They had become ineffectual and out of the relationship they had with Christ.

In verses 6 -12, Paul emphasizes that they started right – but now have been hindered in serving the Lord. This teaching of legalism did not come from God. (Verse 8). Paul says that he wishes that those who were teaching this would mutilate themselves. Basically be completely cut off. Again, he is sarcastically carrying on the circumcision image.

The work of Christ will (someday) free us from the bondage of our body (5:5). We are saved from the penalty of our sin, daily we are being saved from the power of sin, one day when we stand in His presence we will be saved from the presence of sin.

But Paul goes on to show the protection from the license of the libertines (5:13-15). Paul warns against using freedom to indulge the sinful nature. We must remember that salvation is not a license to sin. It is the license to do right. All of this is summed up in one word – love. Love one another – and we will do right by one another. We will automatically keep the law if we operate under the guise of love.

We can see that love would not:

1. Dishonor our family members
2. Kill another person
3. Would not commit sexual sins
4. Would not take something from another
5. Would not lie about people
6. And, would not want what belonged to someone else

In other words, the 6 commandments dealing with man’s relationship to man. Without love, we will seek to destroy others – and will in the process be destroyed. We have freedom in the Son by being protected from the legalism of the legalizers, and the license of the libertines.

The freedom of the Son gives us the power and privilege to Love. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, take control of my life and lead me to fulfill the Law by living the way that Grace empowers me. May I be an example of Jesus to those I come in contact with today. Amen.