Have you ever experienced the blessing of having a particular portion of God's Word just jump off of the page at you? One that you are compelled to figure out the REAL meaning of? For example, this one . . . It is written in Psalm 29:2 . . . "Worship the Lord in the splendor of His Holiness."
I admit that it would be easy enough to quickly bounce on to the next verse . . . all of the words are familiar to you . . . but wait, I challenge you to stop the world for a moment and soak in a few of those words. See if you don't melt away in their bounty . . .
~ Worship - Reverence, honor, devotion, extravagant respect
Wow - Is that what we do when we set ourselves aside and put Him first? The exposure of your heart seems raw and pure. How is it that we withhold it?
~ Splendor - Magnificence, most excellent
The word itself nearly takes your breath away (if you let it)
~ Holiness - To be perfect in goodness and righteousness
Who of us can deny His worthiness?
~ Perfect - Without flaws
We live in a world of such extreme imperfection so unless we force ourselves, it is nearly impossible to even consider what perfection might be like. Let's consider just an ordinary day . . . the birds are singing, but not to loudly. The sun is shining, but not so brightly that we must squint. The sounds you hear, the things you touch, the smells that bring ecstasy to your mind are all in harmony. Perfect!
~ Righteousness - Free from guilt and sin
Freedom personified.
If you were to (humbly) rewrite this verse in your own words you might say "The Lord, in the magnificence of His perfection, is worthy of my unbridled devotion."
As you apply the verse to your life today you might soon realize the importance of taking the time - everyday - to consider who this God is that you worship. In doing so you will realize fully that He IS worthy of your praise. He is perfect. He is magnificent . . . and He wants nothing more than for you to give yourself to Him.
Isn't it funny that as we are blessed by knowing Him more and yet at the very same time He is blessed by our worship. Talk about goodness.
Thank You, Jesus.
Amen and Amen
bo
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
What's the Difference?
Let me take you on a journey . . . one that will help you to uncover the 'secret' of eternal life. A secret you say? Well, not really, for Christ Himself in John 17:3 tells us "Now, this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." And with that the secret is out. The 'secret' to eternal life is to KNOW Him . . . but not just more 'clinical' knowledge about Him . . . to KNOW Him, as Adam KNEW Eve and the result was an intimate union that yielded a child. When you KNOW God there is an intimate union that yields an outpouring of His Glory in your life. You might argue that 'everyone', whether in an intimate union with Him or not, can see His glory. What then is the difference?
Well, let me see if I can help you understand by painting you a picture . . .
Without an intimate union with God you see a sunset and say "Cool - nice sunset."
With an intimate union with God you hear an invitation from Him that says "Come into my World", see the incredible sunset that I've prepared for you. Check out the radiant glow of colors and feel the cool breeze that is sure to refresh you. Remember the promise that I've hidden in this spectacle of power and linger awhile, won't you, to see the twinkle of the stars that are soon to dance across the night sky. I've planned this evening just for you and I to enjoy. Listen and let the night sounds capture your imagination as I take pleasure in our time together.
Without an intimate union, the days pass and you barely remember that you ever saw such beauty. With an intimate union you are blessed as you recall your time together. The renewing of your heart is icing on the cake. Grateful for this special remembrance, you are lured, once again, to seek more intimate time with Him.
It's the difference between day and night . . . chocolate and vanilla . . . good and evil. KNOWING Him makes ALL the difference in this life . . . and in eternity!
Thank You, Jesus, for the incredible evening that prompted this posting. Please save me a place by the waters edge for my return visit!
Hallelujah!
Amen and Amen.
bo
Well, let me see if I can help you understand by painting you a picture . . .
Without an intimate union with God you see a sunset and say "Cool - nice sunset."
With an intimate union with God you hear an invitation from Him that says "Come into my World", see the incredible sunset that I've prepared for you. Check out the radiant glow of colors and feel the cool breeze that is sure to refresh you. Remember the promise that I've hidden in this spectacle of power and linger awhile, won't you, to see the twinkle of the stars that are soon to dance across the night sky. I've planned this evening just for you and I to enjoy. Listen and let the night sounds capture your imagination as I take pleasure in our time together.
Without an intimate union, the days pass and you barely remember that you ever saw such beauty. With an intimate union you are blessed as you recall your time together. The renewing of your heart is icing on the cake. Grateful for this special remembrance, you are lured, once again, to seek more intimate time with Him.
It's the difference between day and night . . . chocolate and vanilla . . . good and evil. KNOWING Him makes ALL the difference in this life . . . and in eternity!
Thank You, Jesus, for the incredible evening that prompted this posting. Please save me a place by the waters edge for my return visit!
Hallelujah!
Amen and Amen.
bo
In All His Glory
One of my favorite passages in God's Word is from Isaiah 6. In it Isaiah is given a peek at the immeasurable worthiness of God and as he leans forward in awe, he hears the angels point out that "the whole world is full of His glory."
Glory? What could that mean? Well, according to Mr. Webster, glory is a praiseworthy quality of magnificence. But surely the whole world can't boast of this magnificence . . . or can it?
Let's see, there are . . .
~ the mighty cedars of Lebanon.
~ And the beauty of Niagara Falls.
~ Let us not forget to consider the richness of the hills that seem to touch the heavens . . .
~ While I recall from my childhood the softness of moss under a tree.
~ And is it His glory that takes our breath away as we ponder the sights of the Alps?
~ But are we to consider His glory when faced with the complexity of the human body as well as the simplicity of a child's smile?
~ Is His glory the reason that we hear and see and feel the touch of the ocean waves as we walk along the shoreline?
~ Is it possible that we are to give thought to the pleasures that we taste and the flowers that we smell?
~ So how is it that we are drawn to the charm of a bubble bath as we relax stress away in His warmed H2O?
~ Stars that stay put. Cats that purr. Medicine that heals.
Oh, my . . . His glory IS everywhere. It IS endless. He IS magnificent! His love. His generosity. His desire for us to know Him.
How great IS our GOD!!
Thank You, Father, for Glorifying Your Son. Thank You, Jesus, for bringing your Glory to each of us who love you.
Worthy is the Lamb. Worthy to be praised.
Amen and Amen.
bo
Glory? What could that mean? Well, according to Mr. Webster, glory is a praiseworthy quality of magnificence. But surely the whole world can't boast of this magnificence . . . or can it?
Let's see, there are . . .
~ the mighty cedars of Lebanon.
~ And the beauty of Niagara Falls.
~ Let us not forget to consider the richness of the hills that seem to touch the heavens . . .
~ While I recall from my childhood the softness of moss under a tree.
~ And is it His glory that takes our breath away as we ponder the sights of the Alps?
~ But are we to consider His glory when faced with the complexity of the human body as well as the simplicity of a child's smile?
~ Is His glory the reason that we hear and see and feel the touch of the ocean waves as we walk along the shoreline?
~ Is it possible that we are to give thought to the pleasures that we taste and the flowers that we smell?
~ So how is it that we are drawn to the charm of a bubble bath as we relax stress away in His warmed H2O?
~ Stars that stay put. Cats that purr. Medicine that heals.
Oh, my . . . His glory IS everywhere. It IS endless. He IS magnificent! His love. His generosity. His desire for us to know Him.
How great IS our GOD!!
Thank You, Father, for Glorifying Your Son. Thank You, Jesus, for bringing your Glory to each of us who love you.
Worthy is the Lamb. Worthy to be praised.
Amen and Amen.
bo
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Good Morning Class
When I was in school the words "Good Morning Class" were never looked upon as being a sign of good things to come for more often than not they were followed by the phrase "today we are going to have a test"! YIKES - and I didn't study! Oh, if I had only "applied myself" as my mother had so often suggested. How was it that she was always right?!?!?!
Well, even today, a few decades later, I still don't love tests. These days that word is often used in the same sentence as the words needle and blood but even so, we just naturally have a propensity to panic at the thought of a test. And yet, as I read God's Word I find that He has directed us in 1 Thessalonians 5:21 to "Test everything." Now that's a bit extreme wouldn't you say? A pop quiz once in awhile - ok, maybe - but 'test everything'? Well, just for grins and giggles, let's try to see this from God's perspective . . .
Let's start by testing our conversations:
~ Is what I'm saying the truth as found in God's Word?
~ If no, our recourse seems obvious.
~ If yes, then speak the truth BUT REMEMBER even the truth must be tempered with just the right amount of God's mercy and love AND timing is critical - in order for it to be right and effective, it must be said in God's timing!
So, ok, I agree that testing the things I say is a good thing.
So now let's go further and test our thoughts:
~ Are our thoughts moving us toward God or away from Him and His truths?
~ When considering this I am lead to confess to you that I had a day recently when testing my thoughts would have been a gem in my crown. As the day unfolded I came face to face with the reality that had circumstances been just a little bit different, my life may have come to an end. Well, by the end of the day I was full of fears of what 'could have been'.
~Looking back I now realize that I would have avoided the exercise of slip and slide if only I had taken the time to test my thoughts .
Once again, the idea of testing seems to point to good things - who knew?!
Well, the truth is that God did. That's why His Word tells us to do it. That's why it's so important to seek His guidance and discernment and wisdom and knowledge. This is the gem in our crown . . . if only we will ask for it.
So, how about you, are you ready to wake up tomorrow morning and hear the Lord say to you, Good Morning ____, today we're going to have a test? Considering the blessing that this exercise brings to our general well being, the goal at the end of my day will be to hear Him say to me "Well done, my good and faithful servant". All of a sudden I'm anxious to test my attitudes, my emotions, and my 'knee jerk' reactions. Once again . . . who knew!!!
Lord God, Your care of my well being is a treasure to me. Knowing that You remain by my side and offer guidance and protection gives me the strength I need to face the challenges of my day. Thank You, Jesus, for showing me the importance of testing - everything. It is in Your Name, Jesus, that I offer endless praise for Your loving care of all of Your creation!
Amen and Amen
bo
Well, even today, a few decades later, I still don't love tests. These days that word is often used in the same sentence as the words needle and blood but even so, we just naturally have a propensity to panic at the thought of a test. And yet, as I read God's Word I find that He has directed us in 1 Thessalonians 5:21 to "Test everything." Now that's a bit extreme wouldn't you say? A pop quiz once in awhile - ok, maybe - but 'test everything'? Well, just for grins and giggles, let's try to see this from God's perspective . . .
Let's start by testing our conversations:
~ Is what I'm saying the truth as found in God's Word?
~ If no, our recourse seems obvious.
~ If yes, then speak the truth BUT REMEMBER even the truth must be tempered with just the right amount of God's mercy and love AND timing is critical - in order for it to be right and effective, it must be said in God's timing!
So, ok, I agree that testing the things I say is a good thing.
So now let's go further and test our thoughts:
~ Are our thoughts moving us toward God or away from Him and His truths?
~ When considering this I am lead to confess to you that I had a day recently when testing my thoughts would have been a gem in my crown. As the day unfolded I came face to face with the reality that had circumstances been just a little bit different, my life may have come to an end. Well, by the end of the day I was full of fears of what 'could have been'.
~Looking back I now realize that I would have avoided the exercise of slip and slide if only I had taken the time to test my thoughts .
Once again, the idea of testing seems to point to good things - who knew?!
Well, the truth is that God did. That's why His Word tells us to do it. That's why it's so important to seek His guidance and discernment and wisdom and knowledge. This is the gem in our crown . . . if only we will ask for it.
So, how about you, are you ready to wake up tomorrow morning and hear the Lord say to you, Good Morning ____, today we're going to have a test? Considering the blessing that this exercise brings to our general well being, the goal at the end of my day will be to hear Him say to me "Well done, my good and faithful servant". All of a sudden I'm anxious to test my attitudes, my emotions, and my 'knee jerk' reactions. Once again . . . who knew!!!
Lord God, Your care of my well being is a treasure to me. Knowing that You remain by my side and offer guidance and protection gives me the strength I need to face the challenges of my day. Thank You, Jesus, for showing me the importance of testing - everything. It is in Your Name, Jesus, that I offer endless praise for Your loving care of all of Your creation!
Amen and Amen
bo
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Forgiveness is our Choice
It is written in John 3:36 "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him."
In knowing the truth of that statement I'm quite sure that it's safe to assume that the man who brought carnage to the City of Binghamton yesterday won't be among those who will gather with the angels and eternally sing heavenly praises to the Lord.
But wait a minute, what about the truth that says we serve a forgiving God? Oh, you say, this man was full of darkness and death, his sins are so grave that surely God will judge him guilty and forgiveness will not come. Because of the choices this man made in his life 'God's wrath remains on him'.
From everything I've read thus far I believe that I would have to agree with that assessment . . . but as I consider the fact that in God's sight . . . sin is sin . . . instantly I feel true conviction come over me to now look at my own life and consider whether or not I hold on to choices that would obligate God to pour his wrath out upon me.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a good person. I go to church, I humbly serve God and His people. I love those around me (well, most of them), I'm honest (well, most of the time). I follow the teachings that Jesus gave us (well, nearly all of them). But listen, I know that God is a forgiving God - surely the Lord's judgement of me will be much different than this man's. His sins are much worse than mine.
Again I consider the fact that in God's sight . . . sin is sin, is sin, is sin.
Consider what Christ Himself said to the woman who was judged by those around her to be sinful and worthy of stoning (wrath) - "go and sin no more". Through His mercy Christ forgave her of the sin she committed and saved her from being stoned - but if you recall, that wasn't the end of the story, for after forgiving her, He added the command that instructed her to "go and sin no more."
It's true, we all have the FINAL say in His forgiveness . . . our choices - just like those of that man yesterday in Binghamton - will bring us life forever with Christ or it will bring us eternal separation from Him.
Father God, we know that Your Word tells us that you are a just God. In Your powerful name, Jesus, we ask that you help us, Lord, to have a full understanding of that truth so that we are willing to 'go and sin no more'.
Amen and Amen
bo
In knowing the truth of that statement I'm quite sure that it's safe to assume that the man who brought carnage to the City of Binghamton yesterday won't be among those who will gather with the angels and eternally sing heavenly praises to the Lord.
But wait a minute, what about the truth that says we serve a forgiving God? Oh, you say, this man was full of darkness and death, his sins are so grave that surely God will judge him guilty and forgiveness will not come. Because of the choices this man made in his life 'God's wrath remains on him'.
From everything I've read thus far I believe that I would have to agree with that assessment . . . but as I consider the fact that in God's sight . . . sin is sin . . . instantly I feel true conviction come over me to now look at my own life and consider whether or not I hold on to choices that would obligate God to pour his wrath out upon me.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a good person. I go to church, I humbly serve God and His people. I love those around me (well, most of them), I'm honest (well, most of the time). I follow the teachings that Jesus gave us (well, nearly all of them). But listen, I know that God is a forgiving God - surely the Lord's judgement of me will be much different than this man's. His sins are much worse than mine.
Again I consider the fact that in God's sight . . . sin is sin, is sin, is sin.
Consider what Christ Himself said to the woman who was judged by those around her to be sinful and worthy of stoning (wrath) - "go and sin no more". Through His mercy Christ forgave her of the sin she committed and saved her from being stoned - but if you recall, that wasn't the end of the story, for after forgiving her, He added the command that instructed her to "go and sin no more."
It's true, we all have the FINAL say in His forgiveness . . . our choices - just like those of that man yesterday in Binghamton - will bring us life forever with Christ or it will bring us eternal separation from Him.
Father God, we know that Your Word tells us that you are a just God. In Your powerful name, Jesus, we ask that you help us, Lord, to have a full understanding of that truth so that we are willing to 'go and sin no more'.
Amen and Amen
bo
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Truth Behind The Name
The truth behind the name of my blog is that the Lord has, indeed, given me the heart of an encourager. Rarely do I recognize it as other people do - it's just who I am - but all of us are commanded to step up and encourage one another . . . let me offer this as an example of the command given to us: It is written in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 "For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words."
There you have it. Our command to encourage one another. And what better way is there to encourage someone than to tell them about the rapture! Just think about it - we who are 'born again' - we who have accepted Christ as our Savior AND have chosen to follow Him as our Lord - will be caught up with Him in the air and we will then be with Him FOREVER! First those who have already died and then His beloved who are still alive. All of us will join Him.
How about you? If you were to die today - this moment - what do you believe would happen to you? Or if the Lord decides to return tonight to rapture His beloved as they sleep . . . will you be one of those who is caught up in the air with Him - or will you be left behind to endure the trials of darkness that are promised?
Well, you will join Him IF you're 'born again'. Oh, I know, the phrase 'born again' is a bit misused so it's hard sometimes to think of it without associating it with a redneck cowboy . . . but according to John 3:3, Jesus Himself declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again."
Let's see if I can explain . . . no, when you're 'born again' you don't reenter your mother's womb and make a second exit . . . being 'born again' speaks of your spiritual birth. Spiritually speaking you accept Christ as God's son who came into this world to save you from your sins. In this way Christ becomes your Savior. Then, you follow Christ's teachings. In this way Christ becomes the Lord of your life.
When you are 'born again':
~ You worship Jesus. You put Him first before anything or any one,
~ Your daily desire is to develop a relationship with Him,
~ You allow Him to rule and control your attitude, your thoughts, your actions . . . your heart.
~ You realize that life is all about HIM - and not about you!
And remember . . . Jesus Himself declared that you will NOT go to heaven unless you choose to accept and follow Him.
So, as it so often happens, the choice is yours. If you choose Light over darkness . . . Eternal Life over eternal death . . . then let me suggest that you join Joshua in saying "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Let me also say . . . welcome into the family of the beloved!
Father God, thank you so much for directing Jesus to be the way, and the truth, and the life that will enable us to be with you forever into eternity. Thank You, Jesus, for your willingness to be obedient to the Father's will and thank You, Holy Spirit, for leading me in the paths that will lead to everlasting life with You, forever, in heaven.
It is in the mighty name of Jesus that I give you glory and honor and praise and heartfelt thanks. Amen and Amen.
bo
There you have it. Our command to encourage one another. And what better way is there to encourage someone than to tell them about the rapture! Just think about it - we who are 'born again' - we who have accepted Christ as our Savior AND have chosen to follow Him as our Lord - will be caught up with Him in the air and we will then be with Him FOREVER! First those who have already died and then His beloved who are still alive. All of us will join Him.
How about you? If you were to die today - this moment - what do you believe would happen to you? Or if the Lord decides to return tonight to rapture His beloved as they sleep . . . will you be one of those who is caught up in the air with Him - or will you be left behind to endure the trials of darkness that are promised?
Well, you will join Him IF you're 'born again'. Oh, I know, the phrase 'born again' is a bit misused so it's hard sometimes to think of it without associating it with a redneck cowboy . . . but according to John 3:3, Jesus Himself declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again."
Let's see if I can explain . . . no, when you're 'born again' you don't reenter your mother's womb and make a second exit . . . being 'born again' speaks of your spiritual birth. Spiritually speaking you accept Christ as God's son who came into this world to save you from your sins. In this way Christ becomes your Savior. Then, you follow Christ's teachings. In this way Christ becomes the Lord of your life.
When you are 'born again':
~ You worship Jesus. You put Him first before anything or any one,
~ Your daily desire is to develop a relationship with Him,
~ You allow Him to rule and control your attitude, your thoughts, your actions . . . your heart.
~ You realize that life is all about HIM - and not about you!
And remember . . . Jesus Himself declared that you will NOT go to heaven unless you choose to accept and follow Him.
So, as it so often happens, the choice is yours. If you choose Light over darkness . . . Eternal Life over eternal death . . . then let me suggest that you join Joshua in saying "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Let me also say . . . welcome into the family of the beloved!
Father God, thank you so much for directing Jesus to be the way, and the truth, and the life that will enable us to be with you forever into eternity. Thank You, Jesus, for your willingness to be obedient to the Father's will and thank You, Holy Spirit, for leading me in the paths that will lead to everlasting life with You, forever, in heaven.
It is in the mighty name of Jesus that I give you glory and honor and praise and heartfelt thanks. Amen and Amen.
bo
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
What an Incredible Blessing . . .
Have you ever spent the evening with a group of people whose sole purpose for gathering together was to bring about a reenactment, through a church production, of the final days of Christ's life on this earth? On many occasions I've been on the receiving end as I sat in the audience but tonight, as preparations were being made for opening night, I was privileged to have my first 'behind the scenes' experience.
I was the proverbial fish out of water as I stood back and watched the masters at work. I marveled at their vision and creativity. With the props gathered and flowers perfectly arranged, the vision began to unfold. In their mind's eye they literally saw a marketplace come to life as they looked at 3 empty tables, some dried garlic and a collection of pottery.
As I stood back and took a moment to enjoy the experience, it occurred to me that from time to time you'll hear someone say that they don't need to be part of a church family. They can watch TV and learn everything that they need to know about God without going to church. Well, after the evening that I just had I would have to challenge that way of thinking. At home you don't see the smiles of the costumers who seem to delight at the opportunity of outfitting the 'crowd' with traditional props and garb one more time. You don't encounter the laughter of the kids who stand back and watch to see how 'funny' dad will look when he is decked out in a shepherd's 'dress'. And when you're home without the relationships that come when you're part of a church family, you miss the incredible experience of being in the midst of cooperation and camaraderie and pure discipleship.
Tonight as people gathered together to close out the evening we were privy to the efforts of the 'crowd' as they rehearsed the scene that brought chills to our bones. You know the one . . . Pilate is holding court and after being unable to find any fault in Jesus he asks the crowd "What crime has this man committed?" to which they reply "Crucify him! Crucify him! Crucify him!"
It is then that you realize fully the importance of the cooperation and camaraderie. It is then that you understand why the men, women and children of this area need to see the fruit of our evening together. And it is then that you are eternally grateful that you have this church family to call your own.
In great thanksgiving, for all of Your blessings, Lord, may our efforts bring glory to Your Name Jesus.
Amen and Amen.
bo
I was the proverbial fish out of water as I stood back and watched the masters at work. I marveled at their vision and creativity. With the props gathered and flowers perfectly arranged, the vision began to unfold. In their mind's eye they literally saw a marketplace come to life as they looked at 3 empty tables, some dried garlic and a collection of pottery.
As I stood back and took a moment to enjoy the experience, it occurred to me that from time to time you'll hear someone say that they don't need to be part of a church family. They can watch TV and learn everything that they need to know about God without going to church. Well, after the evening that I just had I would have to challenge that way of thinking. At home you don't see the smiles of the costumers who seem to delight at the opportunity of outfitting the 'crowd' with traditional props and garb one more time. You don't encounter the laughter of the kids who stand back and watch to see how 'funny' dad will look when he is decked out in a shepherd's 'dress'. And when you're home without the relationships that come when you're part of a church family, you miss the incredible experience of being in the midst of cooperation and camaraderie and pure discipleship.
Tonight as people gathered together to close out the evening we were privy to the efforts of the 'crowd' as they rehearsed the scene that brought chills to our bones. You know the one . . . Pilate is holding court and after being unable to find any fault in Jesus he asks the crowd "What crime has this man committed?" to which they reply "Crucify him! Crucify him! Crucify him!"
It is then that you realize fully the importance of the cooperation and camaraderie. It is then that you understand why the men, women and children of this area need to see the fruit of our evening together. And it is then that you are eternally grateful that you have this church family to call your own.
In great thanksgiving, for all of Your blessings, Lord, may our efforts bring glory to Your Name Jesus.
Amen and Amen.
bo
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