A Simple Truth

April 23, 2026 AdminLeave a comment

Romans 11:25-27 Matthew 12:15-21

The truth is we complicate theology when we fail to take scripture at face value. Reading the verses above, what do they tell us? The truth is there is salvation for everyone, regardless of tribe or nation. That salvation brings hope, prophesied thousands of years ago by the prophet Isaiah. If you believe the Bible is God’s inspired Word, holy and true, then the words of the prophet mean a great deal to Gentiles of today. I am a Gentile and very grateful for what the Bible teaches me about the mercy and grace of God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

I recently listened to an extensive explanation of two theological view points on the nation of Israel. Are they still the apple of God’s eye? Some say “yes”. Some say “No”. If there is any debate, we must at least be forever grateful that our salvation comes through the man of Galilee, Jesus of Nazareth who as a Jewish male was circumcised on the 8^th day (Luke 2:21). Throughout His life Jesus followed the religious laws, celebrating feasts in the temple along with all the other Jewish nationals.

Jesus lived and died within the context of Jewish practices. A Gentile woman coming to Him for help recognized the difference and reverenced Him for it. (Luke 15:21-28). The gospels portray Jesus as regularly participating in Jewish worship, teaching from Jewish texts, celebrating Jewish festivals, and making pilgrimages to the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, all consistent with Jewish identity.

What is the point? Are we to recognize the State of Israel as God’s chosen nation? (Exodus 19:5-6)* Why is it difficult to see that they were first called the children of God, that when God promised Abraham He would bless the nations through him (Genesis 12:3), Gentiles were grafted into the family of God? Nothing matters more than that those who believe and receive Jesus as Lord of their lives, will be called the children of God (John 1:12-13).

Questions remain. Should we be helping Jews to maintain the land? The Bible teaches that this is God’s land, intimately special to Him as the dwelling place of His chosen people (Leviticus 25:23). They were to purge it of all idol-worshiping nations. The Israelites didn’t complete the job and have suffered for it until now. “Did God say….?” This was the question with which Satan tempted Eve in the beginning. It has been asked down through history until this very hour.

The simple truth is that as a humanitarian gesture, at the very least, our attitude should bless the Jews, as much as any nation at war. Why then is there any question about our support? Isn’t this feeding into the very prophecy of end times when all nations will turn against the land of Israel (Zechariah 14), even those professing to be Christian?

Reflection:

If indeed this little patch of ground along the southern Mediterranean belongs to God in a special way, I must think seriously about protecting it. If the people living there have really been brought back to their land by God in fulfillment of prophecy, then I must seriously consider my attitude towards them as a nation belonging to God. It is the simple truths, with profound meaning, which make us a blessing to the heart of our great God when we submit to them, is it not?

Devotional

Blest Be the Tie

February 27, 2024 AdminLeave a comment

Photo by Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto on Pexels.com

Romans 8:35-39

There is a mystery in the Christian life. God holds the key to our relationship with Him. Meanwhile we sometimes struggle to understand this covenant relationship. We are assured He will never allow us to be plucked out of His hand (John 10:29). He will perform the work He started until the day Jesus Christ returns (Philippians 1:6). Nothing will separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39). God is responsible for keeping His side of the agreement.

On the other hand we are accountable for the choices we make to surrender our lives to His control. Will we truly follow in His steps? Do we proclaim Him to be “Lord of all” in our lives in word only, or in reality? How much influence does the Holy Spirit hold over our thoughts and deeds, our attitudes and feelings? Do we take advantage of the fruit with which the Holy Spirit wants to equip us? (Galatians 5:22-23).

Paul indicates that we have a responsibility to keep ourselves free from slavery to things in our past. Writing to the Galatian church, one struggling with the issue of works, he tells them to stand firm and not let themselves be burdened with the yoke of slavery (Galatians 5:1). It would seem we have some control over our lives after all. “Whatsoever you do – do all to the glory of God” – a theme Paul continues in his letters to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 10:31) and the Colossians (3:17).

How often when we find ourselves in trouble do we want to blame someone else…even God? Yes, even God. “Why” questions abound. Why would He not keep me as He promised? The good news is He does keep our position in Christ secure. We have already looked at verses of assurance. However, He does not dictate the choices we make, sometimes out of misdirected zeal, sometimes from the basis of hurt or even rebellious feelings.

In the most perfect way God gives us balance in our covenant relationship – freedom to choose, while He moderates those choices by securing our position in the family of God.

A hymnologist wrote “Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love.

The fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above”.

Did this refer to the unity within the Godhead, Father, Son and Holy Spirit? Is that unity possible on earth? Might this be why Solomon reminds us a cord of three strands is not easily broken? (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Reflection:

Imagine life without Jesus – where would our joy and peace come from? Our hope? These are gifts from Sovereign God who binds our hearts together with His, in Christian love. Flowing out of that relationship our love for everyone, just as God cares about everyone, overflows! Praise God!

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Devotional

A Living Sacrifice?

January 29, 2024 AdminLeave a comment

Romans 12 (A corollary for Pass the Plate)

By its very definition sacrifice usually requires giving up something we have found pleasurable. Naturally the idea is not popular, often associated with a degree of pain.

The Bible is full of sacrifice. In the beginning Adam’s sons, Cain and Abel came before God with their sacrifices. We are not told how they knew that was the way to approach God, but it was the grounds for acceptance with Him and became such a serious source of competition that Cain killed Abel in a fit of jealousy, when his sacrifice did not meet the Divine standard.

Throughout Old Testament history there are many instances of sacrifices required by God, but the heart attitude was the pivotal point. Was it given in obedience, willingly? Samuel instructed King Saul, after he had disobeyed God, “To obey is better than sacrifice….for rebellion is like the sin of divination” (1 Samuel 15:22-23).

Sacrifice was a theme throughout Pauls’ writings in the New Testament. He told the Ephesians “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (5:2). He thanked the Philippians for their sacrificial giving to God for his ministry (4:18) and he reviewed the sacrifice of Christ at length throughout the book of Hebrews, noting that “there is no longer any sacrifice for sin”. Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all (10:18).

Therefore it is interesting to read his injunction to the Romans where he urges them to “present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God” (12:1). What does he mean? In practical terms look at the way we care for our bodies today – bathing and dressing them, feeding them, decorating them in various ways. A lot of time is spent on our bodies, almost as though we were perfuming them for sacrifice.

To Paul, offering our bodies to God is our “spiritual act of worship” (12:3). This is a personal sacrifice, not involving our families or friends or church family. In preceding chapters Paul has been addressing God’s marvellous mercy and sees this particular sacrifice as one of gratitude for all His mercy to each of us believers, personally. He does not suggest that we have to go to the stake, but rather he speaks about the sacrifice of praise, one to be offered continually by our lips as we speak to others about all that God has done for us! (Hebrews 13:15).

Reflection:

How easy is it for you to bring this sacrifice to God? In a world where it is politically incorrect to speak about the Christian faith, this becomes a very real challenge. It is the way in which we model the virtues of our Lord Jesus Christ, our attitude towards God and man, that will be a living testimony, and in this world – a sacrifice.

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Devotional

Persecution, Pain, Perseverance

August 30, 2023 AdminLeave a comment

John 15:20, Romans 12:14

Recently I listened to two men describing their experiences of being jailed for blasphemy, now – in the 21^st century. Accused for a crime they did not commit, they were persecuted, tortured, and beaten for days….days without sleep….days of fear for when the next interrogation would suddenly occur. I was reminded of how, in my generation we could look back to when, even in Canada, people were sent to jail for preaching the gospel!

In a spirit of mockery an atheist colleague later compared his circumstances with Mr. X, reminding him of how successful he was in his business, and blessed with a good family even though he didn’t believe in God. Instead, Mr. X was suffering for his faith in God, stripped of everything material that he had enjoyed, separated from his family, physically and mentally abused. Incongruous of course to the human mind! Why then the atheist asked, would one choose to believe in God?

The answer? While in prison Mr. X was not alone. He had Someone to talk with, the assurance of being cared for, the certainty of the Divine plan. In spite of the circumstances, he even had hope! If the atheist could put himself in the same circumstances what would he have to hope for? How lonely would he be? What would strengthen his resolve to persevere?

The Psalmist refers to men who persecuted him without cause, but Jesus taught His disciples to anticipate persecution. “If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you, also” (John 15:20). They would be falsely accused with all kinds of evil, because of their faith in Him (Matthew 5:11), but in this experience they would also be blessed; blessed with the power to love their enemies, to bless them in return, without cursing (Romans 12:14), blessed with opportunities to later share what Jesus meant to them, throughout their darkest hours!

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians to share his sufferings. His team was seen as fools for Christ, weak, dishonoured and even deprived of the physical necessities of life. They felt they had been made a spectacle of to the whole universe, and therefore had become the scum of the earth. What a reputation! Who would choose this way of life? Yet Paul says “We endured it” (1 Corinthians 4:9-13). Why? “It is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2).

Pain is short-lived when one considers the outcome. How quickly a woman forgets the pains of childbirth when once she holds that precious baby in her arms! In the same way, persecuted believers, for glory of being enabled to “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21), the memory of the pain is removed by our loving heavenly Father.

Yet God keeps an account of our sufferings. Jesus said “You have endured hardships for My Name and have not grown weary [perseverance]…I know your afflictions and your poverty – yet you are rich!…You remain true to My Name….I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance….I know you have little strength, yet you have kept My Word and have not denied My Name”. Writing to the churches in Revelation Jesus commends 5 out of 7 churches for their perseverance through pain and persecution.

The question for us today is one of faith. Faith, the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8) cannot be shaken. As with the gift, given in the first place to those who believe, God sustains us through every trial and test, persecution and pain. Paul, who suffered as much as any believer until now, wrote “…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). Let us add to persecution, pain; perseverance is given as the word of promise from God Almighty who sees and knows how much we can bear, and will provide all that we need to go through (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Reflection:

No one wants to think about persecution and pain. What is it that helps you think positively about this difficult journey?

You may be praying for people you never met, yet are brothers and sisters in the Lord. What helps you to persevere?

Have you ever regretted causing someone else pain?

Is there anything that prevents you from blaming the perpetrators of injustice and persecution? Explain.

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Devotional

A Message from the Lord

November 22, 2022 AdminLeave a comment

Zechariah 12:1-13:1

Many years ago we used to sing a song:

I’ve a message from the Lord, Hallelujah!

The message unto you I’ll give.

‘Tis recorded in His Word, Hallelujah!

It is only that you “look and live”.

Refrain:

“Look and live” my brother, live.

“Look to Jesus now and live.

‘Tis recorded in His Word, Hallelujah!

It is only that you look and live”.

The song goes on, sharing that it’s –“a message full of love”, one that is offered unto you”…a personal message.

A message was given to the prophet Zechariah. “This is the word of the Lord concerning Israel!” (12:1). This oracle begins by describing God’s wrath against those who attacked Jerusalem. “On that day” occurs 16 times in chapters 12, 13 and 14.

Judgment is the theme of Zechariah’s message. Immediate fulfillment occurred when Nebuchadnezzar captured Judah. The ultimate fulfillment is yet to come, “on that day” during the tribulation years. For our purposes today we will jump in towards the end of Zechariah’s prophecy.

“On that day” – a day yet in the future, Jesus will return to do battle with the nations who have persecuted Israel. Named “Faithful and True”, the Rider on a white horse will come with blazing eyes to make war (Revelation 19:11-12). Destruction of evil will be complete (29:20-21).

Zechariah informs us that at the second coming of Christ Israel will recognize Jesus as their Messiah. “They will look on Me, the One they have pierced and they will mourn….and grieve bitterly….On that day the weeping in Jerusalem will be great!” (Zechariah12:10-11). However the Lord doesn’t end the story there, but gives, as He always does a continued message of hope.

“On that day a fountain will be opened to the House of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity” (Zechariah13:1). Note the promise is inclusive….“And so all Israel shall be saved” (Romans 11:26). Paul wrote further to the Roman Church: “Oh the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments!” (Romans 11:33). You see, God had to remain true to His covenant with Israel. “They are loved on account of the patriarchs” (11:28b).

Reflection:

Note the simple message of our song captures all that will happen “On that day”. Folks who look to Jesus will live! As John watched his beloved Master dying on the cross, he was reminded of the ancient prophecy (John 19:37). This is the covenant, an everlasting, binding agreement with God’s people. Because He is faithful and True to His word, we have hope and joy and peace! Praise be to our God!

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Devotional

God Save the King

November 1, 2022 AdminLeave a comment

Romans 13:1-7

For most of my life there has been a Queen. I do remember the day King George the sixth died, the ceremony as the flag at school was lowered, but now, seventy years later the Queen is dead. There are many lessons to be learned from history. However, a few verses written by the Apostle Paul teach us where to place our trust in changing times.

The first King over the Jewish nation was chosen by God. In fact the first 3 were specifically appointed by God. Saul, because he rejected God’s ways was replaced by David, whose son Solomon became famous as the wisest man on earth. Their histories are recorded in the Old Testament books of 1-2 Chronicles and 1-2 Kings. Since then many kings have projected the thought that they were chosen by God, but the truth remains to be seen. Certainly many of David’s descendants did not live lives which glorified God.

The Bible says “Everyone must submit himself [herself] to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established”. Do we believe that? Apparently submission to ruling authorities was important to Paul since he also instructed Titus to “remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good” (Titus 3:1). It is interesting to note that Titus’ ministry took him to the former Yugoslavia (Dalmatia) as well as to Corinth and to Crete, where he died.

Peter also was concerned that followers of Jesus would “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God”. Part of that entailed submission – “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men, whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by Him [God] to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right” (1 Peter 2:12-14).

“It is important to recognize that God establishes and upholds the principle of government even though some governments do not fulfill His desires” (Ryrie). These rulers appointed by God are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrong-doer (Romans 13:4). We must recall incidents in the Old Testament when the Jews were dispersed because they refused to follow God. The land God had given to them was over taken by pagans. In recent history we have seen the promise of God to restore them to their land, coming true when they gained their independence in 1948.

Today a new King sits on the throne of England. Queen Elizabeth was a follower of Jesus and her faith in Jesus is being celebrated as an integral part of her life. King Charles 3 has already declared his faith nurtured in the Anglican Church. Let us pray that his life, going forward, will bring glory to God as his mother’s did. For her 90^th birthday a book was published “The Servant Queen and the King She Serves”. She was pleased to call herself a “servant” of the King of Kings!

Reflection:

God has a purpose in everything He does. He remains actively engaged in the affairs of men and women here on earth. We may not always understand why He allows suffering, sickness, famine, flood and fire, but we must never forget He must remain true to Himself. He is a God of love, but He is also the God of justice. When He warns us that judgment will fall He means it. We need to review, from time to time, what we actually believe about God. If we believe He hears and answers prayer, let us pray that God will save the new King!

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Uncategorized

What is Faith?

August 9, 2022 AdminLeave a comment

1 Corinthians 13:13

The dictionary defines faith as “complete trust or confidence in something or somebody”. The Bible also defines faith as the basis for understanding that our universe was made at God’s command (Hebrews 11:2)….tying in with the dictionary definition, because our confidence is in God who created all things. John spells it out in definite terms. “Through Him all things were made, without Him nothing was made that has been made” (John 1:3). John was referring to Jesus in his introduction to His gospel.

Somehow in the intervening time, since John wrote that under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, his firm conviction that God created all things has become distorted by the wisdom of man. Another idol has replaced God…the idol of scientific knowledge. Sadly Satan has succeeded in diverting man’s attention away from the One who designed the universe for a purpose. Hearts have become hardened. “For although they [mankind] knew God, they neither glorified Him as God, nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened” (Romans 1:21). These have lost faith in their Creator.

One might ask “Why?” Is this a control issue? Why is it so difficult to glorify God for what He has made? Other questions come to mind. Is living in the darkness described in Romans, bringing any greater happiness into our world? We would do well to consider the situation in our world today when the environment brings us to the verge of extinction, because we have wasted our resources in indulgent living. There is certainly enough to go around if those who “have” would share with those who “have not”.

“Faith is being sure of what we hope for” (Hebrews 11:1). Paul writes to the church at Rome “Hope that is seen is no hope at all”. We don’t hope for what we already have (Romans 8:24). He notes that people have to wait patiently for the things we hope for to materialize.

Patience isn’t a popular virtue. We live in a world of instant gratification. We can get instant food and drink. We expect medication to bring instant relief from pain. Modern communication creates the expectation that our wants and wishes will be instantly gratified. Instead of developing patience, which actually is the fruit of the Holy Spirit living within God’s children, we find ourselves getting angry if we have to wait. Might we suggest that patience while waiting is part of loving? Faith, hope and love – which is the greatest of these? (1 Corinthians 13:13).

Reflection:

“Hear the conclusion of the whole matter” Solomon wrote. “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man”. Whether we believe it or not, God is central to the life we each live and we will be judged for our faith response to Him. “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). God offers us every opportunity for everyone to believe and worship Him. Just looking at nature leaves each of us without an excuse for not recognizing God (Romans 1:20). Through Jesus Christ He has made a personal relationship with Holy God possible, and offers us the gift of faith to participate in that exquisite relationship (Ephesians 2:8-9). The question is “Will we receive and believe?” (John 1:12-13). Will we accept God’s gift of faith?

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Uncategorized

Weapons of Love

April 4, 2022 AdminLeave a comment

Matthew 5:44

Long ago a holy man set the record straight. Instead of revenge or retaliation, when we are persecuted we are to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44). In the twenty-first century what might that look like? In modern society we see every rule of God broken with impunity (expectation of freedom from the consequences of our choices). Babies are murdered before they are born, marriage is no longer required as the established ground for raising a family, slander and lying are rampant, and the list goes on. The question is – how do we correct these evils?

A man-child was born to demonstrate the answer to that question. Fully human, Jesus the Son of God, lived only a few years, but His life lives on more than two millennia later, in those who follow His way (John 14:6). How often do we excuse ourselves on the basis of being “only human”. That phrase recognizes the weaknesses and limitations with which each of us has been born. Jesus also experienced human temptation and suffering, such suffering that He sweat drops of blood as he wrestled with the crisis He was facing, in Gethsemane.

Why did He suffer? He knew He had powerful enemies. The faith leaders of His day had walked away from God. They were teaching rules instead of relationship. Love! That was what the world needed, way back then. Even today our witnessing must be born of love. Jesus spoke words that challenge each of us with a love not known in most human terms: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16).

First this brings us a recognition of God, Creator of the world. “In the beginning God” (Genesis 1:1). A New Testament verse reveals to us that Jesus was not just man, but equally He was God ( John 1:1). The only begotten – unique God-man. God’s greatest weapon against evil was His relational Being, His Son Jesus (Hebrews 1:3). As we read John 3 we know that love ruled God’s decision to send His Son. His love blanketed the world…inclusive of race or gender. “Whosever believes” will receive the right to become children of God (John 3:16, 1:12).

In an age when evil reigned, when folks were violent and hateful, angry and greedy, Jesus came to bring what? Love! He cautioned His followers that they would be recognized by their love (John 13:35). As Jesus combatted the evils of demonic oppression, He loved. His heart was drawn towards suffering of every kind as He met with rich and poor, feeble and sick, male and female. He fed and healed and served because He loved everyone. He even loved those who rejected Him (Mark 10:21) and those who crucified Him.

As we serve Jesus, do our hearts cry out to our heavenly Father “Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing”? (Luke 23:34). Folks are making choices today which reject God’s laws of morality. What is our attitude towards them? Can we change them by nagging or demanding change? What would Jesus do and say if He lived on earth today?

Reflection:

Jesus does live on earth today…in broken vessels, but He has chosen you and me to represent Him, using the weapons He used. We have been given the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 617), who equips us to love and to live at peace, with kindness, gentleness, patience and even self-control! (Galatians 5:22-23). He helps us to do good to those who spitefully use us (Matthew 5:44). Let us always remember our enemies lack the holy hope which sustains children of God in lives of love, faithfulness and gratitude. What does my life witness to a weary, wounded world? Paul gave a benediction to the Romans:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Uncategorized

When God Withdraws

January 17, 2022 AdminLeave a comment

Romans 1

In the Epistle to the Romans, Paul begins with some Biblical truth, in order to ground the Roman Church. He includes truths revealed in scripture about God, Himself. Now that Paul has described God’s character to us, he turns to compare it with man’s. What a disappointment humankind must be to our Creator. He gets little glory or appreciation for all that He has done for us! In fact it is quite the opposite. Man, giving in to the folly of pride, started creating his own gods. ”…their foolish hearts were darkened” (:22).

First of all man’s intellect became his god. What he thought, what he believed, what he chose to worship, became of primary importance. Where did that take him? God first gave man over to sinful desires. His thinking was infected with self-righteousness.

Second, God gave them over to shameful lusts, through which any sexual behaviour became appropriate. The heart of man became suspect, as his feelings led his head. This was not the Creator’s intention. He had revealed Himself repeatedly, through acts of mercy, through scripture, through our Lord Jesus Christ. However, Paul writes – “Although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened” (Romans 1:21).

Third God gave them over to a depraved mind. The mind of mankind, originally created with all the potential of Godly decision-making, became filled with every kind of evil, greed and depravity resulting in a whole list of godless activities (Romans 1:29-31). Today our society, if not condoning these, will excuse murders, insolence, mistreatment of parents, hating God, in a spirit of senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless living. The final line is drawn when they decide to approve of everyone doing such things (Romans 1:32); seen in the freedom of man’s wisdom running loose.

Note that three times Paul says “God gave them over”. Leaving man to decide his own fate, God withdrew. His character did not change. He is always, eternally, a God of love and truth and holiness. However, sin and holiness are like oil and water – they do not mix.

How is the faith community to respond? We are to love our enemies – the person, not the sin. That is very hard to do. Out of fear we want to see these evils corrected. We fear for the salvation of our loved ones, for the infection of sin which is spreading throughout society, pandemically. But we are a community of faith and our faith is put into practice by doing what Jesus would do. What would Jesus do if He walked through North America today, for example?

Is it possible to bridge the gap between right and wrong? No! Jesus already has done that with His life, and death, yet people still reject His remedy for the sickness of sin. The best we can hope for is that His joy and peace, demonstrated in a spirit of love, will create a yearning in hearts darkened by an error that is spreading like wild-fire in our hedonistic society today. We know that God has already gone to the nth degree to correct these evils, but His love is everlasting!

So we pray that the Light will still provide Life, drawing men and women out of the pit they are digging for themselves. Let us all remember at the dawn of a New Year, that positive change always begins with “me”. Furthermore, I am the only person over whom I can really have any control. With God the Holy Spirit’s help I can exercise that required control which will temper my mind and heart, and my reactions to things others do to irk me.

Reflection:

Which is the greatest sin of our day? Is one worse than another? Do we not all continue to sin in small ways or large? How dangerous is prejudice? Is this why Jesus commanded us not to judge others?

The Psalmist prayed that God would search his heart (Psalm 139:23).

Let us pray: “Create in me a new heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit in me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, or take Your Holy Spirit from me, Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and grant a willing spirit to sustain me.” Amen (Psalm 51:10-12).

by Marilyn Daniels (MarilynDaniels.net)

Devotional

Raise the Standard High

April 18, 2021 AdminLeave a comment

Luke 23:34

In olden days as men marched into war they kept their eyes open for the standard which was a visual signal for where you were to go. The standard-bearer would be close to the leader, providing a rallying point. If anything happened to the standard-bearer and he went down, the whole battle could be lost, since the army would be without direction. If the enemy captured your standard, the honour of the unit was lost.

Today believers are in a spiritual battle and God has given us a standard. The rally point is around God’s Word. It keeps us close to the leader, to our Heavenly Father. It brings the church together with one vision and purpose. Without this Holy book we wouldn’t know Jesus, who must be lifted up to draw all people to Himself. Why is that important?

Jesus’ life demonstrates the principles of spiritual warfare. In purity, faithfulness and love Jesus marches the troops forward, following Him who set the highest of all possible standards. We are to walk in the ways of truth, honour and kindness. We are equipped by God for the battle. First of all He motivates us through the indwelling Holy Spirit to have the right attitudes. Not too many people have gone to war loving their enemies, but Biblical principles clearly state we are to do just that (Matthew 5:44). This remarkable deviation from what is “human” makes a spectacular statement to a world filled with anger, hate and fear.

Following our Saviour’s example, God strengthens followers of Jesus to be joyful in the midst of adversity. Haven’t you noticed how contagious real joy is? People who are always venting over some disappointment, or complaining they haven’t been treated well, often make us nervous because we don’t know when they will begin to see us as their enemy. Joy isn’t about laughter, but it is a deep-seated satisfaction derived from being in the will of God, pleasing Him by our holy thoughts, our intentional choices, and our selflessness.

Selflessness does not mean we become a doormat, or that we succumb to abuse. It is comprised of the intentional deeds we do to help others, to lift them up physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Everyone can encourage those who have fallen. Jesus Himself said he came, not to heal those who are well, but those who are sick (Luke 5:31). Can we see the soul-sickness of those about us? What might we do to help?

Solomon taught “A soft answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). Spiritual warfare is not for the purpose of gaining ground, but rather for giving grace. Paul taught “Do not take revenge….but leave room for God’s wrath….On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink” (Romans 12:19-20). Our Lord showed grace to His abusers as He cried from the cross “Father forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

Reflection:

Recognizing our own sinful state before we were saved by the love of Christ, provides us with a spirit of empathy. Surely all humans come to the foot of the cross equal in guilt and shame. The exquisite relief of God’s forgiveness must then become the catalyst for us to share His mercy and grace, even with those who are our enemies. Paul continued teaching the Roman church “…Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good!” (12:21).

by Marilyn Daniels

http://www.marilyndaniels.net