Tag: Daily Walk

A Word About Justification

On By TimIn Justification, Romans 05Leave a comment

Words mean things. Let’s look at one.

Justification: Dictionary.com defines justification as “a reason, fact, circumstance, or explanation that justifies or defends(.)” It is the noun form of the word justify.

Justify is defined as “to declare innocent or guiltless; absolve; acquit(.)”

With that knowledge, let’s apply that to what Paul says.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. How much more then, being now justified by His blood, shall we be saved from wrath through Him. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, how much more, being reconciled, shall we be saved by His life. Furthermore, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Romans 5:8–11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

To some, this passage is often muddied with something called original sin. That is a term loaded with much baggage. It helps to not read that baggage into Romans 5 and take it for what it says.

First, while we were in rebellion, Christ died for us. Paul says we are justified by His blood. We are acquitted and guiltless. That applies to everyone, saved or unsaved. Paul declares that as reconciliation. The reconciliation is in His death.

Then there is this huge implied “but.” Though being reconciled by His death, we are not saved by it. We get salvation from His life.

Therefore just as through the trespass of one man came condemnation for all men, so through the righteous act of One came justification of life for all men.

Romans 5:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Paul is clear on the justification. The justification is to life. That is, not guilty of the death which is the penalty for sin. All men that live after they sin demonstrate they have justification of life.

The penalty for sin is the wages of death. All men are free from that. The problem as Jesus said… It is dying in your sins.

Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins. For unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.

John 8:24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

That is where the canker gnaws. “Unless you believe I am He,” He says. He is the One who justifies us from death and can take your sins away because He lives… You will die in your sins.

God Asks Questions

On By TimIn Daily Walk, Exhortation, Genesis 16Leave a comment

Genesis 16:7–8 (MEV): The angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness. It was the spring on the way to Shur. And he said, “Hagar, Sarai’s maid, where have you come from and where are you going?”
And she said, “I am fleeing from the presence of my mistress Sarai.”

I love the patterns established in Genesis. This particular exchange leads us back to God seeking Adam and Eve after they sinned.

Genesis 3:8–13 (MEV): Then they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. The Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?”
He said, “ I heard Your voice in the garden and was afraid because I was naked, so I hid myself.”
And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?”
The man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate.”
Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What have you done?”
And the woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

There is a simplicity here that is often overlooked. When God seeks a lost one, one that has sinned, He seeks them out. Let’s remember that all of this happens before the law was given and before Jesus came. God seeks the sinner in order to restore the broken relationship.

When He finds the one, He gently leads to the problem by asking a question. He’s not asking for information, there is another purpose to His questions.

In each of these examples, God asks a question and it is followed by a confession of sin.

Oh, I know some of you are going to scoff. You’re going to say that there is no contrition or sorrow in the responses… As if feelings have anything to do with a confession of truth.

Sometimes just a simple acknowledgement of our foibles in the presence of a Holy yet loving God is all that is needed. We don’t have to pound our chests, or cry rivers of tears. A simple confession saying this is the problem is the first step to conquering the problem together.

When you sin, don’t wait until you actually feel sorrow or remorse for what you did. Go to your Heavenly Father and confess it. He’s waiting.

Being Ready for Spiritual Warfare

On By TimIn Armor of God, Children, Daily Walk, Employees, Employers, Encouragement, Ephesians 06, Exhortation, Fruitfulness, Gifts, Husbands, Justification, Relationships, Spiritual Warfare, WivesLeave a comment

Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Ephesians 6:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In my reading, it occurred to me that what we consider to be the epitome of preparation for spiritual warfare as being Paul’s description of the armor we must wear. These are his final thoughts on the subject. In order to understand the necessary function of the armor and to be able to trust it doesn’t work without all of the other preceding things that are the foundation for it. We must roll back a few chapters to understand.

Corporate Life at Church

I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, exhort you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you were called. With all humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another in love, be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:1–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Paul says lots about corporate fellowship. It’s the start, to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. We are to do it in patience, meekness, and humility. We are to bear one another in love. Paul is not saying we bear the heathen in love, but one another. And with it, we ought to be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit.

I cannot help to think how easy it is for us to break fellowship for the slightest things. People will leave churches because the church ain’t going their way. Someone will be asked to leave a church because he doesn’t toe the line. We don’t bear well with each other as corporate bodies. I’d dare say that in our churches we are sorely fit to do any sort of spiritual warfare.

There is one body and one Spirit, even as you were called in one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Ephesians 4:4–6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The essentials are in Spirit. We divide in the flesh. We just keep these things in mind.

But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men.” (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that He also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is also He who ascended far above all the heavens that He might fill all things.)

Ephesians 4:7–10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is more here than I am going to speak about, but I will leave that for you to search on your own. What we have spiritually is from Jesus Himself. He gave the gifts to each of us in the exact measurements we needed to fulfill our purpose in the body.

All of us are needed in fellowship. Our local bodies are ill-equipped if we remove ourselves from fellowship, or even kick someone out. Each of us is essential.

He gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, for the equipping of the saints, for the work of service, and for the building up of the body of Christ, until we all come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, into a complete man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so we may no longer be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the trickery of men, by craftiness with deceitful scheming.

Ephesians 4:11–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

What gifts we each possess are for the equipping of the saints. Often these giftings are used for self-edification and aggrandizement. They are given to us for others, to equip them. It’s the work of Jesus to which we are called. I can assure you that you know someone who has attached one or more of these titles to the beginning of their name. That doesn’t edify others in the least.

We are to help each other become complete. We are to desire to grow. This is a message and critical foundation for spiritual warfare. If each of us is not now rightly in a fellowship of believers who trust us and whom we can trust, we aren’t prepared for any kind of warfare.

But, speaking the truth in love, we may grow up in all things into Him, who is the head, Christ Himself, from whom the whole body is joined together and connected by every joint and ligament, as every part effectively does its work and grows, building itself up in love.

Ephesians 4:15–16 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We need that trust because sometimes there is going to be something we’re not going to want to hear. It’ll be hard to stomach if we don’t trust that the person who speaks it has our best interests before his. It’s necessary. As the whole body must be joined together to effectively work and grow. None of us can do it alone.

Therefore this I say and testify in the Lord, that from now on you walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their minds, having their understanding darkened, excluded from the life of God through the ignorance that is within them, due to the hardness of their hearts. Being calloused they have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.

Ephesians 4:17–19 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The unsaved operate in self-imposed ignorance. They refuse to believe. They scoff. It hardens them. Just like a callous on the hand, it becomes a place where there is no feeling. It cannot feel the comfort of warm soap and water. It cannot feel the sharp edge of a razor blade. The unbeliever is in the same predicament unable to feel the things that are good, and the things that may be dangerously deadly. The more a callous is rubbed, the larger and harder it grows.

That’s the sensuality that Paul is speaking about. It takes more of the same old thing just to feel it, yet it makes the hardness even harder. That’s the sensuality of sin.

But you did not learn about Christ in this manner, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off the former way of life in the old nature, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that you put on the new nature, which was created according to God in righteousness and true holiness.

Ephesians 4:20–24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It’s a new way of life we must put on. Jesus teaches us we don’t have to keep doing the same old chase that never satisfies.

Look at the contrast, without Jesus, it’s seeking sensations, what pleases us personally. That’s the essence of lust. That’s why the Bible uses the term. It’s not just sexual. It is a seeking to satisfy our own desires.

We are to live differently, to renew our minds.

Therefore, putting away lying, let every man speak truthfully with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry but do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your anger. Do not give place to the devil. Let him who steals steal no more. Instead, let him labor, working with his hands things which are good, that he may have something to share with him who is in need.

Ephesians 4:25–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We are to operate truthfully. It means to stop taking from others. Instead, be prepared and ready to give something.

Let no unwholesome word proceed out of your mouth, but only that which is good for building up, that it may give grace to the listeners. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you are sealed for the day of redemption.

Ephesians 4:29–30 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Watch what we say. Make sure that it benefits others. Our eternity is secure. There is nothing anyone can do to steal that from any of us… Not even our own actions. None of us have to operate in our former ways.

Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outbursts, and blasphemies, with all malice, be taken away from you. And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.

Ephesians 4:31–32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Let all the bad stuff be removed. This is telling us that we ought to be willing to give these to God.

Bitterness gets a place when we don’t forgive. Bitterness always gives rise to the enemy. Don’t even give it a place.

Personal Life Everywhere

Therefore be imitators of God as beloved children. Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us as a fragrant offering and a sacrifice to God.
And do not let sexual immorality, or any impurity, or greed be named among you, as these are not proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse joking, which are not fitting. Instead, give thanks. For this you know, that no sexually immoral or impure person, or one who is greedy, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Ephesians 5:1–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We have our example. Imitate God as the children of Him we are. Walk in love Paul says. Sometimes we overlook the idea of love in mind. It’s sacrificial. It gives of itself even unto death.

Don’t practice sexual immorality or other impurities.

Don’t be greedy. That’s a hard one. Each of us wants to be first in line. Few of us want to wait until last.

Watch the language we use. Change the way we talk to be thankful, first to God from Whom good things come, but for others around us.

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them.

Ephesians 5:6–7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Be careful who we listen to and associate with. It’s not that we shouldn’t hang around with them, but we are not to participate in the inane things other unbelievers do.

For you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light— for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth—proving what is pleasing to the Lord. And do not have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness; instead, expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things are exposed when they are revealed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

Ephesians 5:8–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We all have our previous lives. We all walked in darkness. Now instead of just walking in darkness, we are light. That is light in the Lord. It’s a new identity. Walk in it, proving it.

We ought not to do those things we used to do. Instead, we expose them. Things that are exposed lose their power and control. Secrets are by nature things not out in the light.

See then that you walk carefully, not as fools, but as wise men, making the most of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 5:15–17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Time is short. Don’t waste it on things that have no eternal benefit. We live in evil times. It’s been like that since Adam was expelled out of the Eden of God.

Do not be drunk with wine, for that is reckless living. But be filled with the Spirit.

Ephesians 5:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Don’t substitute the world’s spirits for the Holy Spirit. Be sober-minded.

Speak to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Give thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, being submissive to one another in the fear of God.

Ephesians 5:19–21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These are the things to center our minds on, renewing them. It’s a personal endeavor we must always be cognizant of pursuing. It’s a choice we make every moment of every day. It’s difficult to engage in any form of spiritual warfare if we’re not walking in the light we are.

Interactions with our Spouses

Wives, be submissive to your own husbands as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, just as Christ is the head and Savior of the church, which is His body. But as the church submits to Christ, so also let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.

Ephesians 5:22–24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is not a hierarchy thing or a master-slave relationship. But there is an established order of things. Husbands aren’t the master. Wives aren’t slaves.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it, that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, and that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish. In this way men ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord cares for the church. For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.

Ephesians 5:25–30 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The admonition is to the husbands. It is necessarily so. The whole idea is to not drift off into some misogynist mindset where a man operates as king of his castle.

No. This is teaching us that the wife ought to be elevated to not just the same treatment as a husband would treat himself, but just a bit higher. The husband is to give himself just as Jesus did. It’s totally selfless.

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and shall be joined to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh.”

Ephesians 5:31 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is for both parties in a marriage. When two people get married, their family is the two in the marriage (and children.) It’s great to have moms and dads, brothers and sisters. But your spouse is your family first and foremost. It goes without saying that the word most needs emphasis.

If mom interferes with our spouse… Side with the spouse. He or she is family. That is what Paul is saying. This is the proper order.

It doesn’t mean we cannot do things with our parents and siblings, but to insist on having every Thanksgiving or other holiday celebrations with them and dragging our spouse along can lead to problems. Even trying to be fair is difficult. Establish your own family traditions. And do the extended family things once in while.

Leave mom and dad and cleave to our spouse. It is difficult to engage in spiritual warfare if we are married and do not cleave to our spouse. Two are one. We need them.

This is a great mystery, but I am speaking about Christ and the church.

Ephesians 5:32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

A good marriage becomes a great apologetic.

However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Ephesians 5:33 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

A final admonition for a happy marriage. A husband that loves his bride sacrificially, with a bride who respects him.

Behaving as Children

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with a promise, “so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”

Ephesians 6:1–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is pretty much self-explanatory.

Proper Parenting

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:4–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is the job of the parents to pass on their faith.

Relating to Your Employer

Servants, obey those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of your heart, as to Christ, not serving when eyes are on you, but as pleasing men as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good thing any man does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is enslaved or free.

Ephesians 6:5–8 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

As an employee, we are to work for our manager as one would work for Jesus. After all, He is Who we are working for ultimately.

Our work should be the same even when others aren’t watching. That means no running off into the bathroom to check our phone or goofing off in the back of the storeroom.

By doing that, not only do we receive a paycheck from the employer, our good deeds earn eternal rewards. The sincerity of our hearts may be the thing that makes an unbelieving employer become a believer.

Managers Relating to Employees

And masters, do the same things for them, no longer threatening, knowing that your Master also is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.

Ephesians 6:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Do the right thing for those who work for us. Pay them fairly. Treat them rightly, just as we expect to be treated by Jesus.

Finally Brethren

Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Ephesians 6:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We come to the text which opened the post. It’s long. But it is necessary.

Before we can even endeavor to don the armor of God, we need to shore up every single one of these areas of our lives. If they are not secure and rightly done, there is an opportunity for the enemy.

Don’t just concentrate on the armor, but concentrate on all of the preparation that comes before and is a foundation for it.

For to God we are a Sweet Fragrance of Christ

On By TimIn 2 Corinthians 02, Daily Walk, Exhortation, IdentityLeave a comment

Now thanks be to God who always causes us to triumph in Christ and through us reveals the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God a sweet fragrance of Christ among those who are saved and among those who perish. To the one we are the fragrance of death, which brings death, and to the other the fragrance of life, which brings life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not as many are who peddle the word of God. Instead, being sent by God, we sincerely speak in Christ in the sight of God.

2 Corinthians 2:14–17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sometimes it is the obscure things that provoke thought. Consider this passage, especially in light of a recent conversation. In the center of it was identity. And this one like many insisted on identifying in the old things. That even after claiming to be in Jesus Christ. In this instance, the identity is one that may even be dear to you.

Why identify as a sinner?

Think about that. It is some kind of boasting. In a sense, yes. Nevertheless, it is an identity. It is an identity that Paul never uses to describe himself or another Christian.

We are in Jesus. Our identity is in Jesus! Look at how Paul describes that in the passage. God always causes us to triumph. If God always causes us to triumph why do we choose our identity to remain in the old swamp?

God reveals through us the fragrance of His knowledge. That’s an awesome thing, as He is working through us continually. We are a sweet fragrance to Him among all men. To one, we bring words of life, to others a sure reminder of death.

Who is sufficient for these things?

It’s not a rhetorical question. It’s not meant to show Paul’s own inadequacy. It’s not that Paul considers himself a sinner. He never identifies himself that way.

Our sufficiency for these things is given in Jesus. Our simple life in Him is what makes us the sweet fragrance. That’s what qualifies us.

There are some who make spreading the knowledge of God all about a paycheck. The nearly soul purpose of what they do is because they get paid for it. But Paul knew his mission. He was sent by God, and he can sincerely speak Christ to anyone.

That same mission is on each of us as Christians. Remember, Jesus said, “Go and make disciples.” You are sent by God.

Everywhere you go, you carry that sweet fragrance. When people examine the way you comport yourself, they know something is different. To some, the fragrance is sweet and brings the promise of life. To these you can speak of God freely and they accept.

To others, that fragrance is cloying and sickening. It’s not different. It is how they perceive it. To the already perishing, a reminder of that end revolts just as it should. To these, too you may speak freely of the knowledge of God. Specifically that He came to redeem the perishing. You will meet resistance, persecution, and maybe even death.

Rest assured your eternity is secure in Jesus Christ. Let’s live like it!

Sow to Yourselves Righteousness

On By TimIn Hosea 10, Righteousness, SanctificationLeave a comment

Sow to yourselves righteousness, reap mercy, break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until He comes and rains righteousness upon you.

Hosea 10:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Hidden gems abound in the writings of the prophets. This is one of my favorites. In an agrarian way, God succinctly explains how things work. It is sowing and reaping.

In our own lives, we are responsible for the viability of the ground seed is planted in. That is if your own heart is willing to hear the words of God… No matter how hard they are to hear… That is breaking up the fallow ground.

The next step is to apply and do what you hear. That is, sow to yourself righteousness. The crop reaped is mercy. And it comes in bounties!

The time is now. Yea it is! It is time to seek the Lord. You cannot do it half-heartedly. It is a life-long loyalty.

Until He comes and rains righteousness upon you. In other words, you will be immersed in righteousness.

It is not doing good things that saves anyone. You cannot do enough. But it is hearing, heeding, and doing God’s will. And that is easy.

Acknowledge Who He is and what He says. That He did indeed come in the flesh, He died on the cross and rose again to give life to all.

Believe it is for you right now. Jesus did die for you; He did that for the pardon of your sins. He rose again, too. In that, He gives you new life.

Confess those things out loud. Tel Him your sins, too. He will faithfully remove those and cleanse you from al unrighteousness and give you the gift of eternal life.

How do You Deal?

On By TimIn 2 Samuel 16, PersecutionLeave a comment

So David and his men continued on the road, and Shimei went along on the hillside beside them, cursing, throwing stones, and flinging dust at them as he went. The king and all of the people who were with him arrived at their destination exhausted, but he refreshed himself there.

2 Samuel 16:13–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

David is a great example of lots of things. Sometimes it’s how not to do things. Others, it’s how to do them. That is the case here.

David is in exile because his son Absalom seeks his life. I couldn’t imagine what it is like to be hunted down by someone who is your own son.

But it was before this moment that David and his servants were blessed with refreshment on their journey. It was also there they met Shimei. Shimei was of the house of Saul and cursed David. In reality, he wanted to kill David.

I neglected to post the entire passage for a purpose. I want you to discover that is there. Especially in how David extends mercy to one who would kill him.

Here, we find Shimei traveling with David. He is pitching a fit, making a show and even hurling stones at David. David doesn’t let it hinder his journey.

It’s like that for us. How many have someone that curses and harangues us?

How many of us let it bother us?

David is the proper attitude. He puts up with it because maybe Shimei is called by God to curse David. Yet, David rests all of his hopes in God despite his own guilt. If what Shimei is doing is from God, how could David escape?

Perhaps God might show kindness amid cursing. Regardless, we see David’s steadfast trust in God. It’s easier to live life trusting in God. That’s exactly why David could defeat Goliath. He trusted not in his own strength, and even though he made deliberate sins, those never derailed David’s belief and trust. He continued living despite the troubles, whether of his own doing or not.

Even in the middle of cursing blessing might come. Don’t let it stymie your progress. Be like David. Trust God. Seek God. And continue to live in that mercy giving mercy in turn, even if you have to put up with shenanigans.

Change your Thinking

On By TimIn 1 Peter 04, Daily Walk, Faithfulness, LoveLeave a comment

Therefore, since Christ has suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh serving human desires, but the will of God.

1 Peter 4:1–2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Therefore, that simple word connects the following conclusions to all that came before. It is that Christ satisfied our debt. Because He suffered in his physical body to do so, we need to put on that same mindset.

As Peter writes that the one who has suffered has ceased from sin, he’s not saying that you will stop sinning. This is still the idea of putting on that mindset of not doing such things. If we do, we put off serving them. That allows us to live freely for the rest of our lives.

How shall we live?

Paul said it succinctly.

Likewise, you also consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We reckon ourselves dead to the flesh, and the sin it desires to serve. We change our mindset to be alive to the things of God. In that way we cease from sin, just as Jesus. It will cost us, and we will suffer.

For in earlier times of our lives it may have sufficed us to do what the Gentiles like to do, when we walked in immorality: lusts, drunkenness, carousing, debauchery, and abominable idolatries. They are surprised that you do not join them in the same excess of wild living, and so they speak evil of you.

1 Peter 4:3–4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We are all familiar with our past indiscretions. For some of us, like me, we’ve done some of these shameful things as Christians. Thankfully, our sins are not counted against us. But those who are not saved still live like the world. They don’t understand why you don’t come along anymore. Here is where the hardship for each of us comes in, they will revile is for these things.

That’s okay. Nevertheless, it is sad.

They will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

1 Peter 4:5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

They will have to give an account. This is the judgment that the believer escapes (John 5:24.) It comes after death, just as it is written…

As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this comes the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many, and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who eagerly wait for Him.

Hebrews 9:27–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is a shocking thing for some. The end result won’t be fun.

For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, so that even though they might be judged according to men in the flesh, they might live according to God in the spirit.

1 Peter 4:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This verse is a bit difficult for me to make sense of, but given the text I will attempt it.

This refers yet again to Jesus’ descent into Hades after His death. He preached the Gospel to those saints in prison. These are judged in the same way any believer in the flesh is judged. That is, their sins are remitted. They meet the Judge Himself. The Bible is clear, there is no other way to heaven.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.”

John 14:6–7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

To know Him is to know the Father. He is the only Way. That is why He descended to lead captivity captive. That they, too, might live eternally according to God in the spirit.

It is the same way we ought to think to live now.

Live Honorably Even When Your Beliefs are Called Evil

On By TimIn 1 Peter 02, Daily Walk, Encouragement, Faithfulness, Sanctification1 Comment

Live your lives honorably among the Gentiles, so that though they speak against you as evildoers, they shall see your good works and thereby glorify God in the day of visitation.

1 Peter 2:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Though this was written to Jewish believers, it stands with very poignant encouragement for today. The news is rife with the pressure being put on Christians to conform to society.

People call Christians evil because of perceived “intolerance.” (I need remind all, tolerance is the last bit of virtue to be championed in a decadent society.)

Amongst other instructions, these are given:

Do not repay evil for evil, or curse for curse, but on the contrary, bless, knowing that to this you are called, so that you may receive a blessing.

1 Peter 3:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

By blessing others, it may seem as if we are giving the best stuff away to the least deserving. Yet, the promise still stands for those who give… Such receive a blessing.

They are surprised that you do not join them in the same excess of wild living, and so they speak evil of you.

1 Peter 4:4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is exactly what is happening today. There pressure will continue to wax worse as the boundaries of decadence normalize what was once called perverse.

Peter also tells exactly why they speak evil. We do not join in with the decadence. We are called to bless and receive the sure reward. The promise still stands for them, also.

They will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

1 Peter 4:5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

If you are waiting to be judged, you’re already on the wrong side. There is Hope for all of us. Email me, and we can chat privately.

Live Like Jesus

On By TimIn 1 Peter 03, Daily Walk, Encouragement, Jesus, SanctificationLeave a comment

Who is he who will harm you if you follow that which is good?

1 Peter 3:13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a rhetorical question. One that Peter asks knowing the obvious answer. For us believers, as the previous citation of Psalms 34 teaches–the eyes of the Lord on the righteous, and He’s set His face against those who do evil. Considering that, there is nobody that can really harm us if we’re doing good.

It’s About Perspective.

In other words, we are to set our minds ahead, just as Jesus did. It is easy to see a simple explanation. Suffer here to live there, which is far better than living here to suffer there.

But even if you suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. “Do not be afraid of their terror, do not be troubled.”

1 Peter 3:14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When we do good and suffer for it, there is a blessing in that. Peter cites Isaiah 8:12 to bolster the truth that for the believer, eternity is secure. It is our real home. Remember, earlier he says we are aliens and refugees in this world. We should not partake of its lusts.

There is nothing in this world from which we ought to be afraid. It’s the next world where we reside already. This is inherent as Peter discusses this. He uses the dichotomy of flesh and spirit. We would die in the flesh. But live in the spirit. We ought not live in the flesh and die in the spirit.
Be Ready.

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to every man who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, with gentleness and fear.

1 Peter 3:15 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The expectation here is to be ready. Whether we are a newfound believer or not, we all ought to be able to give an answer to anyone that asks.

Given this era and the tendencies of the culture, suffering is right here in these sorts of discussions. Often the God-deniers would attempt to easily twist us up with all sorts of controversies. Their hope is that we will lose cool. But we are encouraged to learn to give an answer with gentleness. That is, to suffer under their needling.

We are to set aside the Lord in our hearts. This is to know that we have a ready-made sanctuary from where we can rest. It’s always in us as the Spirit of God dwells in us. Understand that. Rest in that. Even when being asked the most daunting of questions or confronting the most difficult of challenges—it is our conduct that brings shame to those who would accuse. Not the eloquent and erudite answers we might give.

Have a good conscience so that evildoers who speak evil of you and falsely accuse your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, that you suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

1 Peter 3:16–17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Peter has circled back to this juxtaposition of living it up here while in the flesh only to suffer in the next life. That is as opposed to suffering here to live in the next life. The latter is far better than the first.

In other words, there is no amount of suffering that can happen to you in this fleshly body that can even begin to compare of the suffering coming to those who do evil.

Live like Jesus

For Christ also has once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit, by whom He also went and preached to the spirits in prison, who in times past were disobedient, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.

1 Peter 3:18–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a long sentence to digest. Jesus once suffered for sins. He being just, died for the unjust. He put Himself in flesh and made Himself subservient to even death. By His death, that suffering once for sins, He satisfied the wages of sin. (The wages of sin being death, not an eternity in Hell.) This provides a respite of judgment due for sin. That is, sudden and sure death, which is often alluded to as being cut-off.

That He Might Bring Us to God.

It is not an automatic thing. There is a tacit understanding in that statement that each of us has a responsibility to come to God. This is the long-suffering of God.

He has put up with all sorts of evil and wickedness from the foundation of the world. It surely grieves Him. Yet He subjected Himself to that same evil, and even died. For what cause may be a question on the mind. It’s for us humans… You, me… All of us.

He suffers through the grief we all give Him, waiting patiently for the maximum number of folks to be saved. He gently asks us to do the same, and even gives us provision to do just that.

He Was Made Alive by the Spirit.

And that is how we are made alive. It’s by the Spirit. Of course, as believers, He indwells us, that’s that provision I spoke of previously. But it is by the same power in Jesus’ resurrection that we are made alive. Remember how Paul said it.

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
But now is Christ risen from the dead and become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.

1 Corinthians 15:19–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It’s the resurrection. It’s the Spirit life that’s important.

He Went and Preached.

Jesus went and preached to the spirits in prison. Most scholars agree that Jesus descended into Sheol, the abode of the dead. There is some disagreement on who the spirits are. Some say it is the dead people, good and evil. Others say it was to preach to those real fallen angels who are locked in chains until judgment that their plan to overthrow God didn’t work.

Let me explain succinctly. Since the fall, when God promised to destroy the enemy by the seed of the woman, Satan has sought to prevent that from happening. Before the flood, he ensures evil was rampant knowing God would have to judge that generation. The goal was to destroy humanity. Thus destroying the advent of the Savior. Yet evil was so bad, God did have to judge.

So God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh is come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence because of them.

Genesis 6:13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When the promise of the seed was given to Abram, Satan had a people to destroy. He set in motion all sorts of ways to waylay Abraham’s lineage to prevent the Anointed One from being born.

When the Messiah came, Satan knew it. He persuaded Herod to put babies to death in order to stop God’s plan. When Jesus began ministry as John baptized Him, Satan met with Jesus. He (Satan) knew immediately Who Jesus is, the very God Who made him. In his mind, Jesus had come into his domain. Satan had the power there, he could kill God and cement his dominion of creation.

How that plan backfired with the resurrection! For all those minions of the evil one in prison and held for judgment, Jesus did go and preach. He assured them by showing them Himself alive in the Spirit, that they had made a grave error.

When you read the Scriptures, note how we never here another word ascribed to Satan after the resurrection of Jesus.

A Way of Rescue.

Just as God had planned to destroy the evildoers, He had a way of rescue in mind for Noah and his family. They were saved through water.

It is with this imagery that Peter continues.

Figuratively this is like baptism, which also saves us now. It is not washing off the dirt from the body, but a response to God from a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.

1 Peter 3:21–22 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Figuratively… Peter is not going to say that the water saves. Think of the dichotomy that has presented before, the difference between living in flesh and living in spirit.

It’s not that water baptism saves us. Water can only can wash dirt off of the body. It is the same Spirit that made Jesus alive that makes us alive. It is the one baptism, that immersion in the Spirit that rescues us.

Figuratively, it’s a picture given to us by baptism, being buried in the grave and rising in newness of life. It’s a proclamation of the good triumphing over evil. It’s a reminder to everyone looking on, that God surely saves. Yet as He did with Noah in times before, He saves us now.

It’s by pledge of a good conscience that we do water baptism. It’s symbolic. It’s a reminder of reality. In a way, it’s spiritual warfare. Every single time someone is baptized in water, it’s a visual reminder of the promises of God to both the believer and the scoffer. Even to the fallen angels that are of the principalities and powers that are now subjected to Jesus.

Time is short for those who do evil, and the coming incarceration is inevitable. There is a time of escape for humans. And just as God called Noah and his family into the ark and left the door open for seven days, He is still waiting for you to believe; to cease living in the flesh, and to live in the Spirit, for Him.

You are the only one responsible for how you will spend eternity.

Love Life and See Good Days

On By TimIn 1 Peter 03, Encouragement, LoveLeave a comment

For “He who would love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1 Peter 3:10–12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a simple prescription from the Great Physician on how to live life. Peter is quoting it from Psalms 34:12-16. It could be seen as the key to a long life, but that would be reading an idea into the text that I don’t think is there. We are to love life and see good days.

But what if Peter is talking to those whose patient endurance salts the Earth?

Since the encouragement, Peter has offered centers on how to live righteously in long-suffering. That idea would carry into why he quotes this from the Psaltry. As we believers walk in Jesus, we are to consistently try to avoid evil. In so doing, we will gradually reduce the evil in the world being a good influence toward Godliness. Then to be a blessing to the world, as Jesus Himself is.

Furthermore, if God’s eyes are on the righteous, and He hears their prayers when we pray for our unsaved friends we can trust God hears. That alone is a reason to abstain from evil.

It’s the Way You Talk

I cannot help but notice the first emphasis is on the way we speak. It must be important. Fix the way we talk, seems to be the first step in turning away from evil and then doing good. I am reminded of what James is saying.

We all err in many ways. But if any man does not err in word, he is a perfect man and able also to control the whole body.

James 3:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I need to keep hearing those things. I know in my own self, my tongue is not as tame as I would like, but it is wholly up to me. Yet James tells us that proper speech controls our body. It’s reasonable. Changing the way we speak requires a change in the way we think.

There is another purpose. Maybe because when we speak as we ought, our conscience would have a sure-fire witness of hypocrisy when our doings don’t align with our talking.

I cannot write these words without that prick of the conscience in my own mind. I hear the tsk-tsk in knowing I must (and can) do better. It’s not shaming. Just a gentle encouragement.

Again, me bettering my behavior begins with bettering how I communicate. Bettering how I communicate necessitates a change in thinking. Though… It has a certain benefit for me, as Peter is teaching, the real benefit is for the world and those around me. After all, it is those who we all serve.

Our Speech has a Cistern from Which to Draw

Jesus taught it this way.

For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

Matthew 12:37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These words show how important it is to learn to control what we say. This is the summary of what Jesus said as He answered the Pharisees and those around them. They had just seen Him cast out a demon and said Jesus used the power of the ruler of the demons. Jesus explains how their words are a judgment against them.

He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Therefore I say to you, all kinds of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven men. Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, neither in this world, nor in the world to come.

Matthew 12:30–32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sometimes, this portion of Scripture may be misunderstood. It contains what is called The Unforgivable Sin. Ponder the context as we continue. This entire teaching comes from what these men said about Jesus, especially His works.

He basically tells them that they aren’t with Him! Worse is the fact that they actively work against Him.

Next, look at how Jesus points out that all sorts of behavior would be forgiven. Then we come back to this idea of speaking. Those Pharisees were seemingly speaking against Jesus. Yet He is pointing out the deeper truth, they were speaking against the Holy Spirit belting their unbelief.

Keep these ideas in mind as we continue.

It’s up to You

Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt. For the tree is known by its fruit.

Matthew 12:33 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This statement will be elaborated upon by Jesus. Succinctly, He is telling them something profound. It is weird to expect what you are doing is pleasing when what you think and believe is not. Or, what you do is righteous when what you believe is not.

These Pharisees were the leaders. The ones who were to teach the people of God about God. Their fruit wasn’t commensurate with what they knew deep down. The facade they presented was this vibe of Holy men. The fruit (what they said) was corrupt.

Jesus is telling them to fix that! In other words to live what they believe, whether it’s truth or not.

Or… change what they believe to bring forth good fruit.

O generation of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things. And an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

Matthew 12:34–35 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In this very instance, what those so-called holy men said revealed what they believed.

It’s the same for us. We can tell what we believe by the way we talk, especially if it is about Jesus. In the same fashion, we can begin to correct our behavior by changing the way we communicate. We change the way we communicate by acknowledging and believing the truth as witnessed to us by the Holy Spirit. The theological word for that is repentance.

Jesus is the foundation for everything. He is the very God these Pharisees purported to teach about. His presence in their midst and their reaction to what He did revealed the lack of treasure in their hearts.

Read the conclusion to the matter.

But I say to you that for every idle word that men speak, they will give an account on the Day of Judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

Matthew 12:36–37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)
It Starts with What we Believe.

Just as Peter is saying up until this point–what we believe ought to change our entire pursuit of living. Knowing that our eternity is secure and we lose nothing there, we can choose the righteous way. All the while living in liberty. In other words, make the tree and its fruit good.

Not to do what we want, but to do what we ought until that becomes what we want.

In Conclusion.

I want to circle back around to that unforgivable sin. Many have concerns over what it is, and if they’ve done it. My hope and prayer is that the Holy Spirit would lead you to see. It is clearly tied to unbelief… The abject lack of treasure (belief in Truth) in the heart.

If one doesn’t believe the witness of the Holy Spirit, such is not forgiven in this life or the next. What is done here has eternal consequences.