I don't know if we are considered the "bumper crop" or first fruit of the harvest- are the Christians of this era really the best examples of His gifts to humanity? The writer brings up the City Harvest trials and asks that we consider all the "low profile" ways we may embarrass God through our lives under the banner of Christianity.
I frequently have to face my anti-Christian friend, who was once a Christian (due to family upbringing) but when he had a choice chose to walk away. As a bystander and someone who has been inside the community, he sees more than most and is thus more disillusioned about the reality of God's goodness. Something like what Ghandi (?) mentioned- that he likes our God, but not his people. Sometimes we may not just be bad testimonies, but actively push people away from God.
Christianity ought not be an elite club, though it has a tendency to gravitate somewhat to that extent due to the relative affluence and social strata of believers. I feel that is a terrible pity- since the gift of God's love is most effective and most needed by those who feel they have nothing. Alienating those who need the good news the most is hardly the best way to go about reaching them.
Thursday, August 11, 2016
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
Day 6 - I did it
After a 2 day break (Happy National Day Singapore!) I'm back. Clearly it isnt a habit yet, im still in the process of cultivating it. Today's topic seems appropriate, that satan does not, and cannot MAKE us do anything, it is our desires that lead us to choose to sin. The writer (and James) urges us to "take responsibility. Stand our ground, resist and renounce sinful passions."
One angle of attack here is to memorize and pray the Word. The author zeroes in on lusts and passions, about the hidden sins of pornography and promiscuity. As temptations rise, the only effective measure is to flee, but when one is assailed all around - the only way to deny and beat it is to expose, confront and renounce it with the power of Christ.
I know full well the futility of fighting such a struggle on my own strength. It isnt even a battle, its a one sided slaughter. Human's weak wills will crumble, its our weak point, as the desires stem from within ourselves. Trying to appear strong can only last so long and it feel terrible when you finally do fail.
The author gives 3 verses to memorize and pray:
One angle of attack here is to memorize and pray the Word. The author zeroes in on lusts and passions, about the hidden sins of pornography and promiscuity. As temptations rise, the only effective measure is to flee, but when one is assailed all around - the only way to deny and beat it is to expose, confront and renounce it with the power of Christ.
I know full well the futility of fighting such a struggle on my own strength. It isnt even a battle, its a one sided slaughter. Human's weak wills will crumble, its our weak point, as the desires stem from within ourselves. Trying to appear strong can only last so long and it feel terrible when you finally do fail.
The author gives 3 verses to memorize and pray:
2 Corinthians 7:1New International Version (NIV)
7 Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
1 Corinthians 6:18-19New International Version (NIV)
18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;
1 Thessalonians 4:3-5New International Version (NIV)
3 It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; 4 that each of you should learn to control your own body[a] in a way that is holy and honorable, 5 not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God;
There was a book or series titled "every man's struggle" and it truly is. A neverending battle that requires God's leadership over the weak flesh.
Sunday, August 07, 2016
Day 5 - Being Lowly
I get it that wealth, titles and positions which the world places an emphasis on are not (as) important in the Kingdom of God. However, isn't it a greater thing if one who has positions etc is able to humble themselves and become lowly, being able to find their greater fulfillment in a relationship with God?
There is also the stand that God will use the lowly since it further emphasizes that they did not do it on their own and it truly was through God's power/provision. The way the author crafts today's piece would really appeal to the downtrodden and excluded. Yesterday we established that devout Christians will be regarded as foolish to modern society, partially leading to the exclusion mentioned.
He goes so far as to say "blessed are the underachievers" and those who feel ordinary and overlooked ought to rejoice for God creates out of nothing. Till we empty ourselves of "our self" and fill up on Him (perhaps via yesterday's DOS) that God can make something of us.
It is interesting how the world tries its hardest to make everyone feel like they are special and they are great just as they are but yet at the same time tries to push everyone to achieve. If everyone is special, then its as good as no one being special. It may hurt more to find out you arent actually special after hearing it all over but not being able to figure or recognize it in yourself. This disjoint probably leads to self esteem and confidence issues, wherein the praises of people start to feel empty and even take on a mocking tune wherein you can't find the seemingly observable redeeming qualities.
Day 4 - DOS-sing
Today's verse is James 1:5-8
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
DOS stands for Divine Operating System, in this context the author refers to is as the application for and of heavenly wisdom to guide your everyday life.
The author writes that double mindedness is when one tries to have a double operating system, one of God and one of the world. The duality is "A doubt that looks for proofs, guarantees, and contingencies before venturing out in faith". I see how it would clash, and how there is this sense of hypocrisy when someone can live a "normal" life which is true to the scientific method for everything but somehow can simply turn a total 180 degrees to "blind faith" when it comes to spiritual matters. Its little wonder others will find such a person silly for not seeing that intrinsic contradiction in the way they approach their life.
Where then does one stand and how would a person led by divine wisdom approach life? As I am, this is baffling, other than having your choices and worldview shaped by Godly values it would imply clear communication from the Lord on things that aren't as clear cut and having the courage to stick with it purely on the strength of your faith in what you are hearing.
No wonder the author notes that one ought to be sure they want that kind of wisdom, and that most Christians won't have it. That the wise of the world would consider devout Christians fools, and it has been and will continue to be ever more strongly.
I'll need to consider hard what it means to run a DOS compared to the relative safety and apparent surety of a WOS. There can be no dual boot or the system will crash and die, its only a matter of when, and not if.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
DOS stands for Divine Operating System, in this context the author refers to is as the application for and of heavenly wisdom to guide your everyday life.
The author writes that double mindedness is when one tries to have a double operating system, one of God and one of the world. The duality is "A doubt that looks for proofs, guarantees, and contingencies before venturing out in faith". I see how it would clash, and how there is this sense of hypocrisy when someone can live a "normal" life which is true to the scientific method for everything but somehow can simply turn a total 180 degrees to "blind faith" when it comes to spiritual matters. Its little wonder others will find such a person silly for not seeing that intrinsic contradiction in the way they approach their life.
Where then does one stand and how would a person led by divine wisdom approach life? As I am, this is baffling, other than having your choices and worldview shaped by Godly values it would imply clear communication from the Lord on things that aren't as clear cut and having the courage to stick with it purely on the strength of your faith in what you are hearing.
No wonder the author notes that one ought to be sure they want that kind of wisdom, and that most Christians won't have it. That the wise of the world would consider devout Christians fools, and it has been and will continue to be ever more strongly.
I'll need to consider hard what it means to run a DOS compared to the relative safety and apparent surety of a WOS. There can be no dual boot or the system will crash and die, its only a matter of when, and not if.
Saturday, August 06, 2016
Day 3 - Joy
Today's verse comes from James 1:2-4
In our walk, trials are guaranteed and through them we are moulded and tested. When faced with a trial, do we react or rejoice? Bearing with the situation is not the right way, a mere passive resignation to suffering isn't the victorious answer. Rejoicing in faith is a choice towards the potentially crushing feelings that might overwhelm us.
Joy is a choice.
And through choosing to believe whole heartedly in the assurance of God's sovereignty over any circumstance can the "strength" to be joyful despite the trails be found. "God is a Father. God is my good Father. God never makes mistakes. God is working all things for my greatest good. God has nothing but good intentions for my life. God is sovereign, and since he is sovereign, there is never any cause for despair."
The writer offers the short passage above, reminding me that God is all these things, especially during difficult times. May I resolve to draw strength and joy in all circumstances from the assurance of the Lord. Amen.
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
In our walk, trials are guaranteed and through them we are moulded and tested. When faced with a trial, do we react or rejoice? Bearing with the situation is not the right way, a mere passive resignation to suffering isn't the victorious answer. Rejoicing in faith is a choice towards the potentially crushing feelings that might overwhelm us.
Joy is a choice.
And through choosing to believe whole heartedly in the assurance of God's sovereignty over any circumstance can the "strength" to be joyful despite the trails be found. "God is a Father. God is my good Father. God never makes mistakes. God is working all things for my greatest good. God has nothing but good intentions for my life. God is sovereign, and since he is sovereign, there is never any cause for despair."
The writer offers the short passage above, reminding me that God is all these things, especially during difficult times. May I resolve to draw strength and joy in all circumstances from the assurance of the Lord. Amen.
Friday, August 05, 2016
Day 2 (not quite)
Thursday went by in a blur, and its already Friday Morning so I'll try to keep it brief. Today's topic is on the Lord's family, for us that would be the body of Christ. Ironically, the page layout reminds me this blog was birthed of a different time, yet today's reading reminds us that no Christian is an island and the faith isn't designed that way.
I am reminded of an illustration with coals. Together, they keep the heat high and the fire will keep burning but when a fire is scattered each individual piece loses heat much faster and the overall fire will die out as the temperature drops.
Following the same illustration above, it is easy to start a fire but harder to keep it alive and strong long enough to be useful. The writer mentions it is easy to win converts but comparatively harder to make disciples.
I have to take my hat off to the leaders who have walked thus far with me, their dedication to discipling me and my peers has been a long journey spanning years. Lord, grant me an appreciation for what they do and let me have the desire to be like them. Also let the church be united and not let petty things divide us, instead may every member be a disciple and mentor to yet another, keeping each other accountable, working together to reach outwards to the larger community (like we will be doing this weekend) for Your glory. Amen.
I am reminded of an illustration with coals. Together, they keep the heat high and the fire will keep burning but when a fire is scattered each individual piece loses heat much faster and the overall fire will die out as the temperature drops.
Following the same illustration above, it is easy to start a fire but harder to keep it alive and strong long enough to be useful. The writer mentions it is easy to win converts but comparatively harder to make disciples.
I have to take my hat off to the leaders who have walked thus far with me, their dedication to discipling me and my peers has been a long journey spanning years. Lord, grant me an appreciation for what they do and let me have the desire to be like them. Also let the church be united and not let petty things divide us, instead may every member be a disciple and mentor to yet another, keeping each other accountable, working together to reach outwards to the larger community (like we will be doing this weekend) for Your glory. Amen.
Thursday, August 04, 2016
Day 34, well, actually day 1 of 40
Preface to this entire series, no I'm not turning my blog into a bible study (well not at this point, it isnt my intention). However it is just a sounding board, since I think when I write and as my fingers flow over the keys so does the path of logic build itself in my mind. I dont expect anyone to still be reading this so I consider it a safe place. This is more for my own thoughts than for reading so if one does stumble upon this I beg your forgiveness.
Today at the start of this "book" James kicks off with only 1 verse but the writer manages to draw a slew of lessons from it. Presented here is James 1:1
"James, slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ"
His first point is the lack of titles, despite the many roles biblical scholars have identified James to fill, he humbly refers to himself as no more than a fellow slave to God and Christ. Do we, or do I have that level of humility?
On first thought, no I don't care about titles or positions, they're more troublesome than they're worth, bringing with them responsibilities and obligations. Yet I am not "humble", not enough at least- there is some pride in being a "leader", the same pride that hinders one's capacity to take a step back and admit that I too need help. How is a "leader" supposed to be a "leader" if they're flawed themselves? This thinking is entrenched in the thought patterns of man, but a spiritual leader should be no less an example... difference being what makes one a leader is no their own capability or achievement.
To lead in servanthood, in sacrifice, in bringing glory to God. Acknowledging my own helplessness is a starting step towards going back to the roots of not even leadership but Christian living. Do I need God? Have I managed for so long without His presence that I have gotten used to living as I am? This reminds me of a sermon a few weeks back wherein Psalms 51:11 was shared~
"Do not cast me from your presence of take your Holy Spirit from me."
David at the point where he recognised he had sinned was desperate to keep the presence of God. How different this instinct is compared to now when sin would lead to one shunning God's presence - a terrible misstep that compounds error upon error leading one further and further away.
And though I may be early by a few days, reading on brings me to James 1:22-25
Today at the start of this "book" James kicks off with only 1 verse but the writer manages to draw a slew of lessons from it. Presented here is James 1:1
"James, slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ"
His first point is the lack of titles, despite the many roles biblical scholars have identified James to fill, he humbly refers to himself as no more than a fellow slave to God and Christ. Do we, or do I have that level of humility?
On first thought, no I don't care about titles or positions, they're more troublesome than they're worth, bringing with them responsibilities and obligations. Yet I am not "humble", not enough at least- there is some pride in being a "leader", the same pride that hinders one's capacity to take a step back and admit that I too need help. How is a "leader" supposed to be a "leader" if they're flawed themselves? This thinking is entrenched in the thought patterns of man, but a spiritual leader should be no less an example... difference being what makes one a leader is no their own capability or achievement.
To lead in servanthood, in sacrifice, in bringing glory to God. Acknowledging my own helplessness is a starting step towards going back to the roots of not even leadership but Christian living. Do I need God? Have I managed for so long without His presence that I have gotten used to living as I am? This reminds me of a sermon a few weeks back wherein Psalms 51:11 was shared~
"Do not cast me from your presence of take your Holy Spirit from me."
David at the point where he recognised he had sinned was desperate to keep the presence of God. How different this instinct is compared to now when sin would lead to one shunning God's presence - a terrible misstep that compounds error upon error leading one further and further away.
And though I may be early by a few days, reading on brings me to James 1:22-25
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
Its been a while since I looked in the mirror, and not liking what was seen have taken to covering the mirrors rather than changing.
I havent even touched on the other points the writer brought out of that tiny line today but I've gotten enough to start working on. How do I go back?
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