Thanksgiving in Hope (Nov 27)

So, this past week, we thought about all that we have to be thankful for as we celebrated Thanksgiving Day. Some may say that they have very little or nothing to be thankful for, but I think if we look at our lives, and all that God has done, and all that He has promised to do, we actually do have many things to be thankful for. Anyway, I was in a situation recently where I found myself thinking about some things that I could thank God for. I also, in that same situation, found some things for which I had to hope. Maybe we’re thankful for one thing, but continue to hope for another. Maybe we’re thankful for one degree of answer to prayer, but continue to hope for something more complete.

So, I would like to take the opportunity in this lesson to make two points: First, do not allow your hope for something else or something more to preclude you from giving thanks for what you have. Second, find an attitude in your heart wherewith you can give thanks for that which you only hope for. Give thanks because you know that God is faithful and your hope is well placed.

1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Heb 11:1-2, 39-40, 12:1-2 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (2) For by it the elders obtained a good report. ... (39) And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: (40) God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. ... (12:1) Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

1Co 13:4-7 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, (5) Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; (6) Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; (7) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

1Co 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Php 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

(Careful: to be anxious about, to take thought)

Faithful (Nov 13)

We, as the church, as a body of believers, and as a family, need to come together and be faithful in prayer and love for one another, believing that God will do a great work in His time. We must remain faithful.

Col 1:3-12 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, (4) Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, (5) For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; (6) Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: (7) As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; (8) Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. (9) For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; (10) That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; (11) Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; (12) Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

Pro 27:18 Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honored.

1Th 5:6-28 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. (7) For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. (8) But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. (9) For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, (10) Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. (11) Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. (12) And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; (13) And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. (14) Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. (15) See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. (16) Rejoice evermore. (17) Pray without ceasing. (18) In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (19) Quench not the Spirit. (20) Despise not prophesyings. (21) Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. (22) Abstain from all appearance of evil. (23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (24) Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. (25) Brethren, pray for us. (26) Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. (27) I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. (28) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

Out of Contact (Nov 6)

Yesterday, I was out biking on the trail. When I go biking, I always carry the GPS on the bike. It allows me to see where I am, but it also gives me helpful information such as speed, time, and distance traveled. Also, sometimes when I’m out, I’ll use the GPS to find geocaches. While driving, I’ll use the GPS to get to the location of a trailhead, often without knowing the route ahead of time. When driving, and to some extent, while biking, accuracy doesn’t matter too much. Low accuracy while finding a cache, on the other hand, can have a bigger impact. While I was riding yesterday, I noticed that the GPS was not getting a very accurate signal. I could pass over the same section of trail and the track on the screen would show that I was 50 or 100 feet away from my track the first time through. When that happens while driving, and you’re in a city or somewhere that has multiple roads or ramps that run parallel to each other, the GPS might mark you as being on the wrong road, which may affect the directions. Like I said, I noticed quite a bit of inaccuracy yesterday. Also, while driving home, the satellite radio was cutting out a lot. Even though it was a clear day, it seems that all of my devices were out of contact with the satellites.

So, when are we out of contact with God? Like the satellites were probably up there and working fine, God is always there and always available. But, like my devices were not talking to the satellites due to whatever reason, we can often times quit praying and close our ears and eyes to God’s voice and displays of truth. At one point during my ride, I rode through an old railroad tunnel. It was short one that you could see right through, but it was long enough to lose satellite signal completely. So, in life, do we crawl into a tunnel and completely lose touch with God?

God is speaking to us and calling out to us. But if we have our ears plugged and hide from His presence, we will miss out on His blessings and the life that He has prepared for us. Like the GPS without a signal, if we lose contact with God, we will lose our way and not hear His direction for our life or His guidance in what path to take.

Fortunately, God is always there and always available. When we lose contact, it is not Him hiding. It is us hiding in a tunnel.

Psa 139:1-24 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. (2) Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. (3) Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. (4) For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. (5) Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. (6) Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. (7) Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? (8) If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. (9) If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; (10) Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. (11) If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. (12) Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. (13) For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. (14) I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. (15) My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. (16) Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. (17) How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! (18) If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee. (19) Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men. (20) For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain. (21) Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? (22) I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies. (23) Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: (24) And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Start (Sep 18)

Yesterday, I went to the Bike MS event in Cook Forest. There were two routes: 35 miles and 65 miles. As we were getting registered, and subsequently preparing our bikes and gear for the ride, the announcer was calling out for people to start each group. The 65-mile folks left in several groups about an hour before the 35-mile folks (so that everybody would get lunch at about the same time). The announcer and some of the volunteers that were running around organizing kept referring to the “65 mile race” and the “35 mile race.” It wasn’t really a race, but that is how they were wording it. As it turns out, somewhere along the way to get to the ride, my tube got a puncture and went completely flat. I filled it a couple of times, but the leak was too fast. I was scurrying around, gather tools and stuff and fiddling with it to find the problem. The group that I should have been in assembled and the gun went off. Away they went. Two more groups assembled and left, including the “absolute last call.” Then they wouldn’t let any more on the course. I got my tire fixed, but it was too late. I didn’t start.

1Co 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.

In the Christian faith, we so often talk about “running the race,” “keeping our eyes on the prize,” or “finishing the race.” But it dawned on me yesterday, as I ended up hiking on the (beautiful) trails in Cook Forest, that although it is indeed very important to continue in the race, run the race, persevere towards our goal, finish the race, and all of that, it all kind of hinges on whether or not we even start the race. After I was done with my hike, I was going to jump on my bike and pedal up the road to the pavilion where they had the pork barbecue going so that I could meet the riders as they finished and then have lunch, but I realized that it would look like I was finishing the race in very good time (some of the speedsters were already pulling in). I didn’t finish the race; I didn’t persevere mile after mile, hill after hill; I couldn’t cross the finish line…all because I didn’t even start.

So, I could ask you today if you have your eyes set on the one thing in life that is important. I could ask you if you are persevering in your faith. I could ask if you were pouring your whole heart into God’s work, running like you want to obtain the prize. But I’m going to ask you this: have you even started the race? Or are you off doing your own thing? God’s calling for people that will live for Him (completely) and do His work. Let’s get on the starting line and not quit running for Him until we’ve crossed that finish line and seen the glory of God completely!

Heb 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Yes, God is the finisher of our faith and is able to keep us from falling and presents us faultless in the very end. But He is also the Author! He will begin a good work in you, if you’d just surrender to Him and let Him work!

Preparation (Aug 28)

When you go on a trip, you often have to take some time for preparation. You think about all of the things that you will need while you are away and then you make sure that you have them packed with you when you leave. Some trips require more preparation than others. When I flew to Boston in February, I had to pack light because of baggage policies with the airline. I made sure that I had clothes for work and also a few things for off-hours. I packed my swimsuit because the hotel had a pool. I made sure that I had the appropriate personal care items. I made sure that anything that wouldn’t pass security was in my suitcase which would be checked baggage. I also brought my work laptop, iPod, GPS, and cell phone. That didn’t require much preparation and I had everything that I needed while I was there. A camping trip, on the other hand, requires a bit more preparation because there are so many more things you need, such as equipment, food, and utensils, not to mention a different set of reservations and itineraries. If I were to travel abroad, that would even compound the process. Every time that we travel to see my grandparents, I sit and think for a few minutes before going out the door, mentally checking off items from a list. It is important to have everything that we need for a trip, as well as a job or task that we might accomplish at home.

Imagine how much more planning and preparation must be made for scenarios of life-and-death importance that come up in life, spiritually speaking. For those situations, God’s got you covered. He’s already done the planning and preparation. But you have to take it.

Eph 6:10-20 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (13) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (19) And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, (20) For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Belt – Truth
Breastplate – Righteousness (equity of character or act, right living, right being)
Shoes – Preparation of the gospel of peace (ready with good words of peace, rest, and quietness)
Shield – Faith (persuasion, belief, assurance)
Helmet – Salvation
Sword – Word of God
Disposition – Prayer with perseverance (persistence; don’t give up!)

Playing Chicken with the Devil (Aug 21)

When we were kids, sometimes we would play chicken, usually on bikes. Basically, two people would ride toward each other and whoever turned aside first, was the chicken and lost. It can be done with any vehicle, or even on foot. Sometimes you’ll hear of someone playing chicken with a train, or an animal in the road playing chicken with your car as you’re driving towards it. It’s a test of willpower and nerves, to see who will give up first. Obviously, if played correctly, the result will be a collision.

I often ride the bicycle on trails and sometimes there are a lot of other people riding, walking, or jogging. At those times, you have to be careful to stay to the right, alert people when passing, and if riding side-by-side, you must ride single file when someone else approaches. Unfortunately, people don’t always do that. There have been many times when I have to ride off the trail to go around people that don’t get out of the way in time. Sometimes it feels like I’m playing a game of chicken. As I approach, they should be moving over, so it is sometimes tempting to maintain my position until the absolute last moment when I’m sure that they just aren’t going to budge.

It got me to thinking about how we sometimes play chicken in other areas of life. Sometimes people work very closely against deadlines. If even one thing goes wrong, they could be late and have problems. Some people hold their bills until the absolute last second before sending payment. One hiccup in the mail and they’ve got late fees. I’ve heard of some people that have it down to within dollars and cents as to when and how much is deposited and when and which bills they pay, trying to avoid late payments and overdraft fees while living barely within their means. It’s like people are just asking for something to go wrong. But more importantly, what about the spiritual side of life? What happens when we play chicken with the devil? We see just how close to the edge between God’s will and the devil’s temptations we can get without teetering right off into oblivion.

1Co 6:18-20 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (19) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

1Co 3:16-18 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? (17) If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. (18) Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

Let me tell you something about playing chicken: The more you play it, the bolder you become; the bolder you become, the closer you get to destruction. Sooner or later, when playing chicken, you lose.

Strength Under Pressure (Aug 7)

We often talk about having faith, strength, and commitment. We believe that no matter what comes along, our faith will remain strong and we will not break. We know that this strength comes from the Lord and we rely on Him to keep us when times are both good and bad. What happens, though, when things get really tough? What happens when you’re really under pressure? What happens when that faith is tested? What if there’s persecution? I can’t even imagine what we’d see in the church if we had the kind of persecution that Christians endure in places like China, Pakistan, and Vietnam. They regularly face the threat of imprisonment and death.

The other day, I had my bike in the shop. I had been dealing with creaking, squeaking, clicking, and other random oddities from the pedals and bearing. The repairman had replaced the bearing cylinder a week earlier, which eased much of the problems, but there was still something wrong. He next replaced the pedals. I turns out that there was a crack in one of them. Shortly after he fixed the bike the first time, I rode 41 miles with a group and everything was smooth. But we were riding at a slower pace than normal to accommodate a less-experienced rider. A couple of days later, when I was riding alone, I noticed the clicking from the cracked pedal. You see, I was putting more pressure on it than before and it wasn’t able to stand up to that. If I had put even more pressure on it, it probably would have snapped off and caused me to wreck. Oh, it had strength. It held up to mile after mile after mile that I was putting it through. But when there was added pressure…when the going got tough, that strength seemed to disappear and it all but broke apart. So I got new pedals. They are of better quality and will (should) hold up when under greater pressure.

Mar 9:23-24 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. (24) And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

Jud 1:24-25 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, (25) To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

Col 1:9-13 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; (10) That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; (11) Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; (12) Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: (13) Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

1Co 10:12-14 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. (13) There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (14) Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Remembrance (Jul 31)

It turns out that our brains hold lots of stuff. Every time we hear, see, or learn something, it gets stashed in there somewhere. Many tidbits that are stored become memories. We can sit and think and remember things that happened many years ago. Those things are still stored in our brains. Sometimes we forget things. Scientists say that the information is still stored in the brain; it is just inaccessible for some reason. Possibly we lose connections for some reason. But sometimes, an interesting thing happens. We experience something that we haven’t experienced in a very long time and we suddenly have a rush of other memories from that time period. It’s like that experience triggered a connection in the brain and all of a sudden, we have that connection to other related things. This has happened to me on various occasions and it can be sort of weird at times to remember things that were long forgotten.

In a similar manner, God can use all sorts of things to bring His word to our remembrance. We might catch a glimpse of something, or hear a little tidbit, or whatever and then suddenly remember something from God’s word that He spoke to our heart earlier. In this way, we remember the Word of God and may be reminded of what we must do or how we must act.

Jon 2:6-7 I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me forever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God. (7) When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.

Psa 63:3-7 Because thy loving-kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. (4) Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. (5) My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: (6) When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. (7) Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.

2Ki 17:38-39 And the covenant that I have made with you ye shall not forget; neither shall ye fear other gods. (39) But the LORD your God ye shall fear; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies.

Psa 44:17-18 All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant. (18) Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way;

Of course, I should point out that in order to remember God’s word, we must read it in the first place. It is a good idea to spend some time early in the day to read some of God’s word. You can read a devotional or a few verses and then throughout the day, God will bring that word to your remembrance when you need it most. Or He might save that particular word for a specific time in the future. God is merciful and trigger something in our heart to remember Him and his voice. This is just another way that He provides all that we need at just the right time.

Pinch Me (Jul 17)

For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. 1Pe 1:24-25

Sometimes when a person is having an exceptional time or something unbelievable happens, that person will request to be pinched in order to ensure that they are not dreaming. “How could this possibly be real? I must be dreaming!” the person might say.

A few weeks ago, I had a dream that was very realistic. What happened in the dream was very wonderful and left me both shocked and happy. It was much unexpected, yet a pleasant surprise. As the dream came to a close, I remember just walking around and smiling and just thinking about how good life was at the moment. Well, it was at that moment that I began to wake up. For a little bit, as I was in that semi-lucid state, I came to realize that I was not at the location that I just dreamed, but I somehow was still believing that the situation had truly happened. As I woke up further, my mind submitted to the now very-real fact that it was all a dream. I lay there equally as shocked as I had been earlier. It had all been a dream and none of it was real. I’m sure this has happened to all of us at some point, at least to some extent.

I was impressed with how much of a disappointment it can be when something that we believe to be true is found to be false…or something that we believe to be real is found to be a dream. It also got me to thinking about one thing that is not a dream. And that is the promise of God’s faithfulness. God’s promises are real. His words are real. His plan is real. We’re not going to wake up someday and all of a sudden, his promises are gone. We’re not going to wake up someday and find that God’s word is untrue or his plan has unraveled. No, we’re going to wake up tomorrow to find that God is still faithful. We’re going to find that tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day, and the next day…

Lam 3:21-26 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. (22) It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. (23) They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. (24) The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. (25) The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. (26) It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

Heb 6:11-12 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: (12) That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

2Co 6:16-7:1 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (17) Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, (18) And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. (7:1) Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.

Psa 119:159-160 Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy lovingkindness. (160) Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

I Like God (May 29)

So, this past week, a friend pointed something out to me, thinking that it might make a good story for a lesson. I laughed it off at first, but then I got to thinking: I’ve been talking about apathy and indifference lately and this kind of fits in. You see, on Facebook, there are these things called pages. There are pages for various companies and products. On any given page, a person can click the “like” button and then they will receive updates from that company or about that product on their homepage. They normally get updates about their friends and such, but now they also get updates about things that they “like.” Also, on other people’s home pages, there will be an update listed that says, for instance, “Joel likes Dr Pepper” or “Joel likes Armstrong Trail.” Well, somewhere along the line, people started creating all sorts of random pages just so they and their friends could “like” them. So now you have stuff like “Fred likes Singing in the rain,” “Julie likes running through puddles in bare feet,” and “Jenny likes eating drippy ice cream on a hot day.” Well, it didn’t take long before someone created a page called “God” and another called “Bible.” Now people can “like” the Bible…and even God. I know, this all sounds pretty absurd, but that’s the kind of things that people do when they seemingly have nothing better to do. So anyway, my friend imagined that there might be people that come before God at the Judgment and say, “God, why am I going to hell? I totally ‘liked’ you on Facebook!” I don’t think anybody would have the guts to say that once they are in the presence of His great holiness, but it does draw a picture of the kind of apathy, indifference, and lack of respect that people have. I mean seriously, compare one of the great evangelists of yesteryear to such a person. One of them gave their entire life to the work of God; they lived and breathed the will of God. Every ounce of life in them was spent for their love of God. The other goes about their own life, filled with assorted pleasures and ideas, and maybe on the off chance that they think of such things, they go on Facebook and click “like” on God. Now, I’m not too crazy about Facebook and I hesitated trying to make a whole lesson based on such an example, but it sure paints a picture, doesn’t it? Wrap your mind around such a drastic spectrum, with such extremes!

So, I ask you today: do you like God? Before you blurt out, “Yes, of course,” let me add…or do you love Him? There is so much in the Bible about loving God and, in fact, it is pretty much a huge part of being a Christian (huge understatement). But if you look up the meaning of the word “love,” you’ll find that it’s a LOT stronger than our nonchalant use of the word “like” in modern times. Let’s beware of becoming indifferent in our love and desire for God. Let’s beware of becoming nonchalant toward the things of God, figuratively shrugging our shoulders to all that is so important…the very essence of life!

Isa 32:9 Rise up, ye women that are at ease; hear my voice, ye careless daughters; give ear unto my speech.

Eze 33:31 And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.

Rev 2:1-7 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; (2) I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: (3) And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. (4) Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. (5) Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. (6) But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (7) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

The Wandering One (May 22)

Sometimes people in the family of God seem to wander off for a bit. Maybe you’ve decided to go out on your own and discover what the world has to offer. Maybe you just aren’t that interested in the things of God. Or maybe you’re interested, but just not super-zealous about it.

Luk 15:11-32 And he said, A certain man had two sons: (12) And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. (13) And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. (14) And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. (15) And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. (16) And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. (17) And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! (18) I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, (19) And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. (20) And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. (21) And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. (22) But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: (23) And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: (24) For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. (25) Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing. (26) And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. (27) And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. (28) And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and entreated him. (29) And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: (30) But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. (31) And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. (32) It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

Well, here we have a story about a guy that took his share of the money from his dad and left town. He went out and really lived it up. But after awhile, the money ran out and things went downhill. It was in that time that he realized that he was in the wrong place. Of course, he eventually decided to head back home. He knew he had wronged his father and didn’t deserve to be called his son. But his father was happy to see him (had been looking for him) and rejoiced to bring him back into the family and household. It’s not too late for you to get up and head back home. Whether you’ve gone away from God as into a far country and completely blocked him out of your riotous life or whether you’ve just been ignoring Him a bit lately, it’s time to turn from that and run back to the Father. God is merciful. Jesus said He came to earth to seek and save the lost. God is calling you and looking for you because He wants you back.

Luk 15:4-7 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? (5) And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. (6) And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. (7) I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

Encouraged by God's Mercy (May 15)

I’d like to share a devotional by Chris Tiegreen and discuss it for a bit. It’s found in “Worship the King” and is the entry for May 15.

2Co 4:1-2 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; (2) But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

We can be encouraged by remembering God’s promises and also his mercy that He has already shown us. God’s mercy is so great and encompasses so much that when we see it or think about it, we cannot help but be encouraged and strengthened in faith. God is merciful; He gives us the grace that we need in all situations. He is merciful; He gives us the words to speak, the means to obey, and the strength to do His work. He is merciful; He forgives us when we fail and calls us to rely on Him.

Mat 26:36-46 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (37) And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. (38) Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. (39) And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. (40) And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? (41) Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (42) He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (43) And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. (44) And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. (45) Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. (46) Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

Mode of Transport (May 8)

The other day, I took a walk on the Armstrong Trail. I was a little south of Phillipston and I looked up in the sky and saw a hawk floating around in the sky. It looked to be so effortlessly drifting on the air currents above the high ridge overlooking the river. I watched it for a little bit as I trudged along down the rocky trail. I would be walking for an hour or two. My heels would probably hurt a little bit. I would be dusty and dirty. That bird, though, was just floating along on the currents of air, soaring here and there as it wished. The stark contrast got me to thinking a little bit about our choice in modes of transport. If I had the choice of drifting along in the air or trudging along the rough trail, I would be silly to choose the latter.

Isa 40:28-31 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. (29) He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: (31) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Spiritually, I think that many are choosing to trudge along wearily rather than soar above with strength and power from God. Many don’t seem to have the desire to soar with God. Many don’t seem to have the time or care to wait on the Lord.

The Extra Snow (Feb 27)

Almost every winter, when we get a big snow, I build something out in the yard. Sometimes they’re big and detailed and sometimes they’re simpler. I try to come up with something original and creative each time. I often get comments from people that drive by and enjoy seeing the snow sculptures. This year, we never had a big snow such that we’d have a bunch of packable snow with which to build something. The weather turned very warm and it seemed like spring was on the way. I was hoping for one more snowstorm so that I could make something. Well, we got it. And I had a plan on what to build. I got home from work and ate dinner. Then I bundled up and headed out to build my sculpture. But the snow was not packable. I tried to work with it, but it was frustrating. In the past, when the snow wasn’t packable, I’d just make a big pile and then carefully carve it into something. I’d usually choose a subject that didn’t have too many details or parts that stuck out. But this time, I already had an idea: a penguin sitting upright. But the snow wouldn’t stack. Unwilling to give up, I piled the snow as high as I could and then simply carved out the penguin to the best of my ability. He turned out shorter and squatter than I had pictured, but given the snow conditions, I’m happy with what I got. But as I cleaned up the area and put the finishing touches on the sculpture, I noticed something: I used a lot of snow in the building process that wasn’t part of the final product. I had to make a big pile in order to carve out the penguin. But much of the snow was only there to make the pile big. It was then carved away: necessary, but not seen in the end.

As Christians, we want to be used by God. But how often is it for the recognition or so that we can be a part of the glorious end-product? Are we willing to be used by God in an unseen and unsung capacity? Are we willing to be that “extra snow” that is only there to support the building process? Do we want to be used by God so that God’s name might be glorified instead of our own? Do we just want to be obedient to Him no matter what the calling?

1Co 12:1-31 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. (2) Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. (3) Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. (4) Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (8) For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; (9) To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; (10) To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: (11) But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (12) For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. (13) For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (14) For the body is not one member, but many. (15) If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? (16) And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? (17) If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? (18) But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. (19) And if they were all one member, where were the body? (20) But now are they many members, yet but one body. (21) And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. (22) Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: (23) And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. (24) For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked: (25) That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. (26) And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it. (27) Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. (28) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (29) Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (30) Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? (31) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more excellent way.

Willing to Live (Feb 13)

I was listening to someone speak recently and they were talking about all the things that God can do and they were telling great stories about God using people that were unskilled and lacked abilities. I can’t remember all that they said and the scriptures that they pointed to, but one of the things jumped out at me. It was something along the lines of “you just have to be willing to be used by God.” There was more to it than that, but let’s keep it simple. So often we back down from things because we don’t know what to say or how to say it. Or we don’t have the skills to do some work for God. Or we’re afraid for some reason, intimidated, or reserved. Or, or, or…and countless other excuses. They seem so logical and full of common sense and reason, but in the end, they’re excuses. If we are willing, Jesus will live in us and through us. But we have to be willing and just take that step in faith.

Eph 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: (22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Eph 5:1-2 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; (2) And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor.

Joh 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

We need to surrender our lives to the Lord and allow Him to live through us. Perhaps we ask the question, “What would Jesus do?” and we try to imitate Him. We fall short and find our abilities to be inadequate. Perhaps instead we should ask, “What is Jesus doing?” Can we look in our lives and see what Jesus is doing? Do we see Him as our life, and not just a model for it? Do we allow Him to do His work in us? Are we willing to live in Christ instead of within our own framework?

Joh 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Icky (Jan 30)

Some time ago, I bought some new fish to add to my aquarium. No sooner had I added them to the tank, than a couple of fish showed signs of ich, a fish disease that can be fatal. Basically, with ich, a tiny parasite burrows itself into the flesh of a fish and feeds on the blood. This makes the fish itchy and they try to scratch themselves on rocks. It must be something like a chigger bite, only on a larger scale. After some time, the parasite will fall to the floor of the tank and multiply at an exponential rate. The new parasites attach themselves to the fish and the cycle continues. This wears down the fish, they get lethargic, and then often die. There are a few things that can be done to treat it, including chemical treatment, raising the water temperature, and cycling the water more often. So, for the past week, I've been treating my water and fish and they seem to be doing much better.

I was thinking about transformation and reading a few scriptures on the subject and I also thought about this situation with my fish. Those parasites don't belong there. They are getting into the fish and causing real problems. They need to be killed off and prevented from reproducing.

When we let sin into our lives, it often begins as a small thing, seemingly harmless. But it affects us. And then it grows and multiplies. We think it is gone and we overcome it and then more and more stuff gets into our lives.

Sin needs to be dealt with. God is a God that can transform hearts and lives. He can take a heart that is ridden with compromises and glossed over with cynicism – lethargic and no longer excitedly growing – and transform it into a heart full of vibrant life. If you've ever been sick, you know what I'm talking about. When your immune system is compromised, you just feel like sleeping or not doing much. But when you're better, you are suddenly full of energy and want to get up and do stuff. Perhaps a little cabin fever helps to move the process along, but you're out there living life again. Spiritually, God takes that heart and changes it. He cleans it out and fills it with His Spirit again. But you know, if we just let it go, there's nothing but death waiting. If I didn't treat my fish, they'd just die. Hopefully with the treatment, the tank will be transformed once again into a vibrant living environment and the fish will return to their darting around and what not.

Mat 12:43-45 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. (44) Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. (45) Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.

Rom 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Tit 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, (12) Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; (13) Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; (14) Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Col 3:9-10 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; (10) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Glory and Borey Too (Jan 16)

Due to illness, I didn't get to deliver this lesson last week, so I added some scriptures and thoughts and I share it again with you this week…

Welcome to 2011! Sure, it's just another day, but it's also a good time for some re-evaluation. I'm not suggesting that you come up with a bunch of lame New Year's resolutions that you won't keep. I'm suggesting that you take a quick look at your life, do a little inventory, check out your commitments, and figure out what it is you're doing here. Check out this devotional reading by Chris Tiegreen:

Eze 1:28 As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake.

Brilliant flashes of light, gyroscopic movements, mysterious faces, and a glowing presence. Those are feeble words describing an awesome vision—"the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD," according to the prophet. In other words, Ezekiel is saying, "This is the best that words can do." But he implies—and we know from his response—that it was more than a strange vision. It was the indescribable presence of majesty.

That sense of majesty—of great glory, unimaginably inspiring and impossible to grasp—is the sense that every believer should live with. It prompts prophets to declare God's truth with superhuman courage, and it drives painfully human worshipers to their knees. If we live without a sense of excitement, going through the routine of our days with rote motion and chilling apathy, we don't have it. We aren't living in the presence of God.

That's an absurd picture: In one realm, there are flashes of lightning, powerful winds, shouting angelic voices, and indescribable fire and motion. In another realm, there are lukewarm people going through stale routines without much enthusiasm, energy, or hope. That's expected of people who have never known God. It's inappropriate for those who have.

How can we who dwell in the passionless, visible realm live with the perspective of those who have seen the eternal flames of glory? For starters, we can begin each day in the posture of Ezekiel's response: We can fall facedown. In other words, we can worship. Given enough truth, time, and practice in the art of adoration, we got greater glimpses of God's glory. And if a day begins with that, it is anything but a routine day.

If you are bored with life, lacking energy, and losing hope, try spending more time in God's presence. Ask Him to reveal His glory. Life will never be the same.

Hmmm, think about those words. People going through their stale routines or boring lives, doing spiritual things out of habit or tradition…how can this be if they've seen the glory of God? Like the author said, "That's expected of people who have never known God. It's inappropriate for those who have." So evaluate your life. Take a look at your heart. Do you see glory or borey living? (Hey, I had to tie it back to my lame title somehow.) Seriously, though, how can we live in God's presence and be so apathetic?

Zep 1:12 And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil.

Mat 22:1-6 And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, (2) The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, (3) And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. (4) Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. (5) But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: (6) And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.

Heb 6:11-12 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: (12) That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

And, in context, this section in my Bible is under the heading "The Peril of Not Progressing."

Heb 6:1-12 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, (2) Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (3) And this will we do, if God permit. (4) For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (7) For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: (8) But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned. (9) But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. (10) For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. (11) And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: (12) That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Glory and Borey (Jan 9)

Welcome to 2011! Sure, it's just another day, but it's also a good time for some re-evaluation. I'm not suggesting that you come up with a bunch of lame New Year's resolutions that you won't keep. I'm suggesting that you take a quick look at your life, do a little inventory, check out your commitments, and figure out what it is you're doing here. Check out this devotional reading by Chris Tiegreen:

Eze 1:28 As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake.

Brilliant flashes of light, gyroscopic movements, mysterious faces, and a glowing presence. Those are feeble words describing an awesome vision—"the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD," according to the prophet. In other words, Ezekiel is saying, "This is the best that words can do." But he implies—and we know from his response—that it was more than a strange vision. It was the indescribable presence of majesty.

That sense of majesty—of great glory, unimaginably inspiring and impossible to grasp—is the sense that every believer should live with. It prompts prophets to declare God's truth with superhuman courage, and it drives painfully human worshipers to their knees. If we live without a sense of excitement, going through the routine of our days with rote motion and chilling apathy, we don't have it. We aren't living in the presence of God.

That's an absurd picture: In one realm, there are flashes of lightning, powerful winds, shouting angelic voices, and indescribable fire and motion. In another realm, there are lukewarm people going through stale routines without much enthusiasm, energy, or hope. That's expected of people who have never known God. It's inappropriate for those who have.

How can we who dwell in the passionless, visible realm live with the perspective of those who have seen the eternal flames of glory? For starters, we can begin each day in the posture of Ezekiel's response: We can fall facedown. In other words, we can worship. Given enough truth, time, and practice in the art of adoration, we got greater glimpses of God's glory. And if a day begins with that, it is anything but a routine day.

If you are bored with life, lacking energy, and losing hope, try spending more time in God's presence. Ask Him to reveal His glory. Life will never be the same.

Hmmm, think about those words. People going through their stale routines or boring lives, doing spiritual things out of habit or tradition…how can this be if they've seen the glory of God? Like the author said, "That's expected of people who have never known God. It's inappropriate for those who have." So evaluate your life. Take a look at your heart. Do you see glory or borey living? (Hey, I had to tie it back to my lame title somehow.) Seriously, though, how can we live in God's presence and be so apathetic?