Beyond Measure!

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, ²¹ unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3.20-21

    I readily confess that my concept of God is too small. When I read these two verses, I am overwhelmed by Paul’s description of our great God. Look how Paul describes God: “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think … ” I readily admit that I can ask God some pretty big things sometimes. But I can never ask anything that is greater than what He is able to do. I don’t know that I have ever thought of something that God can’t do. But the fact still remains, I don’t have a concept of God that matches Who He is and What He can do.

    The interesting truth of this verse lies in the next phrase: “according to the power that worketh in us,” What is this power that works in us? It is God’s Holy Spirit who resides within each one of us. When we come to the realization that God is living within us and we can never go any place that He does not go with us, it gives a new dimension to our lives. His omnipresence is both a comforting and concerning truth. It is comforting because we realize that we are never alone. It is concerning because we realize that we are never alone. God SEES and KNOWS everything about us.

    Finally, we must realize that God’s power manifested in us will bring glory in the church “throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” So let us live today and every day in a manner that will allow God’s glory and power to be manifested in us and through us. That will please Him and we will be blessed for it. Just my thoughts …

As We Have Opportunity …

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6.10

    “As we have therefore opportunity … ” When God opens a door of opportunity for any one of us to do good for someone else, how willing are we to step through that door? How quickly do we respond to that opportunity? Paul’s words here may present a challenge for some of us. We may not be accustomed to doing “good unto all men …” but that is the Holy Spirit’s directions for us in this verse. It doesn’t say if we know them or if we like them, we should help them. It simply says, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men … ” If we have to adjust our thinking on this matter, then let’s do it.

    The last phrase emphasizes another responsibility: “especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” The Holy Spirit is calling us to give particular attention to fellow believers whom we observe to be in need. When we observe another Christ follower in need it ought to be an automatic response to ask the Lord what we can do to help them. Or perhaps we need to go directly to them and ask if there is some way we can help. I know how much I appreciate when someone comes along side me to offer help when I am in need. I want to be that kind of brother in Christ who is willing to take the “opportunity” to be all that God wants me to be for one in need. Just my thoughts …

Our Desires Need to Match!

“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11.24

    I’m sure that many of God’s children look at this verse as a blank check from God. But could I suggest that this is not as much about God giving us what we desire as it is about our knowing what the boundaries are for us in our prayer lives. Here is what I mean. God is not saying, “You want that new Lexus or Mercedes? Go ahead and ask.” Now don’t misunderstand my statement. I don’t care what someone drives if God gives it to them. My point is this, we need to learn how to discern God’s will when we are asking Him for things.

    Look at this phrase: “What things soever ye desire … ” How do you measure your desires? Are they simply a reflection of anything you want, or have you taken time to ask the Lord what He wants for you? I realize that this is not always a simple process. But I also know that the best way for you and me to have our desires in line with what God wants is to ask Him and then wait for His answer. God is not going to write the answer on a 3×5 card and say, “Here!” but He is going to provide the leadership and guidance of His Holy Spirit whenever you and I are willing to submit unconditionally to Him. Why not take time right now to ask God to help you shape your desires so they are in line with His desires for you. You won’t be disappointed and God will be glorified. Just my thoughts …

There Is No One Like Our God!

“Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.” Micah 7.18

    This opening phrase from Micah is a powerful one: “Who is a God like unto thee … ” If you are anything like me, you find it difficult to comprehend all that God really is in our lives. There is NO ONE like our God! Then Micah continues to give us some valuable characteristics about our God: (1) He pardons iniquity, (2) He passes by the transgression of the remnant of His heritage, and (3) He does not retain His anger forever. Those would seem to be enough, but he concludes with: “he delighteth in mercy.”

Let’s examine these phrases a little more closely. He pardons iniquity.  What does that mean to you? I wouldn’t call myself a “bad” sinner, but I am a sinner none the less. I have never murdered anyone. I have always tried to pay my taxes on time and in full. And as far as I know, I have no major issues with the law and all my sins are cleared with God. But the fact remains that I am a SINNER. I need to have my iniquities pardoned and God is the only One who can do that. When God comes to my transgression, He walks on by. Why? Because His Son has already paid the price for my transgressions. I never want to purposely make God angry, but I am sure some of the things that I have done have cause Him to be angry. BUT “he retaineth not his anger for ever … ” Praise His holy name. and WHY doesn’t He retain His anger forever? “because he delighteth in mercy.” This merciful God is your God and my God. Let us rejoice in Who He is today. Just my thoughts …

This God!

“For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.” Psalm 48.14

    I don’t know how long you have been a Christ-follower, but for me it has been 73 years. When I think about that length of time compared to eternity, it is a mere pittance, but for me it is a lifetime. So, the phrase, “this God is our God for ever and ever”, stands out for me. I’m glad I can say that no matter what obstacles life has thrown my way, God has been there. That doesn’t mean I haven’t struggled with decisions or life circumstances. What it does mean is that THROUGH ALL OF THEM, God never did leave me.

    This last phrase is taking on greater meaning every day: “he will be our guide even unto death.” I am currently 81 years old. Someone asked me how long I wanted to live, to which I responded, “I’m shooting for 100.” But I know that is not under my control. Regardless of how long any of us live, “he will be our guide even unto death.” Again, no matter what comes, He will be there. Losing a job is difficult. Losing a family is difficult. Losing a loved one to death is difficult. Losing a loved one to dementia or Alzheimer disease is difficult. But IN EVERYONE of these and any other difficult experience, “he will be our guide even unto death.” I find great comfort in knowing that my God is ALWAYS there. I don’t have to wonder if He moved. Sometimes I have a tendency to move, but it is always just one step back. May God encourage you with these truths today. Just my thoughts …

Unchanging – Yes!

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Hebrews 13.8

    The uniqueness of God to every person is that He is unchanging. Everyone you see and know changes at one time or another. Things all around us change every day. BUT “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” What does that mean to you and me? His love never changes. His abiding presence ever changes. His provision for our needs never changes. Any element of your life that requires God’s attention will never be devoid of God’s presence and power. THAT is reassuring.

    So, in light of this truth, how should we live? We should live for Him consistently, knowing that He is with us 24×7. His omnipresence is without question. We should live for Him passionately, knowing that He is passionate about us. Passionate living requires a commitment that is unknown to this world, but should be a supernatural manifestation of our love for our unchanging God. We should live for Him openly. People ought not be surprised about our faith in God. They should be able to recognize it at work every day and they should hear it proclaimed from our mouths.

    In light of the unchangeableness of our God, our daily life should reflect our knowledge of, and our gratefulness for this wonderful God. Just my thoughts …

Revival – Yes!

“Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?” Psalm 85.6

    Short verse. Powerful words: “Wilt thou not revive us again … ” We don’t hear much about REVIVAL any more. I remember a time when that was a constant topic of conversation among pastors and their people. I remember being in meetings when it seemed the power of God came down and the members of the congregation were literally “set on fire” by the Holy Spirit and even though the special meeting ended, revival continued.

    I believe it is important to remember that REVIVAL is always from God. It is not something we schedule or create. It is something that we seek the face of God about through prayer. Notice the word “again” here. The psalmist was remembering there had been revival in the past. But he knew the time had come when it was needed AGAIN. I think we all know when we NEED revival in our lives.

    Then the psalmist gives us a reason for revival: “that thy people may rejoice in thee … ” I believe revival brings rejoicing for all those who are involved in what God is doing. Revival brings harmony among the saints of God. It adds strength to the church. It influences the wicked. Revival also brings joy to God because His people are on the right track again. They are once again doing “the essentials” of reaching out to the lost and influencing the world for Christ. Just my thoughts …

Without Faith? I Don’t Think So!

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11.6

    First of all, I can’t imagine living a life without faith. You probably can’t either. But the writer of Hebrews turns our focus to one of the real necessities of faith. This first phrase is priceless: “But without faith it is impossible to please him … ” God is ALWAYS looking at the faith we exercise. The more faith we exercise, the more He is pleased. Why is our faith so important? Here it is: “ … he that cometh to God must believe that he is … ” No one is going to CONSCIOUSLY pray to someone or something that we don’t think exists. So, the simple fact that we are praying is evidence to God that we BELIEVE He is there and He hears us and will respond appropriately to what we are praying.

    I find great encouragement in this last phrase: “he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” I don’t pray just to get a reward but it Is encouraging to know that God will reward those who DILIGENTLY seek Him. Diligent prayer is purposeful, passionate prayer. In essence we are saying to God, “You are the only One that I have. I can’t take this need or burden to anyone else. They are powerless to respond appropriately. I am coming diligently to seek your face about this need.” That is why I pray to this great God of ours. Just my thoughts …

The God of Hope!

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15.13

    Paul is coming to the close of one of the most important books in our New Testament – the book of Romans. He is not just trying to fill the page with something. He is writing to encourage everyone who reads these words. Notice his poignant words:

    “Now the God of hope … ” I believe I have said several times before that the only one who can give us hope is God. For Him to be called the “God of hope” is just a reminder to us of WHO He is in our lives. But look at the rest of the phrase: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing … ” To be filled with joy and peace is an overwhelming feeling of spiritual contentment. Our God is ENOUGH. That brings contentment, if we allow it.

    Why does Paul want this joy and peace for us? He tells us in the next phrase: “that ye may abound in hope … ” It isn’t enough to simply know that our God is the God of hope. We need to appropriate that hope as a regular part of our walk with God. Life WITHOUT hope is unbearable. Perhaps you are asking, “How can this hope be mine?” Paul answers that question in the final phrase: “through the power of the Holy Ghost.” So, how does that work? In order for the Holy Spirit’s power to be able to work in my life, I must get out of the way and give Him the room He needs to accomplish in my life what God wants. I need to surrender my will, my desires, and my wants to Him and let His direct each step in my life for each day. Just my thoughts …

Watch Who You Walk With!

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” Proverbs 13.20

    I remember when I was in high school, there were some kids that I wanted to hang around with and other kids that I didn’t want to hang around with. The difference between the two groups was that one group was always in trouble and one group was always doing the right things in class and didn’t get in trouble. So, I believe it is wise to take Solomon’s counsel to heart: “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise … ” I want to be around people who are going to help me be the best I can be and live a life that is a blessing to others, not a detriment to others. That is MY choice. No one else can make choice for me. The same is true for you. I want to be around people who speak words of wisdom so I can learn from them. I don’t need input from someone who seems to have nothing to say but bad things or trashy comments.

    Then Solomon tells us: “a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” WOW! I don’t ever want to consciously put myself in a position where my choice of my companions will ultimately lead me to a place where my life is destroyed. For those who may struggle with this, ask yourself if those who you spend time with build you up or do you come away from being with them in a negative state of mind or with a spirit of discontent. Let’s all make the conscious choice to “hang” with the wise and not put ourselves with “a companion of fools”. Just my thoughts …