Category: Good Life Journal

Journal 1 Thes 4 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “Finally, then, brothers: We ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and please God (just as you are doing), that you do so more and more.

For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God: Your sanctification…” (1 Thes 4:1-3a)

Observation: If my destiny (see yesterday’s post) is found in the hands of the Potter, what is His will for me?

Analysis: “For this is the will of God: Your sanctification…”

The statement is pretty clear. What constitutes chasing His Will for Believers?  Is there an emphasis on doing tasks that takes precedence over pursuing His Will? Is sanctification on my mind? Is it even on my things to do list today?

Yesterday, my wife had a visit from a long-time friend (a believer). Among other subjects, we spoke about some acquaintances we were familiar with. These acquaintances claim to be Christians but, as we all attested (knowing that we do not have condemnation rights but can evaluate with sober discernment (note: this is an inference of many passages but esp. Col 1:10 “…so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God…”), it was difficult to see even the simplest fruit of the Spirit being exhibited, much less any more complex fruit being pursued, or sin being resisted.

Therefore, what do I see and contemplate when I look into the mirror? Do I see a “coaster” in the Faith, or a runner/athlete in the Faith?

Being a Christian is hard, made easier by the ministry, presence, and power of the Holy Spirit. Reformed Theologians call this Man’s Responsibility. God’s Sovereignty (the other side of the coin) provides the Redemptive power of the Cross; Sanctification is the partnership between the Holy Spirit enabling/powering a person’s active and Man’s energetic pursuit of becoming conformed to the image of the Son (c. Ro 8:29) Nevertheless, sanctification is that dreaded four-letter word, work.

If I were to graph my Christian walk from my own perspective, I do not think I would see a steady, inclining, growth line showing that I am irrevocably gaining sanctification. Quite the contrary, I am sure that my graph would show a “saw-tooth” growth line, probably even dropping “below the line.”

Preaching the Gospel should always start with the Face in the Mirror. Promoting maturity in Christ (teaching sanctification) and discipling others should always (again) start with the Face in the Mirror. Doing good works in the Name of Jesus must start with a foundation of growing in sanctification.

Reasoning from the reverse: Matt 7:22, Jesus says, “On That Day many will say to me, “Lord, Lord, did we not (do many deeds) in your Name?” And then will I declare to them, “I never knew you…” and then equated those works with lawlessness.

I think that is sobering…

Prayer: Father, keep my eye stayed upon You. Keep me focused upon serving You all my days and pursuing seeking Your Face (presence).

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

PS: I am fully invested in the following verse: “Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself because you, the judge, practice the very same things.” (Ro 2:1) It is a slippery road to practice evaluation, for it can lead into condemnation. I cannot think of myself higher than another, but I should practice such discernment soberly.

Journal 1 Thes 3 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, that no one be moved by these afflictions.

For you yourselves know that we are destined for this: For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that were to suffer affliction…” 1 Thes 3:1b-4

Observation: What is it about the subject of destiny and being Christian?

Analysis: For what am I destined?

“I make my own destiny”, I have thought before. Many people think that. When that comes up now, I am recognizing that the declaration of “I make my own destiny” is the declaration of rebellion towards God.

So then: Is recognizing destiny bad?

I think most people equate destiny with “God’s plan for my life.” That is kind of right, but maybe that is not exactly correct thinking…

Paul and his team (from the text) knew they were destined for affliction. Is that being negative? How many times have I had the position that I serve a “happily ever after” God and that for every day—no harm, no challenge, no heartache, no tears, etc.

Doesn’t happen, at least not from the Scriptures.

The Triune God we serve is fully interested in our Sanctification; his Holiness expressed in this reality by being Disciples. “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my Name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Ro 9:17; note: Yes, this is referring to Pharoah, but it is applicable by principle to all of us)

My independence (resistance) rises when I think that I do not make my own destiny. It subsides if I think that God is going to do what I want to have as my destiny. It is at that point that I make God a “genie” (and an idol) to fulfil my wishes—fulfilling the admonition of the 1^st Commandment.

Understanding “He is the Potter, and I am the clay; He is Creator, and I am creature” was as natural as breathing to Paul and his crew, and perhaps was one of main doctrines that Paul was preaching to the Churches of Asia.

Prayer: Father, make it so that I put my mind (and heart) to resist independence and lean hard into dependence on You. I surrender my life to you so that I can be and excel in dependence; first, second, and third by making a choice to adhere to your Word daily.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

SCRIPTURE

VS 2 But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict.

Vs 3 For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, 4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak,

not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts.

Vs 7 “we (Paul and those with him) were gentle among you (the Thessalonians), like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.”

Vs 11 “like a father with his children, 12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.”

OBSERVATION

Paul clearly loves the Thessalonians. Not only does he love them, he’s very confident in their relationship with each other and their relationship with God.

Paul is willing to sometimes act gently with them like a nursing mother or to exhort and encourage like a father.

Paul’s confidence is not only in the truth of his message, but the foundation of their relationship.

He can treat them like family.

Because it is God who is calling them all into His kingdom, into His family.

APPLICATION

What do I base the confidence of my relationships on?

Do I even have the confidence in my relationships to treat people like family or do I stay on the surface too often?

I’m afraid, too often it’s the latter.

But why?… Because close relationships are difficult.

Proximity brings complexity!

Closeness requires vulnerability.

Good close relationships must have authenticity, accountability, forgiveness, exhortation, grace, and especially love.

But if I “walk in a manner worthy of the calling of God”, should any of these things be difficult?

I am in the kingdom of God, the family of God, a child of God.

There is no more confident place or position to be than a child of the King!

I carry the Love of God, the Word of God, and the Spirit of God in me.

This is everything I need to empower me to confidently live out the calling of God with those around me.

PRAYER

Thank you, God, for making us family.

Thank you for giving me a family to help me see you every day.

Help me to encourage others as you encourage me.

Help me to be gentle with others as you’re gentle with me.

Help me to love others the way you love me.

In Jesus name.

Amen.

Journal 1 Thes 1 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you—because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.

(and) You became imitators of us and of the Lord—for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere so that we need not say anything.” (1Thes1:2-8)

Observation: The preambles in the Epistles are interesting, especially from Paul. There are several doctrinal facts that can be gleaned and, worthy of note, that Paul reinforces to the Churches.

Analysis: Doctrines can be defined as “sets of guidelines” or principles to assist in understanding any subject. Christians have developed doctrines to help us understand the Bible and made creeds and confessions out of them to help our faith to be rock solid, established on a firm foundation of the Word of God.

The doctrine (guidelines/principles) I see in this section is one of encouragement—not the “slap on the back” or “cheer for you when you are down” sort of encouragement, but the “looking for the evidence of grace” kind.

What did Paul see? What evidence of Grace came to his attention?

• Works of faith, labors of love, steadfast hope in Christ
• Imitating the team’s example and imitating the Lord
• Received the Word in affliction to be an EXAMPLE to others

I have gone through periods of looking for and pointing out (hopefully encouragingly) evidence of grace in others. What has become plain is that I must engage in this practice with effort—it takes diligence and persistence to become consistent at it. Not successful, just consistent.

The difficulty comes from my own desires: I want the recognition of what that “evidence of grace” pertains to. Therefore, what are the keys?

• Cultivate humility and think of others before myself. “…in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Phil 2:3)
• Encourage (or exhort) daily (Heb 4:12)
• Be vigilant toward the Brotherhood; don’t ignore or fall prey to apathy towards your friends (wives, children, etc.)

Certainly, the above is not all inclusive; just a portion of the principles found in the Word of God. Still, what a start!!

Prayer: Father, it is no secret to You that I started on the above path because of the way I was feeling about being encouraged, not some “holy word” from above. That led me from this thing to that thing and finally that biblically encouraging others by recognizing evidence of grace was proper and obedient to Your Word.

Again, I confess and plead to you for deliverance from the “Me-ism” that is my pride in action.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture –

Psalm 91:14-16 – “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

Observation –
The Psalmist is describing in these closing verses of Psalm 91 that the man who clings to God in love will have protection and be delivered. When we know God and call on His name He will answer us and be there for us in our time of strife. God tells us ultimately we will have eternal life and salvation through Jesus.

Application –
As we can all agree we are in uncertain times now, God needs to be my refuge and strength. God loved us first and I must obey the Word from the Psalmist and hold tightly on to God and keep the greatest commandment to love God and others. There is also warning that protection is granted to those who know his name. This means I must seek God and know him myself in order to make Him known. In other words I can’t call on Him in trouble if I don’t already have a relationship with Him. Good News, God sent His Son to pay the price we couldn’t for our salvation and everlasting life when we believe in the name of Jesus.

Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word and your love for me in sending Jesus for my salvation. Let the Spirit lead me to trust you completely and draw near to you knowing you are with me to be my deliverer. Have me live in that to glorify you. Amen

Journal Ps 85-86 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. All the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name.

For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God.

Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever. For great is your steadfast love toward me…” Ps 86:8-13a

Observation: When I sing, is the tense about me, or is it about God?

Analysis: I appreciate reading the Psalms. The Psalmist lays out his heart for us to see how real he is. Among other things, David says,

“Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.” v 3-4

It doesn’t sound so happy or joyful, but it does sound like the moaning and groaning I go through at times. But, here’s the kicker, David does verbally recognize Sovereign God: “There is none like You…nor are there any works like yours…You alone are God…”

I forget cultivating this mindset. I complain about my lot in life. Big things, little things, nuisance things, stupid things. I complain about huge things, political things, social things—and in all I forget that God is over all. He alone does great things and the evil things that happen in my generation he is aware of and does not forget.

Where is the most value expended for my life? Is it being a soldier against evil or is it to seek His Face; to walk in his Truth; to give thanks for all things (Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. c 1 Thes 5:18)

Hard to say although I think David has encountered the question in his life many times.

Prayer: Father, when I encounter the same question, I think I choose properly. When around others I start to second guess.

Keep me from being a double minded man. I am unstable enough even without being double minded.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Ps 83-84 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.

I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.

O Lord of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you!” (Ps 84:10-12)

Observation: Songs of worship should lead us to the Scriptures. Scriptures should lead us to singing songs of worship.

Worship should align with the Word of God.

Analysis: Psalm 84. I remember singing this Psalm fondly. While you can still google the lyrics, I have it on vinyl. The Courts of the King was published in 1977 and contains 13 cuts of tremendous songs of Worship, mostly written by Ted Sandquist and arranged by Phil Keaggy.

Worship songs should draw us into the Scriptures, either by direct arrangement or by doctrinal purpose.

All believers are theologians. “Theology is the study of God” I used to teach my 7-10 year old Sunday School students to prepare them to find the finger of God in the lesson. “Always search for His Voice, His Finger, His Breath, His Presence in the lesson.” The Bible is God’s self-revelation, and He wants to make himself known.

In the 1700 and 1800’s, guys like John and Charles Wesley, to make the Word of God known and easy to understand deep truths (biblical facts), wrote Doctrine to folk and bar tunes. Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns over his lifetime (Amazing Grace, Rock of Ages, How great thou art, Morning has broken, O God Our help in Ages past, and more).

Isaac Watts was a prolific song lyricist (and his songs are so truly relevant today—because they are not situational relevant but eternally relevant).  750 hymns—When I survey the Wondrous Cross, Joy to the World (which was not intended as a Christmas hymn), and more. There are so many more Old Dead Guys that I should be more familiar with.

Here is something I didn’t know: “Frustrated with the heartless psalm singing of his time, young Watts sometimes criticized the singing at his church. Listening to his concerns one day, Watts’ father challenged him, “Well then, young man, why don’t you give us something better to sing?” He rose to the challenge by writing his first hymn.” (Britanica.com)

Therefore, the point for today is to be purposeful in engaging to sing worshipfully. Find songs of worship that point to God Almighty and not so much to myself. For the Word is true:

“He alone is worthy to be praised.” (c. Ps 18:2 and 2 Sam 22:4)

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the lessons in hymnody in my past. Being a jack-leg theologian only shows me how deficient I am in knowing You.

You create this hunger in me, O Holy Spirit. I would like to identify with David, “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” (Ps 63:1), but that is too high for me. I only know I want to know you more…

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

 

Journal Ps 80-82 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: (God speaking through the Psalmist in a prophetic word) “In distress you called, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah. (selah)

Hear, O my people, while I admonish you!

O Israel: if you would but listen to me! There shall be no strange god among you; you shall not bow down to a foreign god.

I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.

But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me. So, I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.

Oh, that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways! (Ps 81:7-13)

Observation: While I want to think that the Lord is giving what for to the wayward people of Israel, I need to remember that Israel is somewhat a metaphor for the Church.

Reading this with the Church in mind, and therefore the Face in the Mirror specifically, puts a different spin on the text.

Analysis: Fierce personal transparency: that is what reading a text like this requires.

It is easy to read this for another person, another local church assembly, but easiest to read this for the World. But God isn’t addressing the world in this passage—He is addressing those whom He has called. This stuff is about me!

There are two passages that have caught my eye this morning: 1) “In distress you called, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder…”, specifically, “I answered you in the secret place of thunder…”

I am good at calling (whining?) to God about my distresses. I can have big distress, medium distress, or those small distresses that seem to be the ones I shoot up to God in prayer the most (“Oh, God!! Teach that person how to drive!! They just about killed me…”) Joking aside, it is interesting and worthy of meditation that my answers are “in the secret place of thunder…” I have no clue what that means but it is worthy of serious thinking, meditation, and prayer.

2) And this one to me is of imminent importance: “But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me. So, I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.” So,

• Do I listen to his voice?
• Am I actively submitting to Him?
• Do I have a stubborn heart?
• Do I follow my own counsel?

There isn’t a clear “pro-God” answer on these four points. Just like Israel, Believers can go in and out, depending on the time of day or time of life. No matter how hard I study, how much I glean, how determined I am to follow and not fall, it is inevitable that my heart and purpose will fail from time to time.

It is why it is important that Believers cultivate:

• Humility before God by preaching the Gospel to ourselves; the whole Gospel, not just John 3:16.
• In preaching the Gospel to ourselves, I must make emphasis on my complete dependence on God alone.  It is He that saved us from His Judgement and corresponding Wrath, not we ourselves.  We are his people and the sheep of his pasture.
• I must continually PURSUE Him every day, to seek His face. See 2 Chronicles 7:14 or Ps 27:8, but this one seems to be most relevant: “I will return again to my place, until they acknowledge their guilt and seek my face, and in their distress earnestly seek me.” (Hosea 5:15)

Prayer: Lord God, it is the above stuff that I think Americans have the most problems with…I know I do. So much rhetoric about being independent leads to thinking that I am autonomous, just like the Serpent enticed Eve about (…you’ll be just like God, knowing Good from Evil).

Turn my heart from that evil way of thinking. Make my heart earnestly seek you.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal Ps 76-77 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “I said: “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search:

• Will the Lord spurn forever and never again be favorable?
• Has his steadfast love forever ceased?
• Are his promises at an end for all time?
• Has God forgotten to be gracious?
• Has he in anger shut up his compassion? (selah)

Then I said:

• I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High.
• I will remember the deeds of old.
• Yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
• I will ponder all your work, and,
• Meditate on your mighty deeds.

Your way, O God, is holy.  What god is great like our God?  You are the God who works wonders; you have made know your might among the peoples.

You with your arm redeemed your people.” (Ps 77:6-15a)

Observation: I see it over and over—my focus is on me complaining (same as the Psalmist) but he turns it back to God (like I should).

Analysis:  I get this wrong over and over.

After complaining, perhaps I get relief from my complaint and I praise God—but, my praise goes something like this: “Oh God, thank you for delivering ME.” Hair split perhaps but, examining my heart (with the help of the Holy Spirit), I can tell when it is all about me verses being all about Him.

After writing the above, I took a break for a number of hours. Then it was brought to my attention on how I think about myself being grateful for what God has done FOR ME with ME as the focus. I look at His work and daily gifts on my behalf and benefit.

What I don’t do often enough (if ever) is to do what the Psalmist is suggesting, that is, reflect on God’s deeds of old, pondering, reflecting with wonder and amazement, and all that. Essentially, I am thanking Him for my “daily bread” (in principle) and not going any further.

It is preaching the Gospel to the face in the mirror with emphasis on God’s goodness towards my life with knowing AND understanding He does not have to but is His Grace and Mercy in action.

I suppose that is the way of the disciple, thinking that I have a biblical principle nailed just to find out that the Holy Spirit has more in mind to grow and learn in for me.

Being a disciple is never over…

Prayer: Holy Ghost, again I am brought to my knees (figuratively speaking, the arthritis in the hips affects the actual kneeling). In this case, pondering and writing on this section of scripture, I find I fail in what I want to do, just like Paul insinuates of himself in Romans.

I want to do better every day in being your disciple.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture

Psalm 74:18-20 – Remember this, O Lord, how the enemy scoffs, and a foolish people reviles your name. Do not deliver the souls of your dove to the wild beasts; do not forget the life of the poor forever. Have regard for the covenant, for the dark places of the land are full of the habitations of violence.

Observation-
Here the Psalmist is is describing his feelings as he reminds God what the enemy is doing and why God should act. The evil one and his workers scoff at God and fools rail against God. The Psalmist asks for protection from the wild lawless people acting like beasts and not to forget the poor any longer. Then he asks God to protect and respect the covenant as there are dark place and violence throughout the land.

Application –
All I have to do I read a current newspaper article to see that there are many authors writing with an agenda against God. The aim of many articles and media platforms is discourse aimed at removing God from the public square. Their worldview is totally secular and does not view God as the author and creator of life. There are very dark places in our land where children are taught opposed to God’s natural order. Violence against the most vulnerable among us is masked as a right to healthcare. God has not and will not forget His people, but we need to turn, seek him in repentance to heal our land. There is the new covenant which God in grace and love placed of the highest value by sending his own Son to pay for our sin so we can have everlasting life with Him.

Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word, your love and grace for us in sending Jesus as our savior and redeemer. Let the power of the Spirit give me strength, courage, wisdom and discernment to stand in your truth versus evil. Give me urgency and the right things to say and do to share your gospel in a loving winsome way to glorify you

Journal 2 Cor 11 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.” (2 Cor 11:28)

Observation: Sometimes a person must scrape for something to write about…today, I have something I will be anxious writing…

Analysis: Quickly scanning ESV.ORG and the ability to use a computerized concordance, I think I have found that the New Testament Romans through Revelations does not talk about the “lost” much at all.

In fact, Romans through Revelations is written with the health of the Church in mind more than anything else.

It appears that Paul is validating himself not being a Rock Star Preacher, but a weak, ill-spoken, but literate Apostle of the Church and the Gospel in this chapter.  Beaten, poor, hungry, pursued, imprisoned, etc., over all the maladies Paul has gone through concerning the Gospel, what is the biggest thing?  The “daily pressure on (him) of my anxiety for all the churches.”

I think: “What an appropriate place for Paul to talk about the lost: “…my anxiety for all the lost…”, but he doesn’t.  It appears (from a blunt reading of the text) that the Holy Spirit (speaking through Paul’s letter) may be more concerned with the health and growing maturity of the local church than the expansion of the local church.

Ephesians is another Letter not so much about the “lost” but of the “Church.”  All Paul’s epistles emphasize the church more than anything else. Note: I am not even attempting to be exhaustive here, these are statements of quick observations of the text.

Prayer: Father, I don’t want to be continually wringing my hands concerning what I should be focusing upon.  Convict my heart and lead me into the Way that you want me to pursue.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal 2 Cor 12 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: (Paul speaking) “I have been a fool!  You forced me to it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these “super-apostles” (my emphasis), even though I am nothing.

The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works. For in what were you less favored than the rest of the churches, except that I myself did not burden you?  Forgive me this wrong!

Here for the third time, I am ready to come to you. And I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours, but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls.

Observation: Continuing with the focus on the health of the local church…

Analysis: I wish I understood the dynamic between evangelism and discipling more.

It seems that the two positions vie for supremacy of focus: What should be emphasized?

Always a puzzle for me as I observe churches and the way I HEAR them.

It is a struggle to not be condemning and to have constructive conversation with folks. Not always easy as there are preconceived ideas and positions to contend with—from both sides of a conversation. I must ask a bunch of questions just to find a common ground to start.  Doesn’t always work (try talking about the doctrine of election…always fun—not!).

Anyway, this is deep stuff but hard to talk about.

Prayer: Father, it is the in-between of the wall-hanging verses that are beginning to be very interesting for me; for it is the in-between that sets up the context of the wall-hangers and in fact, the whole context of the chapters.

Help me to continue wondering and being amazed of your Word.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Journal 2 Cor 10 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God and take every thought captive to obey Christ…

Look at what is before your eyes…” 2 Cor 10:4-5 and v 7a

Observation: How do I define the term “weapons of our warfare?” Do I over or under spiritualize this phrase? Do I have clarity on what is truly the battlefield referenced here?

Analysis: When I think of what the reference is concerning “weapons of our warfare”, one of the first things that pop up is the “spiritual armor” scriptures in Ephesus, for instance, “Put on the whole armor of God”, why? “That you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ep 6:11 and the rest of the associated passage)

Is Paul telling the Corinthian Church and the church at Ephesus the same thing? Even if the wording is off just a little bit, it must be close in intention.

At Corinth, the “weapons” he is referencing is about being able to “destroy arguments” and every “lofty opinion” and “taking every thought captive to obey Christ.”

At Ephesus, I have noticed that the Spiritual Armor has to do with Foundational Doctrines: Salvation; Faith; the Gospel; Truth (or better yet, objective Biblical Facts), conviction of the Redeeming and Atoning work of Christ (breastplate of Righteousness) and the Word of God.

More stuff described at Ephesus, but all involved with training the Believer or being a growing Disciple. “Get your head on straight!!” may be an appropriate verbal short cut to exhort a brother in Christ.

In Corinth, it is clear. The Strongholds referenced are Arguments; Opinions; and thoughts varying from the Knowledge of Christ. (Note: Yeah, some would call this some kind of domain of the devil, but I am choosing not to so we have something defined that we are supposed to lean into)

Am I allowed to have an opinion? Sure. But I should remember we are to persuade men, not to have a fight with them.  There are times we must humbly go to our corners and agree to disagree and lean on Deut 29:29: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever (that we may do all the words of this law).”

In other words, we should diligently search out God’s Word, however, if the meaning does not jump out at us right away, we wait and keep searching and not get bent out of shape not knowing and make something up that suits our predilections (likings, partialities, preferences, tastes, fondness’s).

Note: Sometimes journaling like this or paying diligent attention to a Bible Reading program (if you are taking personal notes, please continue to do so), only sparks a thought.  Perhaps time is a cruel taskmaster and deeper study is not convenient.  No worries: the Holy Spirit will provide knowledge and wisdom at the proper time.

Prayer: Jesus, it is good to be able to rest in you. Stir up my heart to search you out no matter where I am; whether in the yard looking at clouds and the garden, driving, vacationing, work, children, etc. Train my eyes and disposition to see Your hand everywhere.  Help me to love your word more today.

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes

Scripture

 

Vs 2 For I know your eagerness to help … you in Achaia were ready to give;

and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action.

 

Vs 5 … finish the arrangements … be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given.

 

Vs 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times,

having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

 

Vs 11 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.

Vs 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves,

others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ …

Vs 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you,

because of the surpassing grace God has given you.

 

Vs 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

 

Observation

 

Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to be prepared to give the generous gift they have promised.

 

Paul wants them to know there is something bigger going on, though.

This is not a gift that begins and ends with their decision to give money.

 

Their generosity is the proof of God’s work in them.

Their generosity is a byproduct of gratitude for what God has already done.

 

But there is also a ripple effect outside of themselves to others.

As a result of their act of faithful generosity …

Others are “stirred to action”.

Others will “give thanks to God”.

Others will “praise God”.

Others will “pray for you” and “their hearts will go out to you”.

 

But there is a greater “why” behind all of this activity than their “generous gift”.
The first cause of all these actions is “because of the surpassing grace God has given to you”.

God’s grace is the greatest and most “indescribable gift”!

 

Application

 

Christians are supposed to be generous. … I am supposed to be generous.

It’s what makes me a “good person, right? … I must be careful with that thought.

 

Generosity does not make me a “good person”.

Generosity “proves myself obedient to my confession of the gospel of Christ”.

So, generosity does not make me “good”.

Generosity makes me “obedient”.

 

And what is my gift being obedient to? … A much greater, “surpassing, indescribable” gift! … GRACE!

I cannot give what God has not already given.

Others cannot receive what God does not already provide.

It’s all grace … It’s all gift!

 

But there is an overflow …

of thanksgiving, and praise to the One who has given.

And an overflow of “hearts” to the ones who obediently give.

 

Generosity, then, is never a singular, isolated act.

There is a vertical Cause and a horizontal response.

In this way I can see and say it’s “cruciform” … like the cross.

 

Prayer

 

Thank you, God, for your Word again

Help me receive the grace within it

Help me see the causes and the recipients with your heart

Keep me prepared to live it

Keep me obedient

In Jesus name.

Amen

6/9/22 Thursday

Journal 2 Cor 8 (all references are from the ESV unless noted otherwise; changes in punctuation are mine)

Scripture: “We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia.  For in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.

For they gave according to their means (as I can testify) and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints—

For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has—not according to what he does not have.  For I do not mean that others should be eased, and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness your abundance at the present time should supply their need so that their abundance may supply your need, that there should be fairness.” 2 Cor 8:1-4 and 12-14

Observation: It should be clear that Christian worship is not only spiritual, but practical.

Analysis: I have heard it many times: If you want to see how spiritual a guy is, show the check book.

I am provoked by this chapter—and not in a “make me feel good” way.  Paul is bragging, yes, bragging about those believers in Macedonia.  Let me set aside the “abundance of joy” statement in favor of focusing on this: “…their extreme poverty overflowed into a wealth of generosity…”

First thing I thought of is that I cannot be counted in the same statement as the Macedonia Churches (plural).  Why?  Because of the mismanagement of personal finances. I am very familiar with the debt noose around my neck and the debt chains on my legs.

Maybe there are a bunch of other believers that are in the same way.  However, giving is a mark of a growing believer (denying myself to serve others). So, what do I do?  I should not succumb to despair, dig myself a hole, jump in, and pull the dirt back over my head (same idea as sitting in sackcloth and throwing ashes over my head).

Therefore, those who want to be spiritual, make and execute a plan:

1. Do not pray to win the Lottery.
2. Start small (that your faith will support) and be diligent in improving your personal finances.  Try a budget of any kind, get help, look for a model online.  Ask the leadership team for suggestions.
3. Tithe. If your faith and your finances make that hard, then give as generously as you have faith for.  Make this a goal…and a point of shedding those debt chains.
4. Consider giving to all that ask of you. Today’s society has homeless and beggars everywhere.  Yes, many are destitute because of their self-destructive lifestyle. Try not to stand in judgment but give in the Name of Jesus. Keep a handful of dollars in the car just for that opportunity.  Work out ahead of time what you can quickly say (don’t block the road).

Look how Paul writes about understanding the various situations: “For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has—not according to what he does not have…”  In God’s eyes, giving does not have a “good, better, best” grading.  It is about what we can do in faith, and then keep growing…

It is like that no matter what aspect of our Spiritual Walk is addressed; all of our growth in Christ begins with a single step…

Prayer:  Lord God, you know my history and how faithless I am with personal finances.  It is only by your Mercy that we have managed to date.  What it has done is allowed me to peer back through history and see all the times You have been faithful and continue to be faithful (even in my unfaithfulness).  Reviewing my personal history also allows me to have faith that You will continue to be faithful…not in arrogance, but with my head bowed having a sure knowledge I don’t deserve your Mercy.

Funny how the Gospel touches every part of my life…

Amen.

Ricky Two Shoes