JoyceMeyer: "Why spend your life being angry and bitter toward someone who is probably enjoying his or her life and does not even care that you are upset?
Give Yourself a Gift
February 9
Become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.
— Ephesians 4:32
Unforgiveness, bitterness, resentment, or offense of any kind can render us unable to hear from God. The Word of God is very clear on this subject. If we want God to forgive our sins and offenses against Him, we must forgive others their sins and offenses against us. Ephesians 4:30–32, the passage that contains our verse for today, teaches that we grieve the Holy Spirit when we harbor negative emotions such as anger, resentment, and animosity in our hearts. When we hold unforgiveness against anyone for any reason, it hardens our hearts and prevents us from being sensitive to God’s leading in our lives. I once heard someone say that holding unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping your enemy will die. Why spend your life being angry and bitter toward someone who is probably enjoying his or her life and does not even care that you are upset? Do yourself a favor—forgive those who hurt you! Give yourself the gift of forgiveness. It will bring peace to your heart and enable you to hear God’s voice and follow His leading in your life.
God’s word for you today: Give yourself the gift of forgiving others.
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EncouragementForToday: … and she lives happily ever after.
… and she lives happily ever after.
“… your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
Psalm 139:16 (NIV)
I recently finished a bestselling novel. It was over 1,000 pages, epic in size and story, and consumed me for weeks. A respected acquaintance recommended it, and once committed, I stuck with it to the end … in spite of wanting to quit, often.
By the end of the first chapter, I realized it wasn’t going to be an easy read. The story was set in the middle ages, with uncomfortably real sections. Perhaps I’m a bit sheltered, but it seemed to contain unnecessarily graphic descriptions. Skimming over the uncomfortable spots, I kept reading.
The book ended well, but there were times when I was ready to close the cover, and move on to something happier. The antagonists were just too mean. The plot too painful. The abuse, greed and vindictiveness too ugly to dwell on.
If that book ended badly, I would have been disgruntled at spending weeks of my life on it. On the other hand, I would have been frustrated to quit before finishing. Here’s why.
If I had quit reading at page 245, the story would have seemed hopeless. I might have thought the villains won, or the hero and heroine never reconnected. If I had read a bit further, to say page 576, the story would have ended with justice as an impossible dream, and hatred and revenge as unavoidable and all-consuming parts of life.
But now, after reading the book in its entirety, I can see the amazing story. The plot progressed steadily; there was tension, conflict and eventually resolution. Good did triumph, although not without many bumps along the way.
It got me thinking that our lives are a bit like that. For those of us who have accepted Christ, we will have a happy ending in heaven with God. One way or another, our story will end well. But not every page or chapter in our story is happy.
Today might be page 452 for me. And on page 452 there is conflict and tension. Last year might have been chapter nine. And in chapter nine, the protagonists struggle financially, and wonder why God allowed such pain into their lives. If I only read one page or chapter, I would have a very different view of the story.
Yet the Author of my story has a purpose for every page and chapter in my life. He’s got a story in mind and is building and developing the plot every day. No story is conflict-free. No story is complete without a challenge. Victory is empty without a struggle.
Today, I’m considering my life as a grand story. Good will triumph. The victory will be sweeter because of the struggle. Today is not the story. It’s just page 452. So I will press on, trusting in a loving and creative Author to bring about resolution. You see, I already know the ending – she lives happily ever after.
Dear Lord, I praise You for Your creative and all-powerful nature. In light of the difficulties I’m facing today, I choose to trust You, believing You are writing an epic story in my life. Help me to press on when I want to give up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know the Author of your story?
Visit Glynnis’ blog for a discussion of books that have changed your life, and a book giveaway package.
When Your Child Is Hurting by Glynnis Whitwer
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Come Along: The Journey into a More Intimate Faith by Jane Rubietta
Application Steps:
If your life was a story, what would be the title? What is the title of the chapter you are currently living?
Reflections:
How does knowing God has a greater plan for my life change my outlook on today?
Imagining one of my favorite heroes or heroines, what character trait do they possess that would help me live out my faith?
Power Verses:
Psalm 107:2, “Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story - those he redeemed from the hand of the foe …” (NIV)
Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (NIV)
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DailyHope: "Focus on Jesus, not Your Sin"
“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
| "I believe if you spend more time confessing your faith you will need a lot less time to confess your sins." |
This week’s devotionals are from Buddy Owens, teaching pastor at Saddleback Church and author of ‘The Way of a Worshiper’.
How many times have you confessed the same sin over and over again? And you either wind up feeling terrible about yourself or you become calloused to the sin and just ignore it.
One of the reasons this happens is because we confess our sin without ever confessing the truth that God now empowers our lives. He is working from the inside out to change us. In other words, your confession isn’t just about agreeing with God about what you did; it is also about agreeing with God about who you are in Christ. I believe if you spend more time confessing your faith you will need a lot less time to confess your sins. This is the secret to a total, biblical makeover of your life.
As I mentioned yesterday, real change comes from the inside out. And when the Bible says “be made new in the attitude of your mind” (Ephesians 4:23 NIV) and “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2 NIV), God is reminding us that every behavior starts with a thought.
So if you want to change the way you act, you have to change the way you think. And you do that by confessing your faith because that helps you to think differently about yourself, your situation, and your sin. It reminds you that God is at work within you.
When you confess your faith, you’re no longer focused on what you once did or focused on trying not to do it again. Instead you’re focusing on what you believe to be true and on how the Word of God says things could be if we follow Jesus in faith.
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TheBigPictureBibleRead: Parting the Red Sea
Parting the Red Sea
Exodus 14:5-15:18; Psalm 19:7-10; Proverbs 6:27-29
Now it was told the king of Egypt that the people had fled, and the heart of Pharaoh and his servants was turned against the people; and they said, "Why have we done this, that we have let Israel go from serving us?" So he made ready his chariot and took his people with him. Also, he took six hundred choice chariots, and all the chariots of Egypt with captains over every one of them. And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued the children of Israel; and the children of Israel went out with boldness. So the Egyptians pursued them, all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, his horsemen and his army, and overtook them camping by the sea beside Pi Hahiroth, before Baal Zephon.And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the LORD. Then they said to Moses, "Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, 'Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians'? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness."
And Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."
And the LORD said to Moses, "Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. But lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. And I indeed will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them. So I will gain honor over Pharaoh and over all his army, his chariots, and his horsemen. Then the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have gained honor for Myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen."
And the Angel of God, who went before the camp of Israel, moved and went behind them; and the pillar of cloud went from before them and stood behind them. So it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel. Thus it was a cloud and darkness to the one, and it gave light by night to the other, so that the one did not come near the other all that night.
Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided. So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. And the Egyptians pursued and went after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.
Now it came to pass, in the morning watch, that the LORD looked down upon the army of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and cloud, and He troubled the army of the Egyptians. And He took off their chariot wheels, so that they drove them with difficulty; and the Egyptians said, "Let us flee from the face of Israel, for the LORD fights for them against the Egyptians."
Then the LORD said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the waters may come back upon the Egyptians, on their chariots, and on their horsemen." And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and when the morning appeared, the sea returned to its full depth, while the Egyptians were fleeing into it. So the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. Then the waters returned and covered the chariots, the horsemen, and all the army of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them. Not so much as one of them remained. But the children of Israel had walked on dry land in the midst of the sea, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.
So the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. Thus Israel saw the great work which the LORD had done in Egypt; so the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD and His servant Moses.
Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and spoke, saying:
"I will sing to the LORD,
For He has triumphed gloriously!
The horse and its rider
He has thrown into the sea!
The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father's God, and I will exalt Him.
The LORD is a man of war;
The LORD is His name.
Pharaoh's chariots and his army He has cast into the sea;
His chosen captains also are drowned in the Red Sea.
The depths have covered them;
They sank to the bottom like a stone.
"Your right hand, O LORD, has become glorious in power;
Your right hand, O LORD, has dashed the enemy in pieces.
And in the greatness of Your excellence
You have overthrown those who rose against You;
You sent forth Your wrath;
It consumed them like stubble.
And with the blast of Your nostrils
The waters were gathered together;
The floods stood upright like a heap;
The depths congealed in the heart of the sea.
The enemy said, 'I will pursue,
I will overtake,
I will divide the spoil;
My desire shall be satisfied on them.
I will draw my sword,
My hand shall destroy them.'
You blew with Your wind,
The sea covered them;
They sank like lead in the mighty waters.
"Who is like You, O LORD, among the gods?
Who is like You, glorious in holiness,
Fearful in praises, doing wonders?
You stretched out Your right hand;
The earth swallowed them.
You in Your mercy have led forth
The people whom You have redeemed;
You have guided them in Your strength
To Your holy habitation.
"The people will hear and be afraid;
Sorrow will take hold of the inhabitants of Philistia.
Then the chiefs of Edom will be dismayed;
The mighty men of Moab,
Trembling will take hold of them;
All the inhabitants of Canaan will melt away.
Fear and dread will fall on them;
By the greatness of Your arm
They will be as still as a stone,
Till Your people pass over, O LORD,
Till the people pass over
Whom You have purchased.
You will bring them in and plant them
In the mountain of Your inheritance,
In the place, O LORD, which You have made
For Your own dwelling,
The sanctuary, O LORD, which Your hands have established.
"The LORD shall reign forever and ever."
Exodus 14:5-15:18
WORSHIP
The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
Yea, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Psalm 19:7-10
WISDOM
Can a man take fire to his bosom,
And his clothes not be burned?
Can one walk on hot coals,
And his feet not be seared?
So is he who goes in to his neighbor's wife;
Whoever touches her shall not be innocent.
Proverbs 6:27-29
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DailyLight: "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God"
Daily Light on the Daily Path - February 9
February 9
MORNING
Now he is comforted.
Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. — He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth. — These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters. — God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
LUKE 16:25. Isa. 60:20. ‑Isa. 25:8. ‑Rev. 7:14-17. -Rev. 21:4.
Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, ... they ... rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. — There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest. — Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up?
There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.
JOHN 9:4. Rev. 14:13. ‑Job 3:17. ‑I Sam. 28:15. Eccl. 9:10. ‑Psa. 115:17. II Tim. 4:6-8. Heb. 4:9,10.
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GodCalling: "February 9 - The Voice Divine The Divine Voice is not always expressed in words. It is made known as a heart-consciousness. "Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 "
February 9 - The Voice Divine
The Divine Voice is not always expressed in words.
It is made known as a heart-consciousness.
"Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
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A.W.Tozer: "THE LORD OF ALL BEAUTY"
Tozer Devotional
Devotions » Tozer Devotional
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
THE LORD OF ALL BEAUTY
Think with me about beauty-and about this matchless One who is the Lord of all beauty, our Savior! God has surely deposited something within our human beings that is capable of understanding and appreciating beauty - the love of harmonious forms, appreciation of colors and beautiful sounds. Brother, these are only the external counterparts of a deeper and more enduring beauty-that which we call moral beauty. It has been the uniqueness and the perfection of Christ's moral beauty that have charmed even those who claimed to be His enemies throughout the centuries of history.
We do not have any record of Hitler saying anything against the moral perfection of Jesus. One of the great philosophers, Nietzsche, objected to Paul's theology of justification by faith, but he was strangely moved within himself by the perfection of moral beauty found in the life and character of Jesus, the Christ. We should thank God for the promise of heaven being the place of supreme beauty-and the One who is all-beautiful is there!
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EncountersWithGod: Are you prepared to meet God today? Don't seek to hear from God unless you are ready to ask, as Paul did, "What shall I do Lord?
Are you prepared to meet God today? Don't seek to hear from God unless you are ready to ask, as Paul did, "What shall I do Lord?
Encounters with God
Daily Devotional for Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
'But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. (Acts 26:16)
God was working in your life long before you began working with Him. The Lord knew you before time began, and He knew what He wanted to do with your life (Jer. 1:5; Ps. 139:13). Before the apostle Paul's conversion experience on the road to Damascus, Jesus already knew Paul and had a specific assignment for him. But Jesus only revealed this assignment after Paul's conversion (Acts 9:15). So misguided was Paul that in his sincere efforts to serve God, he had actually been waging war against Christians! Although God knew what He wanted for Paul, He waited to reveal it to him until He gained his attention and became his Lord.
Our Lord does not come to us to discover what we would like to accomplish for Him. He encounters us in order to reveal His activity and invite us to become involved in His work. An encounter with God requires us to adjust ourselves to the activity of God that has been revealed. God never communicates with us merely to give us a warm devotional thought for that day. He never speaks to us simply to increase our biblical knowledge. Our Lord has far more significant things to reveal to us than that! When God shows us what He is doing, He invites us to join Him in the work He is doing.
"
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DailyBread: Golda Meir knew both struggle and success during her life.
Of Weeping And Rejoicing
Leviticus 6-7; Matthew 25:1-30
Golda Meir knew both struggle and success during her life. As prime minister of Israel, she experienced many episodes of conflict and loss, as well as the periodic joy of successes and victory in the life of the fledgling State of Israel. She said of joy and sorrow, “Those who don’t know how to weep with their whole heart, don’t know how to laugh either.”
The apostle Paul called us to a life of both weeping and rejoicing—but with a twist. In Romans 12:15, the apostle challenged us to look outside our own experiences to the needs of others. He said, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
If we rejoice only in our own victories, we miss the wonder of celebrating the power of the Lord, who desires to accomplish His purposes in and through others as well. If we mourn only our own losses, we lose the opportunity to “be there” for those who are hurting by showing them compassion.
Life is filled with the extremes of joy and sorrow, victory and defeat. But we have been given the privilege of entering into those moments in people’s lives to see the grace of God at work. Don’t miss it!
Lord, give me sensitivity
To people in their grief and pain,
To weep with them and show Your love
In ways mere words cannot attain. —Sper
Looking to the needs of others honors Christ.
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AlistairBegg: "Do not leave your house this morning without inquiring of the Lord. "
Devotionals by Truth For Life
When David made this inquiry, he had just fought the Philistines and gained a classic victory. The Philistines came up in great numbers, but, by the help of God, David had easily put them to flight. Note, however, that when they came a second time, David did not go up to fight them without inquiring of the Lord. Once he had been victorious, and he might have said, as many have in other cases, "I shall be victorious again. I may rest quite sure that if I have conquered once I shall triumph yet again. Why should I delay by seeking God?"
Not so David. He had gained one battle by the strength of the Lord; he would not venture upon another until he had ensured the same. He inquired, "Shall I go up against them?" He waited until God's sign was given.
Learn from David to take no step without God. Christian, if you would know the path of duty, take God for your compass; if you would steer your ship through the dark billows, put the tiller into the hand of the Almighty. Many a rock might be escaped if we would let our Father take the helm; many a shoal or quicksand we might well avoid if we would leave it to His sovereign will to choose and to command.
The Puritan said, "As sure as ever a Christian carves for himself, he'll cut his own fingers." This is a great truth. Another old divine said, "He that goes before the cloud of God's providence goes on a fool's errand," and so he does. We must mark God's providence leading us; and if providence delays, wait until providence comes. He who goes before providence will be very glad to retreat.
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go,"1 is God's promise to His people. Let us, then, take all our perplexities to Him and say, "Lord, what will you have me do?" Do not leave your house this morning without inquiring of the Lord.
Family Bible reading plan
verse 1 Genesis 42
verse 2 Mark
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CharlesStanley: "Friends and family try to be understanding, but they're growing weary of me taking my heartache out on them."
Devotionals by In Touch
Your home offers protection from the elements. So when a storm rolls in, you seek shelter within the safety of those four walls. The same principle applies to life's storms. If we've built a solid house on a foundation of faith, then we've got a haven to run to when dark clouds gather and anxiety threatens to overwhelm us.
Let's suppose I've got a problem that has me fretting. My stomach is in knots. Friends and family try to be understanding, but they're growing weary of me taking my heartache out on them. I'm so focused on this issue that it feels as if I'm carrying a load on my shoulders. God offers a liberating alternative: "Cast your burden upon [Me] and [I] will sustain you" (Ps. 55:22). He does not erase the ills that invade this life. Instead, He shields us from the weight of worry by taking situations into His own hands.
However, the call to a free and peaceful life goes unheeded unless a person has confidence in the Lord. Trust is built through relationship—praying during daily trials and triumphs, seeking biblical guidance for decisions, and testing God's Word to see that it is true and practical for this life. That's how a house of faith is constructed brick by brick on the solid rock of Jesus Christ.
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BobCoy: Are you convinced about whom God is and what He desires to do on your behalf?
Devotionals by Active Word
When Paul journeyed to the city of Philippi to share the gospel, things initially went pretty smoothly. He was able to disciple and baptize a woman named Lydia along with her household.
Then things got difficult. He cast a demon out of a girl, which negatively impacted the occult trade there. A riot ensued, and Paul was imprisoned. Through a series of events, God used Paul to lead the prison's jailer to faith in Christ, which is where we're at as we come to the verse above. Now notice a connection here, we see that this newly converted jailer "rejoiced, having believed."
Faith does not lock arms with depression, but where there is faith there will also be joy…not just here in Acts but elsewhere, as well:
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13 NKJV)
Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory… (1 Peter 1:8 NKJV)
See how faith and belief in God is linked with joy and rejoicing. They feed off each other. Just look at a person who has lived a life of faith, who has gone deep in their trust in God. People like that are also people who exude a powerful joyfulness.
We all want to be like that, yet so few of us are these days. If your joy is lacking, examine your faith. Are you fully persuaded in the things of God? Are you convinced about whom God is and what He desires to do on your behalf? If not, if your faith is weak, your joy will be too. But the reverse is just as true. May the Lord build you up in your faith and in so doing, fill you with joy.
Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today?
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JonCourson: "there is often a period of time between when the promise is given and the fulfillment of it is seen"
| February 9 | ||
| And the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein. | ||
| Joshua 21:43 | ||
| God gives a promise and then keeps it - but there is often a period of time between when the promise is given and the fulfillment of it is seen. Therefore, don’t give up. Don’t be cynical. Instead, keep to the course to which God has called you. Believe the promises He’s given to you in the Word. And, with faith and patience, you’ll inherit them. I wonder how many people give up a month, a day, or an hour too soon and just miss God’s blessing. In Hebrews 6:15, we read that it was after Abraham patiently endured that he obtained the promise. Abraham goes down in history and is celebrated throughout eternity as a man of faith. He heard the Word. He mixed it with faith. He patiently endured - and he obtained the promise. Believing might have been simple for Abraham, perhaps you’re thinking, but me? I don’t have faith that God will bless my marriage, my kids, or my job. I can’t believe because my faith is so weak. Are you sure? I suggest that your faith is huge, colossal, titanic in size. After all, you’re in the hall of faith, in the company of Moses and Abraham, Sarah and Gideon . . . Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. Hebrews 11:3 Your belief that God created all things is itself an indication of the colossal size and strength of your faith. Believing God created the world out of nothing is the hardest thing to believe. Everything else is a piece of cake by comparison. The second biggest issue deals with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe,” Jesus said to Thomas after Thomas said he wouldn’t believe Jesus was alive until he touched His wounds (John 20:29). Do you believe Jesus rose from the dead? If so, I suggest with a sparkle in His eye and a grin on His face, Jesus would say, “Awesome! You haven’t seen Me physically, but yet you believe in Me. You are a blessed person!” Therefore, when the enemy whispers in your ear, “You’re not going to see that happen. You’re never going to see that work out because your faith is too weak,” you need to say, “I believe creation was accomplished by my Father. I also believe Jesus rose from the dead. I couldn’t believe either one of those things had not the Father given me huge, colossal-sized faith. He has given me faith for the big issues, and everything else - health, finances, relationships - is miniscule by comparison.” Mix the Word with faith. Patiently endure - and, like Abraham, you’ll obtain every promise He has made to you. | ||
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GregLaurie: "You may be surprised to know that the family tree of Jesus Christ was one of the most messed-up family trees of all time"
Devotionals by A New Beginning
"But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born a of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." —Galatians 4:4-5
Some people are keenly interested in researching their family tree. Many times they are hoping they are related to someone important, perhaps a historical figure or a member of a royal family. But sometimes they find out things they wish they had not known. They discover some pretty notorious characters in their family tree.
You may be surprised to know that the family tree of Jesus Christ was one of the most messed-up family trees of all time. Recorded for us in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, it included prostitutes, cheats, adulterers, liars, and even a murderer. Yet we have to remember that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and that includes genealogies. And in the genealogy of Jesus, the grace of God is on display.
Normally, Jewish genealogies did not include women. But in Matthew's genealogy, we find five: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and of course, Mary. What is fascinating about these women in the most exclusive genealogy in history is that several of them were immoral. This reminds us that Jesus came to heal broken lives and to restore shattered hopes.
Galatians 4 puts it this way: "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" (verses 4-5). The word "redeem" used here means to buy out of a slave market. This term would have been readily understood by people living in the first century, because slavery was still in practice.
Jesus has redeemed us, which means He has given us our freedom. That is what Jesus did for us. God gives second chances. And He can redeem the mess we make of our lives.
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BobCaldwell: " that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God..""
Wednesday, February 9, 2011 (top)
Our Impossible Challenge – God's Opportunity
(2 Corinthians 1:1-2:17)
Paul, like others we admire in the scriptures, were often not foreign to deep personal pain and heart-wrenching conflicts that they shared with sincere transparency. They did not believe their spiritual credibility would be marred if they honestly used themselves as an example of how to walk through some of life's most painful experiences. King David left us with a painful and honest example of this in Psalm 51. Like David, Paul the Apostle wrote many times in his letters about the deep inner struggles of his life and the painful conflicts with people. He openly expressed the comfort he needed to make it through the tough times he experienced. He never pretended to be a "superhero." He was a man among men who had learned to conquer his many troubles through Christ. He described having been burdened "beyond measure," despairing that his Asian persecutors might take his life (1:8-9). He also openly expressed the personal hurt and turmoil he went through because of the attacks on him by certain Corinthian Christians.
It is important to remember that Paul used these experiences, which are common to all of us, to teach us how to get through them victoriously. He teaches us of the comfort we can receive and then give away to then comfort others in their own pain (1:3-5). He directs us to put faith in God when all seems hopeless (1:8-10). Paul teaches us that we can find genuine triumphant victory amid the pressures of life is possible. The crushing pressures that come upon us will release a fragrant aroma of Christ's life before believers and non-believers (2:14-16).
Let us be honest about life's troubles, but also remember that life is full of hope. The challenges in life that overwhelm us are God's opportunities to show us what He can do. Out of ashes of failure, weakness, and sin, God can be glorified as the One who can give us the sweetest of victories from what appears to be irreversible tragedy.
NKJV Bible Text
2 Corinthians 1:1-2:17
1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,
To the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in all Achaia:
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
| Introduction This letter was written most likely between 56-57 A.D. It's the most personal letter of Paul in that it reveals some of his deepest hurts and vulnerabilities in relationship to those he served. In the previous letter to them (1 Corinthians) he dealt with several problems that were in the church. Most of them were the result of the ungodly influence upon these believers from their city that was renowned as one of the most immoral in the Roman Empire. Some in the church had rejected this previous letter of correction, along with its author Paul. This faction began building arguments against Paul that severely undermined his ability to properly serve this church. Some of these arguments against Paul are seen in his statements in 1:12 and 10:2. Therefore much of this letter is devoted to clearing up the misunderstanding of who Paul is and what his relationship with these people should be. Chapter 1 Greeting v. 1 Apostle – "apostolos" (Gk.) This Greek word is defined as "one sent as an ambassador." There were the original 11, Judas having been removed prior to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Matthias was chosen to replace Judas in Acts 1:16-26. Paul is later called to be an apostle, as revealed in 1 Corinthians 15:7-8. In Acts 14:14 we also see Barnabas referred to as an apostle. | By the Will of God – Paul's calling in the body of Christ was not by men but God. Man's organizations can only recognize the call God has given. Timothy – He was led to Christ during Paul's first missionary journey. Timothy had a godly mother and grandmother who had instructed him in the Old Testament scriptures. He later became a key leader who helped Paul in the establishment of churches, as seen in Paul's letters to him (1 and 2 Tim.) Paul said of Timothy that there was no one else he had worked with who so fully cared for the things of Christ above his own personal interests (Phil. 2:19-22). Church of God – It is always critical to remember that the church does not belong to any organization of man but to God. Corinth – This key commercial center drew people from many different religions. It was known throughout the Greek-Roman world as being extremely hedonistic. v. 2 Grace – "charis" (Gk.) Grace is an outward expression of God's "agape" love that bestows divine blessing upon those who have no right or claim to it. |
Comfort in Suffering
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. 6 Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.
| Comfort in Suffering v. 5 Abounds In Us – Paul saw the value in his sufferings for Christ as giving him an abundant experience in God's comfort, resulting in having within him a great reservoir of comfort for others in need. v. 6 Your Consolation and Salvation – Paul pointed out that the suffering he had gone through was the reason he had been able to be a source of encouragement and a messenger of salvation in Christ. | Is Effective – Paul pointed to the results of the encouragement and salvation he had given them as proof of the effectiveness of God's comfort in their suffering. v. 7 Hope of You – Paul based his hope for these believers to endure their difficulties on the fact that they will experience the same strengthening encouragement from God that he had. |
Delivered from Suffering
8 For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. 9 Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, 10 who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us, 11 you also helping together in prayer for us, that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the gift granted to us through many.
| Delivered from Suffering v. 8 Despaired Even of Life – The Book of Acts does not specifically describe this event when it recounts Paul's experiences in the Roman province of Asia. Whatever happened caused Paul to literally think he was going to be killed. v. 9 Not Trust In Ourselves – Paul revealed a second blessing to be found in suffering. The first is that it provides an opportunity to be comforted by God. The second blessing is that it provides an obvious situation when only God can be looked to as a means of deliverance. This brings undeniable honor to God before a world of unbelief. | v. 10 Who Delivered – Paul's experience and hope in God's faithful intervention was both past, present, and future. v. 11 Prayer for Us – Paul revealed a third benefit from suffering. Not only does it provide an opportunity for receiving God's comfort and a way to trust God rather than ourselves, but it also fosters our interdependency with each other. Paul genuinely needed the prayer support of other believers. |
Paul's Sincerity
12 For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you. 13 For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end 14 (as also you have understood us in part), that we are your boast as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus.
| Paul's Sincerity v. 12 Our Rejoicing – Paul found great joy in having a clean conscience in regard to the methods he had used to bring Jesus Christ to the Corinthians. Not Fleshly Wisdom – Paul contrasted his approach with those who win influence by using the methods of fallen humanity. Paul approached the ministry with honest sincerity and dependency upon God, along with the influence and power of the Holy Spirit. | v. 13 Acknowledge – Paul was confident that the people at Corinth would attest to his sincerity. He affirmed that he will continue in this approach to the end of his ministry. v. 14 Us in Part – There had been some at Corinth who had not fully recognized Paul's ministry among them. However, the overall position stated here is that both Paul and the vast majority of the Corinthians were grateful for the relationship they shared. |
Sparing the Church
15 And in this confidence I intended to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit— 16 to pass by way of you to Macedonia, to come again from Macedonia to you, and be helped by you on my way to Judea. 17 Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? 18 But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. 20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
23 Moreover I call God as witness against my soul, that to spare you I came no more to Corinth. 24 Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.
| Sparing the Church v. 15 In this Confidence – This is a confidence Paul affirmed in verse 14. The majority of the believers at Corinth did recognize Paul as a man sent by God. To Come – Paul's plan to return to Corinth on his journey from Ephesus to Macedonia was based on his confidence that he would be well received by them and be able to minister to them for their benefit (1 Cor. 16:5-6). Second Benefit – Paul had no element of pride when he declared that they would benefit from his visit. This was because he knew he was simply a vessel in the hands of God. Any benefit that is lasting is by the work of God through His servants. v. 16 Into Macedonia – Paul was headed to Troas in Macedonia. Brought on my way – His plan was to stop in Corinth in route to Troas in Macedonia. This was out of the way, but Paul had a strong desire to clear up the troubled relationship with them that had developed. After going to Troas, he would return to Corinth in route to Judea. Toward Judea – The purpose of Paul's trip to Judea was to deliver the financial gift that he had collected from the Gentile churches for the poor in Jerusalem. v. 17 Did I Do It Lightly – Evidently, some had accused Paul of revealing a personal character flaw because he decided to wait to go to Corinth on his return trip from Macedonia rather en route to Macedonia. He was accused of making this statement about his trip lightly and not showing a commitment to keep his word, nor knowing the will of God. In the Flesh – He stated that his decision was in no way based on having been influenced by some personal desire to gratify his self-serving old nature. In verse 23, he states the only reason he did not yet come to Corinth at that time was because he had concluded it was not in the interests of them or Paul to come at this time. | v. 18 God is True – As God's servant, Paul declared that his actions regarding his proposed visit to them was in harmony with the God he served. Paul's words and actions were in no way designed to deceive or manipulate them. v. 19 In Him Was Yes – Paul pointed out that the life he lives was in harmony with the God he serves. Paul did not lie or seek to deceive them by his change of plans. v. 20 All The Promises – Paul took this opportunity to affirm the complete consistency that God upholds in regard to His promises to His people. By Us – Paul referred to himself as one who has given his life to reveal the glory of God discovered in God's promises. v. 21 Anointed Us – Paul referred to being established and anointed by God to serve the Corinthians. He stated this because some questioned his call and used the canceling of his visit (referred to in verse 15-17) as proof that he did not know the mind of God. v. 22 Sealed us – This phrase refers to a stamp of ownership. Just as shipments in their day were stamped with the seal of the owner, Paul, along with all believers, had been given the Holy Spirit as the seal that affirmed God's ownership of them. v. 23 To Spare You – Paul explained his change of plans. It was only out of love and concern for them that he felt it best to wait. He believed that the conflict and misunderstanding that had risen should be worked out before he came. v. 24 Have Dominion – Paul showed his sensitivity to their needs and tried not to assert authority over them beyond what they acknowledged. Helpers of Your Joy – Paul made clear that his goal was not to assert authority over them but to bring spiritual blessing to them. Faith You Stand – Paul did not want to in any way circumvent their relationship with Jesus. They were not to stand before God in Paul, but in Jesus Christ. |
2 Corinthians 2
1 But I determined this within myself, that I would not come again to you in sorrow. 2 For if I make you sorrowful, then who is he who makes me glad but the one who is made sorrowful by me?
Forgive the Offender
3 And I wrote this very thing to you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow over those from whom I ought to have joy, having confidence in you all that my joy is the joy of you all. 4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have so abundantly for you.
| Chapter 2 Forgive the Offender v. 1 Not Come Again – Paul had stated in 1:15-23 that the reason he had not followed through on his proposed visit was to spare them and him any further painful conflict. Paul felt that those who had rejected his leadership and had not followed his council on certain moral problems in the church should come to terms with those issues before he came to visit them. v. 2 Makes You Sorrowful – Without the conflict being resolved prior to Paul's visit, he knew that he would be forced to rebuke those in sin and demand repentance. In that type of confrontational environment, Paul knew that they as well he would be deeply grieved by it. | v. 3 I Wrote – It was Paul's deeply held conviction that it would be better for all involved if he made his concerns and the actions that needed to be taken known in a letter rather than in person. My Joy – Paul was confident that the position of the majority of people at Corinth would not want to see him troubled by the problems in their church. Therefore, he had asked them to resolve these issues before his arrival. v. 4 Affection and Anguish – Paul knew that some people would use his disciplinary actions directed at this church as a weapon against him. Paul would be accused of not having love or acceptance for the church. However, Paul made it clear that it was with the pain of a broken heart and a deep concern for their well being that forced him to correct the sin in their lives. |
5 But if anyone has caused grief, he has not grieved me, but all of you to some extent—not to be too severe. 6 This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man, 7 so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow. 8 Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him. 9 For to this end I also wrote, that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things. 10 Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, 11 lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.
| v. 5 Not To Be Too Severe – Paul restated his deep sensitivity here in not wanting to add guilt to those who had brought about this situation. Therefore, he said that he doesn't want anyone to feel they have especially troubled his life. He had simply shared in the hurt equally with all the others in the church. v. 6 This Punishment – There were several areas that action needed to be taken in dealing with sin, as listed in Paul's previous letter. Here he referred to the specific actions that needed to be taken concerning the incestuous relationship between a man and his father's wife (1 Cor. 5:1-13). The church had obeyed Paul's council to remove these two from the church. This action had led to repentance on the part of the man and woman. Paul stated that this discipline was sufficient and should now end because it had resulted in repentance. v. 7 Forgive and Comfort – Paul reminded the church that the goal of the punishment was to bring about repentance and restoration. Paul saw no value in any emotional pain in these two believers beyond promoting repentance. The goal was to strongly affirm the churches' love and sensitivity to those who have dealt with their sin. v. 9 Put You To the Test – Paul was not saying that he arbitrarily used this issue of discipline to test them. What he did do, however, was to use this situation as a means to call this man and woman to repentance, and to do so in a way that required the church to follow Paul's guidance. v. 10 In the Presence of Christ – Paul walked in the realm of the Holy Spirit and the presence of Christ. In God's presence, he had been led to deal with this situation as he had. In Christ's presence, Paul had lifted up the forgiveness, love, and acceptance to God on behalf of these people. | v. 11 Lest Satan – "Satan" means adversary, one who is an enemy. Paul readily admitted that Satan is a real personal being who opposes our relationship with God. This opposition is ultimately directed against God, not just the believer. Satan fell from perfection by a prideful desire to be in the place of God (Is. 14:12-15). Now Satan and his demonic forces direct much of their effort in seeking to destroy the object of God's love—His bride, the church. If Satan cannot draw a person to deny Christ, then he will try to destroy those who follow God rather than him. Devices – Satan sought to use this situation at Corinth to create division and misapply truth that would result in countless problems over time. Satan knew there would be great value in undermining the church by causing some to believe it would be unloving to seek to correct the sexual sin of those in this church. Conversely, Satan also saw the value in causing others in this church to become harsh and unforgiving toward those in the church who had sinned. These efforts of Satan are seen as being through one who appears as an "angel of light" (2 Cor. 11:14), opposes God's work (Zech. 3:1; 1 Thess. 2:18), hinders the gospel (Mt. 13:19; 2 Cor. 4:4), works lying wonders (2 Thess. 2:9; Rev. 16:14), and perverts the scripture (Mt. 4:6; Ps. 91:11-12). Not Ignorant Of His Devices – As a wise and experienced leader, Paul had developed a keen awareness of Satan's methods to undermine the church and destroy the souls of humanity. This component of ministry is essential for believers. We must be able to identify those things that are often brought into our lives and into the church as influences that can be as destructive as a wolf in a flock of sheep. |
Triumph in Christ
12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord, 13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.
14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.
| Triumph in Christ v. 12 Came To Troas – Troas, located north of Ephesus in western Asia Minor, was part of Paul's missionary efforts recorded in Acts 16. He went there to meet up with Titus, one of his closest friends in the ministry. His motivation in meeting Titus was to discover the results of the letter Titus had delivered for Paul to the Corinthian church. Paul was deeply concerned to see how they reacted to this "severe" (v. 4) letter of correction. Door Was Opened – Paul gave himself to preaching the gospel while in Troas, and it resulted in God providing effective access to the lives of the people of Troas. v. 13 No Rest In My Spirit – Even though God was doing such a great work among the people in Troas, Paul's inner being was distracted by not meeting Titus in Troas. Paul's concern for these Corinthians was so intense he simply could not avoid the internal distractions he felt as he, like a loving father, waited to hear of their condition and how they had responded to him. Departed To Macedonia – Paul explained why he went on to Macedonia, which was located northwest of the Aegean Sea. Paul had hoped to meet up with Titus there, as he knew the route Titus was taking. v. 14 Thanks Be To God – Having conveyed the proof of his sincere love and concern as seen in the deep inner struggle he went through for them, Paul pointed these believers past these struggles to the overriding victory they have in Christ, a victory in the midst of the storms of life. | Leads Us – The life of spiritual victory is something we are led into by God Himself through His Spirit. He does not leave us to try and find this all on our own. Triumph In Christ – This life that overcomes deep personal hurts and struggles like the ones Paul was going through is a possibility for all God's children. Paul described this powerfully in Romans 8:28-39. Diffuses the Fragrance – The pressures of life can result in a revelation of what God is like and what He can do for not only a man such as Paul but for anyone who puts faith in Christ. v. 15 To God – This fragrance is first a form of honor and worship to God who is the source of these blessings. v. 16 Aroma of Death – When believers live in the power of God, the irrefutable evidence of Christ angers and frustrates the hard hearts of nonbelievers. To them it is a fragrance that exposes their spiritual death. Aroma of Life – For the believer, the proof of Christ's power to enable us to endure painful and perplexing issues fosters a joyful evidence of the new life we share in. Who Is Sufficient – Paul declared that none of us are able in ourselves to produce this fragrance of life in the midst of the crushing events we go through. It is sourced in God. v. 17 Peddling the Word – Paul contrasted himself with those who attacked him. He was not one motivated by personal gain but love. |
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