Discouraged yet not defeated

Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God. Psalm 43:5 

At times, we are deeply aware of the reasons behind our emotions. We are hurt or betrayed and thus understandably angry or frustrated. Perhaps more positively, a relational breakthrough or new job can result in a wave of relief, gratitude, and joy, crashing over us in the most delightful ways. 

However, we often find ourselves in situations where significant emotions may be present, yet their source or sources elude us. Though this can be a positive emotion that catches us by surprise, in my own experience, these elusive emotions are usually sources of pain or potential discouragement. We’re short-tempered and angry with those around us for no explainable reason. We’re pessimistic and doubtful even when we have plenty of reasons to be hopeful and encouraged. Or we’re profoundly sad without any clear reason to grieve. Perhaps, like the psalmist of old, you read these words and say to yourself, “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad?”

I once heard a wise Christian leader say that the vast majority of our disappointments in life come from unmet expectations. In light of our topic today, it’s important to realize that we often have implicit expectations in our lives that we’ve never consciously acknowledged to ourselves or discussed with others. When we find emotions present within us that seem to have come out of nowhere or lingered longer than we’d ever hoped, it’s helpful to ask ourself a version of this question: “What did I expect this season of life to look like?” 

In C.S. Lewis’ work, Perelandra, there’s a memorable scene in which The Green Lady discusses the difference between “the good expected” and “the given good,” noting that so often our Lord allows situations in our lives that we’d never have asked for or even wanted, yet if they are from him, then surely they are to be received as “good.” When we are sad or discouraged, and we don’t know why, we can rest in this truth, believing that God is always working for our good, joining our voice with Psalm 43 and saying, “I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God.

Speaking scars

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

At times I am witness to people recovering from surgery. Every surgical procedure comes with scares or even abrasions as I have a scar from years ago that came from falling off my bike that still reminds me of the incident that occured more than 15 years ago. Every time I look at that scar, I reflect on what happened and  the experience of the fall, the pavement winning over my body and the hurt that went along with it. I also have the opportunity in looking at the scar to be reminded that I survived, and made it through the hurt and have healed.  It also reminds me of the scars that Jesus took to set me and you free.

What life-giving words scars remind us of the hurt and healing at the same time. To get to that conclusion we must shift our perspective. from the healing that comes from hurt. When we have a shift in perspective toward God’s truth, it takes away the painful feelings about our experience. When we believe Truth, we are indeed set free just as Jesus said in John 8:31-32: 

“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’”

Now, when I look at that scar, I think about the moments, the difficult, painful, soul-wrenching moments when Christ sustained me in the recovery/healing journey, and I think about His faithfulness.

I think about how He has spared my life so I can do more work for Him. 

I think about the precious, deep intimacy that has developed with Him, not in spite of what has happened to me, but because of what has happened to me.

That scar and all that has come with it has transformed my life and transformed me. The lessons have been profound, and I pray I never forget them. 

I wouldn’t have imagined that I could ever say this, but I’m thankful for the scar.

What has happened in your life? Have you experienced something tragic and hurtful that has left a scar on your mind, your emotions, or your skin? Accepting God’s perspective and His truth about it will set you free from the bondage of painful feelings about what happened to you and shift you to gratitude and joy.

Why? Because lingering, negative, painful feelings aren’t caused by what happened to us, although negative experiences are a doorway to emotional pain. However, emotional pain that won’t go away comes from how we internalize and view what has happened to us. (Read that again. That’s an amazing truth right there!) Praise God. He gave us painful emotions as red lights on the dashboard of our hearts to alert us as if to say, “Hey! There’s something here that needs God’s truth applied to it so that you can be emotionally healed and set free.” 

Many times, we believe it’s the experience that hurt us that we need to get over. We believe we need to overcome it somehow and go back and fix it. But what we really need is to change how we view what happened to us to be set free. We need to accept God’s truth. When we embrace His perspective, nothing about the experience that hurt us will change. But how we see it, will and that will lead to liberty. 

Ask Jesus to show you His truth about your painful experience, and the scars that came from it. Once you get His perspective, you’ll be able to consider what happened without debilitating pain, regret, or deep sadness and say, “Thank you, Lord, for what you have done in me and in my life, not in spite of my scar, but because of it. I’m thankful for that scar. How I praise you!”

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives” (Isaiah 61:1).

Power

Remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him…  and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places.

Ephesians 1:16-17, 19-20

Powerless. That is how I feel sometimes, but that is not what God has given me. I often forget that my generous God has given me his power…the same power that he used to raise his son Jesus from the grave. 

So, why do I have seasons of feeling powerless? Because…Life can be difficult…even unbearable at times…health challenges, financial issues, rowdy, even rebellious children, work despair, fractured relationships, broken dreams…Yet my generous God gives me His powerful wisdom and grace to not just get through life but to thrive in life. One of His most powerful strategies (though not always intuitive or practical) is generous living. I ask myself, so, Lord, where do I start to experience the power of generosity? 

Generous living starts with a prayerful mindset of gratitude to the Lord. The power of generosity begins with gratitude to my generous God.

I learn to lean into being grateful for His blessings of life, relationships, and freedom to enjoy Him, freedom to be loved and to love. As my wife Rita reminds me often, who gets to do this? Who gets to live a life of generosity because of the radical generosity of our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, who…

“Though he was so very rich, yet to help you he became so very poor, so that by being poor he could make you rich”  (2 Corinthians 8:9, TLB).

So, for us to better understand and acknowledge the power of God at work in our lives, we need to first look at how Jesus, when at the beginning of his ministry, was confronted by Satan to use power for building a kingdom on earth for Himself, refused and instead gave His power away to save the world for all who would believe and to build the kingdom of heaven…

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only” (Matthew 4:8-10).

Satan tried to tempt our Savior Jesus with power when He offered control over the kingdoms of the world… and then abruptly, Jesus called out the evil one to worship and serve God…the only One who has all power. 

The most powerful man who ever walked on the planet…Jesus Christ…gave away his power for the benefit of saving, healing, and blessing the world.

You have been given the power of God to carry out the purposes of God. His power is at work in you to will and to do His good pleasure. Use it, don’t abuse it; furthermore, use it for the good of others or lose it! Invest God’s generous gift of power through a life of generosity. Relational generosity finds joy in connecting those you know and love with one another. Financial generosity invests resources in funding the work of God’s kingdom. And generosity with your time is free to volunteer your expertise and experience to serve. Leverage power for the Lord

Win them back

If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. Matthew 18:15

Relational conflict is an unavoidable part of life. We as are broken and imperfect people, and when my sickness bumps into yours, it is inevitable that we will struggle to see eye to eye. This plays itself out in every sphere of influence: work, home, and yes, even within the church. Though we are the people of God who are filled with the life of God, we are also works in progress who continue to struggle against sin, and we therefore must learn to navigate conflict, not if, but when it comes.

So often, in a heated moment of disagreement, our first and only instinct is one of self-preservation. Rather than being open to the possibility that our brokenness somehow contributed to this breakdown, we rush to our own defense, showing how we’ve been wronged, misunderstood, or falsely accused. When this posture is taken, no longer do we see the other as a brother or sister in Christ, but they transform, sometimes instantaneously, into an enemy and opponent, someone who must be wrong in order for me to be right.

In truth, this impulse can grow to the point that our only aim in the disagreement is to secure our innocence at any cost. Yet, in this confusion, the words of Matthew 18 invite us to consider another way. The aim and end of relational conflict is always the restoration of intimacy and trust. We engage in difficult conversations, not to win a battle but to win back a brother. Undoubtedly, this is hard work. And it is work that we will only engage if and when we learn to value and treasure the gift of a spiritual family, brothers and sisters in the faith that have been given to us by God for our mutual growth and flourishing in faith. 

When relationships in the church are viewed through this lens, we reject any outcome or solution that includes the loss of a brother or sister as an acceptable outcome. Let us always turn toward the other, even in times of pain and confusion, asking God to preserve and keep us in his love and in our mutual affection for one another.

No worry zone

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Philippians 4:4 

I am learning that worry and joy in the Lord cannot coexist; worry is not welcome where joy is the host. The same goes for being angry; a hot head cools under the influence of a calming, joyful heart. The Apostle Paul is writing to the church at Philippi to remind them not to allow the conflict from their differences to define their relationship. Different perspectives born from a variety of life experiences are meant to mold us more like Christ if we learn in love to value each other's uniqueness. Of course, sinful behavior needs to be addressed and corrected, but how many times could bad behavior have been avoided if a joyful focus on Jesus was the conversational starting point? Not naively ignoring the discomfort but keeping accusations at bay and choosing a better way. A joyful attitude elevates discussions in loving respect for others.

Why even fret for five minutes if we can start by rejoicing in the Lord? Rejoicing for how He provides for our wants and needs. Rejoicing for His Word, a personal love letter penned in Scripture, is a guiding light for our lives. Rejoicing in rich relationships gives us a healthy understanding that we are beloved by our heavenly Father. Rejoicing in our assurance of salvation in Jesus Christ. Rejoicing in hard times, knowing He walks with us through the shadows of suffering and the dread of death. Rejoicing is the Spirit’s remedy for healing. 

The act of rejoicing is not merely a fleeting emotion but a deliberate choice to find joy in God’s presence and promises. In doing so, we align ourself with a source of unwavering love, guidance, and grace. The word of God encourages believers to “rejoice always” (1 Thessalonians 5:16), highlighting the transformative power of joy in various circumstances. This practice fosters a grateful heart, cultivating contentment regardless of external conditions. Furthermore, rejoicing in the Lord strengthens our faith, serving as a reminder of His sovereignty and faithfulness. It provides a solid foundation for resilience in the face of challenges, as the joy rooted in God transcends temporal difficulties. In community, shared rejoicing creates bonds among believers, growing a sense of unity and encouragement. Ultimately, embracing joy in the Lord leads to a deeper understanding of divine love, peace that surpasses understanding, and a life marked by gratitude and spiritual abundance. I’ll close with Henri Nouwen’s insights into joyful persons:

Joyful persons do not necessarily make jokes, laugh, or even smile. They are not people with an optimistic outlook on life who always relativize the seriousness of a moment or an event. No, joyful persons see with open eyes the hard reality of human existence and, at the same time, are not imprisoned by it. They have no illusion about the evil powers that roam around, “looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8), but they also know that death has no final power. They suffer with those who suffer, yet they do not hold on to suffering; they point beyond it to an everlasting peace. 

Indeed, joyful living happens in hard times and good times; looking to the Joy Giver.

unwavering faith and obedience

When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. Matthew 1:24-25

In the town of Nazareth, Joseph, a righteous and just man, faced a bewildering revelation. His betrothed, Mary, was found to be with child before their marriage was consummated. This discovery rocked Joseph’s world, challenging his understanding of righteousness and faithfulness to God’s law. Joseph’s response unveils a narrative of unwavering faith and obedience in the face of uncertainty and social disgrace. The news of Mary’s pregnancy presented Joseph with a predicament. The law dictated severe consequences for such circumstances, and Joseph, a man of honor and integrity, initially grappled with the decision to quietly end the engagement. His heart was undoubtedly heavy, torn between his love for Mary and his commitment to God’s law. His inclination was to act discreetly, sparing Mary from public shame. As he waited on God, Joseph was instructed to take Mary as his wife, so he did, though not totally understanding how his wife was pregnant with the Son of God. 

However, in the midst of this turmoil, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, conveying a divine message: “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” This divine intervention challenged Joseph’s understanding of the situation, urging him to trust beyond his human reasoning. He was remarkably faithful and obedient to God’s call. Joseph, though initially torn and embarrassed by the situation, chose to trust God’s revelation in the dream. His obedience to the angel’s message showcased his profound faith and commitment to God’s plan. Joseph instantly obeyed God.

Joseph’s obedience was not passive acceptance but an active response to God’s call. He took Mary as his wife despite the public ridicule and potential shame. His actions were a testament to his deep faith in God’s sovereignty, trusting that the child Mary carried was indeed part of God’s divine plan for salvation. By obeying God’s instruction and taking Mary as his wife, Joseph demonstrated a remarkable faith that transcended his initial embarrassment and fear. He embraced his role as the earthly father of Jesus, providing protection, care, and guidance to the child who would one day become the Savior of the world. Your family background may be confusing or embarrassing; if so, you are not alone. God can bless what seems like a mess.

Joseph’s unwavering faith and obedience serve as an inspiration for believers today. His willingness to set aside his initial doubts and fears, choosing instead to trust and obey God’s plan, sets a profound example. Joseph teaches us the value of faithful obedience, even when faced with circumstances that challenge our understanding or social norms. As we reflect on the Christmas story, may we emulate Joseph’s unwavering faithfulness and obedience to God’s call in our own lives. Let us trust in God’s guidance, even when faced with uncertainty or societal pressures, knowing that He holds the ultimate plan for our lives and the world. Better to suffer misunderstanding and obey God than to try to please people and miss out on the Lord’s best. God’s better purposes are sometimes best understood after wisdom is proven right over time!

“But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it” (Luke 7:35).

What pleases God

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. 

Ephesians 5:8-10

The call of the believer is to learn by grace to walk in the light and life of Christ. This language of light and darkness is scattered throughout the word of God. We find it in the opening pages, with the Lord’s declaration over creation: “Let there be light!” (Genesis 1:3). It is found in the heart of Isaiah’s prophetic vision: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2). And it finds its fulfillment and true fullness in Christ himself, for as John reminds us, “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind” (John 1:4). 

Life is found in Christ, so what falls to you and to me is to learn to find our life within his, to daily move further and further away from the darkness of our world and the darkness that lurks within our hearts and instead learn to rest and find our home within all that is good, righteous, and true.

Take note of Paul’s words in verse 10 of today’s passage: “find out what pleases the Lord.” This deceptively simple phrase contains within it an entire world of wisdom. First, it reminds us that there is, in fact, a way of life that pleases God. Though we live in a world that embraces a vision of freedom that allows for infinite “truths,” this is not the way of Christ. Freedom is found, not in our self-created visions of “the good life,” but in our ability to accept the boundaries and limitations of God as for our good and flourishing. This is true freedom, yet it so often feels counterintuitive to everything we see and hear, and so we must learn to follow the second point of wisdom contained within this verse: find out.

Yes, there is a way of life that pleases God, yet it is not always self-evident and it requires disciplined and intentional searching on our parts. Of course, we are only able to search because we have first been filled with the light of Christ. However, a room can be illumined yet people within that room can choose to ignore what they see. Let this never be true of us! Christ has illumined our hearts with the light of God’s kingdom. Choose today to live in that light, and seek out the way that leads to freedom and life eternal.

Humble Wisdom

Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Matthew 10:16

Jesus, our loving Shepherd, boldly sends us out among the wolves of the world. We are commissioned by the Lord Himself not to remain in our comfort zone, always surrounded by fellow believers, but to mingle among unbelievers and even engage those hostile to our faith. We may ask if this is loving of our Lord to launch us into the world of the unlovely. Indeed, it is, as this is what love requires of us. Love requires us to reach out to the lost and the outcasts of society and to bring them into the fold of the faith. God's part is to draw the unsaved to Himself and save them. Our part is to live among the lost, model true love, and share the life-giving message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Sheep satisfied with only eating among themselves grow fat and self-indulgent, but sheep (believers) who eat with sinners stay spiritually alive and engaged with God’s eternal purposes. The humble and wise obey Jesus and love the lost. 

Our saving Shepherd does not send us out without resources. He provides His very presence as He dwells within us, supplying abundant humility, confidence, wisdom, power and discernment. The wise walk with the Lord into unknown circumstances and people, ever dependent on Him for relational favor and insights into how to add value at work and home. We are to be wise as a serpent. How? Snakes quietly make their way, not trying to draw attention to themselves. There is wisdom in quietly, without fanfare, serving others in the name of Jesus, no expectation of recognition from people, only listening for the applause of nail-scarred hands. In addition, we are marked by the gentle and peaceful demeanor of an innocent dove. Not reacting out of fear and anger but with bridled strength, we bring calm to chaos and solutions to divisive situations. Like the dove blessing Noah’s Ark after the flood with the olive branch of God’s peace, we go forth among cultures at war with the gospel of Jesus Christ…God’s olive branch of peace and freedom for a warring world imprisoned by sin and sorrow. Humility, wisdom and quiet; loud foes. 

Where is the Lord leading you that seems scary, and where you are unsure of what to do? The mission field overseas could be His call for you. A new language, a strange culture and sacrifices of time away from family and friends. But the Holy Spirit can fill you with humility and wisdom to comprehend and adjust to a new language and people. The mission field at work or in your neighborhood may be low-hanging fruit waiting for you to serve in the relational fields nearby. Pray together with other believers before work or during the lunch hour, supporting one another through life’s challenges while praying for colleagues to come to know Christ as Savior. Bible study during the day in your home blesses your neighbors by helping everyone get to know one another and grow deeper in their understanding of God and His love for them. Your home does not need to be perfect; it only needs warm hospitality that makes a person feel accepted and known. 

Start by praying for the Lord to grow your humble heart and to fill your mind with His wisdom. The deeper and wider you are loved by God, the greater your capacity and desire to love people. Love cannot be contained in a heart full and overflowing with gratitude, joy, and peace. Love moves out of the familiar into the unfamiliar with a holy boldness that is attractive and effective. Where Jesus sends you…He goes with you. It is better to be on rough waters walking on the water toward Jesus than on the safe shore, absent of adventure and empty of the Spirit’s power.

“To know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 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 3:19-21,

What do you say about yourself?

Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Messiah.” They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” John 1:19-22

By this point in the year, chances are that the resolutions we made for ourself have either gone as quickly as they came, or we’ve doubled down, stayed the course, and are starting to think that maybe, just maybe, this will be the year that we stick with them. For most of us, the resolutions we make are tied to some form of self-improvement, whether that be physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual. Perhaps we want to drop a few pounds, learn a new language, or practice intentional kindness toward others. Whatever it may be, the aim is that when next year rolls around, we will be something more, something different than who we are today. 

These questions of identity and purpose come to mind as I reflect once again on the well known words of John the Baptist in John 1. More specifically, I find the Jewish leaders’ question to John to be one of utmost importance, not only for him, but for every person who has ever lived: “What do you say about yourself?” I am increasingly convinced that our ability to answer this question with clarity and purpose is the key to a life lived well.

It isn’t easy to know ourselves. This requires endless searching and examination. As the early Christian leader Gregory the Theologian once beautifully said in the opening stanza of a poem,

You have a job to do, soul, and a great one, if you like:

examine yourself, what it is you are and how you act,

where you come from, and where you’re going to end,

and whether to live is this very life you’re living, or something else besides. 

When faced with the question of identity and purpose, John the Baptist did what every one of us must likewise learn to do: he knew himself in reference to Christ. His meaning in life was found not in his own achievements or attributes but in his ability to point others to Christ. This was the reason for his existence and the only path to a life of deep fulfillment. With the words of Isaiah 40 on his lips, John summed up the whole of his life with these words, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord’” (John 1:23). May we do the same, longing for nothing more in our lives than the life of Christ and for those around us to experience the same.

Generosity

You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.  2 Corinthians 9:11

Generosity is more than just giving; it’s a reflection of the heart. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody the spirit of generosity, mirroring the abundant grace bestowed upon us by our heavenly Father. God’s Word teaches us that everything we have is a gift from Him. When we grasp this truth, our perspective on possessions shifts. It is not about ownership but stewardship. We become conduits of God’s blessings, entrusted with resources to extend His love to others.

Generosity is not confined to material wealth; it encompasses our time, talents, and treasure. It’s the willingness to share what we have, whether abundant or meager, with a cheerful heart, knowing that our actions honor God and bless others. Jesus exemplified the ultimate act of generosity through His sacrificial love on the cross. He gave without expecting anything in return, showing us that true generosity flows from selflessness and genuine concern for others’ well-being. When we practice generosity, we cultivate a spirit of gratitude. We acknowledge God’s provision in our lives and express thankfulness by sharing with others. Through our generosity, others witness God’s goodness and experience His love tangibly.

Moreover, generosity begets generosity. Giving freely inspires a ripple effect, touching lives and prompting others to do the same. It creates a community marked by compassion and support, where needs are met and hearts are uplifted. However, generosity isn’t always easy. The call to give sacrificially challenges our natural inclinations in a world consumed by self-interest. Yet, God promises to bless those who give willingly and cheerfully, multiplying their generosity and providing for their needs. When stretched to give sacrificially, our faith is stretched.

Generosity is a reflection of our faith in God’s faithfulness. When we give with open hearts, we declare our trust in His provision and sovereignty over our lives. May we cultivate hearts of generosity, embracing the joy found in giving. The measure of our lives is not in what we keep for ourselves but in what we invest in God’s Kingdom. As we extend love, kindness, and resources to those around us, may it be a testament to the abundant grace of our heavenly Father.

Grow your generous heart by being around other generous hearts. My wife, Rita, and I attend an annual Celebration of Generosity, which is a gathering of families from around the country who love Christ and whose heart is to live a life of radical generosity. In addition, twice a year, we host an experience with authentic conversations called a Journey of Generosity. A group of 15 Jesus followers meet to pray, hear compelling stories of generosity, and dig into God’s Word. Your generosity is an act of worship that glorifies God as others give thankful praise to Him!

“Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35).

Endurance

Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. Hebrews 10:35-36

In countless ways, our society values endurance. We marvel at couples that have been married for 50+ years. We eagerly buy new phones that promise 50% more battery life. And we run marathon races to test the limits of our bodily endurance. Yet the older I get, the more I find myself deeply moved by the witness of men and women who have followed Christ with steadfast faith for the whole of their lives. 

Though I grew up in Church, have fellowship circles, pastor, and am surrounded by peers who were involved in the rhythms of church life in one way or another, I’ve lost track of how many friends have walked away from the faith, or so deeply deconstructed their faith that nothing remains other than a vague and vapid agnosticism. This trend of deconstruction has been widely studied and extensively documented by groups such as Barna, and it is outside the scope of this blog to dive into it more deeply. I mention it simply to say that in the face of any cultural trend, there is always a counter-trend, an upstream current that can be found for those who take the time to look. 

The life of the believer in Christ demands nothing less than the whole of our life. It is an invitation to die to ourself in order to truly live. As such, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this invitation isn’t accepted by the masses. Like the Rich Young Ruler, many may hear the call of Christ, consider the cost, and simply walk away in order to pursue their own passions and pleasures. Yet there are others who have tasted and seen that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8), and therefore commit their way to Christ, day after day after day, refusing to let go of their childlike confidence in Him, even when life’s storms leave them battered and bruised. No, theirs is an enduring faith, one that keeps its eyes set on the “heavenly prize” (Philippians 3:14). 

I thank God for the witness of men and women in the past and in our own day who have clung to Christ and, by their example, invite us to do the same. Let us join them, responding with a courageous and enduring faith.

Worth of His Kingdom

 And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. 2 Thessalonians 1:5

The kingdom of God is the aim and destination of every believer’s journey in faith. It breaks into the present and will one day be perfectly known and inhabited as we live eternally under the peaceful rule and reign of God. As such, we must learn to view every moment of life, every season and stage as preparation for our entry into the kingdom of our Lord.

The Lord, in his kindness, gives us many opportunities to encounter the life of his kingdom. When a man and woman come together in marriage, they in a sense become kings and queens of their own tiny kingdom, what we call “a family,” and this tiny kingdom is filled with potential and possibility, either to lose sight of its purpose and be a kingdom of selfishness and discord or to be a kingdom that in miniature reflects the values of the true and eternal kingdom. 

While this may be an easy example to embrace and celebrate, for we immediately see the goodness and virtue of family life, we must remember that our Lord also uses countless other situations to prepare us for eternity, even those that are painful and on the surface unwanted. 

I think of this when I read the words of 2 Thessalonians 1:5, where we are reminded of the truth that the suffering that this early Christian community endured was allowed by the Lord, at least in part, to make them “worthy of his kingdom.” 

It is for this reason that history is filled with stories of men and women who rejoice in their trials, even going so far as to give thanks for them. How convicting this truth is, for so often when we face difficulties in life, they can cause us to grow bitter, confused, and even angry. We may be tempted to wonder if God loves us or is near to us in this time of trial. Yet if and when we learn to see our trials and suffering as a momentary burden that shapes us and makes us worthy for eternity, we not only are set free from grumbling and frustration, we are able to endure with joy, considering it an honor to in some small way share in the sufferings of Christ, who reveals to us the truth that death is defeated and must, in the end, give way to life.

Just obey

Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice. 1 Samuel 15:22

My biggest regrets in life are when I decide to do things my way when I know the Lord has shown me another way. I justify my will rather than obey God’s will. One such occasion was an encounter with a new “friend” years ago who had a “business” proposition for me. Having a modest salary as a pastor then, we were open to side hustles as long as it didn’t interfere with our work and family time. Still in discussions, we met over lunch when I noticed our potential business partner took two pieces of fruit instead of the one prescribed by the large sign. I mentioned his minor indiscretion, and he quipped back, “nobody will ever know.” I thought to myself, “well, I know, and more importantly, God knows.” I sensed in my spirit from Holy Spirit, “do not work with this man.” Yet impetuous and with an air of greed, we moved forward. It didn't work out in the long run. My lesson was to obey God, not justify.

Saul, one of the Lord’s chosen leaders, won a fierce battle when God gave him clear instructions to take no prisoners and, instead, slay all the enemy, the Amalekites, including their cattle. Saul, not believing the divine commands very practical, decided a better way was to spare the enemy's leader, the king, and give the victor’s people access to the best of the oxen and sheep. Saul was then called out by the priest Samuel and held accountable for his actions of disobedience. And instead of confessing and repenting…he justified. He even wrapped his reasoning with a spiritual motive, that his plan was to use some of the animals as a sacrifice to God. But Samuel dismissed his religious guise and spoke the truth. Obedience is better than sacrifice. Do things God’s way, not what we think or feel is our better way. If we are not accountable to others, we can talk ourselves into almost anything.

Outward religious activities used to justify an inward disobedience to the Lord mocks heaven. Not a healthy place to live. I’ve been guilty of spending generous amounts of time doing the Lord’s work while neglecting the generosity of time for my family and my health, while justifying with my heart and mind that my sacrifice for God was worth whatever I gave up. Yet, the still, small voice of Holy Spirit was gentle, reminding me of my role as a husband and dad, which required mental and emotional margin to love my family properly. Furthermore, if my body, the Spirit’s temple, was being neglected, I ignored the spiritual discipline of caring for and nurturing my heavenly Father’s complex creation…my body. God’s grace and love called out my disobedience, and thankfully, I have Samuels in my life who remind me to obey and trust the Lord’s best. Our idol of disobedience may look different, yet if it weighs on you…obey now. 

“And I said: “I pray, Lord God of heaven, O great and awesome God, You who keep Your covenant and mercy with those who love You and observe Your commandments” (Nehemiah 1:5, NKJV).

Spirit of generosity in the midst of scarcity

Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:32-34.

I'm not one to celebrate Halloween but there is a lesson I have gleaned from the holiday that gives those who participate the opportunity to create a great sugar rush.  The sudden influx of candy into a home, and children’s posture of generosity that surrounds it. Specifically, how quick kids were to share their “haul” of goods, especially when it was piled in front of them like a small mountain of sugar. Why sweat one or two pieces when hundreds remained? Yet if we were to find the same kids on a “normal” day with little to no sweets in sight, you’d likely encounter a very different spirit of generosity. 

Now, before I’m too hard on the kids, I should be quick to realize this is not a uniquely childish problem, for in truth, it is a window into every human heart. It’s remarkably easy to be generous when our resources have no end in sight. This kind of giving, while certainly a gift to the recipient and not to be discouraged, fails to truly transform our passions and desires: it touches our wallets while leaving our hearts unchanged.

Fear has an incredible impact on our ability to live generous lives. Specifically, fear of not having enough and being unable to provide for ourselves or those we love. When we allow the threat of scarcity to overtake our hearts and minds, it turns us inward toward ourselves and away from God and neighbor. Yet when we give, especially when it’s hard and we aren’t in a season of abundance, we learn to trust, not simply in our own ability to balance the books and cover all of our needs, but to place ourselves firmly in the hands of the one who promises that he will never leave or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8).

Giving out of our scarcity is a bold declaration of faith. It is a way to say that our primary allegiance and loyalty rests not in the material possessions of this world but in the values of God’s Kingdom. We learn through sacrifice to treasure what is truly worthy of our affection, setting us free from fear and worry and instead resting secure in a heavenly treasure “that will never fail” (Luke 12:33).

Holy Spirit my teacher

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26

I love the tender heart of Jesus. I love how He loves people. I love how He loves us so much that He will never leave us alone. And, I love that before He went to the cross and ascended to heaven, He told His disciples something like this: “I’m going to give you a Helper to be with you who will never leave you, and He will guide you. He will remind you of what I’ve said, and He will be your counselor, advocate, and teacher." 

What great compassion and what great love the Lord has that He didn’t say, “Well, that’s it. I’m going back to heaven. Now, you’re on your own.” Instead, He gave us His very presence through Holy Spirit. And, how wonderful that we have an all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-wise teacher in Him. 

When you aren’t sure which route to take, the Spirit is there to guide you. He is the best teacher. 

When you don’t know the words to speak, He will show you what to say. He is the best teacher. 

When you feel discouraged, the Spirit is there to reveal truth to you and give you the help you need to go on. He is the best teacher. 

“He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13).

How marvelous that the Spirit, full of truth, will share with you and me what He hears from Jesus. (John 16:14)

But what is it that often prevents us to from receiving life-giving teaching and truth from the Spirit? 

It can be many things such as pride, or a lack of belief in the Lord’s love. But oftentimes it’s simply because of unbelief. We simply don’t take the Lord’s words to heart, that the Spirit is there for us, so we don’t seek Him. We’re simply not listening. 

I recently spoke with a young man who is having some challenges in his personal and professional life. I encouraged him to seek the Lord for answers and that the Holy Spirit would guide him. The Lord said He would guide us into all truth. May we seek Him for the truth He promises! If we do not, what treasures we are forfeiting! Can you imagine what He wants to reveal to you?  

I encourage you today . . . if you believe God still speaks as He says He does in His Word; if you believe He hasn’t forgotten you, and that He is ready to hear you, won’t you seek Him for His truth today? He is listening. He is ready to teach you. 

The Holy Spirit is the best teacher. 

“But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7).