The power of God’s precepts is found in Psalms 119:129-136. These teachings guide the moral behavior of God’s people based on the truth of His word. Here are three ways they empower believers.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guide us on a lighted path.
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (ESV, Psalm 119:30)
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (ESV, Psalm 119:105)
Our culture today celebrates individual, moral freedom. Behavior once considered wrong is now celebrated. And the laws that restrained it repealed. Supporters promised more individual autonomy. Higher enlightenment. Increased personal rights. And ultimately, greater individual happiness. But is this the case?
Because the opposite appears to be true. There’s greater moral confusion than ever before. Increased loneliness. Unhappiness. Darkness. And anger. So much anger everywhere you look.
In contrast, God’s word is a light. It illuminates the path of those who follow it. Increases your understanding of moral right and wrong. And guides your steps of faith in a world of increasing darkness. On the way, you discover that God’s precepts guide you towards a life of righteousness that honors God.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guard us from oppression
Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. (ESV, Psalm 119:133)
Critics often claim that God’s law is burdensome with its legalistic following of rules. But the writer here claims the opposite. God’s precepts act as guard rails to protect him from the lure and addictive power of immoral behavior.
The Hebrew word for “Iniquity” is a-wen and means evil behavior. The Hebrew word for “dominion” is shalat and means to have power or to rule over. And this is the reality when human passions and lust are unleashed with no inhibitions or restrictions. The behavior often becomes addictive. And the immoral freedoms you celebrate and indulge in with reckless abandon become your master.
Meanwhile, God’s precepts take you on a journey of purpose, meaning, and joy. They guide you in a life that’s meant for you. And grow you into the person He intends you to be.
The Power of God’s precepts. God’s word sets you free
Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. (ESV, Psalm 119:134)
If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)
The Hebrew word for “oppression” is osheq and means deceitfully gotten or unjust gain. In other words, God’s precepts guide you in walking with personal integrity. Another challenge when navigating a world full of scams and unscrupulous behavior.
Despite that, we’re called to demonstrate honest and ethical behavior. Even when it’s a disadvantage next to unethical competition. Because God’s word is truth that sets you free. Freedom of conscience. And the stress in covering one lie with another. Furthermore, the honest reputation you earn over time becomes a rich and satisfying reward.
Studying and following God’s precepts consistently is like a slow drip. A steady jog. Because as you absorb God’s truth and practice it, subtle, but profound changes occur in your life. In how you think, act, and react. Sure, life still throws curveballs that you swing at and miss. But you’ll feel more settled. And with a confidence that God’s precepts are an important key to a meaningful life.
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.
Lessons from Jonah and the whale. It’s a popular Bible story although the whale gets too much attention. And is it really a whale? Because scripture just calls it a great fish. But here are some lessons from the story.
Lessons from Jonah and the whale. The real story is about God’s love, grace, and forgiveness
The great fish plays a support role in the book of Jonah. Essentially, a motivational tool God uses for Jonah’s compliance. Yet, somehow, it grabs all the attention. At least, the paper whale my Sunday School teacher used when telling the story took up most of the flannel board.
However, the real story is about God’s love, grace and forgiveness. It reminds us of His desire that we all enter His eternal kingdom. And the measures He takes to show us the way.
But wait. Last week’s blog looked at Numbers 31. And in that story, God used Israel to execute vengeance against the Midianites. But now, He gives the Ninevites a chance to repent? How do you explain that?
I can’t. Although my best guess is God knew the Ninevites would repent when given the opportunity but the Midianites would not.
Lessons from Jonah and the whale. Running from God is a bad idea.
But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. (ESV, Jonah 1:3)
Jonah was a prophet. An Old Testament preacher. So when God acknowledged the evil in Nineveh, He told Jonah to go and preach repentance to them. Should have been a no brainer. First bullet point on his prophet’s job description. But Jonah took off running instead. And you’re thinking…most preachers can’t wait to get behind a pulpit. What’s up with Jonah?
However, running from God is a bad idea. Adam and Eve tried it in the Garden of Eden when they realized they were naked and hid. When God called Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt, Moses doubted his leadership ability and ran to the wilderness. And Jonah caught a ship sailing to Tarshish. But none of these escape plans worked.
God fashioned clothes for Adam and Eve. He caught up to to Moses in the wilderness and appeared to him in a burning bush. And He gave Jonah a three day ride inside a living, oceanic submersible along with a complimentary stomach wash.
Why did Jonah run? He confesses it later. He didn’t want to preach to the Ninevites because he considered them awful people who should be destroyed rather than saved. But he admitted God was merciful, gracious, and abounding in steadfast love. Therefore, if the Ninevites repented of their sin, God would forgive them.
And that’s what happened. Jonah preached, the people of Nineveh repented, and God forgave them. A happy ending for the people of Nineveh and the Kingdom of God, but not for Jonah. He went off and pouted. But that’s a different lesson for another day.
For today, the lesson is to think twice about running if God calls you to something you don’t want to do. Obedience and trusting God for the results is a better choice.
Lessons from Jonah and the whale. Repentance leads to restoration.
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (ESV, Romans 10:13)
But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. (ESV, Luke 15:20)
God desires for all of us to be saved. Jesus Christ was His provision and God eagerly embraces us when we turn to Him. But that is a choice we all must individually make. Repent and become a child of God. Reject Him and be lost forever.
It is a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testament. When sinners repent, God forgives and restores. And the story of Jonah clearly demonstrates it. Along with God’s love and grace.
But there’s another lesson too. Followers of Jesus Christ are called as co-laborers in kingdom work. To also proclaim repentance. Share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And serve where opportunities present themselves. It’s not a have to, but a get to. Where God gets the glory and we get the blessing.
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 whale image used for this blog is a cartoon illustration out of my book Family Stew. Each chapter begins with a professionally drawn, cartoon illustration. It’s a collection of stories from the days of our young family along with summary thoughts from a Christian perspective.
Three Bible Truths for a Godly life. God’s Word offers a healthy prescription for us to follow. And these three Bible truths help us follow in a Godly manner.
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (ESV, Micah 6:8)
Three Bible Truths for a Godly life. Do justice.
“That’s not fair!” We’ve all said it. Because there’s an inherent sense of right and wrong in all of us. Play fair. Share your toys. Treat others the way you want to be treated. The Hebrew word for justice is “mishpat” and means divinely righteous action. Or in today’s context, do the right thing. But what exactly does that mean? Because many people believe it all depends on the circumstances.
God’s Word, however, provides explicit instructions on God’s law–what he considers righteous behavior. And much of it is straightforward and ignores situational ethics. It’s found in the Ten Commandments, Old Testament instructions, and Jesus’ teachings along with other New Testament writers.
Therefore, we pursue righteousness and strive to imitate Jesus in order to show our devotion and love for God rather than earn good behavior points. As a result, it pleases God and creates a more harmonious and virtuous society.
Three Bible Truths for a Godly life. Love kindness
The Hebrew word for “kindness” is kheh´-sed and is also translated mercy, which I think better represents Christian teaching. Why? Because kindness offers benevolence and charity. But mercy offers it even when it’s undeserved. And includes exercising restraint and responding in kindness when provoked by others without cause.
Mercy is at the heart of the Gospel. As sinners, we deserve God’s punishment. But God affords us mercy through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we in turn, should generously offer it to others.
This means giving people the benefit of the doubt when offended since we don’t know what difficulties they’re going through. To avoid knee jerk reactions. Show compassion. And consider walking in another person’s shoes. It acknowledges that we’re all guilty before God. And that none of us deserve it, but we all need mercy.
Three Bible Truths to guide your life. Walk humbly with your God.
We naturally compare ourselves to others. As if entrance to heaven is a moral test graded on a curve. And we get in by morally scoring higher than others. It’s an approach that naturally leads to pride. Because the higher our virtuous score is above others, the more we pat ourselves on the back for our moral superiority.
Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Because our standard for comparison is not other people, but a perfectly holy and righteous God. And on that report card we all fall miserably short.
However, when we acknowledge our best efforts are as filthy rags before a perfectly, holy God the appropriate response is humility. And when we individually and corporately humble ourselves and seek salvation through his Son, Jesus Christ, God’s faithfulness follows. And we will be spiritually healed as individuals and as a people.
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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A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church, making disciples, and ministry engagement of church members.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church
V.15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.
As Paul concludes his theological teaching he turns his attention to another important matter. Fostering authentic relationships. Because he asks the Colossians to greet the brothers at Laodicea and the house church that meets in the home of Nympha.
Start up churches in first century Christianity often met in homes. Especially since congregations were usually small. But hosting regular meetings in a home is no small thing. Then or now, because it takes much preparation. Perhaps specifically mentioning Nympha in his greeting was a way to affirm her.
Regardless, it reminds us that Christianity is a journey of faith with other believers. And those relationships must be intentionally nurtured and maintained.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance in making disciples
V.16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.
Paul’s apostolic teaching was considered authoritative by the early Christians. And his letters were passed around and read among the churches. But rather than let a ministry position inflate his ego, he recognized his own sin, unworthiness, and God’s grace to him. Look at Romans 7:15-20, 1 Timothy 1:15, and 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 for examples.
Nevertheless, Paul recognized his teaching as authoritative because he instructs the Colossians to swap letters with the Laodiceans. Did he know his writing was inspired by the Holy Spirit? It’s unclear if he knew, but we know because 1 Timothy 3:16-17 confirms it.
What happened to the letter to Laodicea? Some scholars speculate it was today’s book of Ephesians and others say the original letter was lost. Regardless, we know our Bible today is God’s complete word and we need not worry about anything missing.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of ministry engagement of church members
V.17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”
We get more background information about Archippus in Paul’s letter to Philemon where he calls him a “fellow soldier.” Philemon hosted a house church and Archippus was part of it. And some scholars suggest, possibly his son. The title “fellow soldier” indicates a ministerial role. Perhaps as a pastor, but more likely a lay leader.
And notice the ministry was “received in the Lord.” In other words, God calls lay leaders into ministry too. Because pastors can’t possibly carry out church ministry by themselves. Of course, that doesn’t mean every church volunteer position requires a special calling. Often, the only qualification is a willing spirit and obedient heart. But when God calls we should respond with obedience.
On a practical note, pastors often prayerfully seek God’s guidance for filling various church leadership roles. And from pastoral experience I can tell you He often brings certain people to mind. So if a staff member approaches you about a particular ministry opportunity in your church, don’t immediately turn it down. It might be God’s way of calling you.
V.18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
In the midst of Paul’s concern for the Colossians he asked for their thoughts and prayers on his behalf. He was still in prison, uncertain of the future, and needed prayer support. A good reminder that while pastors often pray faithfully FOR their congregation, they still need prayers from FROM their congregation too.
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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Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. If God exists, how does he reveal himself to us? Here are four ways the Bible identifies.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through scripture.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (ESV, 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Humans wrote the Bible. But God’s Spirit supernaturally inspired each author to write exactly what He wants us to know. Its absolute truth addresses all matters of life. And it describes how to live in a manner that glorifies God.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (ESV, Hebrews 4:12)
In addition, scripture is more than ink on paper. God’s words are alive and active. And meant for you to read, meditate on, and saturate into your heart and mind. So, when you engage them in your thoughts and actions, they manifest a life of holiness and righteousness. Not perfectly, but in one that honors God.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through creation
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (ESV, Romans 1:19-20)
God’s fingerprints mark all of creation. However, belief is a choice. And you can deny his existence and instead, believe in evolution. But you’ll miss the beauty, majesty, and splendor of an Almighty God. And the sense of wonder his creation inspires. A pageantry beyond our comprehension. And a masterpiece of intelligent design. Or, if you prefer, dumb luck.
But that choice is a life characterized by pride, dominated by sin, and without hope.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through His church
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13)
Is the church an organization or a building? Neither. It is the body of Christ. A congregation of Christ-followers indwelled and unified by God’s Spirit. And a melting pot of race, culture, language, socioeconomic, and political differences with one thing in common–the desire to love and follow Jesus Christ.
The church gathers to worship, fellowship, and support one another. And when it ministers in Jesus’ name, the church displays God’s love through his people.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (ESV, Galatians 5:22)
The fruit of the Spirit is visible evidence of God’s presence in the lives of His people. Broken due to sin. But as believers imitate Jesus and honor God through righteous living, it reflects, in a small way, the righteousness of God.
Four ways God reveals himself to humanity. God reveals himself through Jesus Christ
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (ESV 1:1)
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (ESV, John 1:14)
For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily. (ESV, Colossians 2:9)
Who is Jesus Christ? Scripture provides a clear answer. He is the Son of God. Fully human and fully divine. He lived a perfect life. Taught God’s truth. Performed miracles. Died on a cross for our sins, and rose from the grave three days later. And those who believe in and follow him by faith are granted eternal life.
Jesus Christ is God’s complete revelation of himself to humanity. And if you miss this one, probably, nothing else will convince you. But when you recognize Jesus as God, confess him as Lord, and follow him, your life is changed forever.
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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