THE GOD THAT SUPPLIES

Philippians 4:10-20 – “¹⁰I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³I can do everything through him who gives me strength. ¹⁴Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. ¹⁷Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. ¹⁸I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. ²⁰To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

            Philippians is one of four books known as the “Prison Epistles” (Prison Letters), the other are Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon. They were written around the same time, when the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome awaiting his “appeal to Caesar.” (Acts 25:11)

            The theme of Philippians is summed up in one word, “Rejoice!”  Philippians 4:4 reads, “⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Followers of Jesus have everything to rejoice about. A believer’s lifestyle is designed for rejoicing.  Yet people wonder, “How can you rejoice when so many situations are sad?  How can you rejoice when life has become more stressful?  How can you rejoice when human misery is increasing?”

 Paul reveals the possibility of such a lifestyle is achieved by being content in every circumstance and faithfully serving in every situation. He concludes by declaring, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”  (Philippians 4:13) 

Failing to have a lifestyle of rejoicing is not about “ability” but about “desire;” not about “I can’t” but “I won’t.”  Rejoicing is a matter of choice.

Just as rejoicing is a choice, another decision needs to be made. What am I going to do with finances? The answer impacts the ability to have a rejoicing lifestyle. A direct connection exists between joy and giving, between rejoicing and financial stewardship.

When going to a doctor for a check-up, they poke, prod and press various places, all the while asking, “Does this hurt?  How about this?”  If you cry out in pain, one of two things has happened.  Either the doctor pushed too hard, or, more likely, there’s something wrong. The doctor says, “We’d better do some tests; it’s not suppose to hurt there!” 

The same thing is true when talking about money, either too much pressure is applied or, more likely, something is wrong.  You may need to go to the Great Physician; it is not suppose to hurt when financial stewardship is given attention.

A friend asked in a Sunday gathering for everyone to write down a current struggle.  He compiled the responses and developed a list of ten top things people are wrestling with. In a weekly series he gave a Biblical response, starting from the last and going to the first. The tenth struggle was “discouragement,” the ninth was “worry.” In his unscientific survey the greatest strain was “finances.”

As it pertains to the provisions of life; “… my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) Note the key elements to having a life in which God meets needs.

Needs being met is provisional.

            The believers in Philippi gained a “renewed” interest in Paul’s situation. Their concern for Paul was revived. This gave them an opportunity to help. Would they respond to his needs? Would they join his efforts? Since they were sensitive to God’s work and made an effort to meet the need, God would give special attention to their needs.

            Reviving speaks of a heart condition, not a financial situation. Failing to give is not about money but about attitude. You can always give something, great or small, according to what you have. Giving is a decision each individual must make.

            Luke 6:38 is a great promise: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This is not about “give” to “get.” Stewardship is not a heavenly get rich quick plan. Biblical giving is not the Believers way to earthly wealth. If you give out of what you have then an abundant reaping will follow. You cannot give what you do not have.

            A poor woman gave a small amount of money and, yet, gave more than others who had wealth. (Luke 21: 1-4) Jesus gave only a little attention to the amount and more attention to what was available. Are offerings measured by how much is given or by how much is left?  People generally measure by what is given. God may measure by the proportion of available funds.

            Offerings come from the resources entrusted to you by God. You can never be overly generous. No one can ever out-give Him.

            God watches over your interests. When giving as unto the Lord expect great dividends, one of which is a rejoicing heart. The Bible speaks of being a “cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7), which translates “giving like you are crazy.”Ask yourself, “Can friends, relatives, bankers and the IRS accuse me of being crazy by the way I give?”

            God’s attention to your needs corresponds to your treatment of His work. God provides funds for ministry through His people. When you become a joint-participate in the work of the Kingdom, God notices.

            Everyone should faithfully and regularly add to their heavenly depository. God will recompense far better than anyone. His resources are limitless and He does everything in a “glorious” way.

What is the intent of your giving?

            Are you giving to get or getting to give?

            What are you doing with His tithe, the first 10% of all income? Do you tip or tithe?

            Statistics show the average church attendee gives 2%. In other words, a token! It is like giving gratuity, without paying the bill.

            King David, the great worshiper, said, “I will not give to the Lord that which cost me nothing.” Is there something lacking in your worship experience? It could be connected to your giving habit.

            What is worship costing you? When was the last time you went without something, you sacrificed, to advance the Lord’s work?  Sacrificial giving is part of spiritual living.

            Most churches live below their giving potential. This harms both the individual believer and the faith community. His tithe is given out of obedience, as a testimony of Lordship. Offerings are given out of love, as a testimony of devotion.

            The tithe belongs to the Lord. This is the minimum that should be given. Offerings demonstrate an additional commitment to spreading His story.

            The tithe goes to the general work of the Kingdom (undesignated). What is given to a specific work of the Kingdom (designated) comes out of passion and burden. Glen Cole, one of my early mentors, used to say, “We need a revival of love that impacts our loot.”

            A benefit of faithfulness is blessing and provision. “⁷The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.” (Deuteronomy 2:7)

How does God supply?

            God provides the best way. Given the situation, what is best for you and for everyone concerned?

            One thing is consistent:  God will not raise lazy children. “¹⁰For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘If a man will not work, he shall not eat.’ ¹¹We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. ¹²Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12)

            God causes everything to work together for good. (Romans 8:28) If we do not attempt to prescribe a solution to God, if we do not try to box Him in, He meets needs in a variety of ways. In one or another or a combination of ways, God will supply.

            Three major avenues are regularly used when He helps people in their financial situation.

            Through opportunities! The way most financial problems are solved is by work. We feel best when we have earned money instead of received money. We have divinely-given skills that, among other reasons, take care of personal needs.

            Through people! The Lord sometimes places a need upon someone’s heart and they generously help you. This is a humbling experience. We are to graciously accept gifts as coming from the Lord. He blesses them as they act in obedience to His leading.

            Through the supernatural! The Lord is a God of miracles. He supernaturally meets needs. Scriptures reveal some divine healing occurred because the recipient could not afford medical treatment. God also miraculously prolongs the usefulness of equipment that should have given up the ghost a longtime ago. His hands are on possessions we dedicate to Him.

            When God supplies a need it will always be honest. Finding stolen money is not God’s provision. This is a test of character. Receiving too much change from a cashier is a test of character. Finding a billfold full of money in a parking lot is a test of character.

            In many small towns people commonly leave their car engine running while checking their mail in the Post Office. If someone needed a car and came upon a vehicle with its engine running, would this be God supplying the need? Of course not! The idea sounds foolish but, unfortunately, some think this way. His supply will always be honest and respectable in order that He might be glorified. All provisions will be able to bring glory to God.

            Philippians give a tremendous promise:  If responsive to the needs of His Kingdom, if believe it is more blessed to give then receive, if not trying to obligate God to do something in return, then there will be no deficiency of provisions.  God will supply through opportunity, through people and through the supernatural any need, according to His glorious riches.

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.