Our subject today is of the utmost importance, especially for those faithful servants of God who labor for the Lord in some of the most trying and difficult places in the world. Places, which do not necessarily mean a "foreign country or a 3rd world nation," but also those isolated and often unnoticed places here in America. For there are many unknown and seemingly overlooked preachers of the Gospel that labor in fields that are very obscure and unnoticed by many. For though all true preachers of the Gospel have their own battles and difficulties to face, regardless of where they serve, those servants of God who serve Christ faithfully in small, obscure and often isolated fields, face very different and trying difficulties. Often, the isolation alone is enough to overwhelm and put their faith to the greatest test. And should they find themselves facing personal hardships and trials in their own lives, as well as, in the work of the ministry, they often feel deserted and forsaken by their fellow servants of God.
There are some ministries of the Gospel which appear (though appearance can often be wrong), to be successful from the very beginning. Whose congregations seem to flourish and grow with little difficulty (though we acknowledge there are difficulties in every church). Well known and recognized men of the Gospel whose name is very familiar amongst the ranks of God's people. Then there are those, whose labor in the unknown and isolated places in America. Those who struggle with small congregations while working a full time secular job. Men, whose work in the Lord appear to go unnoticed and unrecognized by others, yet, whose labor in the Lord is just as precious and acknowledged by Christ as any large and highly acclaimed church.
There will surely be those who misunderstand, or misinterpret my intentions in writing this article. But I assure you, my desire is not to claim that larger, more successful churches do not suffer difficulties and hardships in their ministry. I simply which to be an encouragement to those servants of God who labor in such isolated and often overlooked fields, regardless if it is in America or another country. Those, who often feel the burden of isolation and solitude. For though such feelings of isolation and solitude will be felt even by the those who serve a large congregation (solitude being a vital part and divine appointment of the ministry of Christ), yet, I wish merely to encourage all servants of God who face such trials, especially those in isolated fields.
And, it is in the parable of the talents that we find great encouragement and comfort for those who might be suffering under that sense of isolation and loneliness.
Matthew 25:14-30
I. First of all, like all truths about God, we must begin with God Himself. We must build upon the divine foundation that cannot be shaken by any wind or storm of life: That foundation being, "The Sovereignty of God in His dispersing and giving of His talents or goods, as He sees fit"
"and delivered unto them His goods. to every man according to his several ability." V.V 14,15
In this parable of the talents our Lord "delivered unto each servant His goods, according to His several ability. Each servant was delivered a portion of his Lord's goods, according to the power, authority and providence of Christ as He seen fit to give. The Master knew full well what each servant was able to carry. Not that the one given 5 talents was more faithful, or capable, but in accordance to the Master's will. The servant is not measured by the number of talents he received, but what each one DOES with the talent entrusted to him by His Master. People tend to measure one another by the NUMBER of talents each servant has, but not God. I have attended conferences by well known preachers whose words and mannerism (intentionally or purposely, I will not judge), seem to boast of their success or knowledge of the truths of God. Their demeanor was one of superiority and haughtiness, not one of a humble and contrite spirit. The emphasis being on their many talents and not on the One to whom those talents belonged.
It is God who determines who receives which talents and how many. It is His Sovereign right, divine privilege and unmerited mercy to give each of His servants the measure and quality of talents which are His. The blessing is not in the NUMBER of talents, but in the mere act of grace, kindness and mercy that God would even consider giving finite, frail and weak man any of His gracious talents. The Talents do not define the servant nor his vain belief of any abilities, but each talent represents the infinite grace and mercy of the Master who is pleased to entrust His talents to whomsoever He chooses. The true servant, regardless of how many talents God has given him, rejoices in EVERY talent God has chosen for him.
And so it is with every true servant of God. Regardless if we are called on to labor in a great field or in a field of obscurity and seclusion. The true servant, whether he has been given one or five talents, is content and faithful, for he is greatly humbled that God would even consider entrusting him with ONE of His gracious talents.
So dear brother, or sister, if you find yourself laboring for the Master in secluded and isolated fields, feeling often unnoticed, unrecognized and overlooked. Never forget, it is the Master's blessing and favor we seek, not that of the other servants or their more talents. That God would entrust any of us with His gracious talents should greatly humble us all. To Him, and Him alone, be all the glory forever and ever, AMEN.
"For if just a cup of water, He places within your hand, then just a cup of water is all that He demands, but if by death to living they can His glory see, take up your cross and follow close to Him." (wording was changed by me)
Saturday, August 20, 2016
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Consider one another
"To consider one another" is when we charitably observe our brothers/sisters tempers, circumstances, infirmities, and temptations that we may excite and encourage them to love and good works. To take time and to give attention to their needs, their weaknesses, their faults, as to encourage, not to discourage to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).
In my 25 years as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I can sadly confess that this has been, without doubt, a very rare jewel amongst the majority of professing believers. Myself included. And yet, this work of grace is so very vital, not only for the spiritual strength and happiness of the individual believer, but also for the advancement and proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The mutual care, love and responsibilty we as believers owe to one another, is a true work of grace and requires much self sacrifice and humility. Much of our spiritual strength, perseverance and comfort are greatly dependent upon the cultivation of this rare jewel amongst one another as believers. I am not speaking of that "outward show or appearance of fellowship" which is so evident when Christians gather together. But, that inward work of grace which alone can excite the heart of the believer to earnestly "consider" his brother or sister in hopes of encouraging and strengthening them if they fall, or are weak or even under a burden of guilt and sin. This compassionate spirit does not come natural, but is a true work of grace by the Spirit of God. We can, to some degree, copy or imitate this spirit at times, but the true quality and genuineness of this rare jewel is seen when we are willing to sacrifice our time, self and own interests to aid a failing or weak brother or sister.
The spiritual bond which exists between believers, because of our spiritual union with Christ, is greatly strengthened and made more intimate by our interceding on each others behalf. Physical fellowship is very important for our mutual faith and comfort, but there is an special intimacy created between the believers when we pour out our hearts before God for one another, unlike that of any physical fellowship. An intimacy and bond which strengthens our love, compassion and care for one another. Believers who intercede for one another only occasionally or superficially know nothing of this intimacy and will lack in the love, care and compassion which imitates that of Christ for us ("love one another as I have loved you."). This rare jewel preserves the unity and bond between believers through the most difficult and trying times. And, enables us to forgive and reconcile our differences quicker and with more grace and compassion. When we invest our time, effort, energy and heart in "considering one another", our desire for peace, fellowship and love amongst one another, as believers, is greatly enhanced. And "esteeming others better than ourselves" becomes a delight and our highest desire for our brethren.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
"Men ought always to pray, and not faint." (Luke 18)
I was humbly reminded this past week of the great importance of this divine truth. To believe I can meet the many trials and afflictions of the day, the continual fleshly lusts and desires that so quickly rise daily within my own heart, and meet the countless temptations of this evil world and Satan, with only a few minutes of casual prayer a day, is the greatest deceivable thing my heart could ever fathom. I must "Pray always," lest I faint. I must throughout the day still away to a quiet time of prayer and meditation, even if they be but short times, let them be often. For then, I shall not so quickly faint against these daily trials and afflictions, but be better equipped to "stand against all these things." For when I do not give myself to prayer, and that always, it is a sure sign that I trust too much in myself. And that never leads to hope and happiness, only certain failure and heartache.
I was humbly reminded this past week of the great importance of this divine truth. To believe I can meet the many trials and afflictions of the day, the continual fleshly lusts and desires that so quickly rise daily within my own heart, and meet the countless temptations of this evil world and Satan, with only a few minutes of casual prayer a day, is the greatest deceivable thing my heart could ever fathom. I must "Pray always," lest I faint. I must throughout the day still away to a quiet time of prayer and meditation, even if they be but short times, let them be often. For then, I shall not so quickly faint against these daily trials and afflictions, but be better equipped to "stand against all these things." For when I do not give myself to prayer, and that always, it is a sure sign that I trust too much in myself. And that never leads to hope and happiness, only certain failure and heartache.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Rightly dividing the word of truth / Beware of spiritual imbalance
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2Timothy 2:15)
The divine goal and objective in the minister's studying of God's Word is to "shew himself approved (not unto men, but) unto God." This great task is given unto all those whom God has graciously called into the service of preaching the Gospel of His dear Son Jesus Christ. Of such a high calling no man is worthy or sufficient of himself. It is purely by the infinite grace of God that He would call any man unto such a high service. To this high calling we are ever indebted and shall one day be held greatly accountable for how we sought to humbly fulfill this divine appointment. The divine truths we preach are not our own; we are not to alter, change, add or corrupt the truths of God's Word entrusted unto us. But, we are to boldly, humbly and faithfully proclaim those divine truths as revealed in Scripture. And how to "rightly divide" those truths are an essential and vital part in our seeking God's approval as we study His truths.It is "the whole counsel of God" we must proclaim.
I say that for there are many divine truths in God's Word which have been neglected or ignored in this present age of spiritual imbalance amongst believers. Many today, in their blind zeal to defend certain dogmatic convictions, are guilty of neglecting the "whole counsel of God' and therefore ignorantly ignore or neglect other divine truths of equal or greater value and significance for God's people. Many of God's people today are quick to cry out against the perils of these last days, yet, consistently rally around only certain divine truths in their contending for the faith. Something which is of itself a noble and commendable cause. Yet, this causes a great imbalance in our contending for the faith and is something even our adversary readily supports and encourages.
To possess a burning and fervent zeal for God's truths is vital to our contending for the faith, yet, such divine contending must be done by our rightly dividing the truth; otherwise we fall in danger of becoming blind and oblivious to the importance and significance of other divine truths. This great spiritual imbalance has also led to many divisions and schisms amongst the ranks of God's children. While many boldly profess to be faithfully and fervently proclaiming the truths of God, yet, if that proclamation is driven by a spirit of malice, anger, or self-righteous indignation then the message will be tainted and dishonoring to the cause of Christ. Christ is as much, if not more, concerned about the "vessel" proclaiming His message as the message itself. He will not be dishonored by a unclean or self driven messenger. Our "approval" for such a divine service must not come from men, but from God. And the manner, spirit and life of His divinely appointed messenger is of great importance to Him.
There are times when certain divine truths are more relevant for the moment then others, but that doesn't mean we ignore and neglect the seemingly less relevant ones (which there are no irrelevant truths of God). For this is one of our adversary's greatest deceptions, namely an imbalance in our proclaiming the whole counsel of God. God grant us all much grace and mercy as we seek as ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ not to be imbalanced when it comes to proclaiming or rightly dividing the word of truth.
I will be examining certain texts over the next few months, as way of example, which I believe have been greatly neglected or ignored by many pulpits. This is not a blanket statement against all churches or pulpits. There are certainly many churches and ministers out there who strive every week to faithfully proclaim the whole counsel of God and to rightly divide the word of truth. But this is a great danger which we must all be reminded of.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Are we contending for the faith, or merely being contentious
I fear many believers today, especially those who are yet young and unlearned in the things of Christ, are confused between "contending for the faith," and merely being "contentious." With the coming of these latter days we shall see perilous times (2 Tim 3), and with those perils the increase of false teachers, false doctrine and scoffers. Many shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables (2Tim.4). And some shall even depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of Devils (1Tim.4). These shall be very perilous times and requires a faith, courage and strength not of our own. To trust in the flesh or in the power of our own strength, shall certainly lead to our own spiritual demise and ruin. This is one major reason why the Apostle Paul, when speaking of the office of a bishop (pastor), warns the novice (beginner, new to the faith) against seeking such an office. For he is in danger of "being lifted up with pride and falling into the condemnation of the devil (1 Tim.3)." And yet, the danger of being lifted up with pride is not limited to the novice. Many older and more learned believers are also in danger of being lifted up by their own pride. Pride of their knowledge of God, or the spiritual insight God has graciously granted them. Pride of years or knowledge of scripture truths.
Satan is a master of disguises and unequal in his ability to deceive and trick even the oldest saint. If the man after God's own heart was not spared (David), nor the strongest man alive (Samson) no match for Satan's evil devices, then surely, to be "sober minded, watchful and praying" is a duty which every true believer must be vigilant in. Being prideful of possessing certain knowledge of God's truths can be just as detrimental and destructive as ignorance of God's truths. The believer must ever strive to maintain a humble and contrite spirit when approaching (but especially in declaring) God's divine truths. God's truths in the mouth of a prideful man is more Satan's advocate than his adversary.
"Who is sufficient for these things? Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given." (2 Cor. 2:16 / Eph.3:8)
Herein lies the true spirit which must accompany the knowledge of God. For,"its upon this man God looks, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at God's Word" (Isa.66:2). And it is the Spirit of God who is the author of this humble and contrite spirit. The courage and boldness we must possess to proclaim God's truths in a world that lieth in wickedness, is not of our own. But, must be drawn from the "strength of the Lord and the power of His might (Eph.6)." God's truths proclaimed in boldness by a vessel of humility and meekness is the greatest weapon against error, false doctrines and Satan's wiles.
2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
May God grant wisdom and grace, as "earthen vessels," that we might "boldly" Proclaim the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ!
Satan is a master of disguises and unequal in his ability to deceive and trick even the oldest saint. If the man after God's own heart was not spared (David), nor the strongest man alive (Samson) no match for Satan's evil devices, then surely, to be "sober minded, watchful and praying" is a duty which every true believer must be vigilant in. Being prideful of possessing certain knowledge of God's truths can be just as detrimental and destructive as ignorance of God's truths. The believer must ever strive to maintain a humble and contrite spirit when approaching (but especially in declaring) God's divine truths. God's truths in the mouth of a prideful man is more Satan's advocate than his adversary.
"Who is sufficient for these things? Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given." (2 Cor. 2:16 / Eph.3:8)
Herein lies the true spirit which must accompany the knowledge of God. For,"its upon this man God looks, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at God's Word" (Isa.66:2). And it is the Spirit of God who is the author of this humble and contrite spirit. The courage and boldness we must possess to proclaim God's truths in a world that lieth in wickedness, is not of our own. But, must be drawn from the "strength of the Lord and the power of His might (Eph.6)." God's truths proclaimed in boldness by a vessel of humility and meekness is the greatest weapon against error, false doctrines and Satan's wiles.
2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
May God grant wisdom and grace, as "earthen vessels," that we might "boldly" Proclaim the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ!
Sunday, December 16, 2012
"In Rama (Newton) a voice was heard."
It is with a humble and broken heart that I begin this blog. For there are no words to express the tragedy and sorrow which occurred in Newton, Ct. I do not pretend to understand or know the heartache and sorrow which has fallen upon this small community. And yet, I know someone who is truly "acquainted with their grief and is touched by their sorrows, namely, Jesus Christ. For He alone carries the title "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief."
And yet, I am generally disappointed and heart broken by the reactions and attitudes of many of those who profess themselves to be followers of this "man of sorrow." For though I wish to believe that their motives are sincere, yet, there lacks that compassion and pity which comes with "loving in the truth," and that sympathetic conduct which so characterized Christ as He walked amongst men, and which He now so lovingly exercises in heaven on our behalf. Many of their comments have an element of truth, yet in a manner which is "of the letter which killeth,: and not "in that spirit which giveth life" (2 Cor 3).
Many simply echoe a sorrow which belongs to this world whenever a tragedy strikes our country. A sorrow which the world believes to be genuine, yet which proves only to be vain and superficial. For this world's sorrow will vanish as soon as the headlines and they will continue to live their lives as they did before. Never stopping to seriously consider the work of God and His divine purposes hidden beyond the tears of such sorrows and grief. Their sorrow resembles that of Cain, Pharaoh and Judas which springs from mere selfishness and personal gain. A sorrow which is temporal and unfruitful, producing nothing godly or virtuous in their heart and life. Let us not copy or identify ourselves with such vain and superficial grief. Their words of compassion and sympathy may appear to be genuine and sincere, yet, let us remember it is but "a worldly sorrow that worketh death." For their sorrow never has the honor and glory of God as it's ultimate goal and end, but only their own selfish desires and pleasures. Let us then follow the example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was truly "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief."Whose sorrow and grief was set upon the honor and glory of God, who "seeing the travail of his soul, was satisfied" (Isa 53).
Do deny the Sovereignty of God in all things would be to deny God Himself. So, to deny God's Sovereignty even in this tragedy would be to deny God Himself. And yet, every attribute of God is so intimately intwined and united to one another, that one cannot declare His Sovereignty without acknowledging His infinite love and mercy as it's guide! Even in wrath, God "remembers mercy!" (Hab 3). Every divine act towards man in this present world, be it in His wrath or mercy, there is always an element of His infinite love and grace awaiting to reveal itself within! For though God is a God of judgment, it remains "a strange work," while He delights in acts of mercy, grace and goodness (Isa 28).
To be continued......
And yet, I am generally disappointed and heart broken by the reactions and attitudes of many of those who profess themselves to be followers of this "man of sorrow." For though I wish to believe that their motives are sincere, yet, there lacks that compassion and pity which comes with "loving in the truth," and that sympathetic conduct which so characterized Christ as He walked amongst men, and which He now so lovingly exercises in heaven on our behalf. Many of their comments have an element of truth, yet in a manner which is "of the letter which killeth,: and not "in that spirit which giveth life" (2 Cor 3).
Many simply echoe a sorrow which belongs to this world whenever a tragedy strikes our country. A sorrow which the world believes to be genuine, yet which proves only to be vain and superficial. For this world's sorrow will vanish as soon as the headlines and they will continue to live their lives as they did before. Never stopping to seriously consider the work of God and His divine purposes hidden beyond the tears of such sorrows and grief. Their sorrow resembles that of Cain, Pharaoh and Judas which springs from mere selfishness and personal gain. A sorrow which is temporal and unfruitful, producing nothing godly or virtuous in their heart and life. Let us not copy or identify ourselves with such vain and superficial grief. Their words of compassion and sympathy may appear to be genuine and sincere, yet, let us remember it is but "a worldly sorrow that worketh death." For their sorrow never has the honor and glory of God as it's ultimate goal and end, but only their own selfish desires and pleasures. Let us then follow the example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was truly "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief."Whose sorrow and grief was set upon the honor and glory of God, who "seeing the travail of his soul, was satisfied" (Isa 53).
Do deny the Sovereignty of God in all things would be to deny God Himself. So, to deny God's Sovereignty even in this tragedy would be to deny God Himself. And yet, every attribute of God is so intimately intwined and united to one another, that one cannot declare His Sovereignty without acknowledging His infinite love and mercy as it's guide! Even in wrath, God "remembers mercy!" (Hab 3). Every divine act towards man in this present world, be it in His wrath or mercy, there is always an element of His infinite love and grace awaiting to reveal itself within! For though God is a God of judgment, it remains "a strange work," while He delights in acts of mercy, grace and goodness (Isa 28).
To be continued......
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Hannah's Prayer: An example for us all
It is certain that this was not the first time Hannah had prayed or poured out her heart before God. For surely her godly character and gracious conduct was evidence of her undivided devotion and love for God. But, it was her "Bitterness of soul" and her great "sorrow" that set her heart to pray like she never prayed before. Oh, the mysteries of God's working through our heartaches and sorrows to set us to pray in a manner which we never knew before!
"Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD." (Psalm 130:1)
As the Lord dwells with those of a "contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrites ones" (Isa.57:15), surely, it is when our prayers arise from such a spirit that God is most glorified. "Out of the depths," our prayers are tuned to approach God in humble submission, faith and hope. Here the Spirit of God teaches us to pray "as we ought," and it is here that He makes "intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered" (Romans 8:26). Out of the depths of her great sorrow and in the midst of her bitterness of soul Hannah lifts up her prayer to God. Where such depths would engulf and silence many, it is out of such depths that the believer learns the mystery and blessedness of true prayer.
> Jonah, who refused to pray with the others when their ship was being torn by a storm, would learn to "cry out from the belly of a fish and God heard him in his affliction.
> When the sentence of death came over Hezekiah by the prophet Isaiah, Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed unto the Lord, and when God heard his prayer and seen his tears He granted him 15 more years.
> It was when Jeremiah was in the pit that the Lord declared unto him, "Call upon me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (Jer. 33:3)."
It is out of such depths that the true believer is taught how to pray "as he ought." When God has removed all human and earthly comforts and teaches us by His infinite wisdom, love and grace to humbly seek only His face. Oh! How slow and sluggish our hearts are to learn this divine and blessed truth! And how deeply humbling it is to know that it often takes many "depths" before we truly come to effectually learn and exercise this divine virtue! Therefore, it is God Himself who must sovereignly, and with infinite wisdom and grace, lead us into those divine appointed depths, that we might come to personally know and exercise this divine truth in faith, hope and perseverance.
I. Let us then seek to follow Hannah's humble example of Humble, faithful prayer.
A. Notice first of all, like all true prayer, there must be "humble submission to God's Sovereign will."
"If thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid." Chap 1:11
Though her desires are strong and her petition sent on wings of great bitterness and sorrow, she begins her prayer by humbly acknowledging God's Sovereignty in the light of her strong desires and wishes. She confesses her affliction, yet, humbly submits her petition to God's Sovereign Will and divine providence. This is the true spirit which must accompany all our prayers and petitions before God. "Knowing we have the petitions we desired of him"(1 John 5:15), and that we are to "cast all our cares upon him for he careth for us" (1 Peter 5:7), yet adorning such petitions in a spirit of humble submission to God's Sovereign will and divine providence.
"And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:" (1 John 5:14)
All true prayer, even our deepest desires, needs and wishes, regardless of their urgency, can only find true peace and hope in submissive prayer. The promise has no boundaries or limitations, "All things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive" (Matt.21). Yet, every true, believing prayer is a petition of submission to God's infinite wisdom and grace. Nowhere do we see a better example of such humble, submissive prayer than in Christ Himself....
"O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt" (Matt.26:39). "If it be possible," was not Christ questioning His Father's will or purpose for his drinking the cup; But, an example unto every true believer of the spirit of submissiveness required in all our petitions before God. All things are possible for God, yet Christ would submit to His Father's perfect and sovereign will in His drinking of the appointed cup. Does our present "cup" appear to be too full or too dreadful to drink? The present cross "to heavy to bear"? If God has divinely appointed and ordained it, then let us follow Christ's example of submissive prayer and let our petitions, though they arise from great bitterness and sorrow of heart, be also adorned with such a submissive spirit. For it is our desire and willingness to submit to God's perfect will that often moves God to "grant our petitions."
II. Out of such humility and submissiveness arises that spiritual courage and faith that glorifies God the most.
"And remember me and not forget thy handmaid, BUT WILL GIVE..." (1 Sam. 1:11)
Out of true humility and submission arises a courage and faith the world knows nothing of. The throne we are called upon to approach unto"boldly" is called "the throne of GRACE," and it is to "OBTAIN MERCY, AND FIND GRACE TO HELP IN TIME OF NEED" (Heb. 4:16). Out of such humility and submissiveness arises a faith and boldness which gives God the greatest glory! Jacob "had power OVER the Angel and prevailed," because he "WEPT AND MADE SUPPLICATION UNTO HIM" (Hos.12:3).
"LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear:" (Psalms 10:17)
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." (Isaiah 57:15)
If spiritual revival is promised to those of a contrite heart and humble spirit, then surely, those petitions which arise from such contrite and humble spirits are a sweet savor unto our Lord! The believer should never be afraid or ashamed to approach His God with any and/or all petitions. We "cast our cares upon Him for we know He careth for us" (1Pet.5:7); We "pour out our hearts before Him, because He is our refuge" (Psa. 62:8); In Christ Jesus we possess the boldness and petitions we need to approach God. And it is in the spirit of true humility and submissiveness to His Sovereign power and providence for our lives that this boldness draws its confidence and hope. With the perfect work of Christ and His Person, together with the Spirit's helping our infirmities, the believer learns to prayer "as he ought."
Hannah learned how to pray in the depth of her bitterness and sorrow, proving the divine truth that our afflictions work for us. May learn to pray more submissively and humbly before God, resting in His Sovereign and perfect Will for our lives. Knowing that all things work together for those who love God and are the called according to His purpose (Rom.8:28).
Out of Hannah's great bitterness and sorrow arose a humble, submissive petition that greatly glorified God.
"Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD." (Psalm 130:1)
As the Lord dwells with those of a "contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrites ones" (Isa.57:15), surely, it is when our prayers arise from such a spirit that God is most glorified. "Out of the depths," our prayers are tuned to approach God in humble submission, faith and hope. Here the Spirit of God teaches us to pray "as we ought," and it is here that He makes "intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered" (Romans 8:26). Out of the depths of her great sorrow and in the midst of her bitterness of soul Hannah lifts up her prayer to God. Where such depths would engulf and silence many, it is out of such depths that the believer learns the mystery and blessedness of true prayer.
> Jonah, who refused to pray with the others when their ship was being torn by a storm, would learn to "cry out from the belly of a fish and God heard him in his affliction.
> When the sentence of death came over Hezekiah by the prophet Isaiah, Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed unto the Lord, and when God heard his prayer and seen his tears He granted him 15 more years.
> It was when Jeremiah was in the pit that the Lord declared unto him, "Call upon me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (Jer. 33:3)."
It is out of such depths that the true believer is taught how to pray "as he ought." When God has removed all human and earthly comforts and teaches us by His infinite wisdom, love and grace to humbly seek only His face. Oh! How slow and sluggish our hearts are to learn this divine and blessed truth! And how deeply humbling it is to know that it often takes many "depths" before we truly come to effectually learn and exercise this divine virtue! Therefore, it is God Himself who must sovereignly, and with infinite wisdom and grace, lead us into those divine appointed depths, that we might come to personally know and exercise this divine truth in faith, hope and perseverance.
I. Let us then seek to follow Hannah's humble example of Humble, faithful prayer.
A. Notice first of all, like all true prayer, there must be "humble submission to God's Sovereign will."
"If thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid." Chap 1:11
Though her desires are strong and her petition sent on wings of great bitterness and sorrow, she begins her prayer by humbly acknowledging God's Sovereignty in the light of her strong desires and wishes. She confesses her affliction, yet, humbly submits her petition to God's Sovereign Will and divine providence. This is the true spirit which must accompany all our prayers and petitions before God. "Knowing we have the petitions we desired of him"(1 John 5:15), and that we are to "cast all our cares upon him for he careth for us" (1 Peter 5:7), yet adorning such petitions in a spirit of humble submission to God's Sovereign will and divine providence.
"And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:" (1 John 5:14)
All true prayer, even our deepest desires, needs and wishes, regardless of their urgency, can only find true peace and hope in submissive prayer. The promise has no boundaries or limitations, "All things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive" (Matt.21). Yet, every true, believing prayer is a petition of submission to God's infinite wisdom and grace. Nowhere do we see a better example of such humble, submissive prayer than in Christ Himself....
"O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt" (Matt.26:39). "If it be possible," was not Christ questioning His Father's will or purpose for his drinking the cup; But, an example unto every true believer of the spirit of submissiveness required in all our petitions before God. All things are possible for God, yet Christ would submit to His Father's perfect and sovereign will in His drinking of the appointed cup. Does our present "cup" appear to be too full or too dreadful to drink? The present cross "to heavy to bear"? If God has divinely appointed and ordained it, then let us follow Christ's example of submissive prayer and let our petitions, though they arise from great bitterness and sorrow of heart, be also adorned with such a submissive spirit. For it is our desire and willingness to submit to God's perfect will that often moves God to "grant our petitions."
II. Out of such humility and submissiveness arises that spiritual courage and faith that glorifies God the most.
"And remember me and not forget thy handmaid, BUT WILL GIVE..." (1 Sam. 1:11)
Out of true humility and submission arises a courage and faith the world knows nothing of. The throne we are called upon to approach unto"boldly" is called "the throne of GRACE," and it is to "OBTAIN MERCY, AND FIND GRACE TO HELP IN TIME OF NEED" (Heb. 4:16). Out of such humility and submissiveness arises a faith and boldness which gives God the greatest glory! Jacob "had power OVER the Angel and prevailed," because he "WEPT AND MADE SUPPLICATION UNTO HIM" (Hos.12:3).
"LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear:" (Psalms 10:17)
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." (Isaiah 57:15)
If spiritual revival is promised to those of a contrite heart and humble spirit, then surely, those petitions which arise from such contrite and humble spirits are a sweet savor unto our Lord! The believer should never be afraid or ashamed to approach His God with any and/or all petitions. We "cast our cares upon Him for we know He careth for us" (1Pet.5:7); We "pour out our hearts before Him, because He is our refuge" (Psa. 62:8); In Christ Jesus we possess the boldness and petitions we need to approach God. And it is in the spirit of true humility and submissiveness to His Sovereign power and providence for our lives that this boldness draws its confidence and hope. With the perfect work of Christ and His Person, together with the Spirit's helping our infirmities, the believer learns to prayer "as he ought."
Hannah learned how to pray in the depth of her bitterness and sorrow, proving the divine truth that our afflictions work for us. May learn to pray more submissively and humbly before God, resting in His Sovereign and perfect Will for our lives. Knowing that all things work together for those who love God and are the called according to His purpose (Rom.8:28).
Out of Hannah's great bitterness and sorrow arose a humble, submissive petition that greatly glorified God.
Friday, November 13, 2009
"For it was not an enemy that reproached me" Psalm 55
For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company. (Psalms 55:12-14)
One cannot read these words without sensing the great sorrow and sadness of its author. For its heartbreaking truths had pierced his very heart and soul! Such treatment he could expect from his enemies, but from a friend? A man his equal, his guide, his acquaintance? He, who took sweet counsel together and with whom he walked unto the house of God in company? How devastating, how tragic and how sorrowful!
And yet, countless believers have known and felt the burden of this great sorrow themselves, our Lord Himself not being spared. For though “many are the afflictions of the righteous” (Psalm 34:19), few afflictions carry the weight of such sorrow and sadness as this burden spoken of by the Psalmist. A burden which he declares “he could not bear.”
Few there be today, amongst those who profess to truly know Christ, who understand and value the love and unity which Christ so emphasized throughout His earthly ministry, especially in those last hours before His crucifixion. Alone with His disciples in that upper chamber, on the very eve of His death, our Lord spent much time and effort in exhorting them in love, humility and unity amongst themselves. (John 13-17)
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:34-35)
Where many would place the greatest emphasis on knowledge or doctrine (both of which have their proper place), the greatest evidence to the world of our truly being Christ’s disciples is the love we manifest and show towards one another as believers. And yet, with all the controversies, strives, schisms, divisions and partisanship amongst believers, I fear this testimony, this mark of true discipleship, has greatly been weakened and in many places even lost!
I speak not of an unscriptural unity, nor of a fellowship without doctrine; But I speak of those who hold the truth in righteousness and adhere to sound doctrine. Those, who profess to know so much about biblical doctrine and are dogmatic in their beliefs, yet, lack a true spirit of love and unity which defines the greatest mark of being Christ’s disciple!
I am a sound and firm believer in learning and knowing doctrine and know that without biblical doctrine one cannot live the Christian life practically. Yet, it is those, who profess to be so sound in doctrine that appear to have lost the ability to live out that same doctrine in their daily lives.
This I believe is the Psalmist’s greatest sorrow! Not simply that he had good fellowship such people, but those who magnified themselves against him, were the same people who “took sweet counsel together with him and walked in the house of God in company!” They agreed in the truths of God and were united in their beliefs, yet, their hearts were divided!
Nothing can cause a more devastating blow to the cause of Christ in this present world, than when the unity and love between believers is marred by schisms and divisions. And though many might be quick to disagree with me, Christianity and the cause of Christ in America has suffered greatly because of such sorrowful and unnecessary schisms and contentions.
Throughout our travels in America and even here in West Texas this divisive and contentious spirit has wrought great havoc amongst God’s children and has greatly weakened many churches. Yet, so many are quick to defend such a spirit by claiming themselves to be “defenders of the faith and contending for the truths of God!” Yet, one can contend for the faith without being contentious. And is it biblically correct to use such a “contentious spirit” against those who are of the like faith, yet possibly differ in a few opinions and convictions?
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden. (Gal 6:1-5)
We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. (Romans 15:1-3 )
Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. (Romans 14:1-4)
Here are just a few scriptural exhortations for those who profess to be “strong or of full age” in Christ. May those who profess such spiritual strength begin to practice such divine truths before others, that we all might learn and value the great blessings which come from Christian unity, love and compassion.
Otherwise, we shall yet see the churches even more weakened and the spiritual decay which abounds everywhere spread even more amongst the next generation of believers! Let this generation be not guilty of passing on to the next generation of believers such a contentious and divisive spirit! But let us be living examples of true humility, love, patience and compassion which defines us to truly be Christ’s disciples!
For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company. (Psalms 55:12-14)
Monday, October 19, 2009
God is sufficient of Himself!
And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? (Dan 4:34-35)
We have recorded in these words one of the most glorious declarations of the glory, power and majesty of God which one can find within the Holy Scriptures! And yet, it cometh not from the lips of one who was born a Jew, or a descendent of Abraham, but from a heathen king; and that in the midst of an idolatrous nation.
This proclamation of God's Sovereignty by a heathen king and in the midst of such an idolatrous nation was to be a testimony to the world and a humiliation to the true people of God. For though the nations be ever so filled with idols and the true people of God be ever so rebellious and backslidden, God can of Himself proclaim His Sovereign power and glory! God never has been, nor ever will be, dependent upon human instruments to proclaim and declare His Sovereign power and majesty.
Yet, to hear many believers today, even those who stand in the pulpit, one might begin to believe that God has been hindered or limited by the wickedness of the world and the spiritual indifference and apathy of His own children. Nothing could ever be so "untrue and erroneous"! For though we are truly living in "perilous times," and the wickedness of man appears to be more vile and abominable than ever before in the history of man, God is still sufficient of Himself to proclaim, declare and defend His Sovereign power and majesty without the aid of any human instrument!
What comfort! What joy! What assurance does this blessed truth offer to every true child of God who grieves over the wickedness of the world, the indifference of God's people and the countless infirmities within his own heart! That God is sufficient of Himself to proclaim, defend and declare His Sovereign power and majesty!
Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD.
(Eze 38:23)
Such blessed truths should never lead the believer to remain indifferent and passive, but greatly motivate and inspire us, by the grace of God, to live more consecrated and devoted lives to the cause of Christ and His truths. To draw from the wells of this great truth in such a manner, that in spite of the wickedness of the world and the great indifference of many believers, we strive to live for His honor and glory alone! Not allowing ourselves to be influenced, disheartened or discouraged by such terrible things, we continue to persevere in godliness, faith, hope and love!
Oh beloved and weary pilgrim! "Look unto Him who is the Author and finisher of our faith;" to Him "who doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" Herein lies the true believer's confidence, faith and hope in the midst of a wicked world and a generation of believers who have become indifferent and cold towards the things of God. Herein lies a great refuge from his own weaknesses and infirmities! To God be all the glory, who is alone sufficient of Himself to proclaim, defend and declare His great Sovereign power and majesty!
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God!
He, whose Word cannot be broken,
Formed thee for His own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation’s walls surrounded,
Thou may’st smile at all thy foes.
See! the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love;
Well supply thy sons and daughters,
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst t’assuage?
Grace, which like the Lord, the Giver,
Never fails from age to age.
Round each habitation hovering,
See the cloud and fire appear!
For a glory and a cov’ring
Showing that the Lord is near.
Thus deriving from our banner
Light by night and shade by day;
Safe they feed upon the manna
Which He gives them when they pray.
Blest inhabitants of Zion,
Washed in the Redeemer’s blood!
Jesus, whom their souls rely on,
Makes them kings and priests to God.
’Tis His love His people raises,
Over self to reign as kings,
And as priests, His solemn praises
Each for a thank offering brings.
Savior, if of Zion’s city,
I through grace a member am,
Let the world deride or pity,
I will glory in Thy Name.
Fading is the worldling’s pleasure,
All his boasted pomp and show;
Solid joys and lasting treasure
None but Zion’s children know.
We have recorded in these words one of the most glorious declarations of the glory, power and majesty of God which one can find within the Holy Scriptures! And yet, it cometh not from the lips of one who was born a Jew, or a descendent of Abraham, but from a heathen king; and that in the midst of an idolatrous nation.
This proclamation of God's Sovereignty by a heathen king and in the midst of such an idolatrous nation was to be a testimony to the world and a humiliation to the true people of God. For though the nations be ever so filled with idols and the true people of God be ever so rebellious and backslidden, God can of Himself proclaim His Sovereign power and glory! God never has been, nor ever will be, dependent upon human instruments to proclaim and declare His Sovereign power and majesty.
Yet, to hear many believers today, even those who stand in the pulpit, one might begin to believe that God has been hindered or limited by the wickedness of the world and the spiritual indifference and apathy of His own children. Nothing could ever be so "untrue and erroneous"! For though we are truly living in "perilous times," and the wickedness of man appears to be more vile and abominable than ever before in the history of man, God is still sufficient of Himself to proclaim, declare and defend His Sovereign power and majesty without the aid of any human instrument!
What comfort! What joy! What assurance does this blessed truth offer to every true child of God who grieves over the wickedness of the world, the indifference of God's people and the countless infirmities within his own heart! That God is sufficient of Himself to proclaim, defend and declare His Sovereign power and majesty!
Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD.
(Eze 38:23)
Such blessed truths should never lead the believer to remain indifferent and passive, but greatly motivate and inspire us, by the grace of God, to live more consecrated and devoted lives to the cause of Christ and His truths. To draw from the wells of this great truth in such a manner, that in spite of the wickedness of the world and the great indifference of many believers, we strive to live for His honor and glory alone! Not allowing ourselves to be influenced, disheartened or discouraged by such terrible things, we continue to persevere in godliness, faith, hope and love!
Oh beloved and weary pilgrim! "Look unto Him who is the Author and finisher of our faith;" to Him "who doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" Herein lies the true believer's confidence, faith and hope in the midst of a wicked world and a generation of believers who have become indifferent and cold towards the things of God. Herein lies a great refuge from his own weaknesses and infirmities! To God be all the glory, who is alone sufficient of Himself to proclaim, defend and declare His great Sovereign power and majesty!
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God!
He, whose Word cannot be broken,
Formed thee for His own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation’s walls surrounded,
Thou may’st smile at all thy foes.
See! the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love;
Well supply thy sons and daughters,
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst t’assuage?
Grace, which like the Lord, the Giver,
Never fails from age to age.
Round each habitation hovering,
See the cloud and fire appear!
For a glory and a cov’ring
Showing that the Lord is near.
Thus deriving from our banner
Light by night and shade by day;
Safe they feed upon the manna
Which He gives them when they pray.
Blest inhabitants of Zion,
Washed in the Redeemer’s blood!
Jesus, whom their souls rely on,
Makes them kings and priests to God.
’Tis His love His people raises,
Over self to reign as kings,
And as priests, His solemn praises
Each for a thank offering brings.
Savior, if of Zion’s city,
I through grace a member am,
Let the world deride or pity,
I will glory in Thy Name.
Fading is the worldling’s pleasure,
All his boasted pomp and show;
Solid joys and lasting treasure
None but Zion’s children know.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The great need of intercessory prayer!
But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. (Mat 9:36-38)
“Pray ye”…If sinners were reclaimed from darkness and ignorance by the instrumentality of the preacher, without the intervention of such an ordinance as prayer, the transformation would be attributed to the eloquence, pity, or skill of man, and God would be defrauded of His glory. (Alexander Cumming; The revival of religion)
While many concentrate on the "lack of true laborers," our Lord's greatest emphasis is on the need for us, the believers, to "Pray unto the Lord of the harvest to send forth such laborers into His fields." He, the Lord of the Harvest," must send the laborers forth, yet it is us, the believers, who are commanded to "pray," in a spirit of humble intercession, that He might Sovereignly and graciously send them forth.
Too much is done today "in the name of the Lord and for His work", in the power and understanding of the flesh. Many men, who once were greatly humbled by the unmerited mercy and grace of God in calling them into the ministry of the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, have now become prideful in the achievements and success which God's grace has freely granted them. Trusting now in their own abilities and God given success, they have all but forgotten, that "it is by the grace of God, that they are what they are" (1 Cor.15:10).
Where once their labor was driven by the "grace of God which was bestowed upon them" (1 Cor.15:10), now they are driven more by their pride and arrogance. The success and divine blessings granted in their ministry, not having deepened in them a spirit of greater humility and dependence on God, they now trust more in their preaching ability; This being evidenced by the arrogance and pride which now fills those messages, which were once adorned in humility, grace and love for the truth.
"Compassion, as fainting sheep having no shepherd, a truly plenteous harvest, yet few laborers," these things moved our Lord and Savior to compel us to "pray with great intercession," to the Lord of the harvest, that He might send forth laborers in His fields. And it is this same compassion and pity which must compel every preacher, as he stands and preaches the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. Trusting not in himself, nor any vainly believed abilities, but as he once did when those first impressions of God's grace bestowed upon him to preach the glorious Gospel was strongly felt, let him continue to labor in these great fields of harvest.
Let us not, as ministers of such a glorious Gospel, ever forget our great need of intercessory prayer, if our labors are going to be successful and God glorified in saving sinners! "Pray Ye," must ever be our humble plea before God and our congregation. For without such humble intercession, our labors shall prove to be vain and fruitless!
“Pray ye”…If sinners were reclaimed from darkness and ignorance by the instrumentality of the preacher, without the intervention of such an ordinance as prayer, the transformation would be attributed to the eloquence, pity, or skill of man, and God would be defrauded of His glory. (Alexander Cumming; The revival of religion)
While many concentrate on the "lack of true laborers," our Lord's greatest emphasis is on the need for us, the believers, to "Pray unto the Lord of the harvest to send forth such laborers into His fields." He, the Lord of the Harvest," must send the laborers forth, yet it is us, the believers, who are commanded to "pray," in a spirit of humble intercession, that He might Sovereignly and graciously send them forth.
Too much is done today "in the name of the Lord and for His work", in the power and understanding of the flesh. Many men, who once were greatly humbled by the unmerited mercy and grace of God in calling them into the ministry of the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, have now become prideful in the achievements and success which God's grace has freely granted them. Trusting now in their own abilities and God given success, they have all but forgotten, that "it is by the grace of God, that they are what they are" (1 Cor.15:10).
Where once their labor was driven by the "grace of God which was bestowed upon them" (1 Cor.15:10), now they are driven more by their pride and arrogance. The success and divine blessings granted in their ministry, not having deepened in them a spirit of greater humility and dependence on God, they now trust more in their preaching ability; This being evidenced by the arrogance and pride which now fills those messages, which were once adorned in humility, grace and love for the truth.
"Compassion, as fainting sheep having no shepherd, a truly plenteous harvest, yet few laborers," these things moved our Lord and Savior to compel us to "pray with great intercession," to the Lord of the harvest, that He might send forth laborers in His fields. And it is this same compassion and pity which must compel every preacher, as he stands and preaches the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. Trusting not in himself, nor any vainly believed abilities, but as he once did when those first impressions of God's grace bestowed upon him to preach the glorious Gospel was strongly felt, let him continue to labor in these great fields of harvest.
Let us not, as ministers of such a glorious Gospel, ever forget our great need of intercessory prayer, if our labors are going to be successful and God glorified in saving sinners! "Pray Ye," must ever be our humble plea before God and our congregation. For without such humble intercession, our labors shall prove to be vain and fruitless!
Friday, July 4, 2008
"Let not the trumpet give an uncertain sound!"
For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
(1Co 14:8)
Satan never wearies in his vicious and deceitful attempts to hinder the advance and progress of Christ’s kingdom amongst men. He is ever “going to and fro in the earth, and walking up and down in it” (Job1), in his relentless and unmerciful attempts to destroy the souls of men. His hunger and appetite to “devour the souls of men”, are never satisfied as he “roams about like a roaring lion” (1Pet.5:8).
Though none who bear the name and image of Christ upon their redeemed souls are spared his vicious and deceitful attacks; those who have been called to the forefront of the battle for the Kingdom of God are subject to his greatest assaults. If he can silence, or destroy, the messenger of God, he knows he gains much ground in this spiritual conflict. And though we know, as well as all saints, that his days are limited and his eternal defeat inevitable, yet, until that divinely appointed time he can wreak much havoc amongst the ranks of God’s children.
The divine exhortation to “be sober and to be vigilant” (1Pet.5), is one which every true believer must seriously and humbly adhere; Especially those men who have been divinely called and equipped to preach the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ and to “feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). Yet I fear that our adversary has gained much ground against such messengers and ambassadors for Christ.
With the perils of these latter days and the danger of spiritual apathy abounding everywhere, many preachers of the Gospel have been compelled to constrict their time in prayer, study and oversight of God’s church. Driven from their studies, where they should be giving themselves to prayer and to the study of God’s most Holy Word, they are constrained to spend much time “entangling themselves in the affairs of this life”; thus entering the pulpit unprepared to equip God’s children with those divine truths necessary for their walk and fellowship with God.
Our great adversary realizes that if he cannot totally silence the pulpit, he can cause much devastation and havoc by weakening its voice. And when the message from the pulpit is weakened by lack of quality prayer, mediation and study of God’s Word, God’s people become spiritual weak and frail. Unable to sufficiently “put on the whole armor of God”, they find themselves to weak to resist his temptations and suffer under his fiery darts.
If it is “the engrafted word which saves our souls” (James 1), then only when that same Word comes from the pulpit with great fervency and unction of the Holy Spirit, shall it ever truly be engrafted deep enough into our often cold and indifferent hearts. And it is only when that same blessed Word of God has first been engrafted into the heart of the messenger himself, that he shall be enabled to preach it with such fervency and unction of the Holy Spirit.
And yet, though a messenger of God, his heart is no different than any other. He struggles against sin and temptation like that of all other true believers. He too, often faces a cold and indifferent heart. He wrestles with his own weaknesses and infirmities like that of all believers. He struggles often in prayer, and is greatly humbled by his own unfaithfulness and failures. The weight of the ministry, the caring of the souls which God has placed in his care, and the burden of the souls of lost men all contribute to the great weight of responsibility God has laid upon him.
He trusts not in any vainly believed merits of his own, nor does he believe that the success of the Gospel, the preserving of the church and even the saving of men’s souls are dependent upon him, or his ministry. But, the divine calling which God has wrought within his heart has created such a great burden for the glory of God, the edifying of the saints and the salvation of men’s souls, that he, in some strange and mysterious way, shares the burden of His Master as if it were his own.
To such a work, one must give himself wholeheartedly and continually. To “entangle himself with the affairs of this life” will only prove to make him unprofitable and unable to glorify God by successfully equipping God’s saints and preaching the glorious Gospel with power and unction. May God’s people be ever in prayer that God raise up more “laborers” and that those laborers can give themselves wholly to that blessed and divine calling. For if the pulpit become weak and unsound, then the adversary will have greater success against the saints of God.
Closing thoughts:
These thoughts do not exclude or ignore the sovereignty of our God, but merely stress the responsibility of man. These two go hand in hand and should never be separated by our inability to see the compatibility and harmony of them working together. The church of God must awake and see the perils which confront her today, and strengthen the hands of those by whom God has ordained to edify, equip and strengthen her; for though Christ Himself is the Cornerstone, it is upon the “foundation of the apostles and prophets” which she is built, that being the Word of God.
And if “faith cometh by hearing (preaching), and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17), then let the voice of the pulpit be strong, fervent and lively, for our hearts are often so cold and indifferent. Let not the trumpet give an uncertain sound, for who shall then prepare himself for battle? (1 Cor 14). But let it give a certain and strong sound, for then God’s church shall be fully equipped to glorify God, seek sinners, edify one another in love and resist the devil by that faith which comes from the truths of God.
May God be honored and glorified in strengthening our pulpits with faithful, diligent, humble and devoted men. And may the church of God be committed to support, encourage and ever intercede on their behalf.
Brother Audey
(1Co 14:8)
Satan never wearies in his vicious and deceitful attempts to hinder the advance and progress of Christ’s kingdom amongst men. He is ever “going to and fro in the earth, and walking up and down in it” (Job1), in his relentless and unmerciful attempts to destroy the souls of men. His hunger and appetite to “devour the souls of men”, are never satisfied as he “roams about like a roaring lion” (1Pet.5:8).
Though none who bear the name and image of Christ upon their redeemed souls are spared his vicious and deceitful attacks; those who have been called to the forefront of the battle for the Kingdom of God are subject to his greatest assaults. If he can silence, or destroy, the messenger of God, he knows he gains much ground in this spiritual conflict. And though we know, as well as all saints, that his days are limited and his eternal defeat inevitable, yet, until that divinely appointed time he can wreak much havoc amongst the ranks of God’s children.
The divine exhortation to “be sober and to be vigilant” (1Pet.5), is one which every true believer must seriously and humbly adhere; Especially those men who have been divinely called and equipped to preach the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ and to “feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). Yet I fear that our adversary has gained much ground against such messengers and ambassadors for Christ.
With the perils of these latter days and the danger of spiritual apathy abounding everywhere, many preachers of the Gospel have been compelled to constrict their time in prayer, study and oversight of God’s church. Driven from their studies, where they should be giving themselves to prayer and to the study of God’s most Holy Word, they are constrained to spend much time “entangling themselves in the affairs of this life”; thus entering the pulpit unprepared to equip God’s children with those divine truths necessary for their walk and fellowship with God.
Our great adversary realizes that if he cannot totally silence the pulpit, he can cause much devastation and havoc by weakening its voice. And when the message from the pulpit is weakened by lack of quality prayer, mediation and study of God’s Word, God’s people become spiritual weak and frail. Unable to sufficiently “put on the whole armor of God”, they find themselves to weak to resist his temptations and suffer under his fiery darts.
If it is “the engrafted word which saves our souls” (James 1), then only when that same Word comes from the pulpit with great fervency and unction of the Holy Spirit, shall it ever truly be engrafted deep enough into our often cold and indifferent hearts. And it is only when that same blessed Word of God has first been engrafted into the heart of the messenger himself, that he shall be enabled to preach it with such fervency and unction of the Holy Spirit.
And yet, though a messenger of God, his heart is no different than any other. He struggles against sin and temptation like that of all other true believers. He too, often faces a cold and indifferent heart. He wrestles with his own weaknesses and infirmities like that of all believers. He struggles often in prayer, and is greatly humbled by his own unfaithfulness and failures. The weight of the ministry, the caring of the souls which God has placed in his care, and the burden of the souls of lost men all contribute to the great weight of responsibility God has laid upon him.
He trusts not in any vainly believed merits of his own, nor does he believe that the success of the Gospel, the preserving of the church and even the saving of men’s souls are dependent upon him, or his ministry. But, the divine calling which God has wrought within his heart has created such a great burden for the glory of God, the edifying of the saints and the salvation of men’s souls, that he, in some strange and mysterious way, shares the burden of His Master as if it were his own.
To such a work, one must give himself wholeheartedly and continually. To “entangle himself with the affairs of this life” will only prove to make him unprofitable and unable to glorify God by successfully equipping God’s saints and preaching the glorious Gospel with power and unction. May God’s people be ever in prayer that God raise up more “laborers” and that those laborers can give themselves wholly to that blessed and divine calling. For if the pulpit become weak and unsound, then the adversary will have greater success against the saints of God.
Closing thoughts:
These thoughts do not exclude or ignore the sovereignty of our God, but merely stress the responsibility of man. These two go hand in hand and should never be separated by our inability to see the compatibility and harmony of them working together. The church of God must awake and see the perils which confront her today, and strengthen the hands of those by whom God has ordained to edify, equip and strengthen her; for though Christ Himself is the Cornerstone, it is upon the “foundation of the apostles and prophets” which she is built, that being the Word of God.
And if “faith cometh by hearing (preaching), and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17), then let the voice of the pulpit be strong, fervent and lively, for our hearts are often so cold and indifferent. Let not the trumpet give an uncertain sound, for who shall then prepare himself for battle? (1 Cor 14). But let it give a certain and strong sound, for then God’s church shall be fully equipped to glorify God, seek sinners, edify one another in love and resist the devil by that faith which comes from the truths of God.
May God be honored and glorified in strengthening our pulpits with faithful, diligent, humble and devoted men. And may the church of God be committed to support, encourage and ever intercede on their behalf.
Brother Audey
Friday, June 6, 2008
The danger of Spiritual apathy!
Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD:
(Amo 8:11)
It is no secret to the diligent student of God's Word that the church of God is suffering under the famine from which the prophet Amos speaks. Throughout our country we can find the Word of God being preached everywhere (whether in pretence or truth only God knows), and yet, one cannot deny the manifestations of such a spiritual famine of "hearing the words of the LORD".
Spiritual apathy, indifference and worldliness have greatly infiltrated the ranks of God's elect, and have brought great spiritual famine upon many. They march to Heaven, yet with little effort and zeal. They attempt to sing the songs of Zion, yet, their voices are weak and frail. They pray, yet their prayers are but sounding brass.
Beloved, this terrible famine is upon us, and if God be not pleased to turn our captivity and heal our land, we shall all suffer under the torments and agonies which come from such spiritual famine. What! To listen to God's precious Word and yet NOT TO HEAR its truths? Not to know of its power, as of days gone by, when it ravished our hearts and filled our souls with great delight and joy!? Not to hear the voice of my Beloved, as He speaks to my heart through His Word? To lose the comfort of the Spirit of God as He guides me into all truths and reveals to my heart the things of Christ!?
Is this not reason enough to bow our hearts and our souls before God and pray that He might spare us from such an agonising and fearful famine? Do not our hearts tremble at the thought of losing those precious impressions of Christ upon our hearts and having nothing but the dredges of this evil world and our own sins to feed upon? What horror! What devastation! What sadness!
Oh Beloved! We have great need of the Spirit of God to stir up our hearts to seek God! God is sovereign and no man can stay His hand or give Him counsel. Yet, He Himself has ordained prayer, repentance and confession as divine means for His children to return. These are not gifts or merits of our own, but divine virtues and graces imparted into every true believer at conversion. To these divine means must we flee, for each is anchored in the Author and finisher of our faith, the Lord Jesus Christ! Each of these divine means has its effectual power in the perfect redemption of Jesus Christ and therefore are honorable and accepted before the Father!
Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.
(Psa 80:3)
Three times in this Psalm (as though speaking to the Godhead three) the Psalmists humbly confesses that unless God turns us (for the hardness of our hearts make us unable to turn ourselves), and cause His face to shine (enlighten our hearts and our minds again to His blessed favor and unmerited grace), we have no hope. Yet, that faith (which is a gift of God) would work mightily in the humbled and contrite heart of the Psalmist, as he cries "and we SHALL BE SAVED"!
Let us greatly lament the great indifference of our hearts and the spiritual apathy which has so influenced our ambition, zeal and devotion for Christ. And let us pray that God would turn us and cause His face to shine upon us; for then shall we be saved from such terrible famine, and our souls shall be renewed with fresh manifestations of His infinite mercy and grace!
May God be merciful to us and hear our prayers!
(Amo 8:11)
It is no secret to the diligent student of God's Word that the church of God is suffering under the famine from which the prophet Amos speaks. Throughout our country we can find the Word of God being preached everywhere (whether in pretence or truth only God knows), and yet, one cannot deny the manifestations of such a spiritual famine of "hearing the words of the LORD".
Spiritual apathy, indifference and worldliness have greatly infiltrated the ranks of God's elect, and have brought great spiritual famine upon many. They march to Heaven, yet with little effort and zeal. They attempt to sing the songs of Zion, yet, their voices are weak and frail. They pray, yet their prayers are but sounding brass.
Beloved, this terrible famine is upon us, and if God be not pleased to turn our captivity and heal our land, we shall all suffer under the torments and agonies which come from such spiritual famine. What! To listen to God's precious Word and yet NOT TO HEAR its truths? Not to know of its power, as of days gone by, when it ravished our hearts and filled our souls with great delight and joy!? Not to hear the voice of my Beloved, as He speaks to my heart through His Word? To lose the comfort of the Spirit of God as He guides me into all truths and reveals to my heart the things of Christ!?
Is this not reason enough to bow our hearts and our souls before God and pray that He might spare us from such an agonising and fearful famine? Do not our hearts tremble at the thought of losing those precious impressions of Christ upon our hearts and having nothing but the dredges of this evil world and our own sins to feed upon? What horror! What devastation! What sadness!
Oh Beloved! We have great need of the Spirit of God to stir up our hearts to seek God! God is sovereign and no man can stay His hand or give Him counsel. Yet, He Himself has ordained prayer, repentance and confession as divine means for His children to return. These are not gifts or merits of our own, but divine virtues and graces imparted into every true believer at conversion. To these divine means must we flee, for each is anchored in the Author and finisher of our faith, the Lord Jesus Christ! Each of these divine means has its effectual power in the perfect redemption of Jesus Christ and therefore are honorable and accepted before the Father!
Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.
(Psa 80:3)
Three times in this Psalm (as though speaking to the Godhead three) the Psalmists humbly confesses that unless God turns us (for the hardness of our hearts make us unable to turn ourselves), and cause His face to shine (enlighten our hearts and our minds again to His blessed favor and unmerited grace), we have no hope. Yet, that faith (which is a gift of God) would work mightily in the humbled and contrite heart of the Psalmist, as he cries "and we SHALL BE SAVED"!
Let us greatly lament the great indifference of our hearts and the spiritual apathy which has so influenced our ambition, zeal and devotion for Christ. And let us pray that God would turn us and cause His face to shine upon us; for then shall we be saved from such terrible famine, and our souls shall be renewed with fresh manifestations of His infinite mercy and grace!
May God be merciful to us and hear our prayers!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Paradoxes of Prayer
Author Unknown
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey......
I asked for health, that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.....
I asked for riches, that I might be happy.
I was given poverty that I might be wise......
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.....
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things......
I got nothing that I asked for-
but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered-
I am among all, most richly blessed!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Before The Throne of God
Before the throne of God above,
I have a strong, a perfect plea,
A great High Priest whose name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands,
My name is written on His heart.
I know that while in heaven He stands,
No tongue can bid me thence depart,
No tongue can bid me thence depart.
When Satan tempts me to despair,
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there,
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died,
My sinful soul is counted free.
For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me,
To look on Him and pardon me.
Behold Him there the Risen Lamb,
My perfect spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I Am,
The King of glory and of grace,
One with Himself I cannot die.
My soul is purchased by His blood,
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ my Savior and my God,
With Christ my Savior and my God.
Vikki Cook / Charitie Lees Bancroft
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving!
"O give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever."
Psalm 107:1
May our Lord richly bless you with thankful hearts today and always, for He truly is a good God, rich in mercy and grace towards undeserving men. God bless!
Psalm 107:1
May our Lord richly bless you with thankful hearts today and always, for He truly is a good God, rich in mercy and grace towards undeserving men. God bless!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Hard Questions
In today's reading, the queen of Sheba visited with Solomon and asked hard questions. There was no dodging, no back-peddling or avoidance on the part of Solomon. She came out pleased to the point that the half could not be told. Oh, that we could be equipped with a measure of what Solomon had! Brethren, James tells us that God gives wisdom to all who ask and upbraids not. Dig, hide His word, meditate, and prepare yourself for the hard questions. They will come eventually.
Grace to you,
Greg
Grace to you,
Greg
Friday, October 26, 2007
On Prayer
Of William C. Burns, another fellow-soldier, it is said, “His whole life was literally a life of prayer, and his whole ministry a series of battles fought at the mercy seat.” Very early in his ministerial course he gave it as his judgment that, “The great fundamental error, as far as I can see, in the economy of the Christian life, which many, and alas! I for one commit, is that of having too few and too short periods of solemn retirement with our gracious Father and His adorable Son, Jesus Christ.” From this opinion he never swerved. He spent his days and sometimes nights “before the Lord,” and sighed, “Oh, for a day every week to spend entirely in the secret of His presence.” For weeks before the Kilsyth Awakening, as his brother informs us, “he was full of prayer: he seemed to care for nothing but to pray. In the daytime, alone, or with others, it was his chief delight, and in the night watches he might be heard praying aloud.” And the Lord, whom he sought, came to His temple suddenly. “Whoever is diligent in public prayers, and yet negligent in private, it is much to be feared he rather seeks to approve himself to men than to God” (--The Whole Duty of Man).
Sunday, October 21, 2007
The Neglecting of our own Harvest Fields
There is much said today about missions and the churches great responsibility to support missions. And yet, while every church should be actively involved in supporting foreign missions, there remains a great neglecting of our own “harvest fields” which lie before us.
Many churches, while boasting of their great efforts to reach the lost in foreign fields, neglect the great harvest which lies before their own church doors.
Across America churches are spending 1,000’s, if not 10,000’s, of dollars a year to visit and support foreign missionaries, while neglecting their own “white fields” which lie before them.
They boast of their missionaries endeavors to seek the lost and train men for the ministry, yet put forth so little effort in their own fields to reach those same goals.
And while I fully support the biblical idea of supporting foreign missionaries (being a former missionary myself), I believe that there is an ever increasing negligence towards those “plenteous fields” which lie before our own church doors.
Satisfied with their “financial support” of foreign fields and the “fruits” which come from their missionaries efforts, many churches content themselves with little or no effort in their own fields, as if the neglecting of their own fields is made up by the “efforts of their missionaries”.
While our missionaries “labor” in their fields to seek the lost and train men for the ministry, we content ourselves with passing out a few Gospel tracts and the putting of a few sermons on the internet.
We boast of our missionaries fervent efforts as though they were our own, and fervently encourage believers to give more money for their great efforts, yet we do not stress the great need for such laboring in our own fields. More later…..
Many churches, while boasting of their great efforts to reach the lost in foreign fields, neglect the great harvest which lies before their own church doors.
Across America churches are spending 1,000’s, if not 10,000’s, of dollars a year to visit and support foreign missionaries, while neglecting their own “white fields” which lie before them.
They boast of their missionaries endeavors to seek the lost and train men for the ministry, yet put forth so little effort in their own fields to reach those same goals.
And while I fully support the biblical idea of supporting foreign missionaries (being a former missionary myself), I believe that there is an ever increasing negligence towards those “plenteous fields” which lie before our own church doors.
Satisfied with their “financial support” of foreign fields and the “fruits” which come from their missionaries efforts, many churches content themselves with little or no effort in their own fields, as if the neglecting of their own fields is made up by the “efforts of their missionaries”.
While our missionaries “labor” in their fields to seek the lost and train men for the ministry, we content ourselves with passing out a few Gospel tracts and the putting of a few sermons on the internet.
We boast of our missionaries fervent efforts as though they were our own, and fervently encourage believers to give more money for their great efforts, yet we do not stress the great need for such laboring in our own fields. More later…..
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Joy- Part 3
"The joy of the LORD is your strength." (Neh 8)
"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Psa 16:11)
Oh Beloved, notice the "mighty fortress" which surrounds this place of joy and gladness, the believer's "refuge in the day of affliction"! "In His PRESENCE is fullness of joy!" "At Thy right hand there are PLEASURES FOR EVERMORE!" This is rejoicing's "haven of rest"!
His "presence" assures our fainting hearts of "joy's fullness": and "His right hand secures our pleasures for EVERMORE!" Oh, dearly beloved! Do you know of such a haven? Has not the Captain of your salvation safely guided you often through troubled seas into this blessed and glorious haven of rest? Of course He has, and He will continue to do so.
Nearer, still nearer, close to Thy heart,
Draw me, my Savior—so precious Thou art!
Fold me, oh, fold me close to Thy breast.
Shelter me safe in that "Haven of Rest."
Shelter me safe in that "Haven of Rest."
They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep. For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof. They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble. They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits' end. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
(Psa 107:23-30)
The storms and the waves, they may "rise and fall", yet never forget, they must still obey the Master's call. And though we might often reel to and fro, staggering like a drunkard and at wit's end, one simple cry and all the winds must die. That place where once the storm winds blew and the waves raged, has now been conquered by a stillness greater than the storm and more powerful than the raging seas. For this great stillness fills the soul with a great calm and quietness, as they lead us to that desired haven of rest!
But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
(Psa 5:11)
"It is our duty and our privilege to rejoice in God and to rejoice in Him always; at all times, in all conditions, even when we suffer for Him, or are afflicted by Him. We must not think the worse of Him or of His ways for the hardships we meet with in His service. There is enough in God to furnish us with matter of joy in the worst circumstances on earth. Joy in God is a duty of great consequence in the Christian life; and Christians need to be again and again called to it. If good men have not a continual feast, it is their own fault."
(Matthew Henry)
Pastor Audey Shepard
"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Psa 16:11)
Oh Beloved, notice the "mighty fortress" which surrounds this place of joy and gladness, the believer's "refuge in the day of affliction"! "In His PRESENCE is fullness of joy!" "At Thy right hand there are PLEASURES FOR EVERMORE!" This is rejoicing's "haven of rest"!
His "presence" assures our fainting hearts of "joy's fullness": and "His right hand secures our pleasures for EVERMORE!" Oh, dearly beloved! Do you know of such a haven? Has not the Captain of your salvation safely guided you often through troubled seas into this blessed and glorious haven of rest? Of course He has, and He will continue to do so.
Nearer, still nearer, close to Thy heart,
Draw me, my Savior—so precious Thou art!
Fold me, oh, fold me close to Thy breast.
Shelter me safe in that "Haven of Rest."
Shelter me safe in that "Haven of Rest."
They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep. For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof. They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble. They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits' end. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
(Psa 107:23-30)
The storms and the waves, they may "rise and fall", yet never forget, they must still obey the Master's call. And though we might often reel to and fro, staggering like a drunkard and at wit's end, one simple cry and all the winds must die. That place where once the storm winds blew and the waves raged, has now been conquered by a stillness greater than the storm and more powerful than the raging seas. For this great stillness fills the soul with a great calm and quietness, as they lead us to that desired haven of rest!
But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
(Psa 5:11)
"It is our duty and our privilege to rejoice in God and to rejoice in Him always; at all times, in all conditions, even when we suffer for Him, or are afflicted by Him. We must not think the worse of Him or of His ways for the hardships we meet with in His service. There is enough in God to furnish us with matter of joy in the worst circumstances on earth. Joy in God is a duty of great consequence in the Christian life; and Christians need to be again and again called to it. If good men have not a continual feast, it is their own fault."
(Matthew Henry)
Pastor Audey Shepard
Joy--Part 2
"Rejoice in the Lord always."
These words might appear to some as "very strange" coming from a man who was imprisoned and facing possible martyrdom; but, the truth of the matter is, these words not only best describe the very life of the Apostle Paul, but they also best describe the very essence of true Christianity!
Yet, one might ask, "How is such a thing possible for the believer?" To "rejoice always", when as believers we are confronted so often with heavy trials, fightings from within and from without, and burdened with a sense of our own sins and infirmities, not to mention our own shortcomings and failures? The Apostle Paul gives us the answer to all those questions, and more.
"Rejoice in the Lord always."
You see, our rejoicing is not to be found in anything of ourselves, nor in the circumstances we might be facing, be they pleasant or discomforting. This rejoicing, of which the Apostle speaks, is a rejoicing found "outside of ourselves", not to be dictated by our circumstances, nor governed by our situations. It's not dependent upon any merit of our own, nor can it be quenched by our most fiery trials. It's far above Satan's devices and more powerful than all principalities and powers.
For this "rejoicing" is "in the Lord." There, where no power in heaven or on earth can destroy or weaken its influence. Being "in the Lord," it possesses a sovereign and effectual power on all those who are themselves "in Him." "Ye are complete in Him." (Col. 2:10)
If then the believer is "complete in Him", then surely such "rejoicing in the Lord, and that always" is a portion of his inheritance. A vital and essential part of true Christianity, and an undeniable evidence of our truly being "in Christ."
The first thing which "in the Lord" implies is that the source, or origin, of this rejoicing is not found in any outward circumstances, situations or conditions in which we might find ourselves, but solely "in the Lord." That is, being in the Lord, this "rejoicing" is far beyond those powers and influences of trying and difficult circumstances and situations which might otherwise threaten such rejoicing. For the source of this "rejoicing" is found in Him "who is head of all principalities and powers, and who is gone into heaven and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him". (1 Pet.3:22)
"All things are subject to Him", meaning that nothing nor anybody, be they men, angels or demons can withstand or dictate to Him what He does and how He does it. They all being "subject to Him." And while this "rejoicing is in Him", the originator, author and sustainer of such rejoicing, it is secure against all and every situation and circumstance of life which might appear to threaten or thwart its powerful influence.
Pastor Audey Shepard
These words might appear to some as "very strange" coming from a man who was imprisoned and facing possible martyrdom; but, the truth of the matter is, these words not only best describe the very life of the Apostle Paul, but they also best describe the very essence of true Christianity!
Yet, one might ask, "How is such a thing possible for the believer?" To "rejoice always", when as believers we are confronted so often with heavy trials, fightings from within and from without, and burdened with a sense of our own sins and infirmities, not to mention our own shortcomings and failures? The Apostle Paul gives us the answer to all those questions, and more.
"Rejoice in the Lord always."
You see, our rejoicing is not to be found in anything of ourselves, nor in the circumstances we might be facing, be they pleasant or discomforting. This rejoicing, of which the Apostle speaks, is a rejoicing found "outside of ourselves", not to be dictated by our circumstances, nor governed by our situations. It's not dependent upon any merit of our own, nor can it be quenched by our most fiery trials. It's far above Satan's devices and more powerful than all principalities and powers.
For this "rejoicing" is "in the Lord." There, where no power in heaven or on earth can destroy or weaken its influence. Being "in the Lord," it possesses a sovereign and effectual power on all those who are themselves "in Him." "Ye are complete in Him." (Col. 2:10)
If then the believer is "complete in Him", then surely such "rejoicing in the Lord, and that always" is a portion of his inheritance. A vital and essential part of true Christianity, and an undeniable evidence of our truly being "in Christ."
The first thing which "in the Lord" implies is that the source, or origin, of this rejoicing is not found in any outward circumstances, situations or conditions in which we might find ourselves, but solely "in the Lord." That is, being in the Lord, this "rejoicing" is far beyond those powers and influences of trying and difficult circumstances and situations which might otherwise threaten such rejoicing. For the source of this "rejoicing" is found in Him "who is head of all principalities and powers, and who is gone into heaven and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him". (1 Pet.3:22)
"All things are subject to Him", meaning that nothing nor anybody, be they men, angels or demons can withstand or dictate to Him what He does and how He does it. They all being "subject to Him." And while this "rejoicing is in Him", the originator, author and sustainer of such rejoicing, it is secure against all and every situation and circumstance of life which might appear to threaten or thwart its powerful influence.
Pastor Audey Shepard
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)