It is always great to mark another birthday in light of where I found myself three years ago. This morning it was a delight to have Jerry Schemmel, voice of the Colorado Rockies as our guest speaker at our Allies Men’s breakfast at Timberline Church. This afternoon we traveled to Lakewood to watch grandson Riley compete in the “Carnation Bowl” the little league football championship. His team rolled to a 52-7 victory. After the game we gathered at Christian and Bridget’s home for dinner.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.” 1 Corinthians 1:26 NIV

The word “deplorables” will forever be associated with the 2016 Presidential election. However, it could as well have been how some followers of Christ were viewed in the eyes of the world; especially among the smug and elite of the wise philosophers or religious class of the first century in Corinth.

In declaring the glories of the gospel and the transformation power of Christ, Paul reminds the Corinthians of their status in the eyes of the culture of the day. If you were choosing teams for those who would transform the world and serve as ambassadors for the God of the universe, they were among those who would have been last to be selected.

It seems that God has a habit throughout time of choosing the unlikely, the overlooked and those a little, “rough around the edges” to be those He decides to use to show His glory.

Why does God do what He does? Paul explains,  ^“God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.” (1 Corinthians 1:28,29 NIV)

If only the smartest, brightest and best were used by the Lord, any success or achievement would have been credited to human ability. It would have been easy for people to give credit to their own talent. Even Paul would identify himself as unworthy and refer to himself as the “least among the apostles.”

In the Book of Acts we read of the observation of the religious elite of the apostles, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13 NIV)

They were not just astonished because of the contradiction between who they were and what they did, but they identified them as being connect to Jesus. May that same thing be evident in our life. May what we do and the impact of our lives, not be viewed as the byproduct of human excellence, but of the work of the Holy Spirit through human vessels.

The great encouragement in all this is all are qualified to be used of the Lord. None need to feel inadequate, none are left out. All that is needed is an open heart, persistent obedience, trust and faith.

Prayer for today…. Lord, thank You that in Your sovereign plan you make all who yield their lives to You as those who can “change the world.” Allow our hearts to be open, our faith to be strong and our trust to be steadfast as You use us for your purposes.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “I am weary, O God; I am weary and worn out, O God. I am too stupid to be human, and I lack common sense. I have not mastered human wisdom, nor do I know the Holy One.” Proverbs 30:1 NLT

Proverbs 30 are sayings attributed to Agur. We don’t really know anything about him, although it is assumed he was a contemporary of Solomon. As we begin to read his recorded sayings and reflections we find a description of one who is “at the end of himself.”

It is like he has tried and come up empty. Whatever the reason may be he is experiencing frustration and weariness. At times the best way to move forward is to come to the realization of your own inadequacies. For the  fans of the Jerry Seinfeld sitcom, Agur could be George Costanza. He was the Jerry’s childhood friend who just couldn’t “get his act together.” One time he quipped, “I’m depressed! I’m inadequate! I’ve got it all!”

But Agur did have some revelation about God. He knew that God was Supreme. “Who but God goes up to heaven and comes back down? Who holds the wind in his fists? Who wraps up the oceans in his cloak? Who has created the whole wide world?” (Proverbs 30:4 NLT)

When we are the end of ourselves, we can begin to move forward by looking to God. He is above all and over all.

Agur understood that all wisdom and truth is found in God. He realized that you can’t “trick” God. “Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection. Do not add to his words, or he may rebuke you and expose you as a liar.” (Proverbs 30:5,6 NLT)

As the Psalmist declared, “God is our refuge and strength a very present help in time of trouble….” (Psalm 46:1)

Agur knew that seeking the Lord, living right before Him and being content was a key to a balanced and successful life.

He had two requests of the Lord,

“First, help me never to tell a lie….” (Proverbs 30:8 NLT) When I read that I think of David’s declaration, “You desire truth in the innermost being…” (Psalm 51:6 NASB) We may be able to fool others, but we cant’ fool God. Then we are faced with the reality that deception robs joy and harms relationships.

“…Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.” (Proverbs 30:8 NLT) Agur felt that great riches, might cause him to deny God by trusting only in himself. He felt that poverty would compel him to steal from others. This does speak to the issue of contentment and balance and perspective in our lives.

When you have “one of those days” you can find direction and perspective by looking to the Lord, seeking His help and wisdom and committing all the issues of life to Him.

Prayer for today… Lord thank You that when we come to the end of ourselves we can see You more clearly. Even when we are down and frustrated with ourselves and life. Help us to see Your greatness and receive the strength and perspective that You desire to grant to us.

This morning early, I headed to Littleton for a Colorado Christian University Business Alliance meeting. We heard a presentation from new CCU President Dr. Don Sweeting. I made it back to Fort Collins in time to prepare for and hold a planning committee meeting for next year’s National Day of Prayer.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Ants—they aren’t strong, but they store up food all summer.”  Proverbs 30:25 NLT

Nobody likes them, but there is a fascination with ants. Often you will see them scurrying about and even carrying something that is bigger than they. Here are some things that Solomon observes from ants that challenge us.

1 – Planning ahead.  

It seems that Solomon contrasts outward strength with wise planning. Ants plan ahead and prepare for the future. That discipline can be a struggle for many people. Too often it is “living for today.” When you look at the financial practices of many it is interesting to learn of the lack of savings and forethought for the future. Also, the concept of “all” summer means they don’t wait for the last minute. They know their task and stay at it.

2 – Diligent effort.

“Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter.” (Proverbs 6:6-8 NLT)

Ants are always active. No one has seen ants just “laying around!” They are constantly on the move. Solomon uses ants to goad those who would be lazy and fail to use their time wisely. Laziness leads to poverty.

“But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.” (Proverbs 6:9-11 NLT)

3 – Getting a task done together. 

Solomon seems to point out that the success of the efforts of ants to store food is not due to an elaborate organization (although I’m not sure what science has discovered) but to due to their unity effort in “helping each other out” and working together. In other words, they do what they need to not because they are “being told” but because it is what is needed.

I consider how often there can be a lack of involvement or assistance that people offer each other if they are not motivated by some “outside force.” So, the challenge is to have the inward incentive to do on our own what would otherwise take some “organized effort.”

When we look at ants, as baseball player Yogi Berra said, “you can observe a lot by look’n.”

Prayer for today…. Lord thank You for the wisdom that comes through unexpected ways. We see in nature your desire for us to be diligent and thoughtful in our efforts and planning for the future. We also, see how much more can be accomplished when we work together.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “The godly care about the rights of the poor; the wicked don’t care at all.” Proverbs 29:7 NLT

The role of individual believers and the Church in meeting the needs of the poor is clear. Even though government has assumed a primary role in many social and assistance programs God’s people are still active and effective. When you look at issues from food banks, to financial assistance, responding to natural disasters, to giving hope for a better life, the efforts of God’s people have an impact. This is especially true when you look at what is happening around the world.

While there is still much to be done and that can be done, compassion for all humanity is an extension of God’s love and care. Proverbs also says, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17 NIV)

Doing the “Lord’s work” gives assurance of the Lord’s blessing and reward, “Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him…” (Psalm 41:1 ESV)

Solomon says, the wicked are those who are self-centered and unwilling to make the sacrifices needed to help those in need. True compassion is shown by those who have experienced Christ’s love and the value He brings to each person.

Prayer for today…. Lord, empower us as Your people to be those who demonstrate Your love in practical ways to those in need. Thank You that as we do, we can have the assurance of Your blessing and reward.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”  Hebrews 13:8 NLT

We live in a world of uncertainty. That can be observed in every aspect of our lives. This is election day and deciding who will serve in various elected offices from the national to the state level is a process filled with anticipation and uncertainty.

But just as we can be sure the sun will rise each new morning, we can have assurance and confidence in Jesus Christ. His love is eternal, His truth changes lives, He gives hope to the hopeless and help to those in need. Hebrews declares Jesus the same, yesterday, today and forever.

When it comes to “days gone by” (yesterday) Hebrews gives this admonition, “Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.” (Hebrews 13:7 NLT)

God is faithful to His Word and still responds to faith and commitment. There is no need for “new” revelation or insight. The teaching declared by those of the past is still relevant for today.

We are to be encouraged and inspired from the faith of those who have faithfully, “fought the fight.” What the Lord did for them He will do for us. As they kept their eyes on Jesus through hardship, so we are to do the same.

We are reminded that Jesus is the same today. “So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your strength comes from God’s grace….” (Hebrews 13:9 NLT) All kinds of things change over time. Clothes, songs, cultures, even scientific theories with new discoveries and ideas. Yet the challenge for people of faith is not to look at the basic message of Christ as “out dated” or in need of change.

Many are tempted to “make God into their own image” based on current thoughts, trends and opinions. Paul declared to Timothy, Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” (2 Timothy 2:19 NIV)

Jesus is the same forever. That simple fact provides confidence and assurance. He is a rock, a foundation upon which we can build our lives. Human rule is temporary, but the Lord’s kingdom is forever.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You for the encouragement, stability and comfort that can part of our lives, when we look to the “unchanging” God. When all around is shaking, we find in you a firm foundation for our lives. 

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips….The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and a man is tested by his praise.” Proverbs 27:2,21 NLT

I remember a fellow legislator telling me she was going to use my saying, “I’m tired talking about me, why don’t you talk about me for a while.” I’m not sure if that really applies to that many people. For most, handling praise can be a challenge. When is it best to “sell yourself” and when is it good to have others provide the endorsement?

In my own experience that was something new to me as I entered the world of politics. As this election cycle comes to an end, we have been made very much aware of the value of “endorsements” for candidates and the support those who speak on behalf of a candidate.

Solomon communicates some basic “age-old” truths.

The praise of others does give credibility. It is always interesting to find out what others think about you. Sometimes that can be good and bad?! But our lives are not lived in a vacuum, but in relationship. The encouraging words of others is an important part of our life and contributes to our success in life. Your view of your life and accomplishments is important, but when there is verification from others, it carries a great deal of impact. That is why resumes contain “references.”

Praise also reveals. Solomon uses the comparison to the “testing” or proving of silver and gold. Praise from others may reveal things to ourselves that we are not aware of. It also challenges us to accept praise with a spirit of humility. That is because we know ourselves, better than others. Have you heard the saying, “Don’t be quick to believe your own press releases” ?

Praise also needs a “reality check.” “Faithful are the wounds of a friend;
 profuse are the kisses of an enemy.” (Proverbs 27:6 NLT) We need to understand the difference between genuine praise, which shows appreciation and words that are more for manipulation. Our ability to handle the “positive” and “negative” reveals maturity and wisdom. 

When it comes to life, there is a time and place to “sing our own praises.” We just need to be sure we not always singing a solo.

Prayer for today… Lord, help us to be wise in handing praise. Let us walk with humility and confidence in the gifts and accomplishments that are part of our life. 

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “People may cover their hatred with pleasant words, but they’re deceiving you.  They pretend to be kind, but don’t believe them. Their hearts are full of many evils. While their hatred may be concealed by trickery, their wrongdoing will be exposed in public.”  Proverbs 26:24-26 NLT

I have found over the years that the truth eventually comes to the surface. At years as a pastor and working in politics, I have found it almost easier, in “safe circumstances” to accept people at face value and then wait and see what their actions reveal. However, not all situations are free from danger.

There is an interesting verse about Jesus in the gospels, “…many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.” (John 2:23-25 NIV)

This context is not about those who opposed Jesus, or the Jewish authorities, it is about those who believed in Him. He was not quick to “entrust himself to them.”

The problem is, “we are not Jesus.” We don’t know what is in the hearts of people. Unlike Jesus we often do need the “testimony of others” about someone. That is just the realm of human existence and it is wise to have some references and verification on those we don’t know from others before we “entrust” ourselves to others.

We can see this in the realm of financial transactions or those who are providing a service. Have you received a call about money you owe to the IRS? Have you been informed you “won” a lottery that you didn’t enter? Is the door to door roofing contractor legitimate? We have many examples of fraud and deceit in our world. So much so, television programs have been created to share about various “con schemes.”

While we don’t know what is in the hearts of people, we do know the One who does. It is not automatic and it doesn’t happen in all circumstances, but we can pray about situations and circumstances and ask the Lord to reveal truth or give us insight and wisdom into a situation or someone. Over the years I have heard a individuals talk about a “check in their spirit” about a situation or person. That can often be the Holy Spirit working on our behalf.

Finally, we are reminded that what appears on the surface is not in deed the truth. But what is underneath the surface over time does tend to come out. We then see someone “self condemned” by their own actions or the discovery of their true motives.

We are once again reminded that we live in a “fallen world.” While we don’t need to live in fear or be paranoid; we do need to operated with wisdom. That is what Solomon is trying to communicate and we are wise to take heed.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You that you care for all that concerns us. You are able to help us in our daily lives as we operate in the wisdom that You provide and as we commit our lives and affair daily to you.

Today we traveled to Evergreen for grandson Riley’s football game. At that elevation we experienced our first taste of cold weather along with some rain. It was a good game with Riley’s team winning 12-6 and qualifying for the championship game next week in what is called the “Carnation Bowl.”

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.” Proverbs 25:11,12 NLT

Whether king or commoner, all of us need the input of others. No one is the depository of all wisdom and knowledge. Even Solomon who was the wisest of the wise recognized the value of both advice and criticism.

In two wise sayings Solomon points the value and beauty of both advice and criticism. While we seek advice, criticism often comes unexpectedly and without invitation. However both for the wise can be important.

For both, thoughtful contemplation versus an immediate reaction is important. These are words that need to be “taken into consideration.” Like something that is pleasing to look at, they are to be valued and studied.

I like the qualifier of “timely” advice. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you responded to someone, “I wish you would have told me that before I made my decision.” The key is the right advice, at the right time. Even in our current political structure we have those who carry the title of “Presidential adviser.”  In David’s administration there was the position of, “King’s friend.” Often advice from those who have no agenda or personal stake in an issue is the most important.

The I notice that the preface and qualifier of criticism is, “valid” and “listening.” It is easy to dismiss all criticism; but we do so at our peril. When I think of those who offered their “criticism” when I was first in politics, I had to realize that they were doing so, because they wanted to me to be the best that I could be in my chosen office. I had to learn to listen and not to react or respond with defensiveness.

But it is important to realize that not all criticism is valid. Solomon warns, “Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot.” (Proverbs 25:19 NLT)

Some criticism is misguided and prejudicial and intended to bring distraction and discouragement. Valid criticism enables us to “stay on track” and to be even more effective in reaching our goals or potential.

We can be on both the giving and receiving end of advice and criticism. Giving advice and criticism carries as much responsibility and thoughtfulness as receiving it. In both circumstances it calls for the right motives and the right spirit. These two aspects of four lives reveal, how much we need others to grow and reach our potential. It may be hard to admit we need the advice of others. It may be challenging to filter through criticism. The wise learn to value and assess these and become more successful as a result.

Prayer for today…. Lord, grant the openness to become wise through receiving timely advice and valid criticism. Help us to seek to always strive for self-improvement and to see how others can be partners and Your agents in that process.