God is Wisdom
“This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:2-3
Wouldn’t it be awesome if we could know the future? It seems like we’d all have much better lives if that was the case. Maybe that is why consulting horoscopes, fortune tellers and crystal balls have their lure, but how often is the feedback provided correct? And do we really trust in it anyhow?
The Old Testament tells us of how God spoke directly to the prophets. That He would give directions for His people to obey which would provide all that they needed to live safely and abundantly. But often the people did not listen and choose to go about things their own way. They dismissed wisdom and ended up suffering for it.
Reading these stories, we think how foolish they were not to listen, but are we not just as foolish? Do we study our bible to gain knowledge? Do we listen to the advice of our pastor and wise counsel? We read a lot of material searching for answers, but why do we turn our backs on the best advice; on truth that comes straight from God - the source of all knowledge and understanding?
“Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD, since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” Proverbs 1:28-33
A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it. Proverbs 22:3
Because God is wisdom, through Jesus Christ truth is revealed.
Thursday, September 15, 2022
Thursday, September 1, 2022
Trust Fund
God is Love
Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. Psalm 36:5-6
If you are on the receiving end of a trust fund, you are often envied by many. After all, who wouldn’t want to be handed down a financial future that is secure? But history tells us that even the safest of investments are risky and can be lost overnight. The same is true if we place our faith in our job, our abilities, our good looks, or social status – as none of these are guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Never fear, however, because God in His ultimate wisdom and love set up a system to ensure our livelihood for eternity. This so-called “trust fund” became available to us through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. Yes, our future is secure when we accept God’s gift of salvation by placing our trust in Christ; a provision that is irrevocable and that pays infinite dividends.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” John 14:1-4
Because God is love, through Jesus Christ our future is secure.
Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. Psalm 36:5-6
If you are on the receiving end of a trust fund, you are often envied by many. After all, who wouldn’t want to be handed down a financial future that is secure? But history tells us that even the safest of investments are risky and can be lost overnight. The same is true if we place our faith in our job, our abilities, our good looks, or social status – as none of these are guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Never fear, however, because God in His ultimate wisdom and love set up a system to ensure our livelihood for eternity. This so-called “trust fund” became available to us through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. Yes, our future is secure when we accept God’s gift of salvation by placing our trust in Christ; a provision that is irrevocable and that pays infinite dividends.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” John 14:1-4
Because God is love, through Jesus Christ our future is secure.
Monday, August 15, 2022
In God We Trust
God is Sovereign
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. Colossians 1:15-16
We elect our government officials, we choose a church, for the most part we choose our boss or place of employment, we choose our spouse, our friends, our home, our wardrobes, our meals – with seemingly so much control in our lives, it is no wonder we have problems with accepting authority over our lives.
Despite all these choices we are free to make, the Bible is very clear that God is our supreme authority. As our Creator and perfect in everyway, God is our source of infinite wisdom and power. So why do we think we know better or can do better on our own? Why is it so hard to give Christ jurisdiction over our lives? Many of us have tried and realized our failure while the rest of us continue to outrun Him. What He demands of us is our attention; what He gives is beyond compare. God is completely trustworthy in a world of uncertainty. While it is easy to find fault in those we have chosen to follow, there is no failure in following Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of all kings.
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. Isaiah 33:6
Because God is sovereign, we can fully trust in Jesus Christ.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. Colossians 1:15-16
We elect our government officials, we choose a church, for the most part we choose our boss or place of employment, we choose our spouse, our friends, our home, our wardrobes, our meals – with seemingly so much control in our lives, it is no wonder we have problems with accepting authority over our lives.
Despite all these choices we are free to make, the Bible is very clear that God is our supreme authority. As our Creator and perfect in everyway, God is our source of infinite wisdom and power. So why do we think we know better or can do better on our own? Why is it so hard to give Christ jurisdiction over our lives? Many of us have tried and realized our failure while the rest of us continue to outrun Him. What He demands of us is our attention; what He gives is beyond compare. God is completely trustworthy in a world of uncertainty. While it is easy to find fault in those we have chosen to follow, there is no failure in following Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of all kings.
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. Isaiah 33:6
Because God is sovereign, we can fully trust in Jesus Christ.
Monday, August 1, 2022
Set Free
God is Faithful
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17
If we are born free and live in a free society, why is it that sometimes we can’t break free from bad decisions, anger that comes from being treated unfairly, burdens caused by excessive debt, insecurities and the anxiety of meeting an unending list of promises made to ourselves and others? Does this life we live truly consist of freedom? Or, do we long to be set free from our commitments and obligations?
The Bible speaks of a freedom found in Jesus Christ. This is a freedom that goes beyond human entitlements. Jesus refers to a freedom that penetrates our hearts and leads us into action. A freedom to forgive when we’ve been wronged; a freedom to love our neighbors and our enemies; a freedom to rejoice even during difficult times; and a freedom to have confidence no matter what we face. Jesus allows us to break free of all personal struggles if we are willing to trust Him and allow Him to be our source of strength. With our focus on Christ, not only are we free from the penalty of our sin, we are set free from the burden in our hearts that drag us down and attempt to defeat us.
In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and he answered by setting me free. Psalm 118:5
For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. Romans 8:20-21
Because God is faithful, with Jesus Christ, we are set free from our burdens.
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17
If we are born free and live in a free society, why is it that sometimes we can’t break free from bad decisions, anger that comes from being treated unfairly, burdens caused by excessive debt, insecurities and the anxiety of meeting an unending list of promises made to ourselves and others? Does this life we live truly consist of freedom? Or, do we long to be set free from our commitments and obligations?
The Bible speaks of a freedom found in Jesus Christ. This is a freedom that goes beyond human entitlements. Jesus refers to a freedom that penetrates our hearts and leads us into action. A freedom to forgive when we’ve been wronged; a freedom to love our neighbors and our enemies; a freedom to rejoice even during difficult times; and a freedom to have confidence no matter what we face. Jesus allows us to break free of all personal struggles if we are willing to trust Him and allow Him to be our source of strength. With our focus on Christ, not only are we free from the penalty of our sin, we are set free from the burden in our hearts that drag us down and attempt to defeat us.
In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and he answered by setting me free. Psalm 118:5
For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. Romans 8:20-21
Because God is faithful, with Jesus Christ, we are set free from our burdens.
Friday, July 15, 2022
The 7th Inning Stretch
God is Ever Present
The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Just about everybody loves baseball – it’s one of America’s favorite pastimes. In addition to the hotdogs and peanuts, one of the highlights of the game is the seventh inning stretch -- a time to stand up and stretch your legs, to grab another refreshment, to regain focus on the game and to be re-energized.
Looking at our own lives, we also see the need for a break after a long day, week or series of difficult events. Whether it’s the weekend or an extended vacation, rest from daily chores and burdens is necessary. Sometimes our circumstances don’t allow for us to get the rest we need. We grow weary and tired. We long for something to renew ourselves.
he bible tells us that Jesus gives us rest. He is always there to lean on, to carry our burdens . And His rest gives more than just sound sleep or relaxation, it gives us complete peace and security. Just as you can count on the 7th inning stretch to be part of a baseball game, so too can you count on God to give you the rest you need.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11 28-30
Because God is ever present, we find complete rest in Jesus Christ.
The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Just about everybody loves baseball – it’s one of America’s favorite pastimes. In addition to the hotdogs and peanuts, one of the highlights of the game is the seventh inning stretch -- a time to stand up and stretch your legs, to grab another refreshment, to regain focus on the game and to be re-energized.
Looking at our own lives, we also see the need for a break after a long day, week or series of difficult events. Whether it’s the weekend or an extended vacation, rest from daily chores and burdens is necessary. Sometimes our circumstances don’t allow for us to get the rest we need. We grow weary and tired. We long for something to renew ourselves.
he bible tells us that Jesus gives us rest. He is always there to lean on, to carry our burdens . And His rest gives more than just sound sleep or relaxation, it gives us complete peace and security. Just as you can count on the 7th inning stretch to be part of a baseball game, so too can you count on God to give you the rest you need.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11 28-30
Because God is ever present, we find complete rest in Jesus Christ.
Friday, July 1, 2022
Fear Not
God is Faithful
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:27
Many of us are worried. Worried about the economy, our jobs, our bills, our children, our parents, our health…the list goes on. God never intended for us to worry. Genuine concern for a matter moves you to action, but worry has ill effects. Do not let your heart and mind be consumed by fear. Learn to focus on what God has called important and trust him to provide.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34
Because God is faithful, we need not worry.
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:27
Many of us are worried. Worried about the economy, our jobs, our bills, our children, our parents, our health…the list goes on. God never intended for us to worry. Genuine concern for a matter moves you to action, but worry has ill effects. Do not let your heart and mind be consumed by fear. Learn to focus on what God has called important and trust him to provide.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34
Because God is faithful, we need not worry.
Wednesday, June 15, 2022
From Sorrow to Joy
God is All Powerful
The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16: 22-25
When having a bad day, it’s unlikely we’d describe our mood as joyous. To the contrary, we are likely to be tense, short tempered, angry or distraught. In fact, from simple problems like being stuck in traffic to the most difficult of trials, being joyful is the last emotion we would expect to experience.
The Bible tells us that Paul and Silas, two of Jesus’ disciples, sang songs of praise after being whipped, beaten and then chained in a cold and dark prison cell. Yes, bloody, cold and imprisoned without cause, they praised God! Doesn’t seem possible, does it? But Paul and Silas knew Jesus personally; they trusted God was in control of all things and that there wasn’t anything that He could not handle. Their confidence in God gave them peace, and this peace gave them joy knowing they were with God and God was with them. A joy that was so deep and profound they were able to sing praises despite their unfair and brutal treatment, their dire circumstances. Not long after they praised God, an earthquake shook the ground violently and they were set free. This same sincere joy that Paul and Silas experienced is available to us all at all times – and because of it, we too are set free.
I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed. Psalm 71:22-23
Because God is all powerful, with Jesus Christ, we find joy in all our circumstances.
The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16: 22-25
When having a bad day, it’s unlikely we’d describe our mood as joyous. To the contrary, we are likely to be tense, short tempered, angry or distraught. In fact, from simple problems like being stuck in traffic to the most difficult of trials, being joyful is the last emotion we would expect to experience.
The Bible tells us that Paul and Silas, two of Jesus’ disciples, sang songs of praise after being whipped, beaten and then chained in a cold and dark prison cell. Yes, bloody, cold and imprisoned without cause, they praised God! Doesn’t seem possible, does it? But Paul and Silas knew Jesus personally; they trusted God was in control of all things and that there wasn’t anything that He could not handle. Their confidence in God gave them peace, and this peace gave them joy knowing they were with God and God was with them. A joy that was so deep and profound they were able to sing praises despite their unfair and brutal treatment, their dire circumstances. Not long after they praised God, an earthquake shook the ground violently and they were set free. This same sincere joy that Paul and Silas experienced is available to us all at all times – and because of it, we too are set free.
I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed. Psalm 71:22-23
Because God is all powerful, with Jesus Christ, we find joy in all our circumstances.
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