Finding soul rest. Life can feel like a rat race. Scurrying along with all of humanity for our slice of cheese. Hectic and frantic to arrive. Unsure where and why. Tired. Haggard. And out of breath. When will we ever find soul rest?
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (ESV, Matthew 11:28-30)
Finding soul rest. It’s presented as an invitation.
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.
The Greek word for “labor” is kŏpiaō, which means to work hard, labor, toil, and feel fatigued. “Heavy laden” is the Greek phŏrtizō, which means to overburden with ceremony or spiritual anxiety. And “rest” is anapauō, which means to refresh, repose, and rest.
However, it’s not the busy schedule that causes the weariness rampant today. But something deeper and more profound. A spiritual anxiety that over burdens our hearts. And what’s missing is the love, joy, and holy presence of God. He is the calm that soothes the human heart. Without him life can be lonely, empty, and meaninglessness.
But there is an answer. A path forward. Jesus presents it as an invitation. Which is simply, himself. Because soul rest is not about what I can do, but what Jesus has done. He sacrificed himself for my sin. And by confessing my sin and seeking his forgiveness, he enters my life as Savior and Lord. As a result, the anxiety of earning God’s favor melts away. And the life giving presence of Jesus takes its place.
Finding soul rest. Jesus joins you in the harness.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
The Greek word for “yoke” is zugŏs, which means to join, a coupling, beam of the balance. During New Testament times, a yoke was placed over the necks of two oxens so they equally pulled a wagon or plow.
But Jesus used the term figuratively to mean servitude and obligation to the Jewish law. And he had harsh words for the religious leaders who insisted the Jewish people meticulously keep them all. It was an impossible burden to bear. Although modern culture today has moved away from that law, most still believe in God and moral right and wrong. But there’s uncertainty in the right combination. What is the appropriate level of goodness to meet God’s standard? The uncertainty creates another burden. How do you pass the test to enter heaven?
But Jesus offers reassurance. Join with him and the load will be light.
“Gentle” is the Greek word praüs, which means humble, meek, and mild. And “lowly” is tapĕinŏs, which means depressed, humiliated in circumstances or disposition, cast down, of low estate. Jesus wants to be our Lord. But he is gentle and humble. He desires to walk with us. Instruct us. And ease our burden.
Finding soul rest. Responding to Jesus.
And you will find rest for your souls.
The Greek word for “souls” is psuchē, which means breath, immortal soul, heart, life, and mind. In other words, the soul is our unique, human composition made by God. Our personality, emotions, desires, perceptions, and ability to think and reason. And according to scripture, the soul lives eternally in either heaven or hell.
And the most important part of soul rest.
Take for example, the scene on the cross as Jesus was crucified between two thieves. One ridiculed him, the other took responsibility for his own misdeeds. And he appealed to Jesus for forgiveness. Jesus responded by saying, “today you will be with me in paradise.”
At the most critical point in his life he simply and completely turned to Jesus. And found his soul rest. We can too.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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When David fought Goliath. It’s the ultimate underdog story. David, the young shepherd boy, slays the mighty Philistine warrior Goliath. Here are lessons from this popular Bible story.
When David fought Goliath. When God’s on your side you are favored to win.
For the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory. (ESV, Deuteronomy 20:4)
It’s the classic underdog story. Teenage shepherd boy slays giant, seasoned warrior. He’s sparsely equipped, has less combat experience, and a significant size disadvantage. But he talks with complete confidence. Does he possess a secret weapon or simply out of touch with reality?
For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (ESV, 1 Samuel 17:26)
David certainly knew Israel’s history. And heard many stories of how God defeated Israel’s enemies. Many times Israel didn’t even have to fight. Therefore, he could place full confidence in the power of God. But did he expect to face Goliath and watch God strike him down with a lightning bolt?
The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. (ESV, 1 Samuel 17:37)
Yes, David had confidence in his Almighty God. But he had some skills too. As a shepherd protecting his flock, he had taken on and killed both wild lions and bears. He was no rookie, but an experienced, battle tested fighter.
When David fought Goliath. He used his best resources
Today we usually consider cutting technology, the latest software, and Six Sigma quality processes our indispensable resources. And king Saul thought the same way. He equipped David with his own battle armor. Certainly, the latest and greatest war equipment of the day. Except it didn’t fit David’s smaller stature. So it was both uncomfortable and unfamiliar to David.
Instead, his best resources were the weapons and ammunition he was most familar with. A sling and five smooth stones.
However, David had been using the sling as a weapon for many years and was already an expert. But he wasn’t alone. The tribe of Benjamin had army warriors dedicated to slinging.
And the people of Benjamin mustered out of their cities on that day 26,000 men who drew the sword, besides the inhabitants of Gibeah, who mustered 700 chosen men. Among all these were 700 chosen men who were left-handed; every one could sling a stone at a hair and not miss. (ESV, Judges 20:15-16)
Scholars suggest they could hurl stones the size of a tennis ball between 100 to 150 miles an hour with incredible accuracy. Goliath probably didn’t know this. And it presents and important lesson. Never underestimate the effectiveness of a resource with a cursory glance.
When David fought Goliath. He demonstrated individual skill and faith in God.
This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. For the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hand.” (ESV, 1 Samuel 17: 46-47)
David’s confidence came from his experience as a fighter along with faith in the power of God. He did more than talk a good game. He practiced and honed his skill. And he engaged in combat against bigger opponents.
Furthermore, David exercised more than a wishful hope of defeating Goliath. He had a vision with a positive outcome. And a plan of attack for taking Goliath down. Because he saw himself cutting off Goliath’s head.
This is an important consideration for us today. Although prayer is an important tool when we face modern giants, we should never sit back and wait for God to solve the problem for us. We should always be prepared to do our part.
This includes constantly equipping ourselves with the tools and know how to use them. Along with recruiting, training, and equipping teams join in our cause.
When David fought Goliath. He took the initiative.
David didn’t wait for Goliath to attack him. He was the first to attack. And it probably took Goliath by surprise. To see a half-pint kid on the attack. I can also imagine a bemused look on his face. Such audacity!
For his part, Goliath scoffed at the young shepherd boy that came out to face him who looked like he was on lunch break from his flock to come fight. Really? Is this the best warrior you have to offer?
David’s positive enthusiasm would not help him. Goliath had face many opponents with enthusiasm. Except what he actually saw was unwavering faith in God. And that makes a huge difference despite David’s appearance.
Suffering defeat to a scrawny shepherd boy with a sling is not a thought Goliath considered. But the rock David delivered was the last thing to enter Goliath’s mind. And he lost his head over it.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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The incomparable God. There is no comparison to the one true God. Creator of the universe and all life. Author of the Bible. Father of Jesus Christ. And Savior of all who seek his salvation. Here’s what separates him from all other gods.
To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike? (ESV, Isaiah 46:5)
I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose. (ESV, Isaiah 46:9-10)
God does not make arrogant boasts. But states the divine truth. He is above all gods of other religions. Distinct from every human philosophy and speculation. Sure-handedly guiding world history toward his planned conclusion.
The incomparable God. The great I AM.
Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. When all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, “The Lord, he is God; the Lord, he is God.” (ESV, 1 Kings 18:38-39)
“I am the greatest” are the words of famous boxer Muhammad Ali. Indeed, a legendary fighter who secured his place in history as one of the best of all times. But he died. However, God Almighty is the great I AM. Who alone, is eternal. Over all, through all, and in all.
You call upon the name of your god, and I will call upon the name of the Lord, (ESV, 1 Kings 18:24)
A contest of comparison
Elijah the prophet challenged the 450 prophets of Baal to a contest between Baal and the Lord. Two alters, built side by side, on top of Mount Carmel. Each with a bull sacrifice and wood for fire. And the prophets would call on their god to light the fire. The 450 prophets of Baal went first. They circled the alter, calling on Baal in vain to send fire. Even to the point of slashing themselves with knives. But nothing happened except they bled everywhere. Then Elijah saturated his alter with water and called on the one true God. And fire fell from heaven and consumed it all.
Although God seldom displays his power in this dramatic fashion today, he does so in other ways. For example, through the amazing and intricate beauty of his creation. Answered prayer to his people. And the transformed lives of his followers.
The incomparable God. His purpose is unstoppable.
I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it. (ESV, Isaiah 46:11)
What is God’s purpose? It is to gather all people to him for eternity. Not by compulsion. But persuasively. Through his love and grace.
However, our world is broken by sin. And it separates us from the incomparable God. Furthermore, we’re lost and powerless against it. But God provided a way through his Son, Jesus Christ. He sacrificed himself on a cross to break the bondage of sin. Redeem us through his blood. Restore our relationship with God. And open the door to eternal life.
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (ESV, Revelation 21:1)
A life without God likely views a gloom and doom conclusion to this world. Certainly without hope. Ended suddenly by the annihilation of nuclear war or slowly through climate change. But God’s word says the earth will be remade into a new one that’s even better.
The incomparable God. His righteousness is near.
“Listen to me, you stubborn of heart, you who are far from righteousness: I bring near my righteousness; it is not far off, and my salvation will not delay. (ESV, Isaiah 46:12-13)
God is righteous. And he sent his righteousness to us in the form of Jesus Christ. As God’s son, Jesus lived a perfectly righteous life and sacrificed himself for our sin. By confessing our sins to Jesus and seeking his forgiveness, we are redeemed from sin, granted his righteousness, and adopted as children of God.
Jesus invites us into a relationship with him and the incomparable God waits patiently for us to respond. But as God draws history to a close, the open door to salvation closes too. And God’s righteousness is forever lost to those who reject him.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Three replacements to Christianity. American society has grown increasingly secular over time. And slowly replaced traditional, Biblical truth with secular alternatives. Here are three of them.
Three replacements to Christianity. Replace theology with ideology.
Theology is the study of God. It attempts to know and understand him better. And involves studying, understanding, and applying the Bible to life.
It quickly presents two fundamental teachings: The importance of knowing God’s law and obeying it. Furthermore, you learn God is more than a divine genie who grants spiritual wishes. But a relational God who makes covenantal promises. He faithfully keeps his end and expects us to keep ours.
Jesus pushed the commitment level even further.
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. (ESV, Matthew 16:24)
“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? (ESV, Luke 6:46)
For many people who find this level of commitment too demanding, ideology is a convenient replacement.
By definition, it’s a system of ideas that represent your social or political philosophy and guide your affiliation with an organization and political party. And while not religious, it has components that address the spiritual longings hardwired into all of us. Like mission in a greater cause. A sense of belonging and belief your cause will improve the lives of people and the world. And best of all? There are no relational demands, sacrifices to make, or lifestyle choices to give up.
Three replacements to Christianity. Replace Biblical righteousness with personal virtue.
The call to righteousness is a clear Biblical teaching. And it involves learning and applying God’s law to your life. This is something Christ-followers do out of devotion and a desire to please God. Of course, we all still sin and fall short of perfect righteousness. But the point is, righteousness requires us to conform our lifestyle to God’s law rather than let our lifestyle determine our beliefs.
Furthermore, Biblical righteousness is based on a relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s not primarily about obeying God’s rules but walking with him in a spiritual relationship. It recognizes that as Christ-followers, we do not posess righteousness. But it is imputed to us through Jesus Christ.
Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. (ESV, Romans 5:)
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
What makes virtue especially misleading is that it can involve activities scripture calls righteous. Like feeding the poor and caring for widows and orphans. But they should be motivated by a desire to honor and glorify God, not earn his approval or recognition from other people. Furthermore, virtue can involve a declaration of virtuous ideals without any actual demonstration. A loud, passionate, public plea is sufficient.
However, the greatest danger is that virtue calls attention to personal goodness without recognizing sin. Because sin separates us from God. And we must confess our sin to Jesus and seek his forgiveness to restore our relationship with God. Virtuous acts without Jesus are not enough.
Three replacements to Christianity. Replace God with yourself.
Atheists deny God’s existence and automatically move to first place. No apology. Guilt. Or need to concern yourself with meaning, purpose, or reason for existence since there isn’t any.
But for the 81% of Americans that do believe in God, his command is pretty clear.
You shall have no other gods before me. Make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. And you shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, (ESV, Exodus 20: 3-4)
Few people in today’s secular society actually worship a physical, man-made idol. So at first glance, there’s no danger of breaking this commandment. However, idols can also take other forms. Like the pursuit of career, hobbies, entertainment, pleasure, success, possessions, and wealth. Of course. These aren’t bad in and of themselves. It’s when you pursue them with an all consuming passion they turn idolatrous.
God wants to sit on the throne of our hearts. But our selfish sin nature works against it. And we push him aside in our “all about me” pursuit of self-help, self-empowerment, and self-improvement. Placing God first takes a consistent realignment. Absorbing his word daily, worshiping him weekly, and serving others. Why? Because they go against our sin nature and must be Spirit led. And is exactly where we find meaning, purpose, and reason for existence.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group?
Four postures of righteousness. How do you live a life that honors God? What the Bible calls righteousness. Psalm 1:1-2 provides four postures to guide you.
Blessed is the manwho walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. (ESV, Psalm 1:1-2)
Four postures of righteousness. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked.
The verse is composed of three “do nots” followed by one “do.” Although the three “do nots” imply a “do.” And it begins with how we walk. Not our physical gait, of course. The Hebrew word hâlak, is translated “walk” but refers to behavior. Our conduct as we navigate life.
“Counsel” is ʿêtsâh, and means advice and prudence. Because we all seek advice on decisions from time to time. So, where do you go for yours? We’re told here not to seek advice from the wicked. But what exactly does that mean?
The Hebrew word is râshâ, which means morally wrong, ungodly, and guilty. Its meaning is broader than just people who are obviously evil. But anyone who does not devoutly worship and follow the one true God.
I know. Some of those people care about you. And have life experiences that should be considered. But ungodly advice is skewed by a secular worldview. God’s will is often counter cultural and therefore, godly advice doesn’t always make sense from a worldly perspective. So Christ-followers who actively follow God and seek his will should be your main source of advice.
Four postures of righteousness. Nor stands in the way of sinners
The Hebrew word for “sinner” is chaṭṭâ, which means sinner, offender, criminal and one accounted guilty. And yes, we are all sinners. However, Christ-followers are redeemed through the blood of Jesus Christ. And our desire is to please and honor God. Therefore, we should pursue the holiness of God by imitating the life of Christ.
The Hebrew word for “stand” is ʿâmad, which means to abide, continue, dwell. And the Hebrew word for “way” is derek, which means path, manner, journey, custom, a course of life or mode of action. And as Christ-followers, we walk a different path than non-believers. It doesn’t mean non-believers are bad people or always pursuing evil things. But without God’s indwelling Spirit, their desires lean towards selfish pursuits of pleasure. And what happens if we stand on that path?
Well. What happens if you stand in the path of a moving train, a tsunami, or a tornado? A tragedy, right? The point here is not that non-believers will run you over if you’re in their path. But that they might pull you along with them into morally unhealthy activities. Instead, seek Christ-followers who share your God honoring desires and walk a righteous path together.
Four postures of righteousness. Nor sits in the seat of scoffers
The Hebrew word for “sit” is yâshab, which means to sit down, dwell, remain, settle, tarry, abide, remain, and inhabit. The word for “seat” is môshâb, which means a seat, an abode, dwelling, inhabited place, and sojourning. And the word for “scoffers” is lûwts, which means to scoff, have in derision, scorn, and mock.
The point is, attitudes are contagious. Therefore, don’t hang around negative people with a cynical attitude for any length of time. Because it slowly rubs off on you.
And what makes them unhappy? A lack of hope.
Christ-followers have a living hope through Jesus Christ. And a future, eternal life with him. We should hang out with others who share our hope and keep company with those who live a joy-filled life.
Four postures of righteousness. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
The Hebrew word for “delight” is chêphets, which means pleasure, desire, delight, and a valuable thing. The Hebrew word for “meditate” is hâgâh, which means to ponder, meditate, imagine, and study.
God’s word reveals the thoughts, desires, and purposes of God. And provides instructions on righteous living for the people of God. So reading the Bible should not be a duty of drugery, but a delight we meditate on. Think about. And ponder.
Okay, pushing through Leviticus and the begats in Matthew might not keep you perched on the edge of your seat. But God’s word is to be cherished as we study, learn, and apply it to our lives.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Three tips to funny writing. Writing humor is like performing a magic trick. You misdirect your audience and surprise them with an unexpected ending. Here are three tips to help you.
Three tips to funny writing. The first person that laughs at your joke is you.
My kids used to tell me, “Dad, just because you laugh at your own jokes, it doesn’t mean they’re funny.” But here’s the truth. If you don’t think what you’ve written is funny, probably no one else will either.
And I admit, I sometimes have a sense of humor that no one else shares. The number of times I’m the only one bursting out in laughter at a funny scene in a movie theater proves it. On the other hand, someone, somewhere, must have thought it was funny too, or it wouldn’t be in the movie. I need to meet that person so we can laugh together.
Still, that’s no guarantee others will enjoy your comedy because not everyone shares your sense of humor. We’re all unique when it comes to comedy and laugh at different forms of humor. Some like clever jokes, others visual slapstick comedy, and others dry wit. That’s the hardest thing about humor writing humor. Creating comedy that is universally funny and appeals to a large audience is challenging.
The number of times I’ve been the only person in a movie theater laughing during a particular comedy scene that I find funny is, according to my family members, ridiculous. And the loud, solo laughter at my favorite humor becomes the source of humor for everyone else. At my expense and to the embarrassment of my family. Of course, so is my solo singing, which is why I’m frequently asked to sing solo that no one hears me. Hey…whatever lame joke it takes to get a laugh, right?
Three tips to funny writing. Like a well timed magic trick humor surprisesthe audience.
Funny writing is like performing magic. You intentionally lead the audience towards a certain assumption or conclusion and then switch to the unexpected. For you, the comedy writer, it means always looking at things from a different, humorous perspective. Always asking what if? Where’s the comedy? How can I make it funny?
Tomorrow morning I have to get on a plane to Chicago…I’d prefer to ride inside the plane, but really, have you seen ticket prices lately?
Work has been killing me lately because I’ve spent the last 3 weeks on the road…run over by 100 cars, 25 trucks, and picked on by 4 buzzards.
Three tips to funny writing. Universal humor is everywhere. So peel your eyes and look for ripe fruit.
Yep, I know. Puns are the lowest form of humor. However, the point is to train yourself to be observant. And capture those funny moments when you encounter them. And when you see things that are funny, actively turn them over in your mind to make the comedy stand out. It’s the common problems we all face, the similar annoyances we experience, the familiar quirks of humanity we see every day. In reality, life is routine most of the time. And when you observe the comedy episodes in routine life, you’ll find humor that makes everyone laugh. Like…
The person ahead of you in the grocery store checkout line, that unlike you, is not in a hurry and uses the opportunity to share all the details of his current medical condition with the cashier.
The five year old that keeps obnoxiously blurting out loud questions to his parents in the middle of an intense movie…that he shouldn’t even be at because it’s R rated.
However, it’s not just reporting these comedy moments, although sometimes, they are so naturally funny that is often enough. What separates you as a freelance humor writer is when you add comedy, color commentary. It’s embellishing, exaggerating, and inserting the flavor of a little sarcasm. When you do, you create humor that makes us all laugh together. And it brightens up our day.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Enjoy Humor Driven Christian fiction?
Check out these two Christian detective novels. Soul Pursuit and Finding Grace. They include mystery, humor, and a Christian message.
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