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Kingdom Life: Now and Forever

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Welcome to the fifth and final week of our discussion of Missional Living at Do Not Depart. Living missionally includes being an ambassador for God’s Kingdom. We partner with Christ to see the Father’s will “done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). Our kingdom life is lived now and forever.

The Kingdom is Now

When a person puts their faith and trust in Jesus as Savior and Lord, a whole new life begins. Immediately, a regime change takes place, and a new believer joins a new kingdom and is subject to the rule of Christ. Consider the following.

  1. Our citizenship in God’s Kingdom begins with our salvation: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son…” (Colossians 1:13).
  2. God’s Kingdom is not bound by time or space: “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Luke 17:20-21).
  3. The Kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom: “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

Often, we think of God’s Kingdom being far off in a distant place and time. Rather, it is near. We, the redeemed in the Lord, are citizens of His kingdom right now.

On Earth as it is in Heaven

As members of Christ’s kingdom, we are His agents in the world to usher in the reign of Christ. Missional living is an acknowledgment and affirmation of this. Jesus taught us to pray,

“Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.”

–Matthew 6:9

As our faith matures and we submit to the Holy Spirit to make us more like Jesus, our transformation spills out into all aspects of our lives. Following Jesus, we are culture makers, justice seekers, and light bearers.

Ambassadors in Everyday Life

Considering this topic, I can suggest three ways we can be ambassadors for the Kingdom of God in everyday life.

  1. Reach out in kindness and compassion: “For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward” (Mark 9:41).
  2. Defend those who have suffered injustice.       
    • Use your voice for the defenseless: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
      for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly;defend the rights of the poor and needy”       (Proverbs 31:8-9, NIV).
    • Contend for righteousness: “…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
  3. Join hands with others to do good works: “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people” (Titus 3:8).
Following Jesus, we are culture makers, justice seekers, and light bearers. #MissionalLiving

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Fighter for justice, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. often quoted Amos 5:24, a paraphrase of which, is found on a fountain at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, GA.

The Kingdom is Forever

Doing God’s will on earth, we look forward to the day it is fulfilled. And, there will be a day! For we do not labor for a kingdom that will pass away. One day the heartache will be gone, sin will be no more, and we will be with God. God’s kingdom is forever. Forever!

Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.”  –Revelation 11:15

Let’s Work Together

As ambassadors of God’s kingdom, we are devoted to Christ’s mission. Promoting and doing the work of the kingdom is part of “missional living.” What ideas do you have about kingdom living? What acts of kindness, justice and good works do you do? How can we better encourage and equip you as you work for Christ’s kingdom?

We partner with Christ to see the Father’s will “done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). #MIssionalLiving

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Hope for Overcoming Sin

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Fed up, tired, ashamed, hopeless — these are just a few of the emotions I experience when I’m dealing with this one nagging sin that I can’t seem to kick to the curb. We all have one, right? One sin (maybe more than one if we’re honest) that we just can’t seem to get a handle on. A sin that rears its ugly head every time we think things are going well. A sin that reminds us how weak and inadequate we are. 

For me, one of these sins is gluttony. My particular “lust of the flesh” comes in the form of my desire to over indulge my taste buds — to completely refuse to exercise any self-control and eat until my belly hurts and my head is hanging in regret. Food: it’s the addiction I don’t know how to quit.

Now, before you start to think this post is about my sinful relationship with calories, let me make it clear that it is not. This post is about our struggle with sin and the hope that we have to overcome it. And let me give you a little hint in how we overcome it: the hope is not found in ourselves, it’s found in Jesus.

We are Death-bound Sinners

Romans 3:23 says “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. We also know that we can’t keep God’s law, because “whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it” (James 2:10). On our own, we are down-right, good-for-nothing sinners. It’s been part of our human-nature ever since Adam and Eve chose to eat the forbidden fruit. We can’t help it. Apart from Jesus, we are each a slave to our sins (John 8:34).

And because we are sinners we deserve punishment. Not just a small punishment either. The Bible tells us that “the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23a). According to BlueLetterBible.org, the original Greek word for death can be defined as “death comprising all the miseries arising from sin, as well physical death as the loss of a life consecrated to God and blessed in him on earth, to be followed by wretchedness in hell.” In other words, death is eternal, everlasting separation from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The Good, Good News

But that isn’t the end of the story. Did you notice the ellipses, the three little periods at the end of the verse I just quoted? The entire verse says “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23, emphasis added). Yes, we filthy sinners deserve death, but God offers us eternal life through — and only through — His son Jesus.

But God showed his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. ~Romans 5:8

Here is the good, good news: even though each and every one of us deserve hell we don’t have to end up there. There is nothing we can do to save ourselves from sin, but God has provided us with the free gift of salvation — His son living a perfect life, dying our death, and rising again to justify us. All because He chooses to love us.

But We Still Sin

But we still sin, don’t we? Yes, we are forgiven and justified, but we still sin! Struggling with sin is nothing new. Paul wrote about it extensively in Romans 7. He says “For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do” (v 15). In other words, Paul is saying no matter how hard he wants to stop sinning he can’t. Even though he knows the law of God, he can not keep it. And because he can not keep it, he sins time and time again.

Oh, I can relate! Can’t you?

Hope in His Faithfulness

But there is hope!  If you take the time to read Romans 7 you might notice that Paul continually uses the pronoun I.  The focus of that chapter is himself and his ability (or inability) to keep the law. It is through this focus on self that Paul teaches us that when we rely on our ability to overcome sin we will fail every single time. 

Every. Single. Time.

Instead we need to focus, rely, and trust in Jesus. 

After Paul confesses that he can not keep from sinning he writes:

“For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” (Romans 8:3-5)

Paul is making it clear that we have a choice to make. We can either 1) focus on ourselves and our sin (setting our minds on things of the flesh) or 2) focus on Jesus and all that He has done on our behalf (setting our minds on things of the Spirit). 

Let me explain it another way. I’m a food glutton and when I think about all the food I should not be eating, guess what? My craving for those earthly things increases. When I repeatedly rely on my own ability to exercise self-control and deny my cravings, my cravings grow stronger and my self-control buckles under the weight of my desire. This is me setting my mind on things of the flesh.

However, if I choose to set my mind on things of the Spirit it’s a different story. When I focus on Jesus I find strength and satisfaction in Him, not in food. My desire to be a glutton diminishes and my desire to be like Christ flourishes.  

There is one verse that I am constantly repeating to myself. It reminds me that the struggle with sin will not last forever. The verse is 1 John 1:9. It says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 

What a promise!

Yes, we will sin, but if we confess our sin we can rest and take hope in the promise that Jesus will forgive and cleanse us completely.

Lord in Heaven, you are more good than I can fathom. Your promises are more hope giving than anything I can find on this earth. Thank you for not expecting me to take care of my own sin. Thank you for meeting me in my struggle, forgiving me, and promising to make me clean. Help me to rest and trust in all that you have done and continue to do. Amen.

Anchored By Hope

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In the midst of a year characterized by uncertainty, let’s take the month of August to anchor ourselves in a hope that does not disappoint. Our circumstances may ebb and flow or may completely rock us, but in Christ we are securely anchored by hope. 

Anchored by Hope

A few years ago I was listening to a friend of mine give a sermon on the topic of hope. I was sitting in the cry room with a toddler messing about at my feet and an active infant in my lap. My preschooler was in the sanctuary with my husband, but he had spotted me through the cry room window and was clearly negotiating to join me there. Given the chaos around me, I will admit I now recall few details of that sermon. But one moment stands out. While straining to listen over the babbling of the children literally crawling over me, I heard my friend Brandon pause and ask directly, “What do you hope in?” No joke, clear as a bell something in me responded, “Bedtime. My hope is in bedtime.”

True Hope

I chuckled, outloud, because it was somewhat true. I would find myself multiple times a day with frayed nerves thinking, “It’s all going to be okay. In a few hours, they will go to bed, and I will be okay.” I was in the thick of the “short years / long days” season, and though I actually missed the kids when they were sleeping soundly, I also desperately needed the quiet time to collect myself. And yet, on the way home from Church that morning, I knew there was more to it than an introvert’s need for a few minutes of silence.

“When all feels chaotic, when I am afraid that I am failing them at every turn, when I am not sure how to comfort three of them at once,” I asked myself, “is my hope in bedtime? Or am I resting right then in the blessed assurance that the God of the Universe is right here with me? He knows exactly what is needed.” Am I missing the opportunity to be securely anchored by a true hope?

Grounded

Am I white-knuckled clinging to my to-do list? Or am I looking to the Holy Spirit for in-the-moment guidance? Am I holding my breath until the circumstances change? Or am I abiding in the life-giving breath of God, Who calms the storms and stills the winds? This summer, is my sense of hope tied to my confidence in our leaders, to graphs of reported data, or to the One who reigns forever? 

As people, our hope can easily become tied to the ever-changing circumstances around us. But as Believers, our hope is rightly grounded in Who God is. It flourishes when we focus our hearts on Him. He is good, righteous, sovereign, and faithful. Our hope rests in the knowledge that He is making all things new. He is making us into the likeness of Christ and reconciling us to one another in the Spirit.

Anchored, Firm and Secure

The author of Hebrews tells us that we may be encouraged because, “we have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:19a, NIV). We have this anchor of hope, he says, because Christ entered behind the temple curtain into the Most Holy Place ushering those washed in His blood into the presence of God (Hebrews 6:19-20, Hebrews 9:1-14, Matthew 27:50-51). That’s the game-changer. His blood and righteousness mean I have access to the throne of God. That’s hope.

Do you know how an anchor works? An anchor is substantial, heavy and solid, sinking into the seabed. It becomes even more effective when resistance is applied. When a force pulls against the anchor, it is designed to dig deeper, becoming more secure. Thus grounded, an anchor protects a boat from drifting away or from crashing into nearby rocks.

Friends, I may have read more news in the past five months than I did in the previous decade. And it certainly is prudent to know what’s happening around us. Let’s check our anchor, though. Where is our hope? I love this sentence from a boating article titled “How to Anchor Securely:” “We know of no way to ensure that your anchor will hold other than by pulling on it hard.” Pull hard, and be assured. Hope anchored in Christ holds true. Join us in a month-long blog series as we explore what it means to be Anchored by Hope.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13

Hearts Like His: Hearts for Justice

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This month we have been looking at what it means to be made in the image of God. This truth determines who we are and affects how we see ourselves and others. Today, we consider how justice is imprinted on our hearts because we are made in the image of God.

Hearts Like His, Hearts for Justice

Years ago, my heart ached to better understand one of my children. When wronged, they struggled to move on until it was made right. Any opportunity for sharing was fraught with anxiety over whether it would work out fairly. I initially attributed this to self-centeredness, but as I asked the Lord to reveal what my child needed, the He showed me that their heart was particularly sensitive to justice. While immature, it was neither one-sided nor necessarily selfish. When my little one received a small treat at school, they went to great lengths to share with three siblings who had neither noticed nor asked. With that little bit of insight as a mother,  many pieces fell into place.

Imprinted with Justice

The next time my child was distressed over an apparent injustice, I pulled the 5-year-old onto my lap and said, “You see, God made you in His image. He made you like Him in so many ways, and one of the things He put in your heart is a desire for justice. You want to see that people always do what is right, that wrong is always labeled wrong, and that there are consequences when someone does wrong.  You want to see that everyone gets a share of the good things we receive. Your heart aches and says ‘This isn’t right!’ when those things don’t happen.” The child lit up with the relief of recognition. It is my prayer that as this little one grows, their heart for justice grows and matures alongside grace and mercy.

The Source of Justice

You and I were also created in God’s image. Our hearts ache for justice because we bear the image of our Creator, the very standard of justice.

In Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis explains that the moral standards we find common across cultures reflect the existence of a just God, the standard against Whom all else is judged. “My argument against God was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust. But how had I got this idea of just and unjust? A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line. What was I comparing this universe with when I called it unjust?”

Justice is integral to the nature of God.

But the Lord sits enthroned forever;
    he has established his throne for justice,
and he judges the world with righteousness;
    he judges the peoples with uprightness. (Psalm 9:7-8)

For I the Lord love justice;
    I hate robbery and wrong;
I will faithfully give them their recompense,
    and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. (Isaiah 61:8)

The descriptions of God’s justice in the Bible include both retributive justice, consequences for sin, and restorative justice, restoring the oppressed to wholeness and well-being. These concepts are intertwined, as an act of judgement against an oppressor begins to lift up the oppressed.

For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.  (Deuteronomy 10:17-19)

Hearts like His

We, created in the Image of God, have that standard of justice imprinted within us. Though marred by sin and pride, our sense of justice is restored as we are made into the likeness of Christ (Romans 6:8, 2 Corinthians 3:18). He is making our hearts more and more like His.

When we see our neighbors through God’s justice, we see that each one bears the image of God. This is foundational to justice and is why each person is to be treated with dignity — not because of what they have done but because of who they are as a person bearing the image of God.

It is for this reason that Christ taught that our actions towards neighbors and strangers hold eternal weight.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ … Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” (Matthew 25:35-36, 40b).

To Do Justice

One thing I have experienced in recent  months is a deeper understanding of injustice and oppression in my nation and my community, both historically and presently. Injustice is a big deal to God, and it grieves Him deeply. In fact, God tells us through the prophet Habakkuk that persistent injustice in Judah resulted in Judah’s exile to Babylon (Habakkuk 1:4).

It is my prayer this morning that the Lord would continue to open my eyes to see when the persons who bear His divine image are not treated with the dignity due each of us. And then, may I act, with prayer and wisdom, towards the restoration of justice.

He has told you, O man, what is good;
    and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
    and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

 

Stand on the Rock

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Todays post, “Stand on the Rock” focuses on Edward Mote’s beautiful hymn, My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less (often called, On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand.)

This year has been quite tumultuous for most people. We’ve been confronted with a huge amount of suffering, fear, loss, insecurity, injustice, anger, and heartache in the last several months. When things seem to improve a little, another wave comes along. It can feel like almost minute to minute, the ground shifts from under our feet.

It’s easy to see it all and wonder, “What security do I really have? Where do I stand?” 

There’s a hymn that reminds me that no matter how the sands of the world shift, I stand on the Rock.

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ the solid rock I stand,
all other ground is sinking sand. 

 

A Wise Builder

Edward Mote penned those words in his hymn, ”My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” well over 100 years ago. His words serve as a beautiful illustration of Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders (Luke 6:46-49). 

A foolish builder might approach the water’s edge and think the close proximity to life-giving water is good enough. But sadly, that puts a foolish builder on the unstable, sandy shore. When the rains come, his house floods, sands shift, and the house collapses. The foolish builder in the parable represents someone who appears to come to Jesus but never does what He commands.

Mote’s words emphasize Jesus’ teachings that a wise builder hopes in and follows Jesus. As saved Christians, we’ve all chosen the solid Rock. Digging deep into the high Rock of Jesus gives us stability! Through the constant, steady nature of God, we can find hope when our world shifts. All of God’s promises are true, His commands are good, and His ways are best. Always!

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.” (Luke 6:46-49)

It is only through Christ that we will ever find true healing, stability, peace, and hope. Jesus alone offers us security. This security dwells within a Believer’s heart now, and will come to complete fruition in eternity.

How Did Mote Know?

Edward Mote grew up as a non-Believer. Because his parents were busy managing a pub, he entertained himself by playing in the streets of London. He is reported to have said,

“So ignorant was I that I did not know that there was a God.”

But by the grace of God, Mote heard a sermon preached and gave his life to Jesus. He even entered the ministry in his 50’s and served for almost 30  years, in addition to writing 100’s of hymns.

Yes, he personally knew what it was like to live a life without the hope of Christ. And I’m sure he saw many people turn to “sandy soil” rather than digging deep and settling on the Solid Rock.

Here are more lyrics to this beautiful hymn that express the hope we have in a “stormy” and unstable world:

When darkness veils his lovely face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil
His oath, his covenant, his blood
Supports me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way
He then is all my hope and stay

On Christ the solid rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand

When Darkness Veils His Lovely Face

As I said earlier, there is so much in our world that we could allow to “veil Jesus’ face.” Yet, we must remember, His grace is unchanging and He is our anchor. Christ’s blood supports, cleanses, and redeems us. 

When everything around us seems to give way, we must continually look to Him and be rooted in Him. Then we can remain standing… on the Solid Rock!

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore… (Ephesians 6:13, 14a)

How have you been reminded of the strength and stability of the Rock lately? Let us know in the comments.

In Christ, our Solid Rock,
Ali

When the ground shifts under your feet, you might ask “What security do I really have? Where do I stand?” Let’s look to the hymn My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less to see that we stand on the Solid Rock. #HIStoriesBehindTheHymn

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Benedictions: Series Wrap-Up

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This month we have been looking at Benedictions, God’s words of blessing for His people. Have you been drawn to commit to memory any of the Scriptures we’ve looked at? Let’s wrap up this series with a review of the verses of benediction we have read thus far before concluding with one of my favorites.

Benedictions of the Bible

We began the month with one of the first blessings of the Bible, given to the priesthood of Aaron to say over the Israelites. These beautiful words convey God’s desire to extend His goodness to His people.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you.
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

 

In a post about the God who equips, Ali reminded us that God gives us the ability to do His will and “will not ask anything of us that He will not help us do.” She wrote, “Until God supports me and directs me– until He equips me — I can’t do His will. On the other hand, with God’s help ‘through Jesus,’ I am able.

Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21)

 

Jaime explored musical harmony as the metaphor for life within the Church. I found it clarifying to read her words: “Living in harmony with anyone is deeply challenging because we are regularly confronted by and forced to choose between our own selfish desires and the needs or wants of another.” Harmony results from putting the needs of others around us ahead of our own desires.

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6)

 

Elaborating on how benedictions give us words to bless others when we don’t know what to say, Lisa shared that her Pastor’s closing each service with Philippians 1:9-11 has guided her in praying for others.

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11)

 

“God wants the overflow of everything He pours into us to spill out onto others,” Cheli wrote. “Essentially, we are filled up to spill out.” The benedictions exemplify this as we receive God’s blessings and use God’s own words to pronounce His goodness upon others.

“So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:17-19)

 

Last week in a post on the God of hope, I shared my experience with hope in the midst of physical pain. “When the roots of hope reach deeper down to living water from the God of hope, our hope is not vulnerable to circumstances. That hope flourishes regardless of circumstance.”

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)

He is Able

Our evening family prayer time has always been quite a circus, but with my youngest no longer a toddler, I am daring to add a little more structure and reverence. While my attempt to add candle light was short lived (we are still too wiggly for that, it seems), the benediction has stuck. My favorite part of the day may now be the last moments of our evening together as one of us reads words of encouragement over the family. I find the simplest way to memorize Scripture is simply to say or hear it every day, and so we use one passage until it is deeply in all of our hearts, before changing it out for another.

Tonight as we ended family prayers, my 7-year-old son read Ephesians 3:20-21:

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

It is my hope that these truths sink in deeply. After we have lifted our hearts and concerns to the Lord, what joy it is to be reminded: He is able. Able to do far more than all that we ask, or think! (I love those additional words. There is no limit to His power!) And that power? It is more than available to us. It is presently at work within us. What grace. It is my hope that as we lay down to rest each night, my family’s faith and hope will be nourished by those words of truth.

In a church service, the benediction is part of a liturgy — words and actions that are part of a meaningful routine which shapes our hearts and our faith. Is there a Scripture we have looked at this month that you want to make a part of your daily life? One you want to commit to heart and have on hand for when you don’t know what to say or how to pray? Which of these would most nourish your faith right now?

When You Don’t Know What to Say, Say This

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When you don’t know what to say, say blessings from scripture. Philippians 1:9-11 is a prayer for love, wisdom, and hope.

When You Don't know what to say

When Words Don’t Come

I didn’t know what to say.

I have friends who live in a special apartment complex in my city. They are there for different reasons: some are physically disabled, some are mentally disabled, some are financially unstable.

Their needs are varied. And their needs are usually great. They face things daily that I haven’t faced at all.

So when we deliver meals to them on Wednesday nights, they’ll occasionally want prayer.

And when they do? I often don’t know what to pray for them.

Try a Benediction

One of my friends there was slow coming to her door last week. She heard us knock and asked us to wait. When she finally opened the door, we could tell she was distressed.

She shared briefly what was going on, but she was too exhausted to explain it all. I asked if we could pray for her, and she said of course.

But what could I say? There she sat in pain in her wheelchair with more needs than resources. And I was supposed to offer what?

I wasn’t sure of her circumstances. I didn’t have time to think it through. I didn’t want to sound trite or promise something I couldn’t guarantee.

When we don’t have words to pray—for whatever the reason—we can always pray a benediction. 

Benedictions are short blessings often recited over a congregation at the end of a worship service. They remind us to stay expectant for God’s grace. (Read an encouraging article here about 5 Reasons to Recover Benedictions at Church.)

Offer Hope through Philippians 1:9-11

Every Sunday morning with my church, Pastor Pat closes out our service with these words written by the apostle Paul 2,000 years ago to the church at Philippi.

We open our hands and hearts to receive this:

“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”
Philippians 1:9-11

These words are embedded now in my soul. Our memory group at Do Not Depart (Hide His Word) recently memorized all of Philippians 1. These words keep chasing me.

So when I don’t know what to pray, I know I can safely pray these things over anybody, in any circumstance:

I pray that they will:

  1. Know love, more and more
  2. Gain knowledge and use wisdom to make the next right decisions
  3. Be a positive influence among their friends and family
  4. Stay expectant for a brighter future
  5. Experience the love of Jesus for the glory of God

When I prayed for my friend, I didn’t use those exact words. I didn’t go through a checklist in my mind.

But because I’ve heard these truths spoken over me so often and because I’ve used them so much over myself in memorization and meditation, the Spirit breathes them out when I need to share them with others.

I didn’t solve my friend’s problems that day. I didn’t change her circumstances. I had so little to contribute.

But at least in offering a blessing of hope, I hope she felt more loved and less alone.

Find Your Blessing to Give

Is there a passage of God’s love that you can give to others? Find a prayer to say, if you haven’t yet. Our series this month here at Do Not Depart is a great starting point to find a blessing you can pray over others.

  • It will free you to pray confidently with others regardless of circumstances.
  • It will bless others with words of truth and hope and love spoken to God on their behalf.
  • And it will please God that you are blessing others for Him.

It’s what He wants His kids to do for each other.

When you don’t know what to say, say this. See these words of love, wisdom, and hope from Philippians 1. #Benedictions

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Do you have a favorite scripture you pray for others, with others? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

Read more here about saying “God Bless You”—and meaning it

Intentional Growth in God’s Word

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Do you want to grow in the habit of reading the Bible? Try one of our tips in this installment of the "Intentional Spiritual Growth" series from Do Not Depart.

I am looking at my calendar today and see February staring back at me already… right there at the end of the week. How is this possible?

It is a whirlwind season of life here with our amazing teens, and I know some day I will look back at it it with such fondness. My current reality is racing from one activity to the next, even one state to the next, as my homeschooled kids fill their schedules with classes, theater, piano, dance, hockey, and college visits. Full disclosure: I still have Christmas decorations needing to be put in the garage!

So trust me when I tell you, if I don’t make a plan for things that are important to me, they just don’t happen. That’s what this month is all about, right? Being intentional.

And crazy as it may sound, I HAVE to be intentional about spending time in God’s Word. How hard is it really? It’s just sitting down and reading the Bible, right? With a life chock full of distractions, without being intentional it can be surprisingly hard!

The tyranny of the urgent can crowd out this important piece of my day. It falls into the “important but not urgent” category of Eisenhower’s principal. When I let the urgent rule my days (and that is so easy!) all those non-urgent, but important, things fall aside. I can’t let that happen.

Why Time in the Bible?

Why should we read the Bible itself? Why not just read scholars’ understanding, or listen to Christian podcasts?

While learning through the perspective of teachers has great value, because God’s Word is personal it is important to read and understand it for yourself as well.

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

When you are intentional about spending time reading Scripture, you will come to know who God is better. You will also see yourself more clearly. You will find guidance for real life situations that face you today.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3: 16-17

Understanding Yourself

When life is super busy but you want to grow, you have to be honest. Being truthful with yourself about how you tick, what your learning style is, and what the rhythms of your day look like, is critical to creating a plan that you will follow.

What is your learning style?

  • Visual – Reading may be your best choice
  • Auditory – An audio Bible might be better retained
  • Kinesthetic – You may benefit from being active, maybe walking or jogging, while you listen to an audio Bible

When do you have time?

  • Early morning – Can you get up 10 minutes earlier and have some quiet time to yourself?
  • During your commute – Using travel time for listening to the Bible (or reading if you take public transportation) can be a simple way to fit it in.
  • While doing chores – Listening to God’s Word while I mop makes the time fly by!
  • When you climb in bed at night – If you have the habit of reading in bed before sleeping, how about you pick up your Bible for a few minutes before that novel you are itching to read?

There is no scenario in which you can’t find find a way to fit some time in the Word into your day. You may just have to get creative!

What Does That Time Look Like?

There are many ways to grow with God through His Word. None is better than the other, and all are valuable to explore at some point in your journey.

  • Read straight through the Bible from beginning to end – I use the Bible app to help me keep track of where I am.
  • Study a topic – Is there a topic God is impressing on you? Look up all the verses pertaining to that topic. You can use a concordance, or even the Internet!
  • Study a section/chapter/book in depth – Hanging out in one place in the Bible for an extended period of time can help you plumb the depths of a passage in a way that a quick reading can’t. You can do this on your own or using a formal Bible study guide.
  • Use different versions – Every time I start at the beginning of the Bible again, I change the version I am reading. I find this helps the text stay fresh and sometimes highlights things I might not have noticed in other versions. My caveat to this is that some versions are less textually reliable. When I am reading a version that is more interpretation-heavy I will cross-reference with a more reliable version when I come to an unexpected passage, so I am sure I am understanding it correctly.

If You Are Struggling

Try as you might, you just can’t develop the habit? Here are some suggestions:

  • Try something different – A different time, a different version of the Bible, a different study, a different way of consuming (switch from reading to audio or vice versa).
  • Find a mentor – Look for someone further along the journey who can help guide you.
  • Find accountability – Do you have a friend who wants to develop a habit? Help each other with accountability.
  • Find a group – Look for a Bible study group. Sometimes knowing you will be meeting with people gives you a deadline that helps motivate you.

God Wants YOU

Friends, this is not about following rules, or about checking off a to-do list. No legalism please! Time in God’s Word is about growing in a relationship.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John‬ ‭15:5‬

You start where you are. I did not expect my wild-child two year old to sit with me for thirty minutes and have a theological discussion. Now, at thirteen, he will happily sit for hours and discuss important topics with me. Your heavenly Father knows where you are in your journey. He loves you and wants to spend time with you where you are today.

There are no standards on how to do it “right.” Find a way to be intentional about spending time with God in His Word, in a way that works for your personality and your time. The fruit of your faithfulness will be joy!

“If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John‬ ‭15:10-11‬

Praise God {Intentional Spiritual Growth}

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As we reflect on intentional spiritual growth this month, let’s take a closer look at praise. What role does praise play in your daily life?

A year ago, I was leading a woman through prayer at the conclusion of a workshop we’d attended on spiritual and emotional healing. There were so many burdens on Lisa’s heart that she wanted to give to the Lord, but she was stuck. The freedom I had seen in many others over the past few days wasn’t coming to Lisa.

As we sat quietly listening for the leading of the Spirit, one of the workshop facilitators turned on a praise song. After a few moments, Lisa stood up. She began to softly sing the familiar words. Then she raised her hands. At the chorus, she began to march circles around our chairs as she sang.

When the song finished, Lisa returned to her chair beside me. Her face was streaked with tears, but she was ready to continue. We returned to the shame and hurt she had struggled to give over to the Lord. Now, everything had changed. She laid it all at the feet of her Lord and readily received His forgiveness, acceptance, and blessing. It was amazing to see her transformation over the next hour. She walked out of the church with a new peace.

Witnessing the power that followed Lisa’s worship made a profound impression on me. In the months that followed, the Lord began teaching me more about praise.

Praise as Battle Strategy

The role of praise is so significant that it was King Jehoshaphat’s front-line military strategy in a battle described in 2 Chronicles 20. The praise singers were sent out ahead of the army.

This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

…As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem! Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful.” After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.”

As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.
(2 Chronicles 20:15b, 20b-22) 

What a great battle cry! “Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.” Read the last verse again. As they were singing and praising, the LORD set ambushes against their enemies. The battle itself was not their responsibility. Worship was.

For the Lord is Good

Why do we praise God? The following verses give a few of the reasons the Bible tells us to praise God.

“Know that the Lord, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 

Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!  

For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
(Psalm 100:3-5)

Sing to the Lord; praise the Lord!
For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers.
(Jeremiah 20:13)

We proclaim His glory, His goodness, His everlasting love, His righteousness, His faithfulness, His mercy, and His deliverance. In short, we praise God for Who He is and for what He has done. This simple recognition has helped me examine the motives of my heart as I approach the Lord. Apart from intercession, aside from asking anything of God, am I spending substantial time in pure adoration?

Daily Praise

Praise is as vital to our daily walk with God as prayer. As we follow Jesus with intention this year, how can we add more praise to our lives? Following Lisa’s example, I’ve let myself become a bit more vocal and a bit more active in my praise. I moved my quiet reading and writing time from a local coffee shop to our guest room to allow my self to stand, to sing, maybe to dance.

What can you do to make worship a bigger part of your life?
Consider one of these possibilities in the next week:

  • Sing Psalm 118 with Shane and Shane
  • Recite or read aloud Psalm 100 as your day begins or before quiet time with the Lord.
  • Have you ever been on a prayer walk around a neighborhood or a building? Try taking a praise walk. Sing the Lord’s praises through your home. Sing in the kitchen, praise Him in the living room, and declare His goodness in the bedrooms of your home.

 

 

The Candy Cane: A Symbol of Christmas

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Mmmm, peppermint!

Peppermint mocha, mint chocolate cookies, peppermint bark, hot cocoa with peppermint…like pumpkin spice in the fall, the flavor that most reminds me of Christmas is peppermint! Add a little peppermint to just about anything and it’s transformed into a wintry treat! Even the colors of the classic sugar stick have become iconic of the season that celebrates Immanuel.

This month we are looking at the symbols of Christmas and how they can point us to Biblical truth. Some symbols are everyday objects that we attach meaning to. Others have grown out of non-Christian celebrations and been borrowed and reclaimed because “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). Some, like the candy cane, may have been created with the specific purpose of teaching children the real reason for the season.

 

Origins of the Candy Cane

Did you know there is an entire website dedicated to the history of candy? I shouldn’t be surprised. I love history and knowing where things came from. Especially things that are so commonplace you feel like they’ve always just been.

According to tradition, candy canes have been around since the early 1600’s when a German choir master gave his young choir sugar candy sticks (usually straight) fashioned with a crook to both keep them quiet during the long Christmas Eve service and remind them of the shepherds who came to visit the baby Jesus in the manger.

Over time the tradition and candy evolved into the red and white striped peppermint hooks we know and love today (you can read about it here)

Meaning

Whether they were invented with a specifically Christian purpose or not, there are many ways the candy cane serves as a symbol of Jesus.

My favorite summary of the meaning comes from The Candymaker’s Gift by Halen Haidle

The hard candy reminds us that Jesus is the Rock.

“This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:11-12

The white color represents the sinless life Jesus lived, making him the perfect (and only!) acceptable sacrifice for our sin.

”You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.”1 John 3:5

The red stripes are a symbol of the blood he shed on the cross and the wounds he endured on the cross.

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24

Even the peppermint flavor can remind us of the spices given by the Wise Men (or used at his burial).

“And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11

“Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews.” John 19:39-40

Finally, the shape of the candy cane, a shepherd’s crook, does tell us the story of the shepherds, the first to hear the good news (Luke 2:8-20). But even more importantly, the candy cane reminds us what kind of savior God sent to save the world. He did not come as the king or the warrior, with power and majesty like everyone expected. He came as the shepherd, to lay down his life for us, his sheep (John 10:11)

“But he was pierced for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his wounds we are healed.

All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he opened not his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
so he opened not his mouth.”

Isaiah 53:5-7

Great is the Lord – Series Wrap Up

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Today’s post covers the last verse of Psalm 145 and is our series wrap up for our study, Great Is the Lord.

My youngest child is still in the process of learning what to say and what not to say. We discuss questions like, “What words build others up? What’s necessary to say? What might sound like complaining? Am I praising and glorifying God with my mouth?”

She makes the job easy on me because she’s a sensitive, caring girl. After all, good words come out easiest when the heart and mouth agree.

I love the last verse in Psalm 145:

My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever. (Psalm 145:21)

The eloquent words of praise in Psalm 145 came from David, a “man after God’s own heart.” (Acts 13:22)

Because his heart was in the right place, his words flowed suit. (Matthew 12:34)

“My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD…” When our hearts are in the right place, our words will follow suit. #GreatIsTheLord #Psalm145

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We Can “Speak the Praise of the Lord”

My goal is to agree with David and make sure my mouth speaks God’s praise! I will join with “all flesh” and “bless His holy name forever and ever.” 

As Thanksgiving approaches and I gather with family and friends to count my blessings, I know I’ll have the perfect opportunity to praise God’s holy name with a heart full of gratitude.

And I pray this: after the dinner is over, the dishes are washed, the family drives away, and life goes back to “normal,” I’ll continue to praise Him… come what may.

Great Is the Lord - a study of Psalm 145 on DoNotDepart.com

Series Wrap Up: How We Can Continue to Focus on His Greatness

Yes, I desire to Praise Him, Daily and Forever. When I create a daily habit of praise, praising God for eternity will take care of itself. Consistency in time spent praising God may not win me an award, but it is sure to be rewarding!

Like Jaime wrote about in her post. Great is the Lord from Generation to Generation, I will tell the next generation whom I worship and why!  “Holidays are a time when families gather to pass on stories and traditions about who we are, why we are here, and most importantly, who we worship.”

I’ll try to be like Lisa, who reminded us to look for the goodness of God so that we can share it with others. In Is God Good to YOU? Lisa said, “Be intentional. Look closer. Pay attention to the good things that God is doing in our lives.We can’t share about God’s goodness if we don’t see it.” (I love how her post gave us three ways to find the good in God!)

I plan to focus on the fact that the is No Greater Kingdom than the kingdom of God! Like Cheli said in her post, No Greater Kingdom, “There is no other God like our God. His kingdom is everlasting, faithful, grace-giving, and abounding in blessings. The qualities of the kingdom originate with the King. Great is the Lord! May our praise and gratitude magnify Him and His kingdom.”

I’ll also remember that the Lord is Near, like Jennifer reminded us. She said, “God is responsive. He hears His people’s cries and responds to their needs. This is His righteousness and kindness in action. Psalm 145 is David’s great expression of praise, extolling who God is and what He has done. The Lord is near. Let’s lift our voices in praise.”

Will you be remembering and focusing on those things with me? I pray that as God moves in our hearts to respond to His greatness, a powerful praise will result that changes lives: ours and others— all for His glory!

How are you remembering that Great Is the Lord?

Tell us in the comments or over in our Facebook community.

Blessings to you and yours, this Thanksgiving and always!
Ali

Great Is the Lord: Psalm 145, Bible Study Wrap Up. Remember God’s greatness this Thanksgiving and always. #GreatIsTheLord

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The Lord is Near

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We’re excited to welcome our guest, Jennifer Hong, whose post today continues our study of Psalm 145 in our Great is the Lord series. Find the full series here. 

I have taught my children not to say “always” and “never.” More specifically, I have advised them to be very careful about using such words when speaking about people or circumstances, as a declaration of absolutes is rarely true.

“You always interrupt me.”

“You never let me have the first turn.”

“We never play the game that I pick.”

These kinds of statements are usually exaggerations and often put someone on the defense. To encourage my children to think carefully before speaking, these words are taboo in our home.

In All His Ways, In All His Works

Maybe it is because absolutes are buzz words in my household that my ears prick uncomfortably at the abundance of the word “all” in Psalm 145. I counted eighteen uses of “all” in twenty-one verses! Then, I read the Psalm again, soaking in the full meaning of each of these great statements.

Though I caution my children against characterizing themselves or others with such broad-sweeping declarative words as “always” and “never,” absolutes can absolutely be applied to God! They are no exaggeration here. God is love (1 John 4:7-10). He is all love, through and through, entirely and always. He is faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9).  He is always faithful, forever and ever, into eternity. God is unchanging (Malachi 3:6), and David extols God’s unchanging goodness throughout Psalm 145.

“The Lord is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.” (v. 17)

 

I am struck by the contrast between this statement and my own life, where my flesh still struggles against submission to grace. I try to act righteously, but no one would suggest that I am righteous in all I do. Kindness is my aim, but I have spoken over my children words that hurt. Thank Goodness, the Lord’s ways are higher than my ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Because the Lord is righteous and kind in all that He does, I can trust Him, in every circumstance and every season.

The Lord is Near

In verse 18 the Psalm transitions from praising God’s absolute characteristics to extolling our Lord in terms of how He relates to His people — to those who call on Him, fear Him, and love Him. God is responsive. He hears His people’s cries and responds to their needs. This is His righteousness and kindness in action.

Read the following verses and identify the “who,” the recipient of God’s mercy.

 

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.

The Lord preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.” (vv. 18-20)

 

Did you notice that each of the “who” phrases include the word “Him”? The recipients of God’s mercy are identified not by their own character and actions but by their relationship to God. They call on Him. They fear, revere, and honor Him. They love Him.

The Bible also tells us that this relationship was initiated by God. 1 John chapter 4 shows us that the love we receive from God is the very source of our love given in return.

 

“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins…. We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:10, 19)

 

Do you see how love flows through this beautiful relationship? God loves us, and we respond to His love with trust, reverence, and love. We call to Him with a sincere heart, and He is near. Psalm 145 is David’s great expression of praise, extolling who God is and what He has done. The Lord is near. Let’s lift our voices in praise.

Psalm 145 is David’s great expression of praise, extolling who God is and what He has done. The Lord is near. Let’s lift our voices in praise! #GreatIsTheLord

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For Study and Reflection:

1) Speak or sing God’s praises by reading aloud Psalm 145 or singing a song of praise. Psalm 145 was written millenia ago in the Kingdom of Israel.  O the Deep Deep Love of Jesus was written by Trevor Francis in London in 1835, and Reckless Love by American songwriter Cory Asbury was released last year.  All three declare God’s extravagant love. Lift your voice in praise.

2) How have you seen God’s righteousness or kindness?

3) In what current or recent life circumstances do you need to call on the Lord?

4) Thank God for His faithfulness.

Jennifer lives in Houston with her husband of fourteen years and their four energetic children. Since leaving her pediatric practice seven years ago, she has found life at home to be wild but wonderful. Homeschooling has fueled Jennifer‘s passion for education, driving her deeper into the Word. Her favorite day is Thursday, when her family escapes their urban surroundings to walk in the woods and dig in the dirt. 

Great is the Lord from Generation to Generation

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November is brown. September is red.

October is orange. No, I’m not trying to write a poem.

I like to make calendar layouts for different projects I work on like our homeschool, writing projects, and my bullet journal. I think about the months in terms of colors, specifically the colors I like to feature when I decorate. December is all the colors of Christmas: chiefly red and green, with lots of whites, blues, golds, silvers, and so on. January is a powdery blue. Do you see what I mean? November is a deep, beautiful, warm, chocolate, nutmeg brown. I cannot decorate for Christmas even a minute before we celebrate Thanksgiving because it would mean missing out on all the beautiful shades of brown.

It’s a silly thing to think about, I know. But whether you are the kind of person who blasts Christmas music the second you feel a chill in the air or the one who prefers to wait until December 1, there is one thing we all basically agree on: for better or for worse, holidays mean family. At some point between November 1 and December 31, you will have to confront the idea of family. Will they share your celebrations? Will you go your separate ways? Will you send a card? Call the day of? Either way, a decision will be made to see or not see, include or exclude, your family. In verses 4-7 of Psalm 145 (part 2 of our Great Is the Lord series), David encourages us to include our families in our worship of the Lord.

 

Sharing the Story

For many believers, myself included, Thanksgiving represents a season of gratitude that perfectly sets us up to celebrate and remember the grace of God coming into the world as a human baby at Christmas. They are distinct holidays with different functions, yet intricately related, sharing one particularly significant purpose. Holidays are a time when families gather to pass on stories and traditions about who we are, why we are here, and most importantly, who we worship.

In verse 4 we read,

“One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.”

Our faith is lived out in the context of family – yes, the ones we’re born into, the ones we make out of dear friends, and our brothers and sisters in Christ. The words we study are given life as we play them out in the relationships around us.

This holiday season I will teach my children to set the table, cook a turkey, and play a good game of Skip-Bo. But I will also teach them why we pause in this busy month to give thanks.

I will teach them by example as I make prayer and study a part of our daily experience (remember? A string of todays is what builds a forever!)

“On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” (v. 5)

Together we will tell stories of God’s provision, deliverance, and mercy throughout the ages. From the Israelites in Egypt to the Pilgrims in Plymouth, we will remember that He is in control.

“They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness.” (v. 6)

We will sing songs and play games and create memories around the holidays.

“They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.” (v. 7)

And generation after generation we will add our praise to David’s because,

“Everything which has to do with the Great King is majestic, honorable, glorious. His least is greater than man’s greatest, his lowest is higher than man’s highest.” – Charles Spurgeon

Study/Reflection Questions

  1. What holiday traditions helped shape your faith as a child?
  2. Think through examples of God’s “glorious splendor”, “wonderous works”, “awesome deeds”, and “abundant goodness”, either from the Bible or your own life.
  3. David uses so many strong adjectives to extol the Lord in these verses. Pick one or two and do a word study
  4. Make a list of ways you can use the holidays to remember God’s work and character.

Set Apart by the Lord of the Sabbath

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Christmas Day, Valentine’s Day, Veteran’s Day—you’ve heard of them. Do you know about National Pie Day (January 23) or International Talk Like a Pirate Day? People create “holidays” to celebrate who we are, what we value, and shared customs or interests. Very few of these special days dotting the calendar are true “holy days.” Today we will look at how God designed the Sabbath as a holy day to remind us of our identity in Him.

The Sabbath Command

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” —Exodus 20:8

Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines holy as “set apart to a sacred use.” God expands on His purpose in creating the Sabbath in Exodus 31:13:

“You are to speak to the people of Israel and say, ‘Above all you shall keep my Sabbaths, for this is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I, the Lord, sanctify you.”

Like the word holy, the word sanctify means to “set apart.” In studying the Sabbath, we see that God sets Believers apart as created, saved and sanctified.

Created to Imitate the Creator

In the beginning, God spoke everything into being, except for Adam and Eve. He formed man and woman in His image (Genesis 1:27). Like our Creator, we work. We take charge and manage creation, using our God given talents and abilities to fashion a life lived in cooperation with God and as worship to God. Paul addresses our God given work ethic:

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. —Colossians 3:23-24

We not only imitate God’s work ethic, but we honor His command to rest: “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy” (Exodus 20:11). We rest because God rested. He gives us the Sabbath for our health and well-being. God calls us to rest from our work and enjoy Him and His creation. The Sabbath reminds us of our created identity and that we are set apart to imitate Him.

Saved to be God’s People

Since humanity’s rebellion in the Garden of Eden, God has been the Rescuer of His people. Each rescue pointed to the time when Jesus, “once for all,” saved all those who have and will believe (Romans 6:10). God set apart the Sabbath day from all the other days of the week, so we would remember that He is the God who saves:

You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day. —Deuteronomy 5:15

Shedding additional light on God’s purpose for the Sabbath, an article on the Sabbath from JewsforJesus.org states, “God’s intention in giving the Sabbath was for Israel to be a microcosm of redeemed humanity, a community beginning to live out the ‘rest’ of a people in intimate fellowship with Him, despite their continued struggle with sin.” God not only saved the Israelites from slavery, but He rescues us from sin and saves us from death, so we can be His people.

Scripture About Our Rescue From Sin and Death

Rescue From Sin: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1-4).

Safe From Death: “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you” (Romans 8:10-11).

God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt to be a nation set apart for the Lord. He provided the perfect sacrifice for sin, Jesus, so we could be in relationship with Him as His people. He conquered death, so His people can dwell with Him forever. The Sabbath is sanctified from all other days to remember God’s saving work.

Sanctified for the Kingdom of God

The Sabbath and it’s keeping was a covenant between God and His people: “. . . this is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I, the Lord, sanctify you” (Exodus 31:13). God set aside a day for His people to find renewal as they sought His call and purpose.

“For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.” — Deuteronomy 7:6

The nation of Israel was created to be an instrument through which God would bring salvation to the world. God called and re-called them to a life sanctified to God through the Sabbath.

Likewise, the Holy Spirit teaches, trains, and convicts us of sin, so we can do what God has planned for us since the beginning (Ephesians 2:10). To this end, we pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Sanctified by the Sprit and The Word, God’s people are called to join God in building His kingdom. The Sabbath points to our identity as sanctified. Becoming more like Jesus, we are His ambassadors to the nations.

In Conclusion

No matter your practice of Sabbath, God has given it to us as a reminder of who we are in Him. He has provided the Sabbath to set us apart as created, saved and sanctified. May God bless you as you live out your identity in Him.

Gather with a Common Goal {Psalm 1:5}

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What group do you like being associated with? As we memorize Psalm 1:5 this week, be grateful for your good standing in Christ.

Psalm 1-5

This Is the Group

Even though all of us are sinners, those who trust in Christ are forgiven for missing the mark. That’s the group I want to be gathered with.

This congregation is in good standing with the Judge, not because of their own righteousness, but because of Jesus Christ’s righteousness.

In this group:

  • We won’t be sentenced guilty.
  • We won’t face judgment.
  • We won’t be condemned.

Gather with the ones who have a common goal of eternal life. It’s a blessed way to live now and for forever.

Memorize This Week

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; 
Psalm 1:5 (ESV)

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In this group we won’t be sentenced guilty. Memorize #Psalm1 v5 with us. #HideHisWord

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See all the Psalm 1 posts here.

The Whole Armor of God – Pray at All Times

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All throughout the month of September, we have been looking at the Spiritual armor, found in Ephesians 6:10-18.

This portion of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians reminds us that:

It is appropriate that Paul concludes his discussion of the Spiritual armor with a call to prayer.

“…praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,” (Ephesians 6:18)

When we abide in Christ, when we keep in constant communication with Him (“praying at all times in the Spirit”) we are well fitted indeed, with righteousness, peace, salvation, faith, and so on. Prayer is the conversation with God that helps us remain in His presence and in His armor.

And God want us to pray not only for ourselves but also for others (supplication). Just as Roman soldiers were known for their formations that created a unified defense, we Believers are to be unified in our defense against our common enemy. Prayer for and with one another protects and strengthens us, as we walk with Christ and face an unseen enemy.

Gird yourself, dear child of God, with the gift of His protection and grace. Pray at all times in the Spirit and remember that each piece of the Spiritual armor has a beautiful meaning for your daily walk. You are deeply loved!

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