13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that. 16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
We know that we are sinners because we can't help commiting sins even when we don't feel guilty. We don't know what we're exactly doing in God's view. Anyway at least we know it's sin when we feel guilty before God, like doing something wrong. But today's passage says even when we don't do the good we ought to do, we are the sinners. Not only doing bad things is sin, but also not doing the good is sin. I often think like, "okay God, I know you want this, but please just wait a little bit more, I will do that someday..or later."
There must be the things we should put first before doing our business and making money. We should remind ourselves what we are living for every moment.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Slander Is A Bad Thing
11 Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?
Today's passage is a simple command, yet it is one of the most difficult ones to follow because it is hard to control our tongues and very tempting to talk about other people. We make excuses or simply loss ourselves in idle gossip and talk because we find it entertaining and fun to focus on other people's faults and flaws. But in today's passage, James tells us not to slander for we are taking the place of a judge and making judgments when we have no right to do so. He's right when he says this because who are we to ridicule, gossip, or talk about someone's character and faults when we are incredibly flawed ourselves. We find it easier to find the faults and flaws in other people rather than looking inward in ourselves. James is right when he says that there is only one who is our Lawgiver and Judge, the most perfect being who has every right to save us or cut off us down. Our hearts need to be filled with love and compassion for those who stumble and sin because as fellow sinners, we should understand how difficult it is to resist our evil desire and sinful nature. So instead of cutting each other down with hurtful words of judgment and gossips, we should encourage one another and support each other with our words.
Today's passage is a simple command, yet it is one of the most difficult ones to follow because it is hard to control our tongues and very tempting to talk about other people. We make excuses or simply loss ourselves in idle gossip and talk because we find it entertaining and fun to focus on other people's faults and flaws. But in today's passage, James tells us not to slander for we are taking the place of a judge and making judgments when we have no right to do so. He's right when he says this because who are we to ridicule, gossip, or talk about someone's character and faults when we are incredibly flawed ourselves. We find it easier to find the faults and flaws in other people rather than looking inward in ourselves. James is right when he says that there is only one who is our Lawgiver and Judge, the most perfect being who has every right to save us or cut off us down. Our hearts need to be filled with love and compassion for those who stumble and sin because as fellow sinners, we should understand how difficult it is to resist our evil desire and sinful nature. So instead of cutting each other down with hurtful words of judgment and gossips, we should encourage one another and support each other with our words.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Pride vs Humility
Pride Promotes Strife
1 Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. 4 Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? 6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Humility Cures Worldliness
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
These are very sobering words. I don't think I can add anything or make it any clearer than it already is. Luke 8:18 says: "Therefore consider carefully how you listen." So, please consider carefully what the Spirit is saying through these verses. May the kindness of our God pour out His Grace as you submit in humility.
1 Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. 4 Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? 6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Humility Cures Worldliness
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
These are very sobering words. I don't think I can add anything or make it any clearer than it already is. Luke 8:18 says: "Therefore consider carefully how you listen." So, please consider carefully what the Spirit is saying through these verses. May the kindness of our God pour out His Grace as you submit in humility.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
James 3:17-18
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Today's passage gave me a new, sober view on what godly wisdom is. To this day, I saw wisdom as a rare and powerful asset to those who possess it. I realized that viewing wisdom as an asset is more like viewing it as the means to gaining something rather letting it be the end in it of itself. A wise person gains respect, has the ability to gain more profit, has the ability to win arguments, overcome opponents/ enemies, even make better friends/"connections". It's true that wisdom can be a great personal tool for greater gains in life but in this way, it is used to only serve the SELF. I guess this is the worldly wisdom that serves one's own selfish ambition. Furthermore, I can see how this kind of wisdom produces envy. Seeing other people gain what you desire, how can it not? What a viscous spiral unto death this worldly wisdom creates! Would envy not only spur one's selfish ambition even more? And what a craft of selfish gain it can create!
In contrast, the spiritual wisdom James describes is more of the characteristics of a person rather than an one's ability to gain much from the world. At best, I thought spiritual wisdom would help me better serve God- which is true but still, this view is grounded on how wisdom can raise my level of performance.
I realized that spiritual wisdom is not dependent on my abilities or the lack thereof but it is that which keeps me dependent on God to be "pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.". Without God, I can be none of these things.
This brings me back to James1:5&6. In it James wrote that if anyone lacks wisdom, she should ask God who is generous and that it will be given. I feel challenged to not only let go of worldly wisdom and pursue wisdom that comes from heaven, but also to overcome doubt. I trust that this too is a work of God.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Today's passage gave me a new, sober view on what godly wisdom is. To this day, I saw wisdom as a rare and powerful asset to those who possess it. I realized that viewing wisdom as an asset is more like viewing it as the means to gaining something rather letting it be the end in it of itself. A wise person gains respect, has the ability to gain more profit, has the ability to win arguments, overcome opponents/ enemies, even make better friends/"connections". It's true that wisdom can be a great personal tool for greater gains in life but in this way, it is used to only serve the SELF. I guess this is the worldly wisdom that serves one's own selfish ambition. Furthermore, I can see how this kind of wisdom produces envy. Seeing other people gain what you desire, how can it not? What a viscous spiral unto death this worldly wisdom creates! Would envy not only spur one's selfish ambition even more? And what a craft of selfish gain it can create!
In contrast, the spiritual wisdom James describes is more of the characteristics of a person rather than an one's ability to gain much from the world. At best, I thought spiritual wisdom would help me better serve God- which is true but still, this view is grounded on how wisdom can raise my level of performance.
I realized that spiritual wisdom is not dependent on my abilities or the lack thereof but it is that which keeps me dependent on God to be "pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.". Without God, I can be none of these things.
This brings me back to James1:5&6. In it James wrote that if anyone lacks wisdom, she should ask God who is generous and that it will be given. I feel challenged to not only let go of worldly wisdom and pursue wisdom that comes from heaven, but also to overcome doubt. I trust that this too is a work of God.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Two Kinds of Wisdom
According to the passage, we see clear distinction between earthly wisdom and spiritual wisdom (wisdom comes from heaven). Earthly wisdom has no purpose of producing the good rather it has a selfish and evil ambition producing disorder and evil practice. Notice that this wisdom from above that reflects itself in the conduct of God's children is first pure. It is uncontaminated by any of the myriad aspects of carnal, self-centered human nature.
Since we do not naturally have the wisdom from above—spiritual wisdom—then we must ask God for it in faith. We must be sure that our faith is in accordance with His will, and we must come to Him with the utmost confidence that He will grant it. When we go to God with a request, His answer, whether yes or no, will be for our ultimate good. Our faith is not believing that God will give us what we want regardless of our request, but that His answer will always be the wisest answer for our ultimate good.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!!!!
Since we do not naturally have the wisdom from above—spiritual wisdom—then we must ask God for it in faith. We must be sure that our faith is in accordance with His will, and we must come to Him with the utmost confidence that He will grant it. When we go to God with a request, His answer, whether yes or no, will be for our ultimate good. Our faith is not believing that God will give us what we want regardless of our request, but that His answer will always be the wisest answer for our ultimate good.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!!!!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Taming the tongue
James 3:1-12
Taming the Tongue
1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
As small as our tongue is, it can cause a lot of hurt and damage to oneself and to others. As mentioned in the passage above, "..no human being can tame the tongue.." and "It is restless evil, full of deadly poison." I know that I've lacked control of my tongue in moments of my pride and anger. I knew exactly what to say in order to really hurt the other person to their face or behind their back. I also realized it wasn't just what I said to the person that hurt them, but how I said it. We're capable of hurting someone just by the tone in our voice. I remember I would always tell my students to "watch their tone" when they were speaking to me in a disrespectful manner. Sometimes I ought to tell that to myself..
"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness." I wonder how God can still accept my worship when I have cursed others with my tongue. What kind of examples are we being to others when we claim we are Christians, yet can say such hateful things about God's very own creation? May we be more mindful of what we think and say, not only for the sake of respecting others but respecting the Creator.
Taming the Tongue
1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
As small as our tongue is, it can cause a lot of hurt and damage to oneself and to others. As mentioned in the passage above, "..no human being can tame the tongue.." and "It is restless evil, full of deadly poison." I know that I've lacked control of my tongue in moments of my pride and anger. I knew exactly what to say in order to really hurt the other person to their face or behind their back. I also realized it wasn't just what I said to the person that hurt them, but how I said it. We're capable of hurting someone just by the tone in our voice. I remember I would always tell my students to "watch their tone" when they were speaking to me in a disrespectful manner. Sometimes I ought to tell that to myself..
"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness." I wonder how God can still accept my worship when I have cursed others with my tongue. What kind of examples are we being to others when we claim we are Christians, yet can say such hateful things about God's very own creation? May we be more mindful of what we think and say, not only for the sake of respecting others but respecting the Creator.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Faith without works: part 2
20 You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.
25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
James is really stressing the point that faith without works is dead. A dead faith cannot lead to salvation. Only a living, genuine faith will save. We stress so much that salvation is through grace and faith alone and not by our works. Though this is true I think it can easily be used as a crutch for a lazy Christian life. I think that this is a good way for us to evaluate our own faith. James uses Abraham and Rahab's lives as an example of genuine faith that showed through their actions. What would James write about our lives? If our life was studied, would the reader know of our faith by how we lived our lives?
25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
James is really stressing the point that faith without works is dead. A dead faith cannot lead to salvation. Only a living, genuine faith will save. We stress so much that salvation is through grace and faith alone and not by our works. Though this is true I think it can easily be used as a crutch for a lazy Christian life. I think that this is a good way for us to evaluate our own faith. James uses Abraham and Rahab's lives as an example of genuine faith that showed through their actions. What would James write about our lives? If our life was studied, would the reader know of our faith by how we lived our lives?
Friday, November 19, 2010
faith without works
14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.
if we have learned anything this year from our study of the new testament, it is that we have a great capacity to be deceived when it comes to our salvation. when our Lord Jesus says that "many will come to [Him] on that day . . . ", only to be cast out, He means "great multitudes" in the church who thought they were in a right relationship with Him. james states that the genuineness and substance of our faith are proven by our good works. we are not saved by our good works, but our good works proves the genuineness of our faith.
it is not enough, james argues, to have the mere sentiment of feeling bad when you see someone suffering, a momentary pang when you see a person going through a hard time. "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? sometimes i think that we are comforted and assured about our faith when we experience these fleeting instances of compassion, as if the "feeling bad" is some proof positive of genuine faith. this passage does not allow us that comfort. james clearly shows that "feeling bad" but not acting upon it in terms of actively helping or giving or caring, is to our condemnation--proof positive of a lack of saving faith.
james continues the same line of reasoning when he asks, what good is it if we merely believe, or give mere "intellectual assent" to the right doctrines if it doesn't translate into works of compassion, love, mercy, and giving? it is no good at all, says james--your faith is dead, non-existent. let us not deceive ourselves or turn to a blind eye to this truth. if our life is not evidenced by good works, our faith is useless. "can such a faith save [you]?", james asks. the obvious answer is no. believing the "right things" is not enough to save you. even demons believe the right things--there is none more orthodox in his beliefs than satan.
if we have learned anything this year from our study of the new testament, it is that we have a great capacity to be deceived when it comes to our salvation. when our Lord Jesus says that "many will come to [Him] on that day . . . ", only to be cast out, He means "great multitudes" in the church who thought they were in a right relationship with Him. james states that the genuineness and substance of our faith are proven by our good works. we are not saved by our good works, but our good works proves the genuineness of our faith.
it is not enough, james argues, to have the mere sentiment of feeling bad when you see someone suffering, a momentary pang when you see a person going through a hard time. "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? sometimes i think that we are comforted and assured about our faith when we experience these fleeting instances of compassion, as if the "feeling bad" is some proof positive of genuine faith. this passage does not allow us that comfort. james clearly shows that "feeling bad" but not acting upon it in terms of actively helping or giving or caring, is to our condemnation--proof positive of a lack of saving faith.
james continues the same line of reasoning when he asks, what good is it if we merely believe, or give mere "intellectual assent" to the right doctrines if it doesn't translate into works of compassion, love, mercy, and giving? it is no good at all, says james--your faith is dead, non-existent. let us not deceive ourselves or turn to a blind eye to this truth. if our life is not evidenced by good works, our faith is useless. "can such a faith save [you]?", james asks. the obvious answer is no. believing the "right things" is not enough to save you. even demons believe the right things--there is none more orthodox in his beliefs than satan.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Favoritism Forbidden
"12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!"
Many times I feel it is human nature to see people not as our neighbors or children of God but what they can give us, what advantages their presence or friendship provides. We are drawn to aesthetic beauty when it is meaningless, we value people based on their likability and find it difficult to love the unlovable. That is the challenge shown in this text today.
He asks "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?"
We do not deserve any of God's mercy. However God goes out further than that and not only shows us mercy but lets us inherit his kingdom and become his children. That is mind boggling in it of itself.
Once we quit focusing on ourselves and shift our attention and thoughts to God and how amazing his love is to us, loving others in this world becomes much less difficult. Because He loved us first.
Many times I feel it is human nature to see people not as our neighbors or children of God but what they can give us, what advantages their presence or friendship provides. We are drawn to aesthetic beauty when it is meaningless, we value people based on their likability and find it difficult to love the unlovable. That is the challenge shown in this text today.
He asks "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?"
We do not deserve any of God's mercy. However God goes out further than that and not only shows us mercy but lets us inherit his kingdom and become his children. That is mind boggling in it of itself.
Once we quit focusing on ourselves and shift our attention and thoughts to God and how amazing his love is to us, loving others in this world becomes much less difficult. Because He loved us first.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
"Quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger" - this has been a motto of mine for awhile now. The tongue can destroy when we are not watchful of its will to act unwise and uncontrolled. We need to be constantly praying that the Lord sharpen our minds that we do not allow the tongue to be on the loose. It is definitely a battle for me but thank God, I am becoming more of a conqueror than a slave to it!
If we could constantly keep a tight rein on our tongue, and obey the Lord by humbling serving others, especially the orphans and widows - this would be pleasing to God and our "religion" would be priceless to the watchful eye of the world.
Much aloha!
e
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
James 1:22-25
22 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it–he will be blessed in what he does.
I think that more often than not we look in the mirror and then forget what we do look like. We get wrapped up in worldly things and shove Gods word into a corner. People criticize Christians all the time that Christians are hypocrites because we haven't gotten rid of the moral filth.
We do need to make that conscious effort to remember what we look like. I do not think it is easy by any means, and sometimes its much easier to forget than to make an effort to remember Gods word. But keeping each other accountable is a way that we remember what Gods word says and to do what Gods word says...
Have an awesome Tuesday!!!
I think that more often than not we look in the mirror and then forget what we do look like. We get wrapped up in worldly things and shove Gods word into a corner. People criticize Christians all the time that Christians are hypocrites because we haven't gotten rid of the moral filth.
We do need to make that conscious effort to remember what we look like. I do not think it is easy by any means, and sometimes its much easier to forget than to make an effort to remember Gods word. But keeping each other accountable is a way that we remember what Gods word says and to do what Gods word says...
Have an awesome Tuesday!!!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Listening and Doing
19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. 21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.
Oh man. Today's verse is something I am definitely struggling with. I know my calling to is serve and show compassion and God's love to the poor BUT after this summer I realized that my heart was SO filthy. It was because I had a very difficult time showing compassion towards my parents especially my father. I was doing the exact OPPOSITE of vs. 19 : Slow to listen, quick to speak, and quick to get angry. And God rebuked me saying that I need to learn how to love my family before loving strangers, poor, and etc.
Have a blessed week!! Stay warm :)
Friday, November 12, 2010
James 1:12-18
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
Hello ODM ladies :) It's getting really cold in Korea.
When I read today's passage, I realize that tempting is from ourselves not from God. Our own evil desire sometimes wins against the desire to follow God's words. It sometimes wins against the desire to remember everythings God gave us. It sometimes wins against the desire to live in God. Yes, I think there is always temptation around us and in ourselves which gives birth to sin. That's why I can't even trust myself and can never be concieted. And that's why I have to pray every day and night. To stay under Father's wings..
13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
Hello ODM ladies :) It's getting really cold in Korea.
When I read today's passage, I realize that tempting is from ourselves not from God. Our own evil desire sometimes wins against the desire to follow God's words. It sometimes wins against the desire to remember everythings God gave us. It sometimes wins against the desire to live in God. Yes, I think there is always temptation around us and in ourselves which gives birth to sin. That's why I can't even trust myself and can never be concieted. And that's why I have to pray every day and night. To stay under Father's wings..
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Blessings in Disguises
Today's passage is pretty heavy...
Whenever we face tough, difficult trials and suffering because of all the temptations the world gives and from our destructive sinful nature, we tend to think that these hard times aren't good things but serve as some sort of punishment or curse to torment us. Well, James begs to differs. He starts off his letter with telling his fellow brothers and sisters that it is "pure joy to face trials of many kinds." However, anybody who has gone through any form of pain or difficulty would think that James was off his rocker because who in their right mind would enjoy pain, sadness, and sorrow. But then James points out that through the trials we face, it produces perseverance, which will help guide us to become more mature and grow in our faith. In twisted way, James has a very good point because how else are we going to grow more and stand firm in our faith against this trying world. Through trails and temptations, we are tested to our limits, and most of the time we break and fall, but God uses our failures and mistakes so that we can learn, cope, and change to become stronger in our determination to finish the race strong. It's like a blessing in disguise.
I guess James is trying to drill in our minds that we can't give up hope during our road to sanctification because if we do give up and doubt in God's goodness and will that He'll pull through for us in the end, then there would be no power behind our words and testimonies for the Gospel. That's why James is encouraging and reminding us that we don't draw strength and perseverance from the confidence and trust coming from our own abilities, but it all comes from God. He is our Rock and our source of strength that builds our endurance and makes us strive to take another step when we really want to collapse and throw in the towel.
The humble living part is almost as if James is telling us that our lives would be so much easier if we live within our means of what we need to survive and not out of a lap of luxury and comfort because as we all know the more one has, the greedier one's heart becomes for more. All that stuff becomes a distraction or a temptation that will lead to more trials, thus leading to more suffering. It's a vicious cycle. We don't need all that useless junk in our lives because it's fleeting and temporary.
So the main point is we shouldn't look at trials and temptations as something that will bring us down, but they are tools God uses to build us up. They truly are blessings in disguises.
Like I said before, it is very heavy stuff...Have a happy Veteran's Day!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Greetings & Benediction
...after thanking the Philippians, giving account of his circumstances, words of encouragment and caution... Paul concludes his letter with blessing and benediction to the saints
i never tire of receiving benedictions... when p. James concludes his sermons with raised hands over our congregation and with slightly elevated tone with authority gives the blessings... after having fed us with the words, he sends us out into the world with hope that is Jesus
in hopes that we are a little changed because of what was received from Paul through his letter and said in this blog to one another...
be blessed all you saints of the Lord!
i never tire of receiving benedictions... when p. James concludes his sermons with raised hands over our congregation and with slightly elevated tone with authority gives the blessings... after having fed us with the words, he sends us out into the world with hope that is Jesus
in hopes that we are a little changed because of what was received from Paul through his letter and said in this blog to one another...
be blessed all you saints of the Lord!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
A friend in need is a friend indeed...
"Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles."
From this verse I realized that good fellowship is not only about sharing good times with good company but that it can also be a good time of sharing your troubles. I love to hang out and have a good time of sharing good food, good jokes and stories with my friends. Yet, I also find it just as fulfilling if not more to lend a sympathetic ear for a couple hours out of my day for a close friend. And my friends in turn love to offer their perspective and advice to ease whatever is causing an ache in my heart. It truly is a blessing to know that you have a friend to turn to with your troubles or ailments and that you're more than good company but a source of comfort in their time of need.
Paul is thanking the Philippians for what seems like material or financial assistance. And though just a few verses ago, he testifies how he has learned to be content in every circumstance, he doesn't brush aside the gifts he received from them as something he could or could not have used. I can't remember all the countless gifts I didn't need to receive and for which the best I could offer in terms of gratitude was something in the line of "oh thanks,... I guess it's the thought that counts..." For us, that phrase is usually offered as a consolation to the giver but for Paul, it's the real meat in his thank you. It's not so much because of the gifts itself but Paul's heart swelled with gratitude and praise they were an out pouring of someone that was looking out for him through all his hardships. Somebody cared to think of his needs and did something to meet them. The love and care behind the gifts is what made them "...a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God."
From this verse I realized that good fellowship is not only about sharing good times with good company but that it can also be a good time of sharing your troubles. I love to hang out and have a good time of sharing good food, good jokes and stories with my friends. Yet, I also find it just as fulfilling if not more to lend a sympathetic ear for a couple hours out of my day for a close friend. And my friends in turn love to offer their perspective and advice to ease whatever is causing an ache in my heart. It truly is a blessing to know that you have a friend to turn to with your troubles or ailments and that you're more than good company but a source of comfort in their time of need.
Paul is thanking the Philippians for what seems like material or financial assistance. And though just a few verses ago, he testifies how he has learned to be content in every circumstance, he doesn't brush aside the gifts he received from them as something he could or could not have used. I can't remember all the countless gifts I didn't need to receive and for which the best I could offer in terms of gratitude was something in the line of "oh thanks,... I guess it's the thought that counts..." For us, that phrase is usually offered as a consolation to the giver but for Paul, it's the real meat in his thank you. It's not so much because of the gifts itself but Paul's heart swelled with gratitude and praise they were an out pouring of someone that was looking out for him through all his hardships. Somebody cared to think of his needs and did something to meet them. The love and care behind the gifts is what made them "...a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God."
Monday, November 8, 2010
Thanks for their gifts
As Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians he turns his attention to addressing a gift that the Philippian Church sent to him. As Paul expresses his gratitude for that gift he also teaches us some great truths.
I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:10-13)
On the one hand he wants the Philippians to know that he is very grateful for their gift and the love that was behind the gift. On the other hand Paul wants the church to know that he has not been anxious in waiting for people to send him money. Paul is grateful but he wants the church to know that he has learned how to be content in every circumstance. He wants them to understand that his sufficiency is in the Lord and not in their ability to provide.
Contentment is not something that comes naturally. Paul said that he had to "learn to be content". Naturally, we are prone to compare ourselves with others and to always want more than we have.
Our contentment should be anchored in relationship with Christ. Paul says, "I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength." I believe Paul is saying that he can face and know joy in any and every circumstance because of the strength he finds in Christ.
MOreover, no matter what the circumstance we know that we are getting better than we deserve. We deserve eternal punishment but are given eternal life in Christ. We deserve to be cast from God's presence but we are declared to be part of His family. There is nothing that compares in value to what we have been given by God's grace. We are the richest of people because of His mercy.
I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:10-13)
On the one hand he wants the Philippians to know that he is very grateful for their gift and the love that was behind the gift. On the other hand Paul wants the church to know that he has not been anxious in waiting for people to send him money. Paul is grateful but he wants the church to know that he has learned how to be content in every circumstance. He wants them to understand that his sufficiency is in the Lord and not in their ability to provide.
Contentment is not something that comes naturally. Paul said that he had to "learn to be content". Naturally, we are prone to compare ourselves with others and to always want more than we have.
Our contentment should be anchored in relationship with Christ. Paul says, "I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength." I believe Paul is saying that he can face and know joy in any and every circumstance because of the strength he finds in Christ.
MOreover, no matter what the circumstance we know that we are getting better than we deserve. We deserve eternal punishment but are given eternal life in Christ. We deserve to be cast from God's presence but we are declared to be part of His family. There is nothing that compares in value to what we have been given by God's grace. We are the richest of people because of His mercy.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Life of Peace
Philippians 4:8-9
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
This passage is very straight forward. It is easy to understand but difficult to put into practice. It's easy to think that we know what is true, noble, pure, etc., but according to whose standards? Do we determine something to be pure according to God's standards or our own? We must know God's standards in order to know the things that are excellent and praiseworthy. Without knowing His standards, we could fall into the danger or thinking something is right or pure when in reality it's the total opposite. Once we can truly live a life according to God's standards, God's peace will be with us. We have the capability of living a much more joyful and peaceful life if we could take what we receive from God and put it into practice.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
This passage is very straight forward. It is easy to understand but difficult to put into practice. It's easy to think that we know what is true, noble, pure, etc., but according to whose standards? Do we determine something to be pure according to God's standards or our own? We must know God's standards in order to know the things that are excellent and praiseworthy. Without knowing His standards, we could fall into the danger or thinking something is right or pure when in reality it's the total opposite. Once we can truly live a life according to God's standards, God's peace will be with us. We have the capability of living a much more joyful and peaceful life if we could take what we receive from God and put it into practice.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Final Exhortations
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
As I read verses 4 and 5 I sensed the urgency in Paul's words to live as if Jesus was to return tomorrow. It made me reflect and repent on how little I do rejoice in the Lord daily and that my days do not reflect a sense of urgency as it should.
Verses 6 and 7 are some of my favorite verses in all of scripture. I have found them to be very true in my own life. I have really held God to the promise of these verses during my most difficult times and God has never failed to deliver that peace that transcends all understanding when I have given my worries to the Lord. Not that God has answered every prayer the way I wanted but the burden and the anxiety is almost immediately lifted as I lift it up to the Lord and trust that he is in control. It is a wonderful, wonderful feeling of peace.
As I read verses 4 and 5 I sensed the urgency in Paul's words to live as if Jesus was to return tomorrow. It made me reflect and repent on how little I do rejoice in the Lord daily and that my days do not reflect a sense of urgency as it should.
Verses 6 and 7 are some of my favorite verses in all of scripture. I have found them to be very true in my own life. I have really held God to the promise of these verses during my most difficult times and God has never failed to deliver that peace that transcends all understanding when I have given my worries to the Lord. Not that God has answered every prayer the way I wanted but the burden and the anxiety is almost immediately lifted as I lift it up to the Lord and trust that he is in control. It is a wonderful, wonderful feeling of peace.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
citizenship in heaven
"their mind is on earthly things. but our citizenship is in heaven" (verses 19-20).
in this passage, paul describes those who "live as enemies of the cross of Christ" (v 18). what is the definition of such an enemy? paul defines them as those whose "mind is on earthly things".
have we ever thought of it that way: that anyone whose mind is predominantly on "earthly things" is an "enemy of the cross of Christ?" we think of blasphemers, murderers, unbelievers as enemies of Christ, yes, but not those whose minds are on "earthly things". suddenly we are forced to adjust our mental picture of the "enemies of Christ" to a much wider scale, maybe even to include ourselves.
paul then makes a distinction between the "enemies of Christ", and those whose "citizenship is in heaven". if the distinguishing mark of the enemy of Christ is a mind set on earthly things, then one of the distinguishing marks of the elect is that they "eagerly await" the second coming of Jesus Christ.
is there a deep, genuine, heartfelt longing for the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His lordship in this world and in our lives? or are we indifferent, even perhaps fearful of the thought? if our citizenship is in heaven, and we truly understand this, then we will invest our lives for eternity. if our minds are "on earthly things" then we will invest our lives for the present world. paul's distinction does not allow us to have it both ways.
in this passage, paul describes those who "live as enemies of the cross of Christ" (v 18). what is the definition of such an enemy? paul defines them as those whose "mind is on earthly things".
have we ever thought of it that way: that anyone whose mind is predominantly on "earthly things" is an "enemy of the cross of Christ?" we think of blasphemers, murderers, unbelievers as enemies of Christ, yes, but not those whose minds are on "earthly things". suddenly we are forced to adjust our mental picture of the "enemies of Christ" to a much wider scale, maybe even to include ourselves.
paul then makes a distinction between the "enemies of Christ", and those whose "citizenship is in heaven". if the distinguishing mark of the enemy of Christ is a mind set on earthly things, then one of the distinguishing marks of the elect is that they "eagerly await" the second coming of Jesus Christ.
is there a deep, genuine, heartfelt longing for the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His lordship in this world and in our lives? or are we indifferent, even perhaps fearful of the thought? if our citizenship is in heaven, and we truly understand this, then we will invest our lives for eternity. if our minds are "on earthly things" then we will invest our lives for the present world. paul's distinction does not allow us to have it both ways.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Pressing on Toward the Goal
I apologize for the late post. This is the first time I've been able to sit down in my dorm all day.
How humbling to see and think of how God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.
I feel we all meditate. Whether it be on our concerns, happy memories, on a certain person, there are time when our minds are on a constant loop. Paul is telling us in this passage to channel these lingerings of our minds to really take a different view on life as we look to God in order to attain what it is God has set aside for us. Forgetting what is behind is going to be a lifelong struggle, we all know that including Paul which is why he admits his own shortcomings in his encouragement to strain forward. The important part is that we are straining forward and moving toward a prize, the wonderful heavenly prize that God has set aside in Christ Jesus. I've been feeling very trapped lately and not really knowing where to turn and this is what I myself need to do.
We are "living up to what we have already attained." There should be no pressure of making a mistake or living in perpetual worry and headache because God has already set aside everything for us. The alpha and the omega is there for us guiding the way. All we have to do is strain forward. We are living in such freedom and we don't even realize it half the time. Let us all stretch forward toward Christ this week and be freed from the chains from behind.
How humbling to see and think of how God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.
I feel we all meditate. Whether it be on our concerns, happy memories, on a certain person, there are time when our minds are on a constant loop. Paul is telling us in this passage to channel these lingerings of our minds to really take a different view on life as we look to God in order to attain what it is God has set aside for us. Forgetting what is behind is going to be a lifelong struggle, we all know that including Paul which is why he admits his own shortcomings in his encouragement to strain forward. The important part is that we are straining forward and moving toward a prize, the wonderful heavenly prize that God has set aside in Christ Jesus. I've been feeling very trapped lately and not really knowing where to turn and this is what I myself need to do.
We are "living up to what we have already attained." There should be no pressure of making a mistake or living in perpetual worry and headache because God has already set aside everything for us. The alpha and the omega is there for us guiding the way. All we have to do is strain forward. We are living in such freedom and we don't even realize it half the time. Let us all stretch forward toward Christ this week and be freed from the chains from behind.
Monday, November 1, 2010
No Confidence in the Flesh
In today's reading we read Paul's resume once again and it is still quite impressive. He has more reasons than anyone else to have full confidence in the flesh. But Paul knew that a stellar resume was not enough to grant him salvation, instead his noble lineage and accomplishments was a greater temptation to pride and self-confidence.
"Whatever was to my profit, I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ - the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead." (verses 7-11)
Paul freely chose Christ, considered all things that got in the way of knowing Christ as "rubbish" - this was Paul's passion in life.
Is that my passion in life? Is my passion the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I will lose all things? Do I consider all things rubbish that keep me from gaining Christ and to be found in Him?
Instead, don't I live having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, that which is through faith in myself? It is true. I believe in my own powers most of the time. Is it lack of faith that separates Paul's passion and my lukewarm attitude? Is it lack of perseverance at the feet of Jesus? What makes Paul's conviction so passionate and my life passionless for Christ? Why am I not fired up for Christ? Have I not forfeited "my profit" and have not considered all things rubbish?
Food for thought today.
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