THE CHRISTMAS STORY

Two thousand years ago, when the Roman Empire was ruling most of the known world, a small country on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean was part of their kingdom. The people of Israel were zealous for God. They worked hard, lived in accordance to divine law and worshiped the one true Lord. They were expecting someone to lead them to deliverance from all tyranny. Old Testament prophets promised a Messiah and they fervently prayed for His coming. Before the divine deliverer came a man was born to prepare His way.

            From the hills of Judea was a priest named Zacharias, married to a woman named Elizabeth. They were an honorable couple. Elizabeth, however, never had children and both were very old.

            One day Zacharias was chosen to provide service in the temple. While performing his duty a multitude of people were outside praying. All of a sudden an angel appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. He became very afraid, full of fear.

The angel said, “Do not be afraid for your prayers have been heard and your wife will have a son, whom you will call John. You will be happy and glad, Zacharias, and many will rejoice at his birth for he will turn back many to the Lord their God. He will go as a forerunner before the Messiah in the spirit and power of Elijah, making ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

Zacharias replied, “How? My wife and I are old, too old to have children.”

Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God. He sent me to tell you this wonderful news. Because you did not believe when I told you what is going to happen, you will be unable to speak, not even make a sound, until the day these things take place.”

While this was occurring the people outside were waiting and wondering what was taking so long. Finally Zacharias returned but, as the angel had said, he was unable to speak. The crowd then realized he had seen a vision. He tried to tell them but was unable.

When Zacharias duties as priest were over he went back home and Elizabeth was soon with child.

            Six months after Gabriel visited Zacharias the angel was sent by God to Nazareth, a city in the Galilean hills, to a young woman named Mary engaged to Joseph, a descendant of King David.

            The angel said to her, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.”

            Mary was scared and thought, “What does this mean?” 

The angel, knowing her thoughts, said, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. You are going to have a child, a little boy. He shall be great and called the Son of the Most High God. The Lord will give Him the throne of King David. His kingdom will have no end.”

            Mary replied, “How? I am only engaged, not married.”

            The angel said, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. The Holy Offspring shall be called the Son of God. Believe, Mary! Look at your relative Elizabeth. She has conceived a son in her old age and is now in the sixth month. Nothing is impossible with God.”

            Mary responded, “Let everything be done to me according to your word.”

            After the angel left Mary, she got up and hurriedly went to the city in Judah where Elizabeth lived. As soon as she heard Mary’s greeting the baby leaped inside her and she was filled with the Holy Spirit.

Elizabeth cried out with a loud voice, “Blessed among women are you, Mary, and blessed is the baby in your womb. Blessed are you because you believed everything would come to pass as the angel told you.”

Mary was glad for her comment and began to praise God. She stayed with Elizabeth and Zacharias for three months and then returned to her home.

When Joseph, an upright man, found out Mary was having a baby, he wanted to deal with the situation secretly. He did not want to disgrace her. While considering what to do an angel appeared to him in a dream saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. The baby she is carrying is a Holy Child conceived by God. The child shall be a Son and you will call Him Jesus. He will save His people from their sins.” Joseph arose from his sleep and did what the angel said, taking Mary as his wife.

Later a decree went out from Caesar Augustus for a census to be taken of the whole Roman Empire. Everyone was to return to their ancestral city. Joseph, with Mary, went from Nazareth of Galilee to Bethlehem of Judea, the city of King David. No rooms were available and they stayed in the stable. Mary was ready to give birth and Jesus was born. She wrapped Him in a cloth and laid Him in a manger.

In the same region that night was some shepherds. They were staying in the fields and keeping watch over their flock. An angel suddenly appeared, standing before them. The glory of the Lord shone around them. The shepherds were very frightened but the angel said, “Be glad! I bring you Good News of a great joy which shall be for all the people. Today, in the city of David, has been born for you a Savior, Christ the Lord. As a sign you will find a baby wrapped in a cloth, lying in a manger.”

Suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly host praising God saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

When the angel had gone back to heaven the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what was made known to us.”  They came in haste and found Mary, Joseph and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they saw Him, they made known the statement told about the Child. All who heard wondered at the things being said but Mary treasured up everything, pondering them in her heart. Afterwards the shepherds went back to their flock, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen.

An English theologian once commented, “Why was it necessary for Jesus to be born in a stable, laid in a manger and viewed by shepherds? Jesus is the Lamb of God. Where else but at a stable would the Lamb of God be born? What else but in a manger would the Lamb of God be laid? Who else but shepherds would view the birth of the Lamb of God?

            Eight days after the Child was born, He was circumcised and given the name Jesus, as the angel had told them He was to be named. When the days of purification were completed, they brought Jesus to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, as was customary for first born male children. They offered a sacrifice according to the Mosaic Law, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.

            In Jerusalem was a righteous and devout man named Simeon, filled with the Holy Spirit. One day the Holy Spirit revealed to him he would not see death before seeing the Lord’s Christ. When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus for dedication, Simeon, led by the Spirit, went into the temple. He took Jesus into his arms, blessed God and said, “Now Lord, you can let me die in peace. Mine eyes have seen your Son, sent to save the world.”

            Jesus’ parents were amazed at the things being said. Simeon blessed them, saying to Mary, “Behold, this Child shall be rejected by many in Israel to their undoing. But He will be the greatest joy of many others. The deepest thoughts of many hearts shall be revealed.”

            This took place when Herod was king in Judea. A little while later Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem saying, “Where is the One born king of the Jews?  We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.”

            Herod was troubled when he heard this, along with all of Jerusalem. He gathered together the chief priests and scribes to inquire where the Christ was to be born. They answered him, “He is to be born in Bethlehem of Judea, as written by the prophet Micah.”

            Herod secretly called the Magi to him and found out when the star first appeared to them.  After they told him, he sent them to Bethlehem saying, “Go and make a careful search for this child and when you find him come tell me, so I can come and worship Him too.”

            After hearing the king they left. Once again the star, the one seen in the east, went before them until it stood directly over the place where the Child was located. When they saw the star they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. They entered the house, fell down and worshiped.

            After opening their treasures they presented gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The wise men left but went to their country another way. God had warned them in a dream not to return to King Herod.

            When they departed an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream saying, “Arise and take the Child and His mother to Egypt. Remain there until I tell you. Herod is coming to search for Him, wanting to destroy Him.” Joseph arose and did as the angel said.

When Herod realized he had been tricked by the wise men he became furious. He gathered all the soldiers and sent them to Bethlehem saying, “Kill all the male children two years old and younger.”  This was the time told him when the star was seen. The soldiers did what they were commanded to do.

            After Herod died an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Now take the Child and His mother back to the land of Israel. Those who sought His life are dead.” Joseph brought them back to Israel but when he heard Herod’s son was king of Judea, he departed for the regions of Galilee and resided in the city of Nazareth, where Jesus grew into manhood.

            The birth of Jesus is not like the birth of ordinary children. As the birth of the King, He had a forerunner proclaiming His coming. As the birth of the Lamb of God, He was born in a stable. As the birth of the Savior of the world, those who saw Him rejoiced, worshipped and gave gifts.

The greatest miracle of His birth is that Jesus knew, before He came, He would die a cruel and ugly death on a cross. He decided to come out of a tremendous love for you.

No greater love will the world ever know then the love God showed through His Son Jesus, the Lord. He came into the world as a babe and left the world as the Victor over death.

Experience peace, true inner peace given only by Jesus, and give genuine good will to others on account of His birth. Amen!

CHRISTMAS: EMBARRASSED

John 1:1-5, 14-18 – “¹In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²He was with God in the beginning. ³Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. ⁴In him was life, and that life was the light of men. ⁵The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it…. ¹⁴The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.¹⁵John testifies concerning him. He cries out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’” ¹⁶From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. ¹⁷For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. ¹⁸No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.

            The Christmas story in Luke’s gospel is reported from a woman’s perspective. Mary was visited by an angel saying, “You are with child.”

            The Christmas story in Matthew’s gospel is reported from a man’s perspective. Joseph was visited by an angel saying, “You will name the child Jesus.

            From John’s gospel comes a sense of God’s perspective. “The Word became flesh.” God’s One and Only Son became the living testament of grace and truth.

            The Word of Christmas is God loves and gives. (John 3:16) What are you giving this Christmas?

Many people have at least one hard-to-shop-for person. I struggled knowing what to give my dad. He took care of all his possessions and rarely needed anything replaced. On top of this, his gifts to me were very much needed and generous.

            Do you become embarrassed when a person gives wonderful gifts compared to what you are able to give? It can be humbling and embarrassing at Christmas receiving such generosity and not being able to match it.

            If it is hard to shop for some people, imagine shopping for God?  He gave eternal life. What is an appropriate present for Him?  He gave His very best. What is a suitable gift in return? Consider the options!

Maybe give God money

            Money is not a bad gift. Money allows the recipient some flexibility. The receiver can purchase some needed items on behalf of the giver. My parents, when my wife and I no longer lived in Seattle, sent money at Christmas to buy presents for the kids. We liked the flexibility and had fun shopping, something we could rarely do with our own income.

            Jesus once commended a widow for her financial offering. Is money all God wants from you? What an easy gift!

            The Bible says He is not impressed with how much you earn or possess. You will never be happy trying to amaze God with generosity. The gift will fail to astound Him and resentment will fill your heart.

            Solomon, on the day the temple was dedicated, sacrificed as an offering 22,000 oxen and 120,000 sheep. The people were impressed but God was not. In Psalms 50:12 the Lord declares, “The world is mine and the fullness thereof.”

            While pastoring in Minnesota the vast majority of townspeople were considered Roman Catholic, although many attended other churches. The whole community knew when the Catholic Church sent their annual “fair share” statement. The letter went to every person with a Roman Catholic background, not just the ones regularly attending Holy Redeemer Church. The sound of grumbling greatly increased around town. Something is not a gift, when it is demanded. Giving is also not a type of union dues, an obligation to gain benefits.

            Money should be given willingly, faithfully and regularly but is not much of a gift compared to what God gave.

Maybe give God talent

            There are many talented people in churches. Are personal skills supposed to be a gift to God?

            Who, if any, can impress God by their ability? Who has talent superior to His? Who can wow the Almighty with human capabilities? Some are creative but can it compare to His creation?

            Talent is nothing more than doing what is expected with God’s endowment to you. Some become easily offended when abilities are not noticed or no one gives a complement. Why? You are doing what you have been gifted to do.

            This does not suggest people should not be appreciated but, rather, they should not demand accolades. If a person does not use their talents, they deprive themselves and others of His blessing. You owe it to God to use your talents for Him. Something is not a gift when it is owed.

            Talent is needed and necessary but its usage is expected and cannot be considered a gift.

Maybe give God time

            Most people are very busy. Even giving a moment of time can seem demanding. For many the day begins before sun up and ends way into the night.

            Occasionally people attempt to barter with God by saying, “Lord, if you get me out of this mess I will go to church.” They try to trade their troubles for time.

            The Bible declares, however, that your every heartbeat and each breath are in His hands. The psalmist wrote, “My time is in Your hand.” (Psalms 35:25)

            Time must appear awfully insignificant to the One who always was and always will be. Like a speck of dust on a living room carpet is time compared to eternity. Your lifespan is not much when viewed from His perspective.

            Time devoted to God is good but it does not compare to Him sending the Eternal Word Incarnate.

Maybe give God intellect

            A classic television commercial said, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Can the human brain outthink God? Unfortunately, many attempt to help God by thinking for Him, some even try to second-guess Him.

            Have you ever thought something would not get done correctly unless done your way? Trusting God includes knowing His plans always get accomplished, whether you understand them or not.

            Some act like they are God’s gift of wisdom. Job’s friends saw themselves as being smart and he sarcastically responded, “Doubtless you know everything and wisdom will die with you.” (Job 12:2)

            Only God knows everything perfectly. First Corinthians 3:19 states your thinking is foolish in comparison to His. The all-wise God is the only One with special insight.

            Wisdom is great but is an embarrassing gift in comparison to what He knows.

Maybe give God goodness

            This is the Season when people are supposedly evaluated as being naughty or nice by a jolly old fellow. You are considered okay when nice more than naughty, right? Is properly behaving all that is needed? Is goodness all God really wants? 

            The vast majority of people are law-abiding citizens, demonstrating appropriate conduct nearly all the time. Surely you do most of the Ten Commandments. Is eight out of ten good enough?

            Scriptures states doing what is right cannot be achieved by self-determination. “There is none righteous, no not one.” (Romans 3:10) “All our righteousness is as soiled rags.” (Isaiah 64:6) No matter how much you personally improve your life, you cannot accomplish personal purity.

            Being morally good is commendable but appears cheap in comparison to the richness of His gift.

What can you give God?

            There is only one acceptable gift: Give God your love and be thankful! This is what the Lord desires the most. Deuteronomy 10:12 states, “What does the Lord your God require from you, but to…love Him.” Loving God gives Him your most precious gift.

            When you love Him everything becomes His, the money, talent, time, intellect and goodness. When you give Him your love, you give Him your life.

            Love is the only appropriate gift compared to the gift of His Son. He gave His all, can you do any less?

            Give God your love! Only when He has your love will you not be embarrassed at Christmas.

CHRISTMAS: GOOD NEWS

Luke 2:8-20 – This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.  But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.

            Scripture records God’s people waiting for a Messiah, coming in the name of the Lord. The promise of an Anointed One goes back to the first man and woman in the Garden of Eden. Even though the first couple failed miserably, and everyone since then has failed living to their fullest potential, God made plans to restore His creation. Millenniums passed and the day of the divine appointment arrived.

            An angel made appearances to several people who had a significant role in the redemption story. A Roman census brought the descendents of David to Bethlehem, the location prophesied for the Savior’s birth. His birth occurred in an animal stable instead of a spotless medical facility.

            On His birthday, a holy messenger came to some local shepherds to announce His arrival. They were told Good News: the Lamb of God was in a nearby stable. Three significant statements were given to them.

The end of fear

            “Do not be afraid.” (V. 10) These words are always in the vocabulary of angels. To Zechariah, Mary, Joseph and shepherds the message was consistently the same – what God has done is not fearful.

            The shepherds were naturally afraid by an unusual event. There is a fear, however, that runs much deeper. A worst kind of fear happened when Adam chose to sin.

            “They heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.’” (Genesis 3:8-10)

            Fear of consequences, caused by rebellious, erroneous and unwholesome behavior, is the greatest kind of fear.

            Fear has been stalking mankind through the centuries. Abraham out of fear lied to Egyptians about his relationship with Sarah. (Genesis 12:11-13) Jacob lived in fear of his brother Esau, not wanting to face him.  (Genesis 32:6-8) Moses feared Pharaoh, wishing the divine assignment would be given to someone else. (Exodus 4:1) Israel was afraid to enter the Promised Land because of reports about giants occupying the territory.

            Jesus abolishes fear. Wherever He traveled fear was dispelled.

            Blind Bartimaeus, sitting by the road outside Jericho, feared he would never see. Jesus restored his sight.

            Ten lepers feared they would never be with their families. Jesus cleansed them all.

            Mary and Martha feared for Lazarus’ life and asked Jesus to come quickly. He delayed coming but raised him from the dead.

            Jesus calms each and every kind of fear, no matter the circumstance.

            People every Christmas struggle with fear; afraid about health, family, world conditions and economy. Some are simply scared of life itself. Jesus has come! Do not be troubled. He is the answer to your every fear.

The birth of joy

            “Bring you good news of a great joy.” (V.10) Songs sung around Christmas give emphasis to joy. Why is rejoicing associated with Christmas? The sin issue has been dealt a fatal blow. The guilt, shame and condemnation attached to sin can be finally removed from the human heart.

            Jesus Lordship causes joy. No one else is Lord; no one else is His equal. Occasionally believers wrestle with sin, demonic influences and maybe the devil himself but only Jesus has the right of ruling His followers.

            Many years ago a little boy was given a priceless possession, his deceased grandfather’s gold pocket watch. He treasured it. One day, while playing at his father’s plant, he lost the watch amid all the tools. He frantically searched but could not find the watch. He suddenly realized what to do. He stopped scurrying around and became very still. In the silence, he heard the watch ticking.

            In Jesus you have the priceless gift of joy. Circumstances and the hectic pace of life make it easy to lose the gift. Joy is found when you pause and listen for the presence of Jesus. Christmas reminds you to come to Him and experience joy.

The announcement to all

            “Which will be for all the people.” (V. 10) The nations need Jesus! Everyone is flawed; no one lives perfectly. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) Jesus came and is available to everyone. His coming to earth is the celebration of Christmas.

            Note the action of the shepherds after they came and beheld Him: “When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. (Luke 2:17-18)

            Too many in God’s family are sitting and soaking their way to heaven. After personally beholding Him, make Him known to others. There are people all around you needing to know the amazing story of divine grace.

            An artist, seeking to depict on canvas the meaning of salvation, painted a storm at sea. Black clouds filled the sky. Illuminated by a flash of lightning, a little boat could be seen disintegrating under the pounding of the ocean. Men were struggling in the swirling waters, their anguished faces crying out for help. The only glimmer of hope appeared in the foreground of the painting, where a large rock protruded out of the water. Clutching desperately with both hands was one lone seaman.

            The scene was inspiring. One could see in the tempest a symbol of mankind’s hopeless condition. The only hope of salvation is “the Rock of Ages,” a shelter in the time of storm.

            As the artist reflected upon his work, he realized the painting did not accurately portray his subject. He discarded the canvas and painted another. It was very similar to the first – the black clouds, the flashing lightning, the angry waves, the little boat crushed by the pounding sea and the crew vainly struggling in the water. In the foreground the seaman was clutching the large rock for salvation but the artist made one change. The survivor was holding on with only one hand and with the other hand was reaching down to pull up a drowning friend.

            The Scriptural picture of salvation is a hand reaching down to rescue the perishing. Until a hand is extended, there is no hope for the world.

Good News

            Be thankful for the end of fear, relish the birth of joy and reveal the Savior to others.

WORD OF GOD, 5

Romans 10:8-10,17 – ⁸But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: ⁹That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved…. ¹⁷Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

            1 Thessalonians 2:13 – ¹³And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.

            Hebrews 4:12 – ¹²For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

      James 1:21 – ²¹Therefore, 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.

      1 Peter 1:23 – ²³For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

            As an overview of the Word of God series, have a healthy diet of both the milk and meat of the Bible, fill the heart (your inner sanctum) with Scripture, the goal of Bible reading is spiritual transformation, and the Word augments spiritual experiences. The last focus of the series is the power of God’s word.

The word is powerful because of the living God

            What makes Scripture “sharper than any double-edged sword” is the Author who stands behind it, the Lord God Almighty. You cannot separate the power of God’s word from the presence of God Himself. The pages of the Bible have no magical force.

            In a classic Hollywood movie, an Arab with an injured leg tore pages out of his holy book and placed them on the damaged limb, thinking healing was imminent. The leg was eventually amputated. Tragically, some followers of Jesus look at the Bible in a similar way. Healing and mending does not occur on account of constantly quoting Scripture or doggedly dwelling on the promises. Healing comes from the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

            The Bible is not a book of hocus-pocus, where a person arbitrarily opens it for a mysterious answer. Wanting to discover God’s will, a man randomly opened the Bible, allowing the pages to aimlessly drop open, and he blindly put his finger on a verse: “Thus says the Lord.” He attempted the procedure again: “Trust Him and commit your ways.” Encouraged, he tried a third time: “Judas hung himself.” Confused, he gave one last try: “Go and do likewise.” The Bible is not designed for such a foolish way for receiving guidance and direction.

            The Bible is about the living God, a book of faith, trust and genuine love. The Book is the supreme love letter, revealing pure love that creates personal wholeness.

            Scripture is very candid about life and living. No other book is as down-to-earth and honest about the human condition. Some people accuse the Bible of even being vulgar. From its pages are such subjects as human sanitation, immorality, incest, promiscuity and the consequences of rebellious behavior. The book powerfully addresses all of life, including its tragedies and consequences, from the perspective of the living God.

The word is powerful for those who trust God

            God’s word, when entering the heart, develops trustworthiness. A follower of Jesus does not attempt acts of faith to fulfill God’s word. Scripture enters the heart and raises trust in the God who fulfills His every word.

            Some try to fulfill God’s word by personal optimism, negating the power of Scripture to produce faith. Some have a Biblical “mustard seed” faith, a Scripture-produced faith, seeing mountainous situations moved by the hand of God. Others have a “mustered-up” faith, a self-produced faith that cannot move miniscule situations if their life depended on it. Mustard-seed faith creates spiritual confidence regardless how things appear; mustered-up faith is saturated with emotional instability and uncertainty.

            Mustered-up faith leaves people in terrible bondage while mustard-seed faith brings freedom. Some, in an effort to be people of faith, are afraid of thinking negatively and constantly live in bondage. We are not asked to muster-up faith by trying to always think positive. We are called to a mustard-seed faith based on trusting God. Scripture in your heart produces living faith, a believing faith that works mightily, bringing wonderful results to God’s glory.

The word is powerful when acted upon properly

            The Greek words “logos” and “rhema” are translated “word” in the Bible. When given serious study there does not appear to be a clear distinction. Some are making too great a division between them.

            The Apostle John used the word “logos” in a more universal sense. The word “rhema” appears to be used during specific occasions. Logos could be “the word of the Lord” and rhema could be “a word from the Lord for a particular moment, event or occasion.”

            The prophet Elisha told Naaman to dip seven times in the Jordan River to be cured of leprosy. Does this mean all lepers are cured by dunking themselves seven times in the Jordan?  The word to Naaman was a rhema moment, a specific word to a single person for a particular time.

            “Jesus saves” is a universal truth, while “Jesus saves me” is the universal truth embraced by a specific person.

            Problems develop when attempting to use a universal word in a specific way without a clear basis for doing so. Isaiah records, “By Your stripes we are healed….” Some reinterpret this promise and say, “I am already healed,” even when there is no indication healing has occurred. The universal declaration about Calvary’s healing power, used as a word for personal healing, is mustered-up faith. For the universal provision of healing to become a personal promise requires a specific word from the Lord.

            When elders pray for the sick, they pray the universal truth that God can heal. The prayer is based on the pattern of James 5, with faith in God’s ability. The actual healing is left with Him. Prayer is offered with simple confidence in the gift of healing, according to His provision.

            Occasionally people pray based on a specific word. God does give Holy Spirit illumination to help a pray-er pray specifically. He gives divine inspiration and encourages the person being guided to pray.

            When my wife and I were dating, she regularly watched the pastor’s children. The pastor invited me one evening to be with her while she babysat. Their oldest son suffered regularly from croup and was in his crib, restlessly attempting to sleep.

            He was coughing hard throughout the evening. While watching television we kept hearing a hacking noise coming from his bedroom. I felt a clear nudge in my heart to pray for him. There was a strong sense that healing would occur. I hesitated! Finally I quietly slipped away to check on him and prayed, gently laying hands on him. I felt an unusual surge of power flow through my hands and instantly the coughing stopped. I was startled and quietly began praising the Lord. My confidence increased that God still speaks specifically to people.

            To force a universal truth into a specific situation is tragic. Faith becomes destroyed instead of built up. A good way to approach a word from the Lord is: the Word of the Lord always clarifies a word from the Lord; a word from the Lord never overrules the Word of the Lord. The only way you can know if a specific word is from God is when confirmed by His written Word.

            T or F – Thus says the Lord, “Be unfaithful to your spouse.” God’s word declares faithfulness. False!

            T or F – Thus says the Lord, “Commit suicide.” Scripture reveals self-annihilation destroys life and devastates loved ones. False!

            T or F – Thus says the Lord, “Receive healing.” Possibly true! Be sensitive to God’s guidance and pray expectantly! When you receive divine healing, have it confirmed and give testimony to the medical profession.

            One of the great privileges of being a believer who embraces the Pentecostal experience is readily recognizing the supernatural influence of God. He not only speaks through the written Word but to those open to His super-rational workings. He speaks through the pages of Scripture and through the voice of the Spirit. Be filled with the Spirit as well as know His declared Word. He longs to give a specific word in your moment of need. A special word from the Lord will always validate the written word.

            God’s word is powerful because of the living God. God’s word is highly effective for those who trust Him. God’s word is life changing when properly acted upon. In this coming year make Scripture a greater part of your life.

WORD OF GOD, 4

             John 1:1, 14 – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

            John 6:26-27, 31-35, 41, 48-58 – Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” … “Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven.  For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” “Sir,” they said, “from now on give us this bread.” Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. … At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” … “I am the bread of life. Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which a man may eat and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever.”

            In the Word of God series attention has been given to the healthy balance of remembering the elementary truths of faith and developing greater faith, the importance of placing God’s word in the inner court of your being, and God’s word being a tool for the spiritual transformation of your life. The Bible is more than a rule book or textbook.

            A study of the Word of God is not complete without viewing the Incarnate Word. The ultimate Word of God is Jesus.

            Part of your spiritual experience involves gathering at the Lord’s Table, partaking of bread and the fruit of the vine, and experiencing spiritual Communion. Knowing Scripture is beneficial to this spiritual experience.

            The gospel of John contains seven “I am” statements of Jesus – “I am the good Shepherd… I am the door… I am the way… I am the resurrection… Before Abraham was, I am… I am the true vine.”  John 6 records Jesus saying, “I am the bread of life.”

            Two ordinances are celebrated by the church, water baptism and communion.  Water baptism is done once, right after conversion.  Communion is done regularly, throughout the converted life.  Water baptism gives testimony of new life; communion gives testimony of nourishing life.

            Bread, as an element of communion, speaks of nourishment.  Spiritual life must be nourished to continue.  As physical existence needs earthly food so spiritual existence must have heavenly food.

            John 6 is devoted to the theme of bread.  The first fourteen verses record the feeding of 5000 people. The rest of the chapter is a discourse Jesus gave about bread.  Included are phrases such as, “the living bread… the bread of God… the bread of life… the bread of heaven… the true bread.”  What is meant by true bread?

            Two words are translated “true” in the New Testament.  The word “alethes” carries the idea of unconcealed; truth is apparent and not hidden. When something is “alethes,” it is honest and without error. The opposite would be a lie or something false. The word speaks of historical fact, something being authentic, credible and reliable. In John 6:55 Jesus said, “For my flesh is true (alehtes) bread and My blood is true (alethes) drink.” His sacrifice on the cross is authentic and reliable. He is the honest meaning behind the “bread” of Communion.

            The other Greek word translated “true” is “alethinos” and carries the idea of being dependable and real. The word defines the limits between real and unreal.  In John 6:32 Jesus said, “It is My Father who gives you the true (alethinos) bread out of heaven,” and then says, “I am the bread.”  He is ultimate reality. He is more than a credible sacrifice, an honest sacrifice and a historical sacrifice; He is the dependable sacrifice and the reality of life.

            Jesus, the Incarnate Word, brings you into honest reality. To not follow Jesus is to live an illusionary life.  Believers get accused of not living in “the real world.” On the contrary, those who follow Jesus are the only people living the real life.          

Bread in the Wilderness (Exodus 16)

            Jesus made reference to Israel’s “forefathers” who “ate manna.” (John 6:31) Communion is better understood by noting what happened in the wilderness journey of Israel.

            The people of Israel found it difficult fully comprehending the things that were happening. For four hundred years they lived in Egypt. Initially they were treated well by the Egyptians. Joseph, one of twelve sons of Jacob, was sold into slavery by his brothers and eventually became influential in Pharaoh’s court, rescuing the nation from total ruin. When his family came for aid he provided for them.

            As Jacobs’s family grew into the tribe of Israel, the Egyptians forgot the good things Joseph had done and enslaved them. Being an oppressed people, Israel began to cry out to God for deliverance. Moses, after being away for 40 years, returns from a distant land and announces the Lord is about to set them free.

            Some remembered stories about Moses, a Hebrew boy rescued from the Nile River and raised in Pharaoh’s palace. Included in the story was an account of an Egyptian being killed, Moses being accused and him fleeing the country. A generation had passed and Moses returned. (Archeological findings indicate those constructing the pyramids lived only to around 35 years of age.)

            Moses was used of God to bring deliverance. Through a series of plagues, climaxing with the death of all first-born Egyptians, the Hebrews were allowed to leave. By the time they got to the Red Sea, the Egyptians had changed their minds.

            The sea became their baptism. The waters divided before them, they left a life of bondage and began a journey to God’s promise.

            In the wilderness of Shur they became thirsty. The water was unfit for human consumption. Moses sought the Lord and was told to cast a branch into the water. God healed the water and their thirst became satisfied. The Lord revealed Himself, not only as their Deliverer from Egypt, but their Healer during the journey.

            In was wilderness of Sin they became hungry. The people grumbled and reminisced about life in Egypt. They moaned, “This prophet brought us here to die.” (According to the Army’s Quartermaster General, to sustain the Israelites in the wilderness would take 1,500 tons of food each day delivered by two freight trains, both a mile long.)

            Moses told the people, “In the morning, when you awaken, and when the dew evaporates, you will find a fine flake-like thing – like coriander seed, white; and its taste is like wafers with honey.  It is the bread which the Lord has given you to eat.  Gather as much as you can eat for that day, and twice as much the day before the Sabbath.”

            God, the Deliverer and Healer, revealed Himself as the Provider of heavenly bread. For forty years, until they came to inhabit the Promise Land, the Lord gave the bread that sustains life.

Bread in the Plain (John 6:1-14)

            The Gospels also record a bread incident. A Man who reportedly came from Nazareth spoke of deliverance from sin. Wherever He went He would heal the sick. Large crowds began to follow Him.

            News got to Him that Herod executed His cousin John. He slipped away on a boat to be alone. The crowds were determined to be with Him and traveled on land to where the boat was heading.

            The region Jesus went to was a desolate place, similar to the wilderness of Sin. The people were hungry and Jesus commanded that they be fed. The disciples grumbled, “How can we possibly feed these many people?” Taking what was available, Jesus asked the Heavenly Father to once again provide the bread of life. Before their eyes, the bread was multiplied and everyone ate as much as they wanted.

            God’s Son, who delivers from sin and heals diseases, became the provider of bread.

Bread in the Believer (John 6:15-58)

            The people came back to Jesus the next day for more bread. It was long believed the Messiah, like Moses, would renew the miracle of the manna. “And He rained down manna upon them to eat, and gave them food from heaven.” (Psalms 78:24)

            When they came to the plain where 5000 were fed, Jesus was gone. Finding Him in Capernaum, they expected bread, as if to say, “We are here, Jesus, give us this day our daily bread.”

            Jesus responded, “You seek Me for tangible bread?  Seek food which endures to eternal life.”

            They replied, “Our forefathers ate manna in the wilderness, we ate bread on the plain, if you are who you say you are then provide for us now.”

            Jesus declared, “My Father gives you true bread.” Real bread; not like what was given in the wilderness or on the plain. The people grumbled when Jesus said, “I am the bread that came down out of heaven.”

            Manna in the wilderness of Sin and 5000 fed by the Redeemer of sin were only shadows of God’s eternal bread. The crowds, filled with the loaves He provided, wanted Jesus to give a permanent supply of bread. He did! He gave Himself as the everlasting sacrifice; the true bread, the honest reality of eternal life.

            The bread of God endures for eternity. Manna was temporal and symbolic. The feeding of 5000 was temporal and symbolic. Jesus, the Bread of life, is eternal and fulfilling.

            To eat and sip of the true food and true drink, to partake of the elements of His atonement, is to participate and fellowship with the Deliverer and Healer, sent from the Father. Jesus is the Bread of life, He is the living Bread. By appropriating Jesus as Lord of your life, you experience real life. He sustains, maintains and nourishes your life forever.

            Moses’ final instruction to the people in the wilderness included, “And He humbled you and let you be hungry, and fed you with manna which you did not know, nor did your father know, that He might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord.”  (Deuteronomy 8:3)

            In Jesus’ wilderness, after being baptized by John (similar to Israel passing through the sea), He rebuked the devil by quoting Moses, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.”  (Matthew 4:4)

            In your spiritual wilderness, as you hunger for honest and true reality, Jesus extends to you an invitation: “He who believes has eternal life.  I am the bread of life…This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, so that you may eat of it and live forever.”

            Jesus is the Deliverer, Healer and Provider. Follow Jesus, honest and real life.

WORD OF GOD, 3

1 Timothy 1:3-7 – As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God’s work—which is by faith.  The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.  Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk.  They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.

            2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

            2 Peter 1:20-21 – Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation.  For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

 

            The first part of this series noted the value of mixing the simplicity and substance of God’s word throughout your lifetime. Never become only spiritual “meat” eaters but include spiritual “milk” as a regular part of your Scripture diet.

            The second part noted the importance of God’s word being in your heart, the place that dictates lifestyle. Understanding is the gate to your mind and belief is the gate to your heart.

            The next question has to do with the purpose of Scripture. What is to be accomplished by Bible study? Using the terminology of First Timothy, what is the goal? What are you seeking to achieve by reading Scripture?

            American history includes seasons of spiritual revival. The purpose of revival is bringing back to life what has become dead by routine and monotony.  Revivals are not perpetuated but are for a limited time. They resuscitate a corpse. The study of revivals reveals the following: different approach, dynamic results.

For those desiring a genuine encounter with the living God, hungering for a fresh touch of His presence, the Lord makes Himself known in revival settings. During these unique moments of spiritual stirrings people look for more in their relationship with Him.  He, however, is the Perfect Gentleman; you only gain what you are open to experience. When willing to have a divine encounter unexpectant things can occur.

During a revival, when in earnest pursuit of a closer walk with the Lord, I came face-to-face with my unwholesome pride, with all its implications. Unwittingly I had become a Pharisee. A comment surprisingly resonated in my soul, “If the first four books of the New Testament are about Jesus, why are Pharisees given so much attention?” The recording of numerous activities done by Pharisees serves as a warning of what can happen to anyone.

            Study the subject of pride in the Bible. Examine the Biblical characters that were unbending in pride. If you do not humble yourself, humiliating circumstances are inevitable.

The goal of Scripture reading

             What makes someone like a New Testament Pharisee? The Pharisees were not evil. The Gospels declare they were misguided. Jesus referred to them as “blind guides.” If this can happen to God’s chosen people, it can happen to God’s children.

            Among many things, Pharisees are misguided in the object of their worship. They worship the Law more than the Lawgiver, worship Scripture more than God. With Pharisees it becomes more important to know Scripture then to experience transforming truth.

            What kind of person is more prone to choose a relationship with a Book then with the Author? There are three!

            People who attribute the deepest wounds of their life to God Himself. They prefer principles and procedures over a relationship. Laws can be more regulated than a Person. There is risk of being hurt in a love relationship. Some choose to not let that happen. Those with a heart of a Pharisee prefer law because it can be regulated.

            People who demand being in control of their life. To these people the task of Bible reading becomes one of cultivating the mind through discipline and willpower. They believe great knowledge can rule a person’s environment and control the outcome of every situation. The mind replaces God as the object of worship.

            People with an ambition to control others. In-depth Bible knowledge can give a person tools to control other people. Someone wiser than their peers can mistakenly think themselves qualified to dictate other people’s actions. Someone who knows the Bible best can end up wanting to tell others what is best for them.

            The Bible can be used in misguided ways for controlling personal hurts, one’s own environment and other people. When done for these reasons, Bible study is rooted in pride.

            In Jesus’ time proud Pharisees wanted control. As a religious sect of a persecuted race they wanted control over hurt. As a group of people under Roman rule they wanted control over their lives. Out of religious piety they wanted to control others.

            The goal of Scripture reading is not learning rules and principles that put you in control.

Entering into God’s kingdom

             The entrance to God’s kingdom is through the work of the Holy Spirit. No amount of Bible knowledge gives entranceway into grace. By faith the Lord becomes a part of your life. The focus of spiritual formation is developing genuine faith.

            Since a meaningful relationship with God is a work of the Spirit, why do many attempt to progress solely through academics? Progress is accomplished by regaining the outlook of a little child, not by advanced intellectual skill. We prefer being smart grown-ups, having an element of control, instead of being dependent kids who must trust God for everything.

            The doorway to God’s kingdom is faith and the roadway is greater faith. IQ is not the focal point of spiritual development. The focal point is a healthy faith.

            Paul declared, “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.  But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.  He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.” (1 Corinthians 1:26-30)

            Jesus healed on the Sabbath and said to some upset Pharisees, “And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent.  You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” (John 5:37-40)

            Academically studying Scripture is not the problem. The problem is academics becoming a substitute to an encounter with God and to living with an active faith.

            In pastoral ministry difficulties develop and sometimes pastors conclude the problem is a lack of professional training. Some leave the assignment and head back to school for more education yet, when they return to ministry, they still feel inadequate. They do not understand!  Inadequacy to do God’s work is part of the assignment, keeping a person dependent upon Him. Academics can never make someone fully competent to do ministry. Total dependency upon God is the only solution.

            What should be constantly examined in your spiritual formation is the quality of your faith.

The result of Bible study

             The study of God’s word is for spiritual transformation. The truths of Scripture are redemptive, not academic. Genuine Bible study emphasizes character develop more than the accumulation of knowledge. The goal of Biblical instruction is becoming spiritually alive more than becoming scholastically advanced.

            An old saying, regarding people incarcerated in prison and getting schooling behind bars, is, “Educate a thief and you have an educated thief.” Education does not reform wrongful behavior.

            Apply the same concept to Bible education, “Teach Scripture to a sinner and you have a sinner with knowledge of Scripture.” Many people know the Bible extremely well and still struggle with anger, jealousy, greed, envy, pride and control. The Bible is read more for knowledge than for personal transformation.

            Simply studying Scripture only makes a person a Bible scholar. The focus should be a relationship with God, where the Bible is no longer just a Book but is truly God’s word.

            The Reformation was a 16^th century rebellion that became the catalyst of division between Protestants and Roman Catholics. The cry of the Reformation was, among other things, “Back to the Bible” and is still the plea of many Reform churches. Although a good start, the Bible is not meant to be the end of the journey.

            Does God want you to only go back to the Bible?

            “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2)

            “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.  And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:17-18)

            Scripture is to change your nature and your destiny. Before you read the Bible prepare your heart to experience God. Petition Him to open the eyes of your heart, more than simply fill your mind. Pause and ask God to do a work of spiritual formation while reading. The Lord wants to speak to you through the pages of Scripture, so first turn on your spiritual antenna. The goal of Bible reading is hearing from God.

            I shared this story in an earlier article but it also has relevance here. When serving as a Minister of Youth and Music in South Dakota many years ago, I was asked to be a judge at a statewide Teen Bible Quiz meet. One team was coached by a brilliant young man. His knowledge of Bible content was masterful. He developed a highly competitive team.

            After a few other ministry assignments I started overseeing a Bible College in North Dakota and spoke at various churches on weekends. In a South Dakota church a man entered an Adult Sunday School class and sat, never looking up. His eyes were fixed to the floor. He was not well kept and his life had obviously not gone well. At the end of class he was invited to introduce himself. He quietly commented about once serving as a Bible Quiz coach. At that moment I recognized him as the exceptional coach from earlier years.

            We had a private conversation before the next service. I asked, “What happen?” Looking away he said, “I don’t know; I just don’t know.”  The focus of Scripture content is personal transformation more than competitive knowledge.

            I saw similar problems at the Bible College. Some students focused on Bible classes but not daily chapel, became knowledgeable of Theology but neglected weekly church attendance, and studied Ministry subjects but did not participate in ministry opportunities. Classes even became the excuse for neglecting daily chapel, weekly church attendance and active ministry.

            These kinds of students spiritually dried up; some became arrogant, a few walked away from God and all of them became useless in kingdom work. The purpose of Scripture is to make you a saint, not a scholar.

            You may know the 66 books of the Bible in perfect order. You may know how to spell “Ecclesiastes” and pronounce “Habakkuk” correctly. You may know where the shortest and longest verses in the Bible are located. You may have many Scripture passages memorized and know where Biblical truths are found. If Scripture, however, does not work a Holy Spirit transformation in you, if it does not produce a change in your life, then it has become personally worthless and you have become a Pharisee.

            Why do many claim to follow Jesus and not reflect Him? Here are a few conclusions:

• They are not reading the Bible, or
• They are forgetting the elementary truths of the Bible, or
• They understand the truths of the Bible but do not allow Scripture to dictate lifestyle, or
• They approach the Bible as a textbook more than a means of spiritual transformation.

            Read the Book with spiritual purpose! Be changed into “His likeness with ever-increasing glory.”

WORD OF GOD, 2

Joshua 1:8 – Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

      Deuteronomy 11:18-25 – Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads…. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many…as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth. If you carefully observe all these commands I am giving you to follow – to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways and to hold fast to him…. No man will be able to stand against you. The LORD your God, as he promised you, will put the terror and fear of you…wherever you go.

            Psalms 1:1-3 – Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.  But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.  He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither.  Whatever he does prospers.

            Ezekiel 3:10 – And he said to me, “Son of man, listen carefully and take to heart all the words I speak to you.

            Psalms 119:11 – I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

            The series began by emphasizing to crave the milk of God’s word. You need the simplicity of Scripture along with the substance of Scripture. You cannot properly digest Biblical meat without spiritual milk. The milk, the elementary truths of grace, is part of a healthy diet, lasting an entire lifetime.

            The next item needing attention is the word of God becoming part of your heart. Some follow Jesus with only a casual knowledge of God’s word; others follow Him with a scholarly knowledge. You must go beyond casual familiarity and critical analysis to benefit from Scripture. You must be possessed by God’s word, it must fill the heart.

            You can better understand this concept by looking at yourself as a temple with an outer and inner court.

The gate to the outer court is called “understanding.”

            Every piece of information that enters a life comes by way of understanding. If an idea or concept is not understood the information does not enter.

            When people fail to understand they sometimes say, “It doesn’t register,” or “It doesn’t click with me.” If information begins to make sense it is like a light bulb coming on. Until something is understood, knowledge does not enter someone’s life.

            I am left-handed and often do things the opposite way of right-handed people. When preparing something in the kitchen my wife does not like to watch. She thinks I stir things backwards and peal things the wrong way. Being left-handed proved to be a detriment to learning as a teenager.

            My first motorbike was an 80cc Yamaha Trail Bike.  One summer during High School a friend and I decided to spend a week camping and riding through the Cascade Mountains. Within a few days we became bored and my friend came up with the idea of visiting an owner of a dairy farm. Coming from the city, I learned several lessons in this rural setting.

            The farmer’s pick-up truck had a flat tire and I was asked to replace it. I jacked-up the truck and easily took off the old tire. Putting the spare on, however, became a major ordeal. I was turning the lug nut the wrong way.

            After several attempts I changed my approach; turning it slowly, turning it with greater pressure, turning it lightly. I thought I had tried everything and was about to ask for help. I then did something totally revolutionary; I turned the nut the opposite direction. At that moment a light bulb went on in my head. The difference between clockwise and counterclockwise registered. The information became a permanent part of my life.

            Until understanding is activated, knowledge does not penetrate.

            God’s word enters a person’s life by hearing and understanding. When you understand you are a sinner by simply being human, as well as by wayward actions, God’s word enters your life. When you understand you are lost for eternity and no amount of wholesome activity can change the fact, God’s word enters your life. When you understand salvation is solely by grace, unmerited favor, God’s word enters your life. When the light of understanding is turned on about your eternal condition, then God’s word becomes part of the outer court of your life.

            Now what? What do I do with the information finally being understood? Do I throw it out?  I can! Do I reject it?  It is possible! Do I conclude, “I understand but it is not for me?” Some people do that! Or, do I let it enter the inner court where knowledge is acted upon?

The gate to the inner court is called “belief.”

            The inner court is referred to in the Bible as “the heart.” The heart is the ultimate center of your life, involving intellect, emotion and volition.

            The only information that gains access into the heart is that which is believed. The key to the belief gate is acceptance; the information is accepted as being valid. Many understand the way of salvation but do not believe it.

            What you accept as true enters the inner court. Things considered not true do not gain access to the core of your being. Through the gate of understanding information enters your life and by the gate of belief information enters your heart.

            When God’s word enters the heart life-change occurs. When you confess Jesus as Lord, He enters the core of your being, the adhesive of love makes the relationship meaningful and your life begins to change. By accepting His truth and loving Him, God’s word sticks to the heart and life takes on new meaning.

            The truths of Scripture are seen penetrating the heart when His directives are lovingly and willfully lived-out in your life. By submission the heart becomes a sanctuary for God, a place where the Holy Spirit dwells with divine splendor and supernatural abundance.

            Whatever word is in your heart, whatever is held dear, becomes your motivator. A good word produces excellent behavior. A bad word produces poor actions. Whatever you cherish (a word closely associated with the heart) is what you become.

            The phrase “highly esteem” speaks of affection from the heart. To highly esteem your parents is to have deep affection for them. To highly esteem a celebrity is to have deep affection for what they represent. To highly esteem a famous person, either alive or dead, is to have a deep affection for what they stand for or stood for. God’s desire is for Himself, as communicated by His word, to be highly esteemed. Your relationship with Him is to be a heart expression.

            From a negative perspective, Jesus told some Pharisees that the filthy content of the heart can defile a person. The content of the heart designs your life, produces your worth and causes your actions.

            When the psalmist writes, “I have hidden your word in my heart…,” he is saying, “I understand God’s word and base my life upon it. Scripture is changing the role sin has in my life.”

How to keep God’s word in the inner court?

            My friend LaVonne Masters reveals three activities that anchor His word in your heart.

            Meditation! The term means “solemn reflection; deep pondering; contemplation.” Meditation is sometimes described as “chewing on it,” similar to animals that chew cud. Meditation is allowing spiritual insight to come back to mind and reworking the truth deeper into your soul.

            Meditation fills the heart with God’s word, causing you to look at divine truth from several directions. Reflection and pondering makes spiritual truth more deeply understood.

            Memorization! This wholesome practice engraves the heart with God’s word. To memorize is to know information “by heart.”

            Memorizing is done by repetition. What does the shortest verse in the Bible say?  “Jesus wept.” (John 11:35) How do you know? You concentrated when it was repeated to you. People fail to remember by failing to concentrate. Memorizing combines concentration and repetition.

            Meditation and memorization enhances the third activity that anchors God’s word in the heart: ministry. Ministry is the act of reproducing God’s word. If you reflect and repeat and reproduce God’s word, the truth remains in your heart, which has benefits.

            What are the benefits? Psalm 1 reveals the benefit of living with significance and purpose. Ephesians 1:3 reveals the benefit of living with spiritual blessings. Psalms 119:11 reveals the benefit of living free from the shackles of sin.

            Through understanding God’s word gains entrance into your outer court. Through belief God’s word gains entrance into the inner court and dictates your life. By meditation, memorization and ministry God’s word remains in the heart, leading to divine benefits.

            Let God’s word saturate your heart. Live fully committed to His will and experience the divine benefits.