Marilyn's Meditations

By Marilyn Daniels

The Westminster Catechism tells us "The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever". This has been Marilyn's life-long passion! Her own faith journey, filled with both disappointment and pain, adventure and joy, has informed her experiences as a mother and grandmother.
As a counselor she has listened to many stories of fear and helplessness, even hopelessness and despair; as a Bible teacher, she has thrilled to see the truths of scripture come alive in hearts that surrendered those feelings to God! Marilyn was given the "Golden Rule Award" for her contribution to the lives of others at home and abroad, awarded by the IPI, representative of the UN.
This book is an accumulation of God-thoughts, compiled from her morning devotions. For those who already have a relationship with Jesus Christ, Creator, Messiah, Savior, these meditations will enhance their walk with God. For those who are suffering from pain and sorrow, stress and anxiety, it is Marilyn's hope that God will speak comfort and lift the spirits of those who need to know a solution can be found in Him.
John Stott reminds us of how important it is to expound the Biblical text with accuracy and to relate scripture to contemporary life, since the Holy Bible is the source of all we know about our heavenly Father. Its riches will never be exhausted, but Marilyn invites you to explore them with her in daily meditation.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kelvin Bueckert
• Release date: Mar 26, 2018
• ISBN: 9781386873815

Book preview

Marilyn Daniels

Marilyn's Meditations

Devotions for 365 Days of the Year

Copyright © 2018 by Marilyn Daniels

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher. It is illegal to copy this book, post it to a website, or distribute it by any other means without permission.

Marilyn Daniels asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.

Marilyn Daniels has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third-party Internet Websites referred to in this publication and does not guarantee that any content on such Websites is, or will remain, accurate or appropriate.

Designations used by companies to distinguish their products are often claimed as trademarks. All brand names and product names used in this book and on its cover are trade names, service marks, trademarks and registered trademarks of their respective owners. The publishers and the book are not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book. None of the companies referenced within the book have endorsed the book.

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Contents

Foreword

A Word From Marilyn

Know What You Believe

Valley of Beracah

O Taste and See

Eternal Treasures

A School Prayer

A Necessary Evil

Be Still and Know

God's Way

Unless the Lord Builds

Mission Statement

Living in the Spirit

The Indictment of Diotrephes

Living Truth

Be On Your Guard

Appeasing the Gods

The Plumb Line

O God, Answer Me!

Loving God

Peace Be With You

Communicating With God

My Year Verse

A Biblical Understanding of Sin

Called by God

Happiness Is...

Chronic Pain

Morning!

Streams in the Desert

Forgetting What is Behind

Contentment

Go and Tell!

And the Raging Sea Grew Calm!

Much Will Be Demanded

If You Love Me

Commanded to Love

Compassion

Tangible Tenderness

Love Always Protects

And Jesus Said Rest

Love Covers a Multitude of Sins

The Language of Worship

Unconditional Love

Beauty of Holiness

Birthday Celebrations

The Power of Love

Best Friends

Valentine-God's Heart

I've Been Set Free!

Levirate Marriage

The Bride of Christ

Who is My Brother?

Thy Word

In the Secret of His Presence

There's a Hole in My Shirt!

Vive la Difference!

The Folly of Forgiveness

Under His Wings

Who Was Demaris?

Tea Time Friends

In the Presence of My Enemies

The Worst Sinners

There is Coming a Day

Give Me Oil

Defending Christianity

Who Am I?

The Lord Delights

Arrogant Presumption

Challenges!

The Lord Has Spoken

Apologetics

I Am Not Worthy

The Millstone Principle

I Am the Door

Faith, Hope and Love

Beatitudes

For You and Me

What is Lent?

Mountains

Anointing

Thoughts on Sharing the Gospel

The Lion of Judah

As the Spirit Groans

Seeking God's Face

Let the Light Go On!

Not Knowing Where

Anger Management

Unreasonable Demand

You Are the Christ!

You Are the Son of Man?

One Week Before the Cross

The Light

A Woman Came to Him

Detailed Planning for Easter

Fickle Folly

The Last Supper

Glory to Jesus

I Am the Way

The Teacher Says

The Mole

Then He Took the Cup

Keep Watch

Have You Washed Your Hands?

The Cross

Who is it You Are Looking For?

Calling Mary

Easter Poem

Why Did Jesus Fold the Napkin?

The Grass Withers

A Spiritual Tsunami

Seeking Savior

Palace to Pasture to Palace

A People Holy to the Lord

A New Name

Savior, He Can Move Mountains

Morning Meditation

HE IS

Cornered Crippled and Crowned

You are Set Free

A Follower of the Lamb?

Without Him

Our Incomparable God

Life in Two Covenants

Let the Nations Renew

What is Your Cross?

What is Church?

Psalm 117

Deo Volente

Kindness

Jumping to Conclusions

Growing Weary

Grandma's Prayer

Love Begets Love

In Honor of Mothers

My Inmost Being

I Can Only Imagine

Our Prized Possession

Speak Lord in Stillness

Jesus Stooped Down

Courage to Confront

The Morning Star

The Most Endearing Quality

The Day of My Birth

Throwing Stones

When Prayer is Not Answered!

The Wife of Cuza

A Precious Cornerstone

Words! Words! Words!

Valuing the Vulnerable

I Have Seen Your Tears

She Shall Be Called 'Woman'

Turn the Other Cheek?

The Perfect Plan

Romantic Literature

My Strength and My Song

Playing With Fire

This Man Welcomes Sinners

Christ Centered Living

I Honor You

Ignominy

Recognizing Need

Hooray for Homo Sapiens!

A Tale of Two Torments

Where is Heaven?

Thy Will Be Done

The Perfect Man

Adam Bede

Encouraging Who?

A Tribute to My Father

Who is Jehovah?

Nothing is Impossible!

For I Know

The Challenge of Suffering

Promises!

Going Down to Egypt

Looks Can Be Deceiving

David and Goliath

Memorizing Scripture

True Greatness

Introduction to Ecclesiastes

Solomon's Questions

Counsel for Living

The Stranglehold of Wickedness

Praising God!

Identity Crisis

Soldiers

What is Truth?

Compelling Obedience

In God We Trust

Jude Speaking

Contending for the Faith

Benediction

Expensive

God's Character

To Seek and to Save

Religion's Demise

The Smoking God!

All or Nothing

Serving Jesus

Vanquished or Victorious?

My Brick Wall

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

The Mighty Has Fallen

Eat to the Glory of God

Thy Kingdom Come

I Will See Jesus

Listening to God

Harbinger of Hope

A Proverb for Today

Jonah's Judgement

Surrender?

A Wall of Fire

Were You Listening?

The Panacea of Praise

Go and Sin No More

Through Faith, Shielded

Hide and Seek

Unanswered Questions

Fanning into Flame

Eschatology

Biblical Metaphors

TODAY

Salt

I Will Arise

Humble?

What Does the Sea Represent?

Philosophy?

With Me in Paradise?

A Gideon?

Biblical Truth, Clearly Seen

Revelation from God

When God Withdraws

Judeo-Christian?

It Only Takes a Spark!

The God of Mystery

Presenting a Prophet

Persecution, Pain, Perseverance

Daily Burdens

The New Commandment

Jesus Loves Me

Evangelism

A Fool's Folly

Dei Gratia

Meet the Apostle Peter

Party Time!

Matters of the Law

Friends!

Philemon

Paul, a Prisoner of Jesus Christ

Reassurance from Jesus

Is it True?

The Gift

God's Compassion

A Daniel for Today

Why a Belt of Truth?

Pondering the Puzzle

Praise and Worship!

Consider Carefully

Forgetfulness

Crucified With Christ

Hard Times

Spiritual Pruning

The Three Es

Justice and Mercy

Defection Described

Difficult Questions for Today

Is God Dead?

God Speaks to Joshua

When the Foundations Shake!

A Christian's Clothing

Science or Fiction?

Why?

Challenged?

God's Arms

Honesty

A Toddler's Creed

The Brook Dried Up

An Unknown Man

So Terribly Human

Called to Know God

Rewards

Thanksgiving

Our Faithful God

Receiving from God

Thank You Lord

Performing for God

With God

James, God's Servant

And the Truth Shall Set You Free!

Two Full Years Passed

The Golden Rule

Blood Moons

Valley of Vision

The Sword

Reverence for Christ

Triumph and Trouble

Strength for Today

Reading Peter

Take My Yoke

Brood of Vipers

Heaven

Bondage

Tactics of Satan

His Words Are True!

His Right Ear

Lesson in Humility

The Tide of Evil

I Will Not Rest

On the Emmaus Road

Getting in God's Way

Infinity?

Out of Control

Seeking for Truth

No One Understands!

When They Arrest You

Sanctified

Facing Treachery

Success!

Crown Him With Many Crowns

In Those Days

Fight the Good Fight

A Season of Grief

The Doctrine of Man

Breath of Life

Interacting With Scripture

The Grace to Endure

Poured Out

Authority

Forever God is With Us

The Wise Servant

Missing the Target

Satisfied With Less

Open Wounds

Guilty?

An Ordinary Man

I'm Going Home

Here Am I Lord!

Be of Good Cheer

God's Dwelling Place

My Sovereign Lord

Testing God

Hope for All Nations!

The Power of Pain

In That Day

And He Will Make it Again!

My Thoughts

Thou Wilt

Highlights!

Streams of Living Water

Ring the Bells!

I Am the Alpha and Omega

My First Christmas

Christmas by John

The Twelve Days of Christmas

When the Time Had Fully Come

The Grinch!

What is a Wise Man?

Happy Holidays!

Fall On Your Knees

Negative Press

My Christmas Tree

Immanuel

Advent

The Forever Kingdom

Rachel Weeps for Her Children

Worship the Lord in Beauty of Holiness

The Narrow Way

Accountable

Lip Service

Credits

Feed My Sheep

Foreword

What can I say? I have never met Marilyn personally. Yet, isn’t it amazing that even though we live in different provinces, we are still able to work together through the power of the internet?

This working relationship began after my sister went on a mission adventure with MATE, met Marilyn, and shortly thereafter decided to introduce us to each other. The next thing you know a few years have passed and we are working together to get a devotional published.

The Lord truly does work in mysterious ways!

Speaking of the devotional, I should say a few words about that. The trend these days seems to be to water everything down in a vain attempt to appease a few people, therefore it was an honor to be asked to participate in the project of compiling and editing Marilyn’s Meditations.

I believe that this collection of devotionals will prove to be a useful resource for individuals or small groups looking for a deeper and more challenging study in God’s Word.

Marilyn spent many years on the mission field and the wisdom gained through this experience shines through in each and every devotional included in this collection. Whether someone is new to the Christian life or has traveled the road of faith for many years, there is a treasure trove of valuable lessons here that we would all do well to learn.

With that said, I hope these meditations will be a blessing to you and encourage you to be a blessing to others.

Kelvin Bueckert

Award-winning songwriter, poet, novelist and playwright.

A Word From Marilyn

"For the Word of God is living and active" (Hebrews 4:12).

As I child I learned to love the Word of God. My parents revered the Bible as Holy Scripture. To be familiar with every book in the Bible was a natural as breathing. Over a lifetime it has been my privilege to read and to teach the Bible, both at home and abroad.

I am known to my grandchildren as Didi . From time to time it has been possible to share with them thoughts arising from what God has been teaching me. But then, since I felt I did not remember all the wonderful thoughts God was giving me in my daily reading I started writing them down. Maybe one day they could read them.

Around that time, as only God would do, a young man whom I have never met, offered to set up a website for me. What would I, a retired missionary, need with a website? But God! His ways are beyond finding out. What an encouragement it has been to share some of these thoughts on the websites of a few churches, known to my webmaster.

The website (www.marilyndaniels.net) for a number of years has provided a weekly devotional, the accumulation of which forms the basis of this little book. It has been very humbling to review these thoughts that I believe have come from God, in preparation for editing. I leave them as a legacy for my children and my grandchildren.

It is my joy to share these thoughts with you now. I pray that the Spirit of God will bless your heart as you reflect on His most Holy Word. May they draw you closer to Jesus Christ. He is everything to me!

Acknowledgements: My heartfelt thanks goes to-

To my parents, Ben and May Dalby who introduced me to the Bible and encouraged me to study it day by day. Their example of prayer and purpose, praise and praxis, and their love for Jesus, has blessed my entire life.

To my Sunday School teachers – Annie Martin who faithfully taught me to love and follow the precepts of God’s written word, and Della Mae Watson who gave her life to service in Africa for the Lord she loved. Her example provided spiritual direction even in my later years.

To those many dear friends who guided me during all my joys and sorrows to look to Jesus’ words for salvation, for meaning in life, for comfort in sorrow.

To Pastors and co-workers who continually stimulated my search for abiding truth.

To my family whose support has been never-ending as I sought to do God’s will.

To Kelvin Bueckert, my webmaster who faithfully edited this book, encouraging me to keep on keeping on!

1

Know What You Believe

Where did the Bible come from?

The Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 2:21). Peter goes on to say the New Testament was not a series of clever stories, but rather eye-witness accounts, about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. They heard the voice of God declaring, This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased (2 Peter 2:16-17).

What function does the Bible have?

Made up of Old and New Testaments, it is the final revelation from God and bears His authority in all matters of faith and life (John 5:39). Through a period of 1,500 years, written by 40 different authors, it bears the consistent message of God’s love and longing for relationship with the people He created. It is an honest account of man’s accomplishments and failures. Because many prophecies have been proven true, we have confidence in those that are still to be fulfilled.

How many gods do Christians worship?

Believers worship one God existing in three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each possesses the communicable as well as incommunicable attributes signifying the eternal infinitude of Sovereign, all-knowing, all-powerful God. The trinity is the unity of three co-equal and eternal persons who are the same in substance but distinct in subsistence.

Where did man come from?

People were made in the image of God, unique out of all created beings (Genesis 1:27). Given the ability to make choices with reason and understanding, man was put in charge of the animal kingdom (Genesis 1:26).

What is sin?

The first humans sinned by disobeying God in the Garden of Eden. Sin separated them from God, incurring the first instance of spiritual death (Genesis 3). Sadly, spiritual death became the human heritage passed on by Adam and Eve to all future generations.

Why did Jesus die?

Jesus died, in my place and in yours, accepting the death penalty for my/our personal sins and the sins of the world (Romans 3:23-25). Fulfilling Old Testament prophecy Jesus rose again on the third day according to the sign of Jonah (1:17, Luke 11:29). He ascended into Heaven after many people had seen Him over a period of time, assuring our resurrection unto eternal life (Acts 1:9).

How does the Bible teach we must be saved?

Faith in Jesus Christ is a personal experience. We cannot inherit salvation and faith from our parents. Confess with your mouth and believe in your heart (Romans 10:9, John 1:12-13, 14:6).

What is the Church?

The New Testament church is the body of baptized believers bearing the responsibility of establishing Christ’s Kingdom in all the world by making disciples (Matthew 28:19).

Who is Satan?

Satan is a created being who was cast out of heaven when he determined to be equal with God (Isaiah 14:13, 14). He attempts to deceive even the elect by counterfeiting the works of God (Matthew 24:24). One day Satan will be brought to justice by God who is the All-powerful One. Job 1 & 2 give an account of Satan’s present subservience to the will of God.

Is there life after death?

The Bible teaches Jesus is coming again to Earth to ultimately take His followers to live in heaven with Him. I go to prepare a place for you …and will come again (John 14:1). Jesus clearly defined the horrors of hell where those who do not believe in Him will end up for eternity (Mark 9:44).

2

Valley of Beracah

2 Chronicles 20:15-26 January 1

How often do we begin a new year resolving to make it better – more prayerful, more victorious over sin and temptation, to be more caring of and sensitive to others, to be a blessing?

Charles Stanley preached a message one Thanksgiving season that drew my attention to a blessing recorded in 2 Chronicles. Briefly summarizing it – Israel was going into battle against three mighty armies – the men of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir. Turning to the Lord, He instructed Israel how to go about it. "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s" (2 Chronicles 20:15).

Strangely enough, under the power of God, Jehoshaphat lined up the army with the choir at the front. He appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise Him for the splendor of His holiness as they went out at the head of the army saying, ‘Give thanks to the Lord for His love endures forever’ (2 Chronicles 20:21). The army was led by those focused on the Lord, His splendor, holiness and love.

Note that in their obedience, the Lord took action! He set ambushes against their three attacking armies and in the chaos they annihilated each other. Who would have supposed that Israel would win this battle without shedding one drop of their own blood? How was it possible that they then walked off with all of the spoils, so great in number it took them three days to carry it all home? (:25).

As surely as the New Year is dawning, in it we will face battles. They may be spiritual, emotional, social, physical, battles involving our ethics or our integrity, and certainly demanding us to stand firm in our faith. Are we prepared?

At the end of the day the nation of Israel gathered in the Valley of Beracah to worship God, praising Him for all that He had done. Beracah means blessing. To God be all the honor and glory for the great blessings He showered down upon His people who lived in obedience to Him. Perhaps their greatest victory was over self, as the Israelites surrendered their own common sense and battle strategies to the Lord and followed Him.

As we go into this New Year, remember the battle is the Lord’s. It is not in our striving to do better but rather in the surrender of our hearts and lives to our Holy Father – the One who wants to place us in the Valley of Beracah where His presence, provisions and protection will be an everlasting blessing to His chosen people today. We have just celebrated the birth of the One, our Lord and Savior, who came as proof of the Father’s love, to make this possible.

Reflection

In this New Year name something you need to see God fight on your behalf.

Can you totally surrender control to Him?

What will that require you to do, to think, to say?

Whom do you need to prove your faith to – yourself, God or others?

3

O Taste and See

Psalm 34:8 January 2

Why does the Psalmist recommend we ‘taste and see’ that the Lord is good? (Psalm 34:8). Anatomically tasting doesn’t link easily with vision, unless one is eating carrots! Babies crave what they are familiar with, limited to the taste of milk. By association they link the sight of their mother with the taste of what seems good to them. However, growing babies are not content with milk forever. Though a baby’s taste buds are not very discriminating the sense of taste develops as the child grows. Sadly, we all know that solid foods are not always appreciated until their taste has been tested and trained. In the same way, believers need to be trained to enjoy the Word of God. Only then can they say with the Psalmist, How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth (Psalm 119:103).

As we grow, our perceptions expand. We see things differently. As Peter grew in his faith, he recognized the importance of God’s word in that growth process. He remembered feeling like a baby, with a craving for the milk of the Word. He describes that milk as pure (1 Peter 2:2). As baby Christians Paul knew his Corinthian readers were not ready for meat, but needed to grow on the milk of the word (1 Corinthians 3:2). Milk refers to the elementary truths of our faith, things we frequently review because we enjoy them. They become so very precious to us that we want to share this new knowledge with others.

Meat exemplifies solid food – the deeper truths of God’s Word, which equip believers to practice what they believe. Immature believers may struggle with putting their new beliefs into practice. For example, after a lifetime of retaliation when one is hurt, it might take time and effort to be tenderhearted, forgiving one another (Ephesians 4:32).

The Psalmist believed God’s word is eternal (119:89). He became convinced that God’s word was foundational to all his hopes (:114). In our world today people need hope above all things. Job was ready to pin his hopes on God even though he didn’t understand the direction his life was taking. "Though He slay me, yet will I hope… (Job 13:15). Jeremiah brought God’s promise to the Israelites, I have plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).

Paul testifies as well. "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope" (Romans 15: 4).

Let us taste and see that the Lord is good!

Reflection

Dear Father God, as we enter into a new year may we, by the power of the Holy Spirit be able to savor the truths of your most holy word, so we see clearly into your soul. You long for us to be on the same page spiritually, and allow tests to prove our love and commitment to You is the real thing – genuine! You have promised us that the Holy Spirit will produce the fruit of your goodness in our lives, but we often stray away from precepts that would protect us from our enemies. We ourselves sometimes can be our own worst enemy so we need your daily cleansing and filling. May our lives bring joy to your heart O God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

4

Eternal Treasures

Colossians 2:2-3 January 3

Isaiah tells us that the fear of the Lord is the key to a treasure (Isaiah 33:6). He describes that treasure as a rich store of salvation. Earlier Isaiah writes: The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation (12:2). God gave him a vision of the new Jerusalem, a strong city whose walls and ramparts are made of salvation (Isaiah 26:1). Those who will dwell in that city have the promise of God himself. My salvation will last forever; My righteousness will never fail (Isaiah 51:6). This salvation forms the basis of our relationship with God.

There is a present reality to these words. Because Joseph treasured his relationship with God, making God’s will for his life his foundation, he discovered the reality of what Isaiah wrote hundreds of years later. He won favor with Potiphar because it was obvious that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did (Genesis 39:3). Through surrendering his life to the wisdom and knowledge of God, the Lord was exalted. Surely the fear of the Lord was the key to Joseph’s treasure.

Another wise man, described by God as ‘blameless’, said, I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread (Job 23:12). Jesus advised his disciples to store up for yourselves treasures in heaven where moth and rust do not destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:20). He observed that the place where our treasure lies, reveals the focus of our hearts (:21). That focus demonstrates our wisdom, our knowledge of and relationship with God.

Paul amplified Isaiah’s description of the treasure we might lay up in heaven. What does it look like? He told the Colossian Church that treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Christ, who came to reveal God’s character and plan of salvation to us (Colossians 2:2-3).

To summarize, God’s treasure is hidden in Christ, so we need a relationship with Him in order to understand the will of God for our lives, as did Joseph and Job. God’s Word may be one of our greatest treasures. Why? Because it reveals truth – that our salvation forms the strong foundation we need on which to build and store our riches, riches of understanding in Christ Jesus. Salvation is a treasure which no one can take away from us. His wisdom is a present reality, as well as an eternal treasure.

Reflection

As we begin a new year, let us ask ourselves - Where is my treasure stored? What is my heart fixated on? Am I secure in my treasured relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord?

List your eternal treasures:

5

A School Prayer

Proverbs 22:6 January 4

A child in Winnipeg wrote…

NEW School prayer:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now I sit me down in school, where praying is against the rule

For this great nation under God finds mention of Him very odd.

If scripture now the class recites, it violates the Bill of Rights.

And anytime my head I bow, becomes a federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green, that’s no offense; it’s a freedom scene..

The law is specific, the law is precise. Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall might offend someone with no faith at all..

In silence alone we must meditate, God’s name is prohibited by the United States.

We’re allowed to cuss and dress like freaks and pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks…

Guns are allowed, but not the Bible. To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen, and the ‘unwed daddy,’ our Senior King.

It’s ‘inappropriate’ to teach right from wrong,

We’re taught that such ‘judgments’ do not belong..

We can get our condoms and birth controls, study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles…

But the Ten Commandments are not allowed, no word of God must reach this crowd.

It’s scary here I must confess, when chaos reigns the school’s a mess.

So, Lord, this silent plea I make: should I be shot; my soul please take!

Amen

***

Fear demonstrates the absence of trust. The Shepherd Psalm was written by a young lad who was confident that God was with him, even in the valley of the shadow of death; there he would fear no evil (Psalm 23). David lived a long life with threats of death hanging over him on every side – from kings to family members.

What are we teaching our children about fear and trust? How should they live with evil on every side? David grew in confidence by his encounters with predators of his sheep. We however, become protective of our children. Instead of letting them grow through encounters with the enemy, we shield them. Imagine sending our teens out today to tend sheep, where they would have to protect a flock from bears or lions.

The prayer written above acknowledges there are predators in our schools, those who would steal the truths of God from the minds of children. We might wonder if we are doing the next generation a favor by removing them from experiences which would teach them to stand firm in their confidence of what God can do. Training takes us with our kids to the curbs of life to see the traffic, where they can experience the speed, the unexpected, the danger, so they do not put themselves at risk. Are we preparing them to face the giants of their tomorrows?

Reflection

Reflect on the things you learned about God while walking through difficult times.

Would you deprive any one of these kids of such precious experiences?

What is the difference between fearing and responding wisely to discomfiting situations?

6

A Necessary Evil

Mark 3:13-19 January 5

Jesus had many followers, but out of all He chose only 12; the last one to be mentioned by Mark was not the only one left to make up the dozen men Jesus wanted to train. So why did He chose Judas, or any these particular men? Why did God choose specific people throughout human history? Moses? David? Paul? Each had a unique role to play and God used them. None of them were sinless.

Having said that, there is a man whom God used who stands out at Easter time in a very negative way. Recently I heard discussion on the necessary role Judas played in the crucifixion. Someone said they felt sorry for Judas. Of all the people whom God might have chosen to accomplish the death of Jesus on the cross, why did He take one of these 12 men who knew Jesus intimately? Crowds followed Jesus. Surely some evil profligate might have become an assassin, or even a Roman soldier could have turned him in to Pilot on behalf of the Jews. In our humanness we might question God – His choice, His method.

A thought occurred to me. Had Judas the element of choice? Satan entered into him we read (Luke 22:3). We know that Satan is roaming around looking for anyone he can tear away from God (1 Peter 5:8). Having gone through temptation to deny Jesus, Peter writes this grim warning to you and to me today, from his own experience. What was the difference between Peter’s temptation and that of Judas? We know they both yielded to temptation.

Peter, on one hand, wept when he realized what he had done (Matthew 26:75). We might excuse him because we ourselves know what it is like to sometimes fear talking about our faith in Jesus. By not doing so, we deny him. Judas too, was seized with remorse. He recognized his sin and tried to make it right by returning the blood money (Matthew 27:3). Key to their choices was the difference between remorse and repentance. Repentance turns away from sin and restores. Remorse is self-destructive.

Peter after denying Jesus publicaly went on to serve Him as he had been trained to do. Peter lived to make a new beginning! Judas had the same training, but it was wasted because he chose to kill himself. Did he think, as many do today, that his sin was beyond redemption? Peter reassures us that God is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). Apparently they each had a different view of God. Had Judas turned in repentance, think of how that would have made headlines in the Jerusalem Times!

Judas did commit the unforgiveable sin…not his betrayal of Jesus, but rather his rejection of God’s forgiveness for his sin. Judas does deserve our pity because he had the same power of choice as every other human being. His betrayal might be seen as a necessary evil. His suicide was not.

Reflection

What choices do you make when faced with your sin?

Does God mean what He says when the Bible tells us He is not willing for any to perish?

What stands out in your mind when you think about Judas and Peter?

7

Be Still and Know

Psalm 46:8-10 January 6

The Psalmist invites us to come and see the works of the Lord (:8). Why is that so exciting for him? Is it because he had an intimate experience of God in his life? He recognized God as his refuge (:1); not only his refuge, but God was/is Israel’s refuge, the nation’s security. In spite of incredible challenges to a sense of safety, God was within the city and it would not fall (:5).

Is this a promise for our day?

It was written three millennia ago!

Sennacherib invaded Israel in the reign of Hezekiah, possibly forming the background for this Psalm, but it actually looks forward to the millennial reign of Christ. Israel is protected by God, who is always faithful to His promise (Isaiah 10:20). "The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit…I will give all these things as an inheritance to the remnant of this people" (Zechariah 8:12).

A refuge provides shelter from danger. Strength gives us courage in danger. Paul’s experience taught him the truth - My grace is sufficient for you for My power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). We face so many dangers today – cosmic, international, psychological, physical and the list goes on. Nations are in uproar (Psalm 46:6) – very descriptive of our generation.

The works of the Lord are not all pretty in this Psalm - See…the desolation He has brought on the earth (:8). We will not appreciate the new Jerusalem if we do not face the destruction of the old. Even more important is that we realize it is God who is control. He is the one with power to tear down and build up again. "He makes wars to cease…breaks the bow and shatters the spear, He burns the shields with fire" (:9).

In order to see God in all His glory we need to stand still (:10). When we do, we can truly praise Him as David did in Psalm 47. Nations will clap their hands and shout to God with cries of joy! This great and mighty King of all the earth (47:7) is actually with us through thick and thin. He is our strength and our song, because He is our fortress.

What then do we know about God? He is faithful to His promises to His people. He is in control. He has power over all the nations. He is present with us personally, through our troubles making us strong. He will accomplish His purposes. He deserves all glory and praise.

Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10).

Reflection

How often do we take time to stand still?

Does this resonate with your own experience of God?

8

God's Way

2 Samuel 22:29-34 January 7

God has always cared about the direction of His people. The Old Testament makes frequent references to the way that God would lead them, starting with the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire that led them throughout their years of wandering in the desert. In spite of their rebellion, God did not let them go, but continued to guide them on their journey through life.

Samuel reminded the Israelites that God’s Way was good, even though they cried for a king (1 Samuel 12:23). David praised God that His Way is perfect (2 Samuel 22:31) and in Psalm 1 we are warned against standing in the way of sinners. The Psalms admonished the people to commit their way to the Lord (37:5), to keep their way pure through reading the Word of God (119:9).

Job recognized in the midst of his suffering and pain that God knew the way that he took and in the end would bring him through as pure as gold. Such trust has made Job an example to us all (Job 23:10)!

Solomon talked about the Way of wisdom (Proverbs 2:1-6) and James picks up that theme - If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault (James 1:5). How wonderful to know our heavenly Father will not scold if we recognize our need and come to Him for help! Solomon also warns against the way of the fool that seems right in his own eyes, and possibly missing ‘The Way’ (Proverbs 12:15, 19:2). Man’s pride can and will mislead him!

Many of us memorized the promise, Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it(22:6).

Isaiah references a highway - the Way of Holiness that will be [only] for those who walk in that Way (Isaiah 35:8). Moving into the New Testament Jesus talked about the way being narrow and how few people would actually find it compared to the wide gate and the broad way that many people would prefer to walk (Matthew 7:13-14).

In fact, Jesus declared Himself to be the Way (John 14:6) so now we who walk according to His example, His leading, are walking in the Way. Sadly, today it would seem we are in the minority. Paul admitted during his trial before Felix, I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way (Acts 24:14). In the beginning he had persecuted the followers of the Way (9:2). What a remarkable change once he himself found the Way!

Reflection

Have you found God’s Way?

Which qualities are apparent in those who walk in God’s way?

Have you been able to find a network of people who are walking in the Way, who encourage one another in faith?

9

Unless the Lord Builds

Psalm 127:1 January 8

In a perfect world, man would be happy in relationships, there would never be war, just peace and tranquility contributing to the well-being of all. Prejudice and manipulation would not exist. Hatred wouldn’t be in our vocabulary and next to that, fear would be eradicated. Children would be safe, adults would be free and the air would be filled with laughter and music. There would be no famine or poverty or abuse or disease. What a world! Dream on!

Why is this not possible today? The world was created for the benefit of mankind. Beauty surrounded man in the garden of Eden and God established relationships to enrich their experience. What God made He pronounced good! What went wrong?

Did God fail to maintain His creation?

NO! God gave man a mind with which to think and make choices. It would seem that in the heart of man was a yearning for something they didn’t have, for something mysteriously better. They weren’t even sure what it was – they just knew that they were willing to risk everything they had to get it. God had forbidden them a certain fruit tree. Why? It looked good. The serpent told them it would make them wise – even like God Himself!

The best way to resemble someone is to spend time with them, getting to know how they think and feel, what determines their motivation, their vision, their work ethic, the success of their other relationships. It was the closest relationship man had with God but when Satan came to tempt even that was not enough. We may never know what they thought was lacking, but we do know that the same tendency exists today.

Ungrateful for what God had provided, and determined to be like Him, they persuaded themselves to disbelieve what God had told them. All that God had built – the earth in all its glory, their garden home with its principle delights, even their relationship would suffer the challenges of change. The decision had been made. They would be the masters of their future!

How sad that over eons of time mankind still wants to be like God, on their terms. Our world is colored by ingratitude, resentment and disobedience, in spite of all the good that God continues to build into our world - scientific advances that brighten the prospects of good health, that make exploration in space possible, knowledge about industry and technology that raises the standard of living, mankind continues in rebellion.

Therefore, there is also fear on every side, fear of our fellowman. When we refuse to submit to God’s control, we often become overwhelmed as we face the consequences of negative choices made through the arrogance of mankind.

We must go back to the beginning! Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Do we understand what that means?

Reflection

Are you ever tempted to want more than God has given to you?

How do you respond?

Do you grieve over the tendency of mankind today to relate to God on their own terms?

How do we counteract this tendency, or can we?

Are you involved in building God’s house?

What does that entail?

10

Mission Statement

Isaiah 16:5 January 9

A ministry I volunteer with was sharing its mission statement recently. A catch-phrase now, a mission statement is one way of projecting one’s goals in ministry, as well as in the business world today. It may display the types of services, products and helps which the organization expects to provide. Individuals as well as corporations are encouraged to set goals for themselves.

In the Bible God clearly defines His goals. Let’s examine one. He wants us to understand they are born out of His great love for humanity. Listen to this. In love a throne will be established (Isaiah 16:5). In the verses following God identifies the man from the house of David, who will sit on that throne in faithfulness. This is a Messianic prophecy. The written records are peppered with them. Why?

Messiah is the ultimate hope of the nation of Israel. However, it must be noted that from God’s perspective, sending Messiah has a goal…the goal of bringing peace through Messiah’s suffering and death. Declared to be the firstborn of creation as well as the goal of creation (Colossians 1:13-17), prophecy also told us that Christ, the Messiah, would rise (Hosea 6:2, Matthew 16:21). Another promise is that someday He will return.

In order to satisfy His character, judgment will fall when Jesus returns. However, His judgment will prove that He is a God of justice. One who in judging seeks justice (Isaiah 16:5).

How different is this from the goals of TV dramas where the goal of the justice system is to beat the system and to see how much one can get away with. Subtly this becomes part of the culture, part of who we are, even as Christians. We are in danger of presuming upon the mercy and grace of God because He is commonly known to be the forgiving God.

It is true - those who are trusting in God’s mercy and grace need have no fear. We read – There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). However, we should never use the abundant grace we have been given as an excuse to continue in willful sin.

Is our goal truly to bring glory to Christ Jesus?

Reflection

What was Jesus’ mission statement when He came to earth?

In your devotions today it might be helpful to put together what you think is God’s mission statement for you this year.

11

Living in the Spirit

1 Corinthians 2:6-16 January 10

I have just watched a documentary on the life of Mohammad. He felt he had been given a message from God that would resolve the conflicts of his day and for time to come. There has been some controversy about his ideology borrowing from Judaism and Christianity.

How do we know what is truth?

In the Holy Scriptures, used by both Jews and Christians, there is a great deal of instruction of practical significance. We are taught through our Bibles about spiritual and moral problems as well as general questions about life. The Apostle Paul, as well as King Solomon speak very clear messages of wisdom. Paul talks about God’s secret wisdom, something that had been kept hidden apparently, until the Holy Spirit was given.

No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him… (1 Corinthians 2:6-10). The human mind could not conceive of the glories of God so the Holy Spirit was sent to instruct us. This was written in the present tense – not something future, but something now; something Paul knew from experience – that believers receive the Spirit, who is from God. Why? That we might understand what God has freely given us (1 Corinthians 2:12).

Sadly, we often get so caught up in theological debate about tongues and signs and wonders that we lose the thrill of knowing what the Holy Spirit’s ministry to us really is – simply that we might know God. Knowing God impacts those very problems which Mohammad sought to address.

…taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words… (1 Corinthians 2:13). Words such as truth and love, light and darkness and so many more words used in Holy Scripture, take on a much deeper meaning when interpreted to us by the Spirit of God. No one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 2:11).

The chapter concludes with a question: Who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him? …and the answer? "But we have the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16). The mind of Christ is one, unified with the Spirit He has given to us, as He is one with the Father (John 17).

Let us clearly understand that there is nothing more to follow. What could be greater than having the mind of Christ?

What could be greater than being filled with the spirit of Jesus, the one who came to reveal the Father to very needy human beings?

The plan was to leave the Holy Spirit within each believer to guide them into all truth (John 16:13). You and I have all necessary access to power to live in a way that pleases God, through the indwelling Holy Spirit!

The unity of the trinity in one Godhead demonstrates to us the necessity for an infinite God to use three manifestations of His perfections to illustrate Himself to the finite mind of man. It is arrogant presumption for any human being to think they know God the Father, apart from the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

To God be all the glory, honor and praise for His revelation!

Reflection

Are you living in the Spirit – or better still is He living in you?

How do you know that to be true?

Would others recognize the difference He makes in your life?

How might they define it?

12

The Indictment of Diotrephes

Series on 3 John, Part 1/3 January 11

The Apostle John wrote an account of Jesus’ life in his gospel – perhaps the most popular of all four accounts. He majors on the nature and person of Christ, and the meaning of faith in Him. The Gospel of John has been described as the most theological of the four gospels. In it John remembers the assertions of Jesus regarding His deity in the I Am statements He made and notes various names that reference His divinity such as Lamb of God ,Son of God ,Messiah ,Savior etc. Perhaps Jesus’ strongest statement regarding who He is, has been recorded in John 14:6. I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life – summarizing the gospel message in one sentence.

One whole chapter has been devoted to Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer (chapter 17) where His unity with the Father is emphasized. His prayer is for unity, between disciple and Father, disciples to one another, in order to continue to bring glory to God (17:21, 23).

Moved by the Holy Spirit, John also wrote three letters – the Epistles of John. Third John is the shortest book in the Bible and on the surface may raise questions as to why such a personal letter would be included in the cannon of scripture. He begins this letter to Gaius by calling himself the elder. There has been some discussion about why an Apostle like John would call himself The elder ( 2 John:1, 3 John :1). However, we might note that the Apostle Peter also referred to himself as an elder (1 Peter 5:1).

Let’s compare terms used for spiritual leadership within the church.

An Apostle was a messenger. In the early church they consistently claimed to possess and exercise an authority, given to them directly by Christ, to lay the foundations of the Church. Their office was unique and could not be passed on to others, as could the designation of disciple…Go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19).

According to Scripture a group of men called Elders, from ancient times, governed the community. Even after a king had been appointed, the Israelites recognized the need for elders in each city. The elders made up the Sanhedrin, the governing council of the Jews, in Jesus’ day. In the New Testament Church elders and bishops were terms used interchangeably to describe the function of spiritual oversight and teaching of the Word of God. To qualify, they must be blameless, living lives of obedience to the faith.

Here we see that John qualifies for both titles.

Gaius, to whom 3 John is addressed, was a dear friend, a man who had extended hospitality to the Apostle John and others. In a very personal voice John notes an interest in his health, both physical and spiritual. He expresses great joy for Gaius’ faithfulness to the truth, as well as his continuing walk in the truth. John focuses on an ecclesiastical concern he has regarding unity in the

church. On the surface, the point of division seems to have been hospitality shown towards traveling evangelists or teachers.

A previous letter to the church had gone unheeded. Enter - Diotrephes! Might it be possible that he, a self-appointed leader in the church, had suppressed instructions given in that letter? Diotrephes refused to have anything to do with John and willfully resisted his apostolic authority (3 John: 9-10). He even went so far as to maliciously gossip about John, stopping those who supported him by putting them out of the church. In the next devotional we will examine the principles set down in this letter by the Apostle John, as a guide to those who are accusers of the brethren.

Reflection

Does the reputation of Gaius resonate with what people could say about me?

Might they identify my life style with that of Diotrephes?

How would you label the contrast between these two men?

At the beginning of another year how would you like to impact your church?

13

Living Truth

Series on 3 John Part 2 January 12

Gossip has been defined as idle, often sensational and groundless, talk about others. It may appear in the form of murmuring, hearsay or rumor. Malicious gossip is the above done with evil intent, with ill-will or spite. John identifies Diotrephes as spreading malicious gossip about him, maligning his character and undermining his teaching.

We are not told what caused Diotrephes to adopt an antagonistic attitude other than who [Diotrephes] loves to be first (:9). Apparently he wanted to be in control. How often is this an issue in the church of today? Perhaps this is one reason why this little letter is included in the cannon of scripture.

Those choosing to be in control will often stop at nothing. John reminds Gaius of this truth, Anyone who does evil has not seen God (:11). What then is evil in the sight of God? Diotrephes’ decision about whom to receive not only created dissension and disunity, but also prevented the church from obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit in their ministry of hospitality. Traveling teachers shared the message of the gospel as well as experiences of living in the truth. Unfortunately, Diotrephes deprived the church of valuable lessons in faith by rejecting them.

Was Diotrephes working in the church for Jesus Christ or was he bringing glory to himself? Jesus had called John the beloved disciple. Surely such an intimate relationship as John shared with his Lord would demand respect.

We might ask: How does one person assume so much control? Where were the elders? Then, as now, it would seem the leadership of the church was not strong enough to prevent this from happening. Why is that? What are we expecting from those appointed as leaders within the church?

In the book of Acts, the Apostles decided they needed help in the ministry of the church. They required men from among the congregation who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. Stephen was their first choice, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3 & 5).

The Apostle Paul prayed for the overseers and deacons at Philippi. That your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you will be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless…filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:9-10). He also lists necessary attributes for the position of elder in Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7. Similarly he describes the need for deacons to keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience (:3:9) and even addresses the need for their wives to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers, but temperate and trustworthy in everything" (:11), characteristics modelled by those living the truth.

John reminds Gaius, encouragingly, that anyone who does what is good is from God (:11). He commends Gaius for his faithfulness to the cause of Christ. He said that in welcoming messengers of the gospel, who had gone out "for the sake of the Name (:7). Gaius had done his duty in a manner worthy of God" (:6).

Having commended Gaius, John also mentions Demetrius who is well spoken of by everyone – and even by the truth itself (:12). There it is again – another reference to the truth. We also speak well of him and you know that our testimony is true (:12). Honor, trust, respect are all characteristics earned by our own reverence for the truth. Jesus warned that His followers would suffer as He Himself suffered for the sake of truth. He was falsely accused, just as John was being maliciously maligned. What is God speaking to your heart and mine through such powerful scriptures on truth?

Reflection

The beginning of a new year is a good time to take stock. What is it that grounds our passions? Our ambitions? Our relationships?

Let us pray that God will safeguard His church from any interference we might even inadvertently impose…that our lives will reflect the truth.

How do we deal with controlling individuals in the church?

14

Be On Your Guard

Series on 3 John Part 3 January 13

When we read scripture what are we looking for?

What are our expectations?

For many, their daily reading is ritualistic, traditional – something like ‘a chapter a day keeps the devil away!’ For those, Bible reading is less than exciting, and often is abandoned out of sheer boredom. Do we believe that scripture is the living Word of God, His personal love-letter to each believer?

For some, reading the Bible is a test of knowledge – it becomes a theological exercise to obtain facts about God. This is not all bad. We need to have our facts straight. However, if it begins and ends there, we have lost something infinitely more precious.

Our culture tells us we deserve to be happy. Is that a reasonable expectation? In 3 John the Apostle John gives us some clues. In his introduction to Gaius listen to his exclamations: It gave me great joy, I have no greater joy (3 John 3-4). That joy emanates from God the Father’s heart as He sees John’s friend, Gaius responding to the life-style modeled by Jesus Himself. Do we bring joy to the Father’s heart by our responses to the unexpected, to times of testing?

God’s love for Gaius has been passed on to the brethren visiting in his home church (:3, 5). Are we known for our love, our gratitude to God for all that He has done for us, given to us? Are we generous with our time and resources? Do our good deeds demonstrate we are partakers of God’s goodness (:11)?

Gaius’ faithfulness is mentioned twice in such a short letter, appearing to be quite remarkable. He was faithful to the truth, to principles of the Word of God, as well as faithful in his relationships and practice of hospitality to strangers (:3, 5).

As John concludes his letter he blesses Gaius with Peace to you. Do we speak blessings to others around us? Do we pray for peace in the body of Christ? How far will we go to ensure our lives testify to life in Jesus? How about peace in our world today?

Characteristics of joy, goodness, faithfulness, love, and peace are obviously the fruit of the Holy Spirit working in the life of Gaius. This man’s Godly life, his generous treatment of traveling ministers contrasted with the selfish ambition of Diotrephes, whose activities have been so detrimental to the health and well-being of the church. In 2 John, the Apostle warns the church about those with a spirit of antichrist – those who do not follow the way of Jesus, by bringing disharmony and disunity to the body of Christ (2 John 7-11).

Perhaps John is thinking about what he wrote in his first letter to churches all over Asia. There he warned once more against the spirit of antichrist, stating

emphatically that the Apostles are from God (authorized by God as His messengers), so that whoever knows God listens to them (1 John 4:6).

As John commends Gaius and Demetrius, we learn much from their behavior about their attitudes, thoughts and feelings. What do our actions reveal to a world that is watching about Godly characteristics grounded in His love, which define our faith?

Sadly, Diotrephes was not the only one who was an anti-Christ. Today we have cults like Aum Shinrikyo, a syncretic belief system incorporating elements of Yoga with Christianity and the prophecies of Nostradamus. The leader proclaimed himself to be Christ in the 1980’s, deceiving many intelligent people. How will we recognize such evils in our midst if we do not know the Word of God? Are we on guard?

Reflection

Do we bring joy to the Father’s heart to those in our community of faith, to our families by our responses to the unexpected, to times of testing?

Describe how you sense God is putting you on your guard against subtle attacks of the evil one.

15

Appeasing the Gods

Mark 10:17 January 14

Throughout human history man has been driven to worship. The ancients worshiped the cosmos, nature, their ancestors and eventually images made by hand. Natural disasters and other trauma were attributed to anger from the gods. Propitiation (from Latin propitiāre, to appease; from propitius, gracious) became necessary. Thus ancient civilizations practiced a variety of ritualistic sacrifices in attempts to appease a deity or to incur divine favor.

In my lifetime missionaries were killed because the Auca Indians were trying to appease Satan. Without understanding how it happened their souls were directed, controlled by the evil one who specifically told them when, whom and how to kill someone. Out of fear they listened and obeyed. What joy it was for them to learn that God had provided freedom from their guilt and shame through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the One who answered the righteous requirements of God’s law in order to redeem mankind.

The definition of Christian propitiation asserted by Calvin, Packer and Murray holds that within God there is a dichotomy of love and anger but through propitiation love trumps anger, abolishing it. "The doctrine of the propitiation is precisely this that God loved the