Thursday, December 10, 2009
Scripture:
All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Observation:
Paul addresses the Word of God: what it is, how it profits us, and what its results are in us. It is God inspired, meaning that God’s Spirit directed its formation. It is profitable in teaching us, showing us our sin and how to correct it, and for training us up to be the people God desires us to be. The end result is that we would be totally equipped to go out and do God’s work in the world.
Application:
I can always tell when I have neglected God’s word. My life becomes a lazy, messy, frustrating experience. When I spend time in my Bible, however, my life is almost always marked by the fruit of the Holy Spirit (see Galatians 5:22). Paul affirms my experience in these verses. The Bible will always profit me, even in the times when I have little desire to read it or have a difficult time understanding it. No matter, Paul says, for if you are devoted to God and His word, you will no doubt be blessed through your pursuit. If I commit to study the Bible with an open heart and mind to what God might reveal to me, there is no limit to what He can do in me and through me.
Prayer:
Lord, give me a heart devoted to your word. Help me to establish my thoughts, words, and actions on your truth. Let my life be unmistakably marked by devotion and obedience to You through the words of scripture.
— Kyle York, high school pastor, Reservoir campus
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Scripture:
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus” Titus 2:11-13
Observation:
God’s grace brings salvation, but it also calls us to a higher standard to living in the midst of our present situation. We are to be obedient to God in response to His grace. Paul then directs our attention to the glorious return of Jesus, which we ought to be looking for in hopeful expectation.
Application:
The first half of this scripture resonates with me. I stand in awe of God’s grace toward me, and I recognize my need to respond in obedience and righteous living. I don’t always meet that goal, but I don’t argue with God’s standard. When it comes to the second part of the scripture I really struggle. In concept, I hope and yearn for Jesus to return in glory. I cannot even fathom how awesome it will be. But do I really want it to happen soon? There are so many things I wish to experience and accomplish on this earth. I want to have kids, to travel the world, to grow old with my wife, to eventually see Mississippi State win a championship (in anything). I find myself hoping for Jesus to return, but not until I am fulfilled with the things of the world. How sad and short-sighted I am! If I cannot see beyond myself and my circumstances enough to share in Paul’s longing for the swift return of Jesus, then I am living the Christian life more on my own terms than on God’s. Perhaps my reticence to share in this hope is an indication that my faith is too safe, too comfortable.
Prayer:
God, help me to push aside the love I have for the world. Even if some of my desires are good, they all pale in comparison to the desire for your coming kingdom. Please show me more of Yourself, and prune away the desire in me to attach my faith only to things I can see and touch.
— Kyle York, high school pastor, Reservoir campus
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Scripture:
“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:15-16
Observation:
Paul says you can take this to the bank: Jesus came to earth to save sinners. It is a simple, yet profound truth. Paul humbly points to himself as the most unworthy of all sinners to receive salvation, and says that he is the perfect example of how powerful God’s saving grace is.
Application:
I tend to think of myself as smarter, stronger and better than I really am. I often think, "Sure, I’m a sinner, but I’m not nearly as bad as some others." Paul had issues with boasting, and he makes no secret about it in his letters. But in this scripture Paul faces the ugly reality of the mirror: "I am the worst of all sinners." Today we would probably say that Paul has a poor self-image and needs to lighten up, but I think I need to be a little more like him in this respect. If I pretend to be better than I am, am I not belittling God’s gracious work in me? Paul could have easily said, "God saved me, but I wasn’t that terrible to begin with." But he doesn’t sugarcoat his former life. Instead, he uses his testimony as the foremost of sinners to promote the greatness of God. Paul ends by saying, in effect, "If God is willing and able to save an absolute wretch like me, just think of how great His grace is toward you and those yet to be saved!"
Prayer:
Lord, wake me up to the reality that, apart from You, I am no good at all. Help me to simply look in the mirror and stand amazed at the mercy you’ve shown me, the foremost of all sinners.
— Kyle York, high school pastor, Reservoir campus
Monday, December 7, 2009
Scripture:
“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:17
Observation:
Paul links devotion to Jesus with all our words and actions. For Paul, it is not enough to feel a certain way about Christ; rather, it must come out of our day-to-day existence, and be reflected in our outward living.
Application:
How much different would my life be if I took seriously the command of this scripture? Clearly, Paul has in mind something more than a pick-and-choose lifestyle when it comes to my faith. “Whatever you do…do all.” That means there is no room to think that some activities are more spiritual than others. Every activity, from my waking to my lying down, should be directed toward honoring the one true God. Add to that, Paul says, a pervasive spirit of thanksgiving for the new life God has granted me in Christ Jesus. Ultimately, this is a simple command, but it requires a complete renovation of our thoughts, words, and deeds. When I think about this life for me, I need to think less of how difficult it is, or how far short I have fallen in previous tries. I must think, instead, of how worthy Jesus is of my very best in life, and how He has promised to strengthen me for this task.
Prayer:
Father, let me take inventory of my daily living. Help me to root out all of the attitudes and actions that reflect anything less than Your love, grace, and holiness. Help me to be a person who always seeks to honor your name in everything.
— Kyle York, high school pastor, Reservoir campus
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Scripture:
“But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Philippians 3:7-8
Observation:
Paul rattles off his worldly accomplishments (verses 4-6), only to conclude that they are of no value when compared to a relationship with the Lord Jesus. In fact, they are less than worthless in light of the surpassing value of knowing Christ; they are “loss” to him. In verse 8, Paul goes beyond the list of his own achievements to say “all things” fall under the category of loss. Even the things Paul doesn’t have are of no concern to him because of the truth of the gospel.
Application:
I wonder how close I am to Paul’s heart on this subject. Do I consider my possessions, achievements, and ambitions as worthless when compared to Christ? Do I look at all things — things I hope for, covet, and aspire to be — and conclude that they are “rubbish” when measured against Jesus Himself? Sadly, I think my values are all mixed up. I talk a lot about valuing God, but I shudder to think about a life devoid of the worldly things I cherish. But I think Paul would tell me that his conclusions here in this chapter were not made overnight. His was a life of obedience, prayer, discipline and diligence. I think Paul came to this point because he gave himself fully to God, and he saw God deliver time and time again. Much of my anxiety comes because I choose to stop short of a daily life devoted to Him. How will I ever value Christ as Paul did unless I pursue Christ as Paul did?
Prayer:
Lord, help me to be deliberate in choosing to value You rather than the things of this world. Help me to release my grip on the things that really don’t matter, and instead grab hold of the abundant life found in Your Son, Jesus.
— Kyle York, high school pastor, Reservoir campus
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Scripture:
“And there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.” Ephesians 5:4
Observation:
This verse is part of Paul’s list of behaviors which serve instruct the Ephesian church about avoiding ungodliness and instead acting appropriately as Christians. Here, Paul addresses the kind of talk a Christian should NOT engage in (filthiness, silly talk, coarse jesting), and what kind of conversations they should be having (giving thanks). Scholars say the three types of bad conversation which Paul mentions are referring to a dirty mind expressing itself in vulgar conversation. In the Greek world, this would have been considered witty social conversation. But Scripture says that this kind of language is utterly inappropriate for Christians because they are people God has set apart to be holy. Giving thanks is contrasted with dirty talk because thanksgiving is the mark of a Christian’s life, a life responding in gratitude to God’s redemption.
Application:
To really consider this command is to be hit right between the eyes with a sledge hammer. We think the best humor today is sharp, mocking and crass. Nothing is funnier than sarcasm, which is typically a degrading crack on another person. Sarcasm laced with sexual overtones seems to be the funniest of all, and apparently it’s appropriate to blurt out in any setting. But according to God’s Word, those who seek to make sexual wise cracks are showing that they have a dirty mind. Unfortunately, I have grown immune to it, and laugh at it, and sometimes even participate in it. That’s got to stop. I need to avoid the TV shows and even the people who like to have sarcastic or filthy conversations in the name of humor. Instead, I want my words to be flavored with thanksgiving for all God has done.
Prayer:
Lord, I am ashamed at far the conversation in our culture has fallen away from your standards. I am also ashamed at how much I tolerate it. Help us to repent and to find our enjoyment in language that glorifies you. May we be your people, holy and set apart from the world, in lifestyle and in language.
— Chuck Newton, missions mobilization pastor, Reservoir campus
Friday, December 4, 2009
Scripture:
“In reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:22-24
Observation:
Paul is instructing the Ephesians about how their new Christians lives should be in stark contrast to their former lives as unbelieving pagans. The “old self” is used to describe the whole personality of a person when they are ruled by sin. Paul has said earlier in the letter that the old self was destined for destruction so it would be totally foolish to let that old self have a role in their new life. The Ephesians, as all Christians, should live out the implications of the mega dramatic change that took place in their conversion. Like changing clothes, they should take off the old self and put on the new self. The new self is to be in the likeness of God, so it should be characterized by righteousness and holiness.
Application:
Since I was saved as an adult, I am familiar with a former life as an unbelieving pagan. I may not have been the kind of pagan found in the Greco-Roman society, but a pagan nonetheless. Today, not only do we all battle the old self of sin, but our American culture tempts us to engage in a multitude of ungodly pursuits. Paul told the Ephesians that to indulge in sin was incredibly stupid because it was choosing behavior consistent with what they used to be, a child of wrath destined for God’s punishment. I tend to forget just how serious sin really is and just how much God hates it. Salvation should be a massively transforming event, changing our very nature. To fall back into the ways of the perishing pagans is like saying I want to be one of them instead of being the new man that I claim to be. I don’t want to be the old self, and with God’s help, I intend to prove it.
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for ignoring how important sin is to you. Please grant me the power of your grace to take off the old self and to put on the new self each day. I want to live for you. I want to be your image, your representative on this earth. I reject the old self of sin and embrace your image to be displayed through my life.
— Chuck Newton, missions mobilization pastor, Reservoir campus
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Scripture:
“Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6
Observation:
In these verses, Paul is addressing the Roman Christians about the divisions in the church, especially the disharmony between the strong and weak believers. Disagreements over non-essential matters had caused problems among the believers in Rome. Paul is not suggesting that everyone in the Roman church hold the same view on all matters, rather, he is saying it is vital that the church maintain unity and worship the Lord with one voice. Trivial disagreements should be set aside because unity in the Church glorifies God and He desires the worship of the cohesive Body.
Application:
Disagreements surrounding non-essential matters can grow into the biggest problems of a church. It is easy to become dogmatic about certain beliefs and alienate those who do not agree with our interpretations of Scripture. Part of my fallen human nature is to believe that I am the one who is always right, or at least the one who is the most correct. It’s pride really. But divisiveness in the church is a sin and its fruit is ugly. When the Body of Christ is in disharmony, it does not glorify God. In fact, disharmony over non-essential matters does more for the devil than for God. I must be careful to major on the majors and only minor on the minor things. Ultimately, the minor things will not matter. The unity of the Church is far more important to God than my idiosyncrasies.
Prayer:
Lord, you sacrificed yourself to redeem the Church. May I never cause your glorious Body to be torn apart over trivial matters. Please teach me to let go of non-essential disagreements and to love the harmony which glorifies you. You are worthy of the worship of your people. Thank you for the sacrifice which formed the community of the redeemed. Help us to cherish it as much as you do. I look forward to the day when your people live in perfect harmony with you and with each other. Help us to be a living example of life in your perfect Kingdom.
— Chuck Newton, missions mobilization pastor, Reservoir campus
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Scripture:
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.” Romans 12:9
Observation:
Paul is speaking of agape love. Agape love is pure and undefiled, it is the kind of love that comes from God and displayed in Christ. Some translations say “let love be genuine or sincere”. It seems Paul assumes that Christians love others. After all, Jesus said that love is the essence of the OT law and it is the central demand of the New Covenant. So Christians are to express agape love for others without hypocrisy, meaning they would never act in an evil way toward others, but instead would not pass up a chance to do good to others in light of their transformed heart and mind. Love like this is far more than warm feelings, it is love expressed in actions.
Application:
It is hard to consistently love others. Even when performing loving acts, my motivation is often corrupt. I can be a hypocrite by showing love in order to look good or just trying to win points with another person. On the other hand, it is easy to be a hypocrite by withholding love when the opportunity is available, or worse, even hating an enemy in my heart. Whether with an enemy or a friend, withholding love certainly does not reflect the kind of agape love that God has displayed toward me. There is no excuse, God demands love. It is the fruit of a relationship with the Lord. The New Year is coming soon and it provides a good time for me to ask, “Do I love people more now than I did a year ago?”
Prayer:
I have just a simple prayer today Lord, please help me to love others more today than I ever have before.
— Chuck Newton, missions mobilization pastor, Reservoir campus
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Scripture:
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4
Observation:
Paul has just finished writing about how we can rejoice in the hope of the glory of God as though it were a light shining in the distance to cheer believers on in the marathon of life. Now, Paul turns immediately to say that we should “exult in our tribulations.” Another translation says “rejoice in our sufferings.” The reason we would rejoice is not because suffering is enjoyable, but because it can start a chain reaction in a believer’s life which starts with producing perseverance, then moves on to proven character, and finally ends up generating hope.
Application:
It is difficult to understand how suffering, or even perseverance and proven character can bring about hope in my life. However, it is not the tribulation that I rejoice about, but rather it is the evidence of my redeemed status in the tribulation that makes me rejoice. In other words, the better I am able to handle the tribulations of this life, the more confidence I can have in the reality of my salvation. Tribulations can show whether or not I am maturing in my faith like nothing else can. I can rejoice if I handle suffering better today than I did a year ago. If I am not growing, and therefore not handling tribulations in a more godly fashion, that would be reason for concern. Ultimately, all suffering reflects the fact that we are fallen and that there is a great presence of evil in this world. So handling suffering in the likeness of Christ is in a sense defeating evil rather than being defeated by it.
Prayer:
Lord, it feels strange to thank you for suffering, but I am thankful that you use suffering to make me more like Christ and to give assurance that I am yours. Please give me the power of your grace to continue maturing in this life so that I can handle suffering with joy. I look forward to the day when my hope is vindicated and my sanctification is completed. Until that day, I will be honored to suffer for Christ.
— Chuck Newton, missions mobilization pastor, Reservoir campus