THE EFFECTIVE PRAYER

James 5:16-18 – “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.”

1 Peter 3:12 – “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

            Prayer is a major component of Spirit living.  Praying addresses mountainous problems. It alters events, brings peace to anxious hearts and solutions to difficult troubles.

            What makes prayer successful?  The word “prayer” helps answer the question. Effective praying involves the expression of prayer.

Three New Testament words are translated “prayer.”

            The most common Greek word is “pro-seu-cha.” The idea being communicated is to “ask” or to “wish” and is used only when addressing God. The root meaning carries a strong element of respectability, as seen when someone addresses a president or king.

            In the presence of nobility a person knows all requests are subject to the desire of the ruler. While addressing the king of Persia, the wicked Haman stated, “If it is pleasing to the king.” (Esther 3:8-9) He was saying, “I hope my evil wish fits into the will of my leader.”

            A pro-seu-cha prayer addresses God with reverence to His will toward personal wishes. Asking is involved but the door is left open in case the request is not in tune with His desire.

            Another Greek word is “de-a-sis.” The term means to “want,” to “desire,” to “long for,” to “beg,” and to “urge.” It is predominately used when expressing needs.

            The Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:11 used the word when wanting the church to pray for him to be saved from his adversaries. They were to urge  God, on behalf of his urgent need.

            The word is used in 2 Corinthians 9:14 when telling them others were praying on their behalf. The church was in the midst of a struggle. Others were begging God to intervene.

            The term carries a sense of “desperation” and “persistence.” The gospels writer Luke addresses the importance of determination.

            Luke 11: 5:10 records, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and he goes to him at midnight and says, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him.’ “Then the one inside answers, ‘Don’t bother me. The door is already locked, and my children are with me in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.’ I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man’s boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs. “So I say to you: [Continually] Ask and it will be given to you; [continually] seek and you will find; [continually] knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”

            Luke 18:1-8 records, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’  “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care about men, ⁵yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming!’” And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”

            Praying for someone’s salvation is a de-a-sis prayer – an urgent need, prompting persistence.

            Praying for a fresh move of God is a de-a-sis prayer – begging God to clearly reveal His presence and intervention.

            A de-a-sis prayer conveys earnestness. The prayer is not satisfied with a single request. The heart repeatedly cries out, “Lord, You must answer. You are our only hope.”

            The Bible sometimes uses the words “entreating” and “petitioning” for this term. Ephesians 6:18 uses both pro-seu-cha and de-a-sis – “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”

            The least used Greek word in the New Testament is “en-teuk-sis.” It means to address God “with childlike confidence,” to have “conversation” with Him. The word suggests a meeting of minds; to reason together when seeking God’s counsel, comfort and consolation.

            This form of communication is the “why” prayers. God does not condemn honest questioning.

            A child is full of questions. Some appear unimportant to an adult. Parents may get tired of endless questions but do not condemn a questioning child. As God’s children, he does not condemn either. We come with confidence to Him and hold a conversation. No question is insignificant. We want to understand what is happening or want clarification on His instructions and direction.

            Abraham and Isaac went to a special mountain to worship the Lord. Isaac understood the normal practices of worship and noticed they were not bringing all the necessary provisions. The activity did not make sense to him. Isaac asked his father, “Where is the sacrifice for the offering?” Abraham did not condemn the question by saying, “None of your business! Be quiet! Just do as you are told!” Recognizing the deviation, he replied, “God will provide.”

            Questioning God is not about doubting His ability but acknowledging confusion over the situation. Things are not happening as they normally do. In these moments God hears His children say, “I do not quite understand, Lord.”

            An en-teuk-sis prayer has the closest meaning to “intercession,” being a “go between,” to “meditate.” The practice has a childlike quality.

            All three terms are used is 1 Timothy 2:1: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone.”

            Pleading for God’s intervention, as Moses did on behalf of rebellious Israel.

            Asking in accordance to His will, as Hannah did for a son.

            Interceding or reasoning together, as Abraham did over Sodom’s fate.

            All these kinds of prayers are to be done with thanksgiving.

            James 5 uses two of these words. In verses 13 through 18, when addressing the subject of healing and suffering, “pro-sue-cha” is predominately used; meaning, asking in accordance to His will and in reverence to God’s desire. In verse 16, however, “de-a-sis” is used; meaning pleading with perseverance and determination.

            An incident from Elijah’s life is referenced. Rain had not occurred for years. After confronting a group of idol-priests he positioned himself in a birthing position and travailed for rain. Elijah demonstrated that pleading earnestly births results.

            The severity of the need is seen by the desperation of the pray-er. The James text can be amplified to read, “The effective, desperate begging to God of a righteous person can accomplish much.”

            Are you praying over needs with a sense of desperation? Are you praying like this for the church? Are you desperately petitioning God to produce life-changing results through you?

Another important term in James is the word “effective.”

            The Greek word means “strong, mighty or powerful.” The term carries the idea of overcoming strength. It suggest being sure of God’s power and of the need’s severity.

            The term involves an element of insight. You know your personal standing with God, the critical nature of the need and the urgency for an answer. When sure God is able, when sure God is concerned, when sure the issue lines up with His word, when sure the need must be met, when sure the request is made from a pure heart (without selfishness), THEN there is a freedom to pray forcibly and mightily, with confidence that the need will be met. Effective praying is confident praying.

The person praying is also important for results.

            The “effective prayer” is offered by the “righteous.” The root meaning is “a person who upholds the divine and human law.” The prayer is offered by someone imputed with the righteousness of the Lord Jesus. The person praying is revealing a life consistent with Jesus’ life and teaching. This promise is to every sincere believer.

            Effective praying cannot be done with selfishness or sinfulness. Carnal junk acts like “noise,” drowning out the sound of the earnest plea. Loose living leads toward ineffective communication with God. 1 Peter 3:12 adds weight to what James declares: “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer….” Praying effectively comes from living right.

            The passage in James concludes with the promise, “can accomplish much” and is “powerful.” The prayer will be successful and perform results.

            James 5:16 can be amplified to read, “The strong, mighty, powerful pleading to God over personal needs or the needs of others, from people who live obediently, will result in success due to the earnest, desperate act of confident praying.”

            The act of praying is as important as the content of prayer. Never grow weary in prayer. Value a conversation with God. Praying means a great deal to Him. Earnestly praying adds weight to the request. Taking time to pray demonstrates the seriousness of your burden.

            Linger in His presence when praying. Listen as well as talk. Wear out the knees of your pants. Most pants wear out in the seat; they will be of greater service if first worn out at the knees.

            Effectual prayer involves a strong sense of urgency over the need, strong character by the person making the request and strong pleading for the answer. 

            If you are desperate you will not stop until the problem is solved. How desperate are you?

TALE OF TWO SAMS

THE TALE OF TWO SAMS

     Isaiah 61:1 – “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.”

     1 Samuel 16:13 – “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power. Samuel then went to Ramah.”

     Psalms 133:1-2 – “¹How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! ²It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes.

            God has gifted those who follow Jesus for ministry and great rewards are connected to doing His work.  Leading others to a meaningful relationship with the Lord is Biblically fulfilling. Helping someone develop greater faith is spiritually satisfying.  Readying converts for the coming of the Lord is personally enriching.  Life becomes greatly blessed by blessing others.  What makes this possible is God’s anointing.

            Many thoughts are associated with the term.  Through the Baptism in the Holy Spirit the church has an increased anointing to effectively and supernaturally communicate His story to the world.  There is a direct correlation between the gift of the Holy Spirit and anointing. The Lord desires everyone to be filled with the Spirit.

            Another focus is the sweet anointing that accompanies those who live in unity. When people are of one mind, one heart and one accord, the harmony produces a sweet spiritual fragrance of divine presence.

            Believers want anointed church gatherings.  Deeply moving events or activities are referred to as “anointed by the Holy Spirit.”  The word is synonymous with something or someone having a special touch of God.

            When someone becomes an ordained minister, they are examined to discover if God’s anointing is upon them.  The Ordination Certificate in the Assemblies of God reads, “…having proved the Divine gift and calling of God.”

            An element of caution is necessary. Anointing is not the sole criteria for ministry. Anointing speaks of divine attestation and supernatural ability.  Anointing communicates consecration and blessing.  Ministry also includes moral fiber and practical skill. Ministry comes out of integrity and needs to be done competently.

In the 1980’s the American church went through a season of scandal and public ridicule. Immoral actions were exposed, done by prominent people known for anointed ministry. One person refused help from their peers with the defense, “My ministry should not be hindered by man since it is still anointed by God.” The offense became intensified by failing to embrace the accountability factor.

The concept of anointing has also led to abuse.  Wise credentialed ministers know their thoughts, motives and actions are not indisputable simply because “the Spirit of the Lord is upon me.”  Human nature is very much involved in ministry.  Those who disagree with a pastor sometimes get warned to not oppose the Lord’s anointed.  The Biblical reference to “touch not the Lord’s anointed,” means to not wish ill, to intentionally harm or to seek their life. 

Unfortunately people, professing Christ, have been vindictive towards prominent people who have made mistakes. They have wished ill-will and have personally found delight in public humiliation. They are as equally wrong as the offender.

Two Sams, recorded in Scripture, reveal some truths about anointing and the responsibilities associated with it.  The two were similar, yet different.  In their differences the heart of ministry is discovered.  Their full names are Samson (Judges 13-16) and Samuel (1 Samuel 1-8).

The similarity of Samson and Samuel was God’s unmerited favor.

            Both were born of barren women. Samson was born to a women married to Manoah. Samuel was born to Hannah. Neither were mothers; both desired a child.

            Both births were an outgrowth of consecrated parents. When an angel pronounced his birth, Samson’s parents provided sacrifices to the Lord. Samuel’s mother, while weeping, also provided sacrifices to God.

            Both children were under a divine vow. The parents of Samson agreed to the Nazarite vow. The mother of Samuel promised to dedicate him to the Lord’s service. Like Samson, Samuel never cut his hair.

            Both were anointed by God’s Spirit. Scripture records: “…the LORD blessed him [Samson], and the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him….” (Judges 13:24-25) Scripture also records: “The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and He let none of his words fall….” (1 Samuel 3:19)

            Both were Judges of Israel. Samson was the 14^th Judge mentioned in the Bible. Samuel was the last Judge, just before King Saul.

            Both had a divine calling. Their circumstances were identical. Their environment was the same and the anointing was evident. They were called by God to save Israel from the exact same enemy.

The difference of Samson and Samuel was the heart.

            Samuel walked in the Spirit. He was submissive to his parent’s vow.

            Samson walked in his own way. He treated his parent’s vow with contempt.

            Samuel had a keen ear to the voice of God. The Lord called and Samuel responded by faith.

            Samson chose his own doings and expected God to perform. “I want, Lord; do it!”

            Samuel was self-giving. He was continually seeking the well-being of others. His concern was for God’s people. He was motivated to bring a solution to the nation’s oppression.

            Samson was self-serving. He sought personal benefit from his situations. Battles against the enemy were personal. His actions demonstrated the desire, “I will win this one for me.” Events were prefaced with “I want this” and “get me that.”

            Samuel was financially clean. He demonstrated good stewardship. Unlike the sons of Eli, he did not pilfer the sacrifices.

            Samson was greedy. He gambled in hopes of financial gain. Seeking opportunity from God’s enemies, he made a wager, “Let me share a riddle….”

            Samuel was ethical. His record is a testimony of fidelity.

            Samson was immoral. His record is of promiscuity.

            Samuel was a Scripture-keeper. He heeded the requirements of God’s word and was faithful to the end.

            Samson was a Promise-breaker. He violated the three conditions of the Nazarite (Drank fermented drink; ate from something unclean; had his hair cut) and was morally bankrupt in the end.

            Samuel was a team player. Others were involved when he went to battle.

            Samson was a loner. He preferred to go by himself when he went to battle; others would simply be in the way. He did not want help or appreciate counsel.

            Samuel sought the Lord at all times; Samson sought the Lord in crisis times. God used Samuel while Samson used God. If the Lord is only sought during crisis, He is being used, not loved.

The people experienced similar results but not the two Sams.

            Israel gained deliverance through both men’s anointing. Samson and Samuel defeated the enemy. Both brought victory.

            Although Israel gained freedom from oppression, the Sams did not reap the same results. The cost to Samson was dignity, honor and life. The book of Hebrews recognizes his faith but his life ended in disgrace. The reward to Samuel is the recognition of being the greatest Judge of all.

            The anointing upon Samson was the very instrument that destroyed him. When used carelessly the touch of God is harmful.  The difference between Samson and Samuel was the desires of their heart.

            The measurement of ministry goes beyond divine anointing.  While rendering service to the Lord a question must be answered: “Is God using me or am I using God?”

            Ask yourself tough questions: “Is the ministry being done more like Samson or Samuel?  Am I walking in my own way – self-centered, stubborn and greedy?  Or, do I love God wholly, know Him intimately and serve Him solely? Am I a Scripture-keeper or a Promise-breaker?”

            If motives are wrong and desires are not right, God’s anointing may bless the people but ruin the divinely-inspired servant.  Ministry should be humbly done as a Samuel and not associated with the shortcomings of Samson.

TALE OF TWO KINGS

Genesis 14:17-24 – ¹⁷After Abram returned from defeating Kedorlaomer and the kings allied with him, the king of Sodom came out to meet him in the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley). ¹⁸Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, ¹⁹and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. ²⁰And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. ²¹The king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself.” ²²But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, and have taken an oath ²³that I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the thong of a sandal, so that you will never be able to say, ‘I made Abram rich.’ ²⁴I will accept nothing but what my men have eaten and the share that belongs to the men who went with me—to Aner, Eshcol and Mamre. Let them have their share.”

            The story involves the patriarch Abraham; known as the “friend of God.” Here is the backdrop.

            Abraham made a journey to Egypt with his nephew Lot.  Upon returning to Canaan both Abraham and Lot had many “flocks and herds and tents.” They were wealthy men.  Strife developed between their herdsmen.  Abraham gave Lot the choice of where to settle.  Lot looked at the parched hills to the west and the lush valley to the east. He decided to head east.

            The Old Testament makes a distinction between east and west.  In Genesis 12, when bowing to worship God, Abraham faced west toward Bethel (meaning “house of God”) with his back to the east, toward Ai (meaning “ruin”).  The city Ai was almost the ruin of Joshua’s leadership (Joshua 7:1-9), was the ruin of Achan’s family (Joshua 7:16-26) and suffered ruin during Israel’s conquest (Joshua 8).

      In Exodus 26, a person entered the Tabernacle facing west, with their back to the east. 

Ezekiel 8:16-17 states, “¹⁶He then brought me into the inner court of the house of the LORD, and there at the entrance to the temple, between the portico and the altar, were about twenty-five men. With their backs toward the temple of the LORD and their faces toward the east, they were bowing down to the sun in the east. ¹⁷He said to me, “Have you seen this, son of man? Is it a trivial matter for the house of Judah to do the detestable things they are doing here?”

            The direction west is an Old Testament type of faith and obedience, while the direction east is a type of rebellion and disobedience.

            Lot went east; a trek filled with material wealth.  Abraham went west; a journey barren of visible rewards.  If Abraham were to continue being wealthy it would come by divine providence; wealth would not be accomplished by what could naturally be conceived or produced.

            While Lot was living in the Jordan valley trouble developed.  For twelve years the kings of the valley were subject to a king from the north and decided to form an alliance.  The king from the north (Kedorlaomer) entered a coalition with neighboring kings and “war filled the land.” (Living Bible)

            Kedorlaomer invaded the Salt Sea Valley.  The valley forces became so frightened that many slipped into asphalt pits while fleeing. When plundering the valley cities, and carrying off the spoils of war, he made a fatal mistake. He took Lot’s family.

            A prisoner escaped and reported everything to Abraham.  Abraham assembled 318 men and pursued the homeward-bound army.  He caught up to them near Dan, north of the Sea of Galilee (approximately 120 miles away) and made a successful nighttime attack.  He pursued the fleeing army north of Damascus and recovered everything; the loot, the women, the captives, and Lot’s family.

            Upon their return two kings welcomed Abraham; the king of Salem and the king of Sodom.  Salem would later be called “Jerusalem.”

            The king of Salem, Melchizedek, is referred to as a priest of God Most High (“El Elyon” or “Creator”).  He was an early representative of the Lord.  The New Testament book of Hebrews (7:1-2) reveals his name means “king of righteousness.” Being king of Salem, he was the king of “peace.” (“Salem” – “Shalom”)

            Abraham gave Melchizedek the tithe (10 percent of the spoil).  Tithing expresses devotion and complete submission.  In return Melchizedek gave Abraham a divine blessing.

            Hebrews declares Jesus is the high priest after the order of Melchizedek. (7:17) Abraham, in which was the seed of Israel, bowed to this priestly representative.  The same blessing, given to Abraham, is available today for those who follow Jesus and express their devotion with the tithe.

            The other king greeting Abraham was the king of Sodom.  Genesis 14:2 reveals his name was Bera; meaning “with evil.” The Bible portrays Sodom as corrupt and chaotic and their king as evil personified. The king was “with evil” and was a spokesman of the evil one, Satan.

            Picture the scene being played out:  Two kings come out to greet a battle weary yet victorious Abraham, during an emotionally vulnerable moment. One represents righteousness and the other embodies evil; one from the city of peace and the other from the city of corruption. Who will Abraham listen to?  Who will Abraham, the father of faith, make his friend?

            Abraham responded to righteousness and did not give a moment’s thought to evil.  What an intriguing request, however, was made by King “With evil”: “Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself.” (V. 21)

            Here are three applications:

It matters how a person seeks success.

            Everyone wants to live a successful life. No one ever says they want to live an impoverished life. People naturally hope to carve out a comfortable existence.

            Abraham, however, was adamant to the king of Sodom, “I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the thong of a sandal, so that you will never be able to say, ‘I made Abram rich.’” (V. 23)

            There is a right way and a wrong way to gain achievement. Two roads lead to rewards but go in opposite directions. The road taken is crucial. The attitude “if it works it must be right” is foolish.

            Lot sought success on a pathway of self and sin; the easier of the two pathways. Selfish opportunities come naturally, living in a sinful world.

            Cheating someone out of a dollar is easier than earning a dollar. Drug dealers consider pushing drugs easier than steady employment. While living in Chicago, one said to me, “Only fools work.” Those who pursue gain in ungodly ways, however, will find themselves in constant conflict with others wanting the same thing.

            Abraham sought success by faith and devotion. The westward land was barren yet he experienced success through submission and servitude. Accomplishment does not necessarily mean possessions. What a person has, or lacks having, is put to rest when living by faith in God.

            What is your perspective of living a successful life?

            Ted Turner of Turner Broadcasting once said, “Millions don’t count for much any more.  A dollar is worth about one hundredth as much as it was when I was a youngster. Money becomes worthless.  According to Jesus Christ, money is worthless.  It won’t buy you anything in heaven if there is one.  It might not even get you in.”

            G.S. Graham said, “Look at your life as you will see it on eternity’s morning when life will be all behind you.  What will you and I count on at eternity’s morning?  Money?  No; that will be gone, never to come back again.  Position?  That will have passed away forever.  Pleasure and ease?  They, too, will be gone.  But there will be two things that we shall value with all our being on eternity’s morning.  The first is to know that we have done His will with our lives, and the second will be to know that there are precious souls standing around the throne on the solemn morning that God used us to have a share in winning.”

            How a person defines success and pursues success is important. Believing that results are all that matters is erroneous.

Satan is using things to gain the heart of people.

            The king of Sodom said to Abraham, “Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself.” (V.21) Like Sodom’s king, the devil only wants people; they are the dearest thing to God.

            The devil realizes a meaningful life is connected to people, not things. He tempts people to think that “the one who dies with the most goods wins.” He is not fooled by his own lie. The true purpose of life is people coming into a personal relationship with God.

            A question every believer must answer is, “Am I using things to bring people to Christ or am I using people to gain things for myself?”

            Bera, the king “with evil,” offered Abraham an opportunity to use people to gain things. The devil is still offering God’s people the same proposition. Sadly, many take him up on the proposal. Satan has a clearer understanding of people over things than some who profess knowing God.

            The testimony of Jesus always suffers when things takes precedence over people. Throughout the history of the church, prominent people have been publicly exposed with this problem. The tragedy is they do not always start this way. Like an Abraham, they battle for the Lord and experience many victories. When the conflict is over righteousness and evil come to greet them and the heart is examined. Good people sometimes listen to the wrong voice.

            The Lord provides success but possessions must be dedicated to Him; it is the blessing of the faithful steward. The devil, on the other hand, offers his version of success. His rendering is expressed in phrases like, “Live for yourself. You worked hard and deserve the best. You deserve what others have. (Worse of all lies) God blesses those who bless themselves.”

            The problem is not constricted to just the wealthy; it is a heart problem more than a money problem. If God were to reveal the true intentions of church-attending people, many would be embarrassed because of loving things and using people.

Resisting the enticing offer of the Tempter is possible.

            Abraham responded, “I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, and have taken an oath….” (V. 22) Abraham faced his temptation with the issue already resolved. Before receiving the evil one’s offer he committed every aspect of his life to God. He made an oath; he would only possess what comes from the Lord.

            Similar alluring offers are still being made. Have you set boundaries for yourself about what you will accept?

            David Livingstone, missionary to Africa, wrote in his journal, “People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa.  Is that a sacrifice which brings its own blest reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind and a bright hope of a glorious destiny thereafter?  Away with the word, in such a view and with such a thought!  It is emphatically no sacrifice.  Say rather it is a privilege.”

            Whose voice did Livingstone listen to? Who got his attention – the king of peace or the king of corruption; King Righteousness or King Evil?

Using Things, Loving People

            When our four children were young, we regularly took family vacations.  Before the days of DVD players in automobiles, families did an amazing thing: They looked at the scenery, talked to each other and played games together.  We also sporadically listened to music and sang together. 

            One of our favorite selections of songs was recorded by B.J. Thomas. Part of his fame came from singing the theme-song to the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.”  He eventually made a decision to follow Jesus and began recording songs with Biblical themes.

            One song has the lyrics, “Using things and loving people, that’s the way it’s got to be, using things and loving people, look around and you can see, that loving things and using people only leads to misery, using things and loving people, that the way it’s got to be….  Using things and loving people, brings you happiness I found, using things and loving people, not the other way around, loving things and using people only leads to misery, using things and loving people, that’s the way it’s got to be.” (YouTube: “BJ Thomas – Using Things and Loving People”)

            Are you using things and loving people or loving things and using people?  When the Lord and the evil one inquire about your heart, what will be discovered? Decide now to only accept what the Lord blesses or the Tempter will effectively deceive you.

            When our oldest son and his family received final clearance to work in East Africa, we received an email from one of their friends. He ends all his correspondence with a great statement: “Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than by the things you acquire.”

            If you want your life to count, if you want to live life with purpose, if you want genuine fulfillment, decide to touch others more than acquire things.

THE CONFLICT

[Part of this reflection was influenced from a talk given by Dr. Tony Campolo at an Educators Convention, years ago. The perspective still has relevance today.]

Mark 1:14-15 – ¹⁴After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. ¹⁵“The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” [“Repent” – turn around; do an about face; go the opposite direction. “Believe” – demonstrate genuine faith; alter your lifestyle; live His life]

            American history is a contrast between two founding cities; Jamestown and Plymouth Rock. The difference is between greed for gold and glory to God.  Jamestown was founded upon greed; seeking personal gain to the exclusion of God.  Plymouth Rock was founded upon liberty from tyranny; the unlimited freedom to worship God. The conflict of these two interests is still occurring.

What is the emphasis of your ambitions?

There is a tension between climbing toward God and sliding into greed.  The pursuit of God’s kingdom involves going in opposite ways; a different lifestyle.

Slippage can occur in undetectable ways. Everyday expectations can cause a person to misplace focus. Compromising forces battle Jesus’ followers.  Citizens of this nation face constant challenges living as citizens of God’s kingdom.  Note some signs in the never-ending conflict.

America is a pluralistic society.

            As a nation, we are more than one in belief and in practice. The family is growing increasingly harder to define. There is no standard model. Old-time television buffs know that the “Ozzie and Harriet” and “Leave it to Beaver” days are over (if they ever existed in the first place).

            The heritage, language and beliefs of this nation are very diverse. American families are now divided into four categories.

            There is the amoral humanist family. These homes are hedonistic; committed to selfish, instant gratification and to the belief that there are no absolutes. Family members live any lifestyle. They embrace the concept “If it feels good then do it,” with the faulty premise attached “as long as it does not hurt anybody.”

            Marriage becomes optional and not considered permanent. Vows have changed from “As long as we both shall live” to “As long as we both shall love,” each individual defining love their own way. Children may witness parents using drugs; pornography is in plain sight; sex may be done openly with several family members.

            Many cannot imagine a home like this, however, they do exist. The general rule of thumb is “no restraints.” One of my High School classmates grew up in these surroundings. Tragically he committed suicide in his twenties. He had no reliable moorings to anchor his soul.

            There is the moral humanist family. These homes adopt a measure of moral values based on personal convictions. Family members are generally faithful, honest and upright. They are very insistent on the rights of the individual. Each person decides for himself or herself what is right, within broad moral boundaries. Viewpoints do not necessarily come from religion.

            This was the kind of home I was raised in, as well as most of my friends. My brother, sister and I had similar mannerisms and standards but based our lives on radically different foundations.

            There is the Christian humanist family. Among people who attend church there are degrees and variations of moral standards. Some live very consecrated lives; some live totally unrestrained lives; most live somewhere in between.

            Many are Christian by name yet their lifestyle does not reflect the Bible. They appear sincere but have integrity issues. Generally accepted social and business practices are often done, even though Biblically unacceptable. They demonstrate as much greed as any American.

            The Ten Commandments are lived-out as Ten Suggestions. Professing Christ but living confusing lives; confessing Jesus’ Lordship yet behaving like humanist.  The unchurched compare their life to these witnesses and end up questioning the need to follow Jesus.

            A member of a church wanted my advice:  “Why shouldn’t I divorce my wife and marry my girlfriend?  God loves me and wants me happy.  My wife doesn’t make me happy but my girlfriend does.  It must be God’s will for me to divorce my wife.”

            This kind of reasoning is based on humanism, not the Bible. Many are failing to establish a Scriptural lifestyle.

            Remember Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.”

            There is the Biblical Christian family. God’s principles prevail in the home and His counsel is sought in every decision. Each day is considered an opportunity to discover God’s will. The family seeks to glorify God and give Him first place. The commitment of the married couple is, “Till death do us part.” (This phrase does not advocate murder over divorce but rather longevity.J)

            The focus of the home is to bring up a family in the ways of God. Not only love the Lord but serve Him. Each family member exercises their gifts for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

            These four home lives have become incorporated into the warp and fiber of this society; they reveal a nation of diversity and plurality.

America is a society based on freedom, equality and competition.

            Society’s values are not based on superior principles for living, or matchless standards of behavior, or a first-class code of ethics. Values are rooted in the economy. Newspapers give front page to the Federal Reserve Board Chairman, whenever he speaks. Things are all that matters.

            Bill Clinton ran his campaign and won the Presidential election with the slogan, “It’s the economy, stupid!” A governor from Arkansas better understood the heartbeat of the average American than those who were residing in Washington DC.

            Human worth is measured by the one who has the most goods at the lowest cost. What is being promoted as reasonable and acceptable today?

            In order for this nation to be strong, people have to keep buying things. But the people with the money to buy things already have everything they need. Therefore, they must be convinced to buy things they do not need.

            Each year at Christmastime we subconsciously hope something new will be invented so we can give a gift to the person who has everything they need. We would never consider saying, “This year nobody gets anything; you already have everything.” We are afraid of being branded a Scrooge.

            So that we, who have everything, keep buying the things we do not need, we work harder and longer. The average workweek has gone up sizably in the past ten years. Consequently most of us no longer have any time for our families and, when we do have time, are too exhausted for it to be meaningful.

            This is where the scenario gets interesting. In order to get the people, who have everything they need, to buy the things they do not need, we have to advertise.

            What do we advertise?  We market the qualities we gave up in order to work longer hours to get the money to buy the things. We advertise friendship and companionship. These qualities now come by purchasing a consumer product that we can afford to buy because we gave up friendship and companionship to work the hours to pay for it.

            Some classic television commercials reveal this mindset. A group of friends gather together and a woman’s cell phone rings. The look on her face reveals an unwanted business call. On a whim she throws the phone into the pool and the friends start laughing. A man, sitting nearby, is busy using a laptop and the group stares at him. They want him to follow the woman’s example; they non-verbally challenge him to get out of the rat race and join the party. The next scene shows everyone’s electronic devises at the bottom of the pool; enjoying friendship and companionship. What made this possible? The purchase of a brand-name alcoholic beverage!

            An unforgettable, award winning, commercial shows people from every race and tongue, dressed in various cultural outfits, climbing a hill. Everyone is singing the same tune in their native language, “I want to teach the world to sing, in perfect harmony.” The curse of the tower of Babel is broken; true Pentecost has come. What made this happen?  Coca-Cola!  The purchase of a consumer good!

            Products are sold on the basis that they will deliver back to us those things we gave up so that we would have the money to buy them. In our society we, who have everything, have given up faith, relationships, friendships and human harmony in order to put in the time, to make the money, to buy the things that nobody needs. The irony is that we see this as being rational and reasonable.

            The civilization just described is bound to be stressful. To attempt to live this way will add strain to a person’s life. In a stressed-out world people look for escapes. This lends itself to an increase usage of mind-bending drugs, alcohol, pornography and gambling.

            At this point the church often makes a mistake. People are told, “With God’s help no one has to escape.” They hear, “With God’s help anyone can have a place in this society.” Churches fail to recognize the fallacy of a lifestyle built on greed and try to give people a divine peace to live the American way. Maybe the American way is wrong; founded more on Jamestown than Plymouth Rock?

            Church leaders are attempting to do the role of being “all the king’s horses and all the king’s men, putting humpty-dumpy together again.” They try to help people adjust without questioning if this is what God wants for His children. If not careful, people will be able to accuse the church of tailoring faith to help people fit into something God never intended. Are churches guilty of picking up fatalities, healing them in the name of Jesus and sending them back into a world that is totally absurd?

            A major part of declaring the message of Jesus is “blowing the whistle” on what this world is doing and inviting people to not be of the world while still being in the world. “Therefore, come out from them and be separate….” (2 Corinthians 6:17) Isolationism is not being promoted. The message of Jesus does not advocate membership in a parallel culture; the cry of the gospel is residency in a different culture.

Jesus came to offer us the Kingdom of God.

            The Good News is that a Savior has come and that access into God’s kingdom involves doing an about face. Faith is not about surviving a faulty world-system but changing to a totally new way of living. The message of the church is not about becoming a sub-culture but being a counter-culture.

            “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

            Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”  (Matthew 6:32-33)

            God’s people are to reveal that there is a world system that demands everyone fit into it and accept it, but they have chosen to instead be part of a different kingdom; a kingdom of simplicity, righteousness and genuine peace. Everything is done for the Lord.

            People that embrace an absurd system may accuse those who follow Jesus of living illogical lives but it makes perfect sense to God and those who genuinely love Him. Their lives reveal a sacrificial love in a world that thinks doing so is foolishness.

            “²This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. ³This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, ⁴for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” (1 John 5:2-4)

            The acceptable model of the school classroom is self-love. Christ followers, as members of God’s kingdom, died to self on account of Calvary and substitute self-love for God-love.

            Self-love will not suffice “when the hardships of life threaten to sever hope from you; there is no prosthetic for an amputated spirit, no therapy for the atrophy of a dream, no medication for the sickness that breaks the heart and withers the soul.” (Tom Selleck)

            Look at what this world is selling people and has done to people; be a lighthouse of a different way of life. The message of Jesus is that we will no longer be part of a system that regularly tells people to get more stuff.

            Consider the day of an average American.  In the morning they get off a box-spring mattress, eat breakfast out of a box, drive to work in a box, sit in a box, eat a box lunch, drive home in a box, eat dinner cooked in a box, and fall asleep watching a box. They call this “living?”

            Jesus offers the Kingdom of God; a life with a different focus, purpose and destiny.  A life that is no longer absurd.

            Kenneth Caraway gives an exciting challenge: “There is no box made by God nor us but that the sides can be flattened out and the top blown off to make a dance floor on which to celebrate life.”

            Get out of the box!