TFTBR - August 2014

[Resource Manager]

01 August 2014

2 Samuel 18
Jeremiah 22
Romans 9

“… WILL NOT BE PUT TO SHAME”

These are the concluding words in today’s 9th chapter of Romans. The complete verse is a quotation from Isaiah 28:16, it is the last of 9 quotations in this chapter that Paul selects from the Old Testament to demonstrate that there are a multitude of sayings in what Moses and the prophets recorded – of what God inspired them to write that are most meaningful for followers of Christ. Because he was not the all-conquering Messiah they were looking for, the leaders, despite demonstrations of his remarkable power, had no time for him and eventually put him to death. They ignored certain prophecies by God in their holy book about the Messiah because they did not fit in with their expectations; Paul himself had been guilty of this before he was converted – it is also a lesson for us in our expectations about world events – have we fully learnt it? Let us be careful and not decide too absolutely where the jigsaw pieces fit of the prophecies yet to be fulfilled

The full text of the last verse is, “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” Jesus is the “stone” – this symbol was also used in the well-known vision Daniel interpreted for King Nebuchadnezzar, the stone that struck the image (the nations of mankind) on the feet shattering the whole image to pieces.

Let us make sure we have a heart-felt belief in him and then we “will not be put to shame” being motivated to live our lives ‘inspired’ by our reading of his word. We cannot ‘work’ to earn our salvation, our salvation, writes Paul, “depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy” [Romans 9:16] Paul quotes extensively [Romans 9:25-29] from the prophets Hosea and Isaiah, he shows God is looking to call people from among the Gentiles, that is, the non-Jewish nations – and also that a “remnant” among the “sons of Israel … will be saved.”

May we live so that we are among those who “will not be put to shame” realizing that the signs among the nations, especially in and around the Holy Land, are ominous and that it could be very soon now when the “stone” strikes the feet of the image.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

02 August 2014

2 Samuel 19
Jeremiah 23
Romans 10; 11

"IN THE LATTER DAYS YOU WILL ..."

We have a ‘feast’ of thought provoking passages in todays’ chapters! First, David returns to Jerusalem and shows a spirit of mercy to those who followed Absalom, an example of the spirit all followers of Christ should develop. Second, we have in today’s 23rd chapter In Jeremiah, a remarkable latter day prophecy.

God tells him, “I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them, and I will bring them back to their fold and they shall be fruitful …” [Jeremiah 23:3] Then after expressing anger at their attitudes that existed then because “ungodliness has gone out into all the land” [Jeremiah 23:15], God again extends the vision of his purpose far beyond the prophet’s day, the divine message to him is, “Behold, the storm of the LORD!... a whirling tempest; it will burst upon the head of the wicked. The anger of the LORD will not turn back until he has accomplished the intents of his heart. In the latter days you will understand it clearly.” [Jeremiah 23:19-20]

Do we understand it clearly? The more we read God’s word the more clear is our understanding! Our chapter 11 in Romans is a great help, Romans 11:25 is a particular challenge! “Lest you be wise in your own conceits,” writes Paul, “I want you to understand this mystery brothers, a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” The final ingathering among the Gentiles around the world appears have reached its “fullness”. And then, says Paul, quoting Isaiah 59:20-21 “The deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob; and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins”

One day, maybe very soon, God will renew his covenant with his nation, now miraculously re-established in ‘The Holy Land.’ We are fascinated by the wording David Ben Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, uses in his book, ‘Rebirth and Destiny of ISRAEL’ - he is clearly very familiar with the Old Testament. “The book is our whole language. No commentator unravelled the chapters of Joshua as did our Army’s epic deeds … sprout seeds which will be a living revelation of many words of Hosea, Micah and Isaiah …” [p.433] “Our prophets inveigh passionately against violence … when your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness” [p.473]

In that day, the Jews will at last recognise their true Messiah, they will “look on … him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn …” But says the LORD “I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace ..” [Zechariah 12:10] We most surely live “in the latter days” and “the storm of the LORD” is about “to burst on the head of the wicked.” Let us look ever more earnestly for the coming of our Lord – and ‘Watch Israel.’
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

03 August 2014

2 Samuel 20; 21
Jeremiah 24
Romans 12

"LIVE IN HARMONY WITH ONE ANOTHER"

Today we read that oft quoted and beautiful chapter 12 of Romans: it is such a contrast to the disharmony we also read today in 2 Samuel and the frictions between individuals in the final years of David’s reign. It demonstrates once again that the New Testament provides guidance for individuals and offers principles to personally live by for all those who decide to walk in the footsteps of Christ.

There is no such thing, nor ever has been, as a ‘Christian’ nation. Oh yes, nations have seen themselves as such, but what does God see? We read today Paul’s words, “repay no one evil for evil” [Romans 12:17] which is the very opposite to what we have read today in Samuel and, come to think of it, to relationships between most nations throughout history. The United Nations have attempted the impossible in its 65+ year history.

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited. Repay no one evil for evil” [Romans 12:16-17] As we read such advice there can be a temptation to look at others and think how they fail to do this. This is unproductive, we must look within our own hearts. Many situations surrounding the life of David illustrate the opposite, but not in David himself. We must not confuse this with his zeal to serve the Lord. Those who became enemies of the Lord became David’s enemies. In his relationship with individuals he often displayed mercy and forgiveness. He appointed Amasa, who had been captain of Absalom’s army, as captain of his army, but Amasa came to an unworthy end at the hands of Joab, but we will read soon of Joab’s traumatic end.

The lesson we perceive as we read the Old Testament is that, as Jesus said, “all who take the sword perish by the sword” [Matthew 26:52]. We can trace so many occasions when God sets up evil people to deal with each other. With those who love the Lord, the opposite occurs. In Romans we read, “if possible, as far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all … never avenge yourselves …” [Romans 12:18]
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

04 August 2014

2 Samuel 22
Jeremiah 25
Romans 13; 14

“THE LORD WILL ROAR …”

We have a most challenging selection of chapters today; the most challenging are the words the LORD to Jeremiah. Suddenly, the LORD’s revelations to him about the future – extends far beyond the impending judgment on Jerusalem because of his people’s utter godlessness. The LORD now looks further afield beginning with the nations nearby, Egypt, the Philistines, Edom, Moab …Tyre …” [Jeremiah 25:19-21], these are the Arab nations adjoining Israel today, and then, “all the; kings of the north, far and near, one after another, and all the kingdoms of the world …” [Jeremiah 25:26]

This message about “all the kingdoms of the earth” is repeated twice. Solomon in his wisdom said, “a threefold cord is not quickly broken” [Ecclesiastes 4:12] We must not avoid meditating on the climax to which Jeremiah’s message develops, “The LORD will roar from on high …. against all the inhabitants of the earth… for the LORD has an indictment against the nations, he is entering into judgement with all flesh.” [Jeremiah 25:30-31]

Fearsome! God’s judgment to be upon all, whether they believe in him – or not!

And those who believe in him?

Paul’s words today that we read in the 14th chapter of Romans should dominate their minds – surely that includes you and I! More that our human anxiety about what we might face as our world suffers God’s judgements, is the way Paul quotes Isaiah 45:23, words that are totally challenging to each one of us. Paul writes, “For we will all stand before the judgement seat of God; for it is written, ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue confess to God.’ So then each of us will give an account of him(her)self to God.” [Romans 14:10-12].
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

05 August 2014

2 Samuel 23
Jeremiah 26
Romans 15; 16

“WHO CAUSE DIVISIONS AND CREATE OBSTACLES”

It is good – and much to be preferred – to always focus on the positive words that we find in Scripture, but in doing so we must not be blind to the concerns that arise and threaten to distract the community of those following Christ. As Paul brings his letter to the Romans to a conclusion, after writing of all the foundations to a true faith and the way of life in that faith, he then finds it necessary to write, “I appeal to you brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, for by smooth talk and flattery they deceive …” [Romans 16:17-18]

Judas Iscariot served himself while giving an outward appearance of serving Christ. If we should encounter such let us follow Pauls’ advice, “ … I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.” [Romans 16:19] In the previous chapter we read “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” [Romans 15:13] We cannot miss the emphasis on “hope.” How much do we need a real hope in our hearts in 2014 – a hope that creates “all joy and peace” as we face the challenges of godlessness that abound in today’s world; we must develop a sense of total commitment so that we can more easily avoid distractions.

What total commitment Jeremiah must have had, so many enemies, efforts to put him to death, as we read today in chapter 26 [Jeremiah 26:11] But God saw to it that he had some support. He was God’s mouthpiece in warning the people of God’s impending judgements. How effective are you and I in doing that? Do we feel weak? That seems natural, we do not have the direct contact with God that Jeremiah experienced, but we do have the full revelation of his whole purpose in the 66 books of the Bible.

Let us take special note of Paul’s final words to the believers in Rome, “Now unto him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel … according to the command of the eternal God to bring about obedience of faith – to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.” May we so live that we witness that coming glory.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

06 August 2014

2 Samuel 24
Jeremiah 27
Mark 1

“THE TIME IS FULFILLED”

Today we began reading the Gospel of Mark. It begins with an account of the preaching of John the Baptist in fulfilment of the prophecies of Isaiah and Malachi, “Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way…” [Mark 1:2] Although John did no miracles, “all the country of Judea and Jerusalem were going out to him and being baptised by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Mark 1:5] He was achieving a remarkable impact for we read in Acts how Paul encountered those baptised by John as far away as Ephesus (see Acts 18:25; 19:3)

Mark tells us, Jesus began to preach “proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand, repent and believe in the gospel.” [Mark 1:14-15] The king of the Kingdom was “at hand” and the gospel he taught was about the heavenly kingdom to come on earth [Matthew 5:5] Beginning with John it was a renewal of God’s message after about 400 years of silence since the prophet Malachi. When Jesus said, “the time is fulfilled” it was the time period of 70 weeks (70 x 7) prophesied through Daniel [Daniel 9:24]. Many knew this time was just about completed and “the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the (Messiah) Christ” [Luke 3:15]

There have been many attempts in earlier generations to understand the other time periods Daniel details; there was considerable anticipation more than 150 years ago that his return was imminent, but Jesus told his disciples just before he ascended to heaven, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.” [Acts 1:7]

The main clue we have been given is in Luke 21:24 that Jerusalem would cease to “be trampled underfoot” by non-Jews and at that time it should be understood “the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” At that time, said Jesus, there will be “distress of nations in perplexity … people fainting with fear and foreboding at what is coming on the world” [Luke 21:25-26] There are the strongest reasons to believe that today “the time is fulfilled” so let us do what Jesus told true believers to do, “… when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

07 August 2014

1 Kings 1
Jeremiah 28
Mark 2

“WHEN JESUS SAW THEIR FAITH”

In Mark’s Gospel today we have the familiar and much loved account of the paralysed man who was carried by his 4 friends on a bed to Jesus and ”when they could not get near him because of the crowd” they carried him up and “removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay” [Mark 2:4]

Then comes a significant comment , “And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, My Son, your sins are forgiven … and he rose and he immediately picked up his bed and went out before them all.” [Mark 2:5,11] We meditate that this healing took place ”when Jesus saw THEIR faith.” This shows an occasion when our Lord responded to the faith of others. Faith is “spiritual sight! In Hebrews 11:27 Paul wrote of Moses, that “he left Egypt, not being afraid of the anger of the king, for he endured as seeing him who is invisible.” That is the ultimate description of faith – “seeing him who is invisible” – and for Moses it led to God being visible to some degree on the top of the mountain! Think of what you will see, as a result of having genuine faith now, when the kingdom is established!

We really must have the conviction of mind of the things we pray for. When Peter was imprisoned, “earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church” [Acts 12:5-16] but those praying when their prayer was answered in the dramatic way it was, were utterly astonished – and disbelieving at first.

At the present time many are praying about the plight of Pakistani and Iranian brethren in Sri Lanka which the local authorities seem determined to send back to their homelands – where many, maybe all would face persecution and maybe death.

The four friends of the paralytic went to extreme lengths because of their faith in what Jesus could do, may we, as we read in Romans a few days ago, “rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” [Romans 12:12] And to the Thessalonians, in his second letter, Paul tells them, We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing” [2 Thessalonians 1:3] Can Jesus see my faith, your faith?
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

08 August 2014

1 Kings 2
Jeremiah 29
Mark 3

“THAT YOU MAY PROSPER … WHEREVER YOU TURN”

Today we read of David's final words of advice to his successor - Solomon. Two weeks ago we read of Solomon in his youth “and the LORD loved him" from his birth [2 Samuel 12:24]. Today we particularly noted David’s parting words to him, "Be strong, and show yourself a man. and keep the charge of the LORD, your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes his commandments ... that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn" [1 Kings 2:2-3]

David’s words are ideal for all human beings to take to heart. It does not mean strong in a physical sense, but strong in attitudes of mind and belief and service to God. Let us keep in mind what we read recently in Romans about Abraham. "No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised" [Romans 4:20-21].

David had originally set many examples of living and acting with a strong faith; this is an attitude of mind that constantly has the vision to see God is in overall control.

Solomon would not have experienced his father at his spiritual best. The phrase “and the LORD loved him” surely reflects the relationship he developed with God, a foundation for all the proverbs he was to write. In recognising this let us give the highest priority to developing our own relationship with God, our relationship cannot be second-hand, we must pray for his oversight of our lives remembering that "whatever is not of faith is sin" [Romans 14:23].

We will read tomorrow [Mark 4] of the seed that is scattered, it either produces more seed that germinates to produce a valuable plant - or it doesn't, there is no third option. Thus those who develop a genuine faith in God and his oversight in their lives will win through whenever life for a time become difficult, and it maybe become very difficult in coming years, even months.

While there is opportunity we must be strong and live in the right spirit. Jesus was still looking for workers in his vineyard at "the eleventh hour" [Matthew 20:6] WE are now living in the eleventh hour so let us live so that we may prosper wherever we turn in our life and our relationship with our Lord!
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

09 August 2014

1 Kings 3
Jeremiah 30
Mark 4

"... EVERY FACE TURNED PALE"

All 3 readings today are very thought provoking. First, in 1 Kings 3 we have Solomon's choice of wisdom when the LORD appears to him and says, "Ask, what I shall give you" [1 Kings 3:5] and he responds, "Give your servant an understanding mind to govern your people" [1 Kings 3:9] and the LORD gives him that and more. What mind will those in the kingdom be given?

Then in Mark 4 we have a succession of parables by Jesus beginning with that of the sower together with an explanation of its meaning. How applicable to today is the kind of soil the seed falls into - the soil where "the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word" [Mark 4:19]

And then in Jeremiah 30 we read some really fascinating long term prophecies which climax in the last verse with, "in the latter days you will understand this." Jeremiah is told, "Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you. For behold days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will restore the fortunes of my people, Israel and Judah, says the LORD, and I will bring them back to the land, that I gave to their fathers' they shall take possession of it." [Jeremiah 30:2-3]

Then the LORD says, "We have heard a cry of panic, of terror and no peace ... Why has every face turned pale? Alas! that day is so great there is none like it; it is a time of distress for Jacob; yet he shall be saved out of it." [Jeremiah 30:5-7] Israel was not saved out of trouble in the days of Jeremiah, nor after they rejected their Messiah and put him to death, but we live "in the latter days" and those who truly fear God and understand "the intentions of his mind" should be in the process of gaining that inner strength of true faith so they possess a face that does not "turn pale".

The time is coming when Jacob (Israel) will at last have "quiet and ease none will make him afraid" [Jeremiah 30:10] And those who truly know God's word will have the same experience for the kingdom will be established.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

10 August 2014

1 Kings 4; 5
Jeremiah 31
Mark 5

"AT THAT TIME … THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE"

Today's chapter in Jeremiah [Jeremiah 31] provides us with a sequel to yesterday's thoughts about God's reaction to the time when the all nations, at the climax of human history, regard Israel as "outcasts … for whom no one cares" It is of the highest interest because of the attitudes today more and more fit this picture.

Today's chapter follows on from the final verse of Jeremiah 30, "The fierce anger of the LORD will not turn back until he has executed and accomplished the intentions of his mind. In the latter days you will understand this. "At that time", declares the LORD. I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they shall be my people." [Jeremiah 30:24; 31:1 – they are consecutive verses]

Jeremiah 31:7 reads, "… raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, O LORD, save your people, the remnant of Israel." The meaning is not totally clear, but it implies there is a time when leading nations learn the reality of God's existence "and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth" [Jeremiah 31:8]. We know that half of the Jews still live in other lands, also, that the land promised to Abraham through Isaac and Jacob, is a great deal more than Israel possesses at present.

This spirit is totally opposite to what many nations, especially the Islamic, are saying today. As we read on, these words jumped out at us (among a number of others). "Behold the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah (all 12 tribes) … this is the covenant I will make … after those days, declares the LORD, I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they shall be my people." [Jeremiah 31:31-33]

This climax of human history also brings the return of Jesus to earth and the resurrection. These events are the trigger for these verses to be fulfilled.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

11 August 2014

1 Kings 6
Jeremiah 32
Mark 6

"HAVE TAUGHT THEM PERSISTENTLY"

Jerusalem is under siege, all the messages the LORD caused Jeremiah to prophecy about the city are now starting to happen. The prophet is surprised by being told to buy his uncle's field, "for the right of redemption by purchase is yours." [Jeremiah 32:7] He does so and a "deed of purchase" is signed. He is told to "put them in an earthenware vessel, that they may last for a long time. For thus says the LORD of hosts … Houses and fields and vineyards shall again be bought in this land." [Jeremiah 32:14-15]

Jeremiah is a man of faith, he seeks to understand; we can conceive of him meditating, he writes, "prayed to the LORD saying, 'Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who has made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you. You show steadfast love to thousands … O great and mighty God … great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the children of man, rewarding each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds.'" [Jeremiah 32:17-19]. We note and ponder the point the LORD is making, he is looking to see what "fruit" the ways of his people produce! What "fruit" do our ways produce?

What does God see in Jeremiah's day? The Lord says, "And though I have taught them persistently, they have not listened to receive instruction." [Jeremiah 32:33] Today we can say, very few have diligently read God's word so as to receive instruction ­ and the world is full of "bad fruit" as a result.

How greatly was the Bible appreciated when it was first available for everyone to read ­ but there is little appreciation today! Our world faces God's anger and his acts of judgement, just as Jerusalem faced it in the days of Jeremiah. Let us read and listen, and then, as with the few who did listen in the prophet's days, God says, "I will rejoice in doing them good" [Jeremiah 32:41] What a wonder the divine rejoicing will be! May we be there to share in it and know "the joy that knows no ending."
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

12 August 2014

1 Kings 7
Jeremiah 33
Mark 7

"THEY SHALL FEAR AND TREMBLE"

Who will "fear and tremble"? What will be the cause? We follow on from yesterday's thoughts and read and reflect on the remarkable latter day prophecy given to Jeremiah while he is "shut up in the court of the guard" [Jeremiah 33:1] His situation was a real trial of his faith – and we should ponder what kind of desperate situations we might experience in the "time of trouble, such as there has never been … But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book." [Daniel 12:1]

How long before this time? God has not provided a calendar, but he has provided signs! Israel regathered and turmoil in and around the Holy land! The verses at the end of Daniel 11 are but one place where the signs are described. Jesus said, "for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short" [Matthew 24:22]

About his people, now in terrible trouble, Jeremiah is told, "I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security, I will restore the fortunes of Judah and the fortunes of Israel … and this city shall be to me a name of joy, a prraise and a glory before all the nations of the earth who shall hear of all the good that I do for them. They shall fear and tremble because of all the good and all the prosperity I provide for it." [Jeremiah 33:6,7,9]

God then tells Jeremiah, "In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David, and he shall execute justice and righteousness … Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called, "The LORD is our righteousness." [Jeremiah 33:15-16] Imagine the feelings of the prophet as he, in his anxieties over all that is happening, and his personal situation, receives this divine message.

Now switch the perspective to the 21st Century and the potential, before Christ comes when "they shall fear and tremble…" [Jeremiah 33:9] but while those who do not know God's word will do so out of great anxiety, those who do know – and most surely believe his word, shall, says the Lord to Jeremiah, "fear and tremble because of all the prosperity I provide … there shall be heard again the voice of mirth and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride …" [Jeremiah 33:11] Let us make sure we are part of the bride; meditate on Revelation 19:7-9.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

13 August 2014

1 Kings 8
Jeremiah 34
Mark 8

"… WHOLLY TRUE TO THE LORD"

In the end there can be no half measures in truly believing, and, as a result, having a daily relationship with our Saviour. The completion of this relationship leads us to more and more fully sense the wonder of the Creator of all things – and the unlimited nature of those "all things."

In 1st Kings today we read one of the longest chapters in the Bible: it describes the awesome glory of the Temple in which just about everything was overlaid with gold. Solomon had just completed it and we read his words of benediction. First he offers an emotional prayer to God, "that all the peoples of the earth may know your name" [1 Kings 8:43] When he finishes his prayer "he stood and blessed all the assembly of Israel with a loud voice, 'Blessed be the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel …'" [1 Kings 8:56] and we ponder how even greater, far greater, must be the blessing and the joy, and the greater "rest" when, as we will read on Friday, Jesus the greatest king of all opens "the house of prayer for all nations" [Mark 11:17]

Solomon brings his benediction to a climax with a petition to the Lord "that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no other" and then utters the even more significant words, "Let your heart therefore be wholly true to the LORD our God, walking in his statutes and keeping his commandments, as at this day." [1 Kings 8:61]

Human nature is such that the challenge to be "wholly true to the LORD" is only accomplished when we have a real living relationship with Him and his Son, and how thought provoking is our chapter in Mark in showing us how the disciples failed to be fully committed, despite constantly witnessing remarkable miracles and hearing his teaching.

Jesus said to them, "Having eyes, do you not see, and having ears do you not hear? And do you not remember? … Do you not yet understand?" [Mark 8:18,21] And for ourselves, having eyes, do we not read, and having brains, do we not yet understand? Let us apply our God-given intellect ever more diligently to what we read and then make sure we meditate upon it. A true blessing for us - every day - only by this means will we be "wholly true to the Lord".
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

14 August 2014

1 Kings 9
Jeremiah 35
Mark 9

"THEY DID NOT UNDERSTAND"

Our chapter [9] in Mark contains several things hard to understand, but that is one of the reasons why the Bible commands our attention all through our lives as we try to bring our minds into a proper focus to understand it more and more. Jesus is preparing his disciples for when he is not physically with them, they have a lot to learn, but it will be learning from the heart - rather than the mind. We can say, "emotional" learning, matters far beyond intellectual comprehension.

We read that "he passed through Galilee. And he did not want anyone to know, for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, 'The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.'" A plain enough statement, but it was not on the radar screen of their minds, "they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him." Afraid? In what sense? Surely, they were thinking, he could not mean this in a literal sense; surely this was some kind of parable!

The verses which follow show they arrive in Capernaum, but had argued between themselves before they got there "about who was the greatest" - this shows they were in competition in their expectations of their coming role when, as Jesus was to tell them, they would one day "eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." [Luke 22:30] Their expectations of the future dominated their thinking, this is all they wanted to hear about, not realizing that, as with Jesus, it was because "of the hope set before them" they would endure the trials - as he would endure the cross!

We should meditate on this - about how much the same principle applies to us - as our world falls further apart. Believers are already under great pressure in some countries - such as Iran. The disciples had to become, Jesus next told them, servants, and whoever becomes genuinely childlike in their attitudes, said Jesus, "receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me, but him who sent me" [Mark 9:37] Do we understand this? "They did not understand" but in John's gospel this remarkable truth is opened out further, "If anyone loves me" (that's more than to say one "believes in" Jesus) "he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him." [John 14:23] The disciples came to understand this - after he had ascended to heaven! Let us do the same.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

15 August 2014

1 Kings 10
Jeremiah 36
Mark 10

"HOW DIFFICULT IT WILL BE …"

We read in Mark 10 today how a man ran up and knelt before Jesus asking, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" A very meaningful conversation followed. Jesus said, "you know the commandments" and mentioned the main ones and the man responds, "Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth" [Mark 10:17-20]. Jesus reacts, "looking at him, loved him and said to him, 'You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.'" What an invitation! But what a challenge and, sadly, the man is "disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions." [Mark 10:22]

We then read that the disciples were amazed because he said, "How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" [Mark 10:23]. And yet, as we read in today's chapter in 1 Kings about the visit of the Queen of Sheba to Solomon to hear his wisdom and see the wonders of his kingdom where so much gold was available and used so that "silver was not counted as anything" [1 Kings 10:21]. The Queen said, "I did not believe the reports until I came and my own eyes had seen it. Behold the half was not told me …" [1 Kings 10:6-7]

Yet tomorrow's chapter is very disappointing after all this use of wealth Solomon's relationship with his God falters and "his heart was not wholly true to the LORD" [1 Kings 11:4] and he starts to worship other gods. Like the young man who came to Jesus "his great possessions" undermined, and in the case of the young man, destroyed his opportunity to have the wonder of "treasure in heaven." We cannot know what role, if any, Solomon will have in the kingdom.

The world today is described as "a global village" - and many of us have "great possessions" in a world-wide context: we should have in mind what Paul said in writing to Timothy, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evils." [1 Timothy 6:10] Yes, it puts down mind poisoning roots! In God's eyes, this is surely the case when those who have more than the money needed for essentials, spend the surplus on abundant possessions, pleasure and leisure, attitudes that take root in our minds and lead us further and further away from God - and our "treasure in heaven" ceases to exist and there is no reward for Jesus to bring with him for us (see Revelation 22:12) when he returns.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

16 August 2014

1 Kings 11
Jeremiah 37
Mark 11

"WHENEVER YOU STAND PRAYING FORGIVE"

Today, we picked up a key point Jesus made about effective prayer; he had triumphantly entered Jerusalem with crowds of supporters around him "shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!" [Mark 11:9-10]. Were many who cried this thinking the kingdom was about to be established? Were they disillusioned by a false expectation? Has that happened, in smaller measure, to the older ones among us as we look back over recent decades?

How fickle human nature proved to be! A few days later "the chief priests stirred up the crowd … and they cried out again, 'Crucify him' and so Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas" [Mark 15:11-15]. In today's chapter the point which particularly attracted our attention was when Jesus said, "... Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses" [Mark 11:25]. This is a vital principle to always have in mind in our relationship with Jesus our Saviour and his Father who is our Father. It must be in the forefront of our minds when we are seeking a specific answer to prayer.

Our thoughts go with Jesus, going forward a few days and the circumstances in which he prayed, "Father forgive them, they know not what they do" [Luke 23:34]. He was hanging there in agony on the cross, he watched them casting lots for his garments, and the scripture which predicted this would come into his mind. [Psalm 22:18]

How many of those watching his agony – and some must have heard his words, were among those "cut to the heart" when Peter addressed the crowd of thousands on the day of Pentecost 7 weeks later and told them, "'Let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.' Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart" [Acts 2:36-37]. Peter, together with rest of the disciples, now referred to as apostles, counselled them to "Repent and be baptised" And "those who received his word were baptised".

And us, after we have read and "received" his word? Do we read without receiving it?

We must receive it in both our head and our heart.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

17 August 2014

1 Kings 12
Jeremiah 38
Mark 12

"HE ABANDONED THE COUNSEL …"

Those in authority, for example, Government Ministers, are surrounded by advisors who debate situations and counsel those in power on the best policies to follow. Tragically there have been some examples of human wisdom, or lack of it, that have been quite tragic. We have an example in our 1 Kings reading today; a new king seeks advice on what policy he should follow, but really he has made up his mind and so seeks advisors to give him an answer that appeals to him.

This king is Solomon's son Rehoboam. He first "took counsel with the old men, who had stood before Solomon his father" [1 Kings 12:6]. Their advice was to lighten the heavy tax burdens Solomon had put on the people - as they had requested and all will be well. But next we read, "He abandoned the counsel that the old men gave him and took counsel with the young men who had grown up with him…" [1 Kings 12:8]. Their advice was the opposite! "And the king answered the people harshly …" [1 Kings 12:13]. We wonder if they had too much confidence in the promises made to David, thinking, surely his grandson can dictate what the people should do?

Rehoboam was 41 when he ascended to the throne - and should have been mature. He surely knew the promises God had made to his grandfather, and, we suspect, had a false expectation as to how they would work themselves out in his generation. He did not humble himself before God to learn and do his will.

God knew his heart; he knew the disaster that would soon befall him. Rehoboam went boldly up to the northern tribes, but soon, he "hurried to mount his chariot and flee to Jerusalem." [1 Kings 12:18]. We can see the lessons that this incident provides for us. Where do we go to seek counsel? We know the answer! But we must not make the mistake of so many, in searching Scripture looking for the kind of answer we want in relation to some issue, so that we can seem to "confirm" our belief in something we want to believe. It is this desire that has led to so many churches coming into existence.

Let us meditate on the example of Paul and his words to the elders at Ephesus. "I do not count my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God ... I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God." [Acts 20:24,27]. We need the "whole counsel of God" - that is why we need to read - and reflect on what we read - from God's word every day, each year reading all the words that he has caused to be recorded and preserved - the lessons from Jeremiah being particularly relevant - as is tomorrow's chapter in Mark about the return of Christ "after that tribulation".
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

18 August 2014

1 Kings 13
Jeremiah 39
Mark 13

"WHAT WONDERFUL BUILDINGS"

By the standards of 2,000 years ago Jerusalem's Temple was outstanding, "what wonderful buildings" the disciples said to Jesus as they "came out of the Temple" [Mark 13:1]. How shocked they must have been at his reply, "Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down." [Mark 13:2] And so they were - 40 years later!

Similarly, the Temple and city of Jeremiah's day were destroyed and we read today in his 39th chapter of how all that the LORD had caused him to prophesy against the city took place and the king and all his officials are in great distress and most of them are killed.

Mark's chapter records the pronouncements of doom Jesus made against Jerusalem itself, these have some parallels with events that Jeremiah experienced. However, in responding to his disciples anxious requests for further explanations Jesus described far more than the destruction of these "wonderful buildings."

"This must take place," he said, "but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places …" [Mark 13:7-8] He made a most significant point when he added, Mark 13:10, "and this gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations" - and only now has this happened - we understand d that at least the gospels have now been translated into every known language. Surely we can say "What wonderful" foreknowledge the Bible reveals! Jesus told them, "… false prophets will arise … to lead astray if possible the elect" [Mark 13:22]. Jeremiah also had to contend with false prophets [Jeremiah 29:24-32]

"But be on your guard Jesus said to the disciples, I have told you all things beforehand" [Mark 13:23] If we are truly his disciples, we will realize that among the "all things" are events that apply to our generation, for Jerusalem is no longer "trampled underfoot" and so "the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled." [Luke 21:24] Finally, our Mark chapter ends, "Therefore stay awake – for you do not know when the Master of the house will come ..." [Mark 13:35-37] A message for you and I.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

19 August 2014

1 Kings 14
Jeremiah 40
Mark 14

"AND YOU WILL SEE"

Today we read the 72 verses of Mark 14; it is a heart moving account, especially if read slowly and thoughtfully in a way that engages our heart and not just our mind. It is a fairly detailed record of the day before the arrest of Jesus and then of his arrest and how this shattered the faith of his disciples. Their faith was based on sight, they were to learn that true faith is having "the eyes of your heart enlightening, that you may know …" [Ephesians 1:18]

What is our faith based on? Are we ready for a real test of our faith as this world falls apart? In some parts of the world real tests are taking place now. Let us make every effort to build up our faith so that when we sense his return is really imminent - and all around us is in increasing chaos - we firmly endure - until our faith is turned to sight. Meditate on the scene when Jesus stood before the High Priest, and a mixture of witnesses made accusation against him because "the whole counsel were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none … Many bore false witness against him." [Mark 14:55-56] It was the middle of the night, we are in awe as we imagine the intense emotions!

The High Priest then asked Jesus, "Have you no answer to make? … but he remained silent … Again the High Priest asked him, "Are you the Christ (the Messiah) …? Then Jesus responded, 'I am, and you will see the Son of man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.'" [Mark 14:60-62].

From Jesus word's in Luke 13:28, "there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves thrust out" it is clear that his accusers will be raised to life to witness his return and glory. What agony of horror, what utter dismay will fill their hearts! Imagine it?

A more important question will be our feelings when we are privileged to see this. Surely his coming is near, those younger in heart can surely say to each other "and you will see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom and …" And what? We will see each other there too! What feelings will be ours? We make sure of the answer now.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

20 August 2014

1 Kings 15
Jeremiah 41
Mark 15

"THOSE WHO PASSED BY"

Mark’s account of the crucifixion includes the comment that “those who passed by (the cross) derided him, wagging their heads and saying, ‘Aha! You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself, and come down from the cross” [Mark 15:29-30] Matthew’s account includes the added comment,” and we will believe …”

Imagine the scene! Imagine the blindness of their minds at all he had done, wonders that climaxed with the raising of Lazarus after 4 days in the tomb. At least one saying of Jesus had stuck in the their mind, his response to them when they asked, “What sign do you show us …” and his strange but thought challenging answer, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” [John 2:18-19] Only later did the disciples understand.

There are those today who go to the Bible to misquote it, ignoring all the verses that say the opposite to what they want to believe. They talk of the soul being immortal, but we read, “the soul who sins shall die” [Ezekiel 18:4] They also talk of Jesus being co-equal with God and, in one sense, that is true: in John 17:20-23 we read how Jesus prays that believers, his genuine followers, “may all be one, just as you Father are in me, and I in you, that they also may be one in us, so that the world may believe that you sent me … that they may become perfectly one …”

And so did the disciples became – never again did they argue as to who was to be the greatest. May all genuine disciples of today make real progress in becoming “one” in this sense, and then, as Jesus prays, such believers “may be with me where I am, to see my glory …” [John 17:24] - and surely this is when he returns to earth.

May none of us be like “those who passed by” – they “mocked him” saying if he came “down from the cross” they would “believe.” [Mark 15:32] He is now at the “door” and will very soon open the door – and then the mockers will “see and believe” – but it will be too late, he will shut the door on them – see Luke 13:25. May we have the perception of “the Centurion, who stood facing him (and) saw that in this way he breathed his last (and) said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God.’” [Mark 15:39] We are not told what difference it made to this Centurion, but Roman historians tell us that there were hundreds of Christians in Rome in A D 64 (34 years later) and that Nero made them take the blame for the fire that destroyed much Rome; the Gospels show there were several Centurions who were not among “those who passed by.” May we, as much as possible, be like those early believers, “who believed (and) were of one heart and soul” [Acts 4:32]
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

21 August 2014

1 Kings 16
Jeremiah 42
Mark 16

“SHOW US THE WAY WE SHOULD GO”

The people of Judah who remain in the land, are confused and bewildered, after the Babylonians take the king and the important people to Babylon as captives. They are leaderless after Gedaliah, the leading official whom the Babylonians appointed, is murdered. They approach Jeremiah for guidance, after all he had for years brought messages from God warning of the disaster that had now come on Jerusalem.

We read today how they said to him, “pray to the LORD your God for us … because we are left but few … that the LORD your God may show us the way we should go and the thing we should do” [Jeremiah 42:2-3] The people see God as Jeremiah’s God, not theirs.

Jeremiah corrects them as he replies, “I have heard you. Behold, I will pray to the LORD your God according to your request, and whatever the LORD answers you I will tell you. I will keep nothing back …” [Jeremiah 42:4] They respond appropriately and end up saying, “ … may it be well with us when we obey the voice of the LORD our God.” [Jeremiah 42:6]

Ten days later [Jeremiah 42:7] Jeremiah is able to tell them that the LORD says there will be blessings “If you remain in the land” [Jeremiah 42:9-10] But they had already fixed in their hearts an intention to go to the presumed security of Egypt. This illustrates the waywardness of human nature, the lack of most of a real consciousness of God’s will and guidance.

In the centuries since the advent of Christ, how many go to the Bible looking for evidence of what to believe? Rather, they go looking for evidence to support what they want to believe, such as believing that faithful followers of Christ go to heaven when they die. In this effort they distort the meaning of one or two texts, ignoring their context, so as to believe as they desire. John clearly states in his gospel that ”No one has ascended to heaven” [John 3:13] except Jesus. What did Paul expect? In his last letter we read, “ … there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day and not only to me but to all …” [2 Timothy 4:8]

A parallel tragedy is that many are told and believe that all they need to do is to publicly confess that Jesus is their LORD and they will be saved, but we read today in Mark 16 that “whoever believes and is baptised will be saved” [Mark 16:16]. Baptism is going down and being buried into the water and coming up again as a symbol of believing Christ died and then rose – and you need to belong to him. Jesus insisted that John the Baptist should baptise him, telling John, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness” [Matthew 3:15], setting us the example. So it is then, as we carefully read God’s word, it will “show us the way we should go.”
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

22 August 2014

1 Kings 17
Jeremiah 43
1 Corinthians 1; 2

“YOU WERE ENRICHED IN HIM”

Today we started reading Paul’s letters to the Corinthians. He tells the believers there that they have been “sanctified (i.e. declared to be holy) in Christ Jesus” and “called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus” [1 Corinthians 1:2]. So all genuine believers are “saints” – that is, as in Paul’s definition of what makes a person a saint.

A saint is any and every person who is separated from the ways of the world and aims to make their character more and more like that of Jesus – Paul is the outstanding example of someone who achieved this. Paul is most concerned that the believers in Corinth are not making much progress in developing this although they had benefited from the wonderful “grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge” [1 Corinthians 1:5]

They had initially put to one side as of no value the things the world counted as being of value. They began a new life, the things they talked about – and sought more knowledge about these most important things – at least they did this at first! But as we read Paul’s two letters to them we see he has many concerns, coming to understand that many of them were not continuing in the same way as they started. He encourages them to “wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Corinthians 1:7-8] This is equally a message for you and me.

They must grow, says Paul, and become mature, he tells them, “among the mature we do impart wisdom, also it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age who are doomed to pass away. But we import a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory.” [1 Corinthians 2:6-8] God’s word is the source of that wisdom for us, let us make sure we feed our minds on it every day.
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

23 August 2014

1 Kings 18
Jeremiah 44
1 Corinthians 3

”DO YOU NOT KNOW”

We have 3 quite dramatic, but also quite diverse readings today. First the confrontation of Elijah with Ahab. It is clear God is in control and directing the course of events in the wayward northern kingdom, but there are still a few worthy left, at least 100, which Obadiah had hidden in a cave. God’s punishment on Ahab’s kingdom for its godlessness is a terrible drought.

In Jeremiah we read that he and the remnant of the people are still in Egypt, where the people had been determined to go, also being determined to continue worshipping idols, especially “the queen of heaven”. Most of them perish in their godlessness, but again there is a remnant, “a few in number,” who, says the LORD through Jeremiah, “shall return from the land of Egypt” [Jeremiah 44:28].

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians has parallels to this, he makes some extraordinary but wonderful statements about the privileged position true believers have before God, but many in Corinth, as this stage, failed to appreciate this. “You are God’s field, God’s building” [1 Corinthians 3:9], he tells them. “The wisdom of the this world is folly with God” [1 Corinthians 3:19] We saw this with Ahab and with those who insisted in going down to Egypt.

“Do you not know.” Paul asks them, “that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s Temple is holy and you are that temple.” [1 Corinthians 3:16-17] The awesome reality in our lives is to genuinely sense the presence of God with us – IN us – as a spiritual temple in which God dwells. It is evident that Elijah and Jeremiah sensed this. Tomorrow, we will read of how Elijah tried to escape from this realization.

Over the years there has been times of spiritually unhealthy discussion as to whether we possess the Holy Spirit today. We do not, it is the other way round, the Spirit of God possesses true believers, as Paul told the men of Athens, “he is actually not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being.’” [Acts 17: 27-28] “Do you not know” this?
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- DC

[Resource Manager]

24 August 2014

 

1 Kings 19

Jeremiah 45; 46

1 Corinthians 4; 5 

 

"WHAT ARE YOU DO HERE ..."     

       

Elijah showed he was a man of great faith when he challenged the wicked king Ahab on Mount Carmel, fire miraculously burnt up his offering and 450 prophets of Baal were killed. Then three and a half years of drought came dramatically to an end!  But after that he had a remarkable collapse of faith.  Could it be that, after the remarkable climax of events on Mt Carmel, he thought everything was going to be easier now and his intense of faith in God while on the mount relaxed?

        

But it was not going to be easier, in today's chapter [1 Kings 19], when Jezebel declares her intention to kill him because he had caused the death of her 450 prophets, Elijah's confidence in serving the LORD suddenly collapses and he runs for his life.  Is this a lesson for us, to a much lesser degree of course?

        

He says to God, "It is enough now O LORD, take away my life for I am no better than my fathers." [1 Kings 19:14] But the end result is that he finds God in a more personal way than ever before. First, food is miraculously provided for him and after 40 days (interesting that is the same period that Moses spent on the mountain with God) Elijah comes to "Horeb, the mount of God." [1 Kings 19:8]  where Moses had received the law.

         

He lodges in a cave [1 Kings 19:9] he hears a voice, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"  and he experiences the awesome power of God. He thinks he is the only faithful person left in Israel and is told there are 7,000 in Israel who have not bowed the knee to worship Baal [1 Kings 19:18].  As he hides in the cave there is a strong wind, strong enough to break the rocks, then an earthquake and then a fire!  Awesome, it is rather parallel to God's judgements on the world at the end of this age when Jesus is about to come. And how soon is that?  Very soon? We must each ask ourselves, 'What am I doing here? Surely there is still some work to be done for the Lord.

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- DC

[Resource Manager]

25 August 2014

 

1 Kings 20

Jeremiah 47

1 Corinthians 6  

 

“DO YOU NOT KNOW …?”

             

We live in a world which likes to say that ‘You are the most important person!’  Self-centredness is encouraged ­ and that is understandable if you believe there is no God, that everything that exists just evolved ­ mysteriously creating itself: but we know this is all a human delusion!

            

We must look at the reality of life ­ from God’s perspective ­ and Paul is a great help to us, for that is how he sees life as we read today in 1 Corinthians 6 as he encourages the believers to see life from this perspective.  Some of them were misbehaving; there is “sexual immorality” in Corinth.  He asks, “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?” [1 Corinthians 6:15]   

       

Then he adds another question, “Do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her?” [1 Corinthians 6:16]   These points are a prelude to his appeal to them to see the bigger scene - of what their lives really should become  - to ‘grow’ and see spiritual realities, recognising more and more their position as “members of Christ.”  That is a wonderful, but at the same time, a challenging vision to conceive in our mind.

        

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit within you which you have from God?” This is followed by an equally significant point, “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.  So glorify God in your body.” [1 Corinthians 6:19-20]  How can we, do we, accomplish this? 

              

In 1 Corinthians 6:17 we read, “He who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him”  A unique oneness of mind develops! But recall what we read at the end of 1 Corinthians 2:,  “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God …. They are spiritually discerned … For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him.  But we have the mind of Christ.”   The next chapter shows the Corinthians had not yet developed this ­ and us?  The Corinthians were not yet “spiritual people” but “infants in Christ” [1 Corinthians 3:1]  - and us? 

 

Another vital question - how do we “glorify God in (y)our body?”   How did Jesus?  He set the example, followed by Paul, our Lord had total commitment to serve God in all that he said and did ­ to make God’s will ­ his will.  As we do this, we realize more and more clearly what it is to “have the mind of Christ.”  As we change the way we think we become more and more selective of the things in life that help us to become more like Christ.  Do you not know this?  Is Christ the most important person in your life?  He should be.

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- DC