Our weather the last two days has been on the cool side. But I was still able to get outside to get the patio in “summer condition.” Tomorrow Christian, Bridget and grandkids come to Fort Collins after their church service. I did make it for a short swim at our neighborhood pool. We are looking forward to the summer season.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light around me will be night”— even the darkness is not dark to You. The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.” Psalm 139:11,12 HCSB

Paul writes to the Romans and affirms that “nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:38) I believe Psalm 139 is the Old Testament equivalent as it affirms that God is the “ever-present” God. Wherever we go, what ever we do, He is there. We can’t hide and we can’t be removed from His presence.

That fact can bring a sense of conviction at times and comfort in other circumstances. For example, if we try to “hide in the dark” so our actions are not obvious, we only fool ourselves. However, we need to remember that the “darkness of our soul” or our situation that would attempt to block God’s light is of no avail. We may be lead to believe that is the case, but our deeds and our needs are both known to God.

The psalmist declares, “…You are aware of all my ways.” (Psalm 139:3 HCSB) When the circumstances of life, the trails and tests come our way, we can feel abandon and alone. We ask, “God, are you there! Do you care!” The resounds answer from the hallowed halls of heaven is, “Yes!” As much as He is with us in the “bright of the day” He is with us in the “darkest hour” that we face.

That challenge for us is to not live by human emotions as real and as strong as they are. In the midst of those times we need to remind ourselves of the Lord’s love and being our “ever present help in time of need.” (Psalm 46:1)

“Dark times” come from a variety of sources and for a variety of reasons. For me it was a major health crisis. But that was not my first and only time of sensing “dark clouds” hanging over my head. Like many those times came due to my own failings, or the challenges of life and leadership. Regardless of the situation and circumstance, I need to remind myself of God’s love and present work available to me.

When the psalmist declares, “The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You” – I am reminded of John’s declaration, “God is light and in Him dwells no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5)

In the “dark times” of your life, realize that the Lord is just as close as the light. He is there, working and available as we trust in Him and cry out to Him in our need.

Prayer for today… “Lord, thank you for the comfort that comes from knowing You are always there. The darkness of the circumstances or challenges of life does not hide Your love or Your intervention. Help me to remember that when my feelings contradict my faith. I choose to live by Your light and rest in your love.”

This morning I connect with Pastor John Engle. He retired as the Visitation Pastor at Timberline Church, but was a consistent support during my health crisis. I enjoyed connecting once again, giving him a copy of my book and learning more about his background and life. Our neighborhood pool opened today for the season, but the mid 60 degree temps didn’t make it too inviting.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall. No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:12,13 HCSB

We see the record of scripture, we see the story of individuals and of God’s people. When we read scripture and look at life itself, it seems that there is more failure than victory in the midst of temptation. Paul in preparing the Corinthian believers to be “faithful followers” of Christ, does a quick review of Israel’s history.

God’s people were given the Law. They had seen the deliverance the Lord brought to them in Egypt. They were instructed about the ways of the Lord, but when they faced the temptations that come by virtue of life, or lack of focus or just being “caught off guard” they had consistent failures.

Paul addresses the issues that confronted the Israelites, “Now these things became examples for us, so that we will not desire evil things as they did…Don’t become idolaters as some of them were…Let us not commit sexual immorality as some of them did…Let us not test Christ as some of them did…” (1 Corinthians 10:6-9 HCSB)

Here are some observations from Paul’s observations and warnings….

1 – Spiritual experience does not shield from temptation. Paul begins by observing how all of these people saw the might hand of God. They were recipients of miracles, they saw God in His glory, they partook of his miraculous provision, they saw the cloud by day and pillar of fire by night. But in the end they displeased God so much they lost their opportunity to inherit the promised land.

2 – Temptations are varied. We often think of the “big” sins and failures. But Paul points out a temptation to, “desire evil things” and “test Christ” along with idolatry and sexual immorality. Timing and vulnerability are keys to temptation. We read of Jesus’ temptation. The Bible says he had fasted and was hungry and the first temptation was, “turn stones into bread.” The account of Jesus temptation ends with, “the devil left him until an opportune time.” (Luke 4:1,13)

3 – Yielding to temptation brings sin and consequences. When Paul recounts the failures of Israel’s sin in the wilderness, he mentions a consequence related to their failure. For example, “…in a single day 23,000 people fell dead...some of them…were destroyed by snakes…” (1 Corinthians 10:9 HCSB)

4 – Over confidence is dangerous. Paul cautions, “…whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall.” James gave these instructions about restoring a “fallen brother.” “…you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (James 6:1 ESV) The original language of this verse indicates, being tempted in the same way, with the same sin. So often someone in confidence will say or think, “that could never happen to me!” Those are dangerous words.

5 – No temptation is unique to you. The details may be somewhat unique but Paul says emphatically, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity…” (1 Corinthians 10:13 HCSB) One of the lies of Satan is that “you are special and unique and your circumstances didn’t give you a choice.” The Bible declares the Jesus was “tempted in all points like we are, yet He did not sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

6 – There is strength and victory available. “…He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)   We would like to think “I can’t” but the Lord’s faithful says, “I can.” He is with us and will give us an “exit strategy.” It is not easy. Jesus “suffered” when tempted and so do we. But that is what makes Him as Savior that relates to fallen humanity. “Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.“ (Hebrews 2:18 NIV)

It is a fact that we won’t always be successful. But that is not Christ’s failure. He shows the way we must follow. We can be thankful for Christ’s grace and the promise of 1 John 1:9 (NIV) “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Let’s strive for Gods’ “Plan A.” It is a far better choice.

Prayer for Today… “Lord, lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil.” I understand that plea is more than just words, but relates to my life, everyday. Allow me to always look to you and your strength. I give you thanks for the promise of help and victory as temptations come my way. I praise You for Your forgiveness and keeping me in your grace.”

Today felt like a genuine “busy” day. I left the house at 8:30 a.m. had a conference call at 9 a.m. a coffee meeting at 10 am. a lunch at 11:30 a.m. a live webinar where I was a guest at 1:00 p.m. at workout at 2:30 p.m. and a Chiropractor appointment at 4:30 p.m. Considering how I’ve felt the last two days, I was glad that I did as good as I did. I think it helped to keep moving. I’m glad I have only a breakfast meeting scheduled for tomorrow. In the midst of it all, I walked half the length of a basketball court, without crutches, during my fitness workout!

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 HCSB

Athletic competition has been something for people to related to for thousands of years. Regardless of the sport there is training and preparation and the competition and the crowning of the winner. It may be for a game or a tournament or an “end of season” or state championship. But there is only one winner, whether that be an individual or a team.

I remember the baseball coach I assisted at Colby Community College, like the say, “preparation, execution, celebration.” This summarized his coaching philosophy. If the training and preparation is adequate and the execution proper it will lead to celebrating a victory.

When I was hospitalized almost three years ago, my senior softball team was playing its final game of the season and preparing for the tournament. We actually were league champs that year. When I got out of the hospital, some of my teammates came to visit me an presented me with the token of our accomplishment….a “t-shirt!”

Paul connects with the Corinthians who were familiar with the games that were the precursor  to the modern day Olympics. He pointed out, “Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize?”  (1 Corinthians 9:24 HCSB) Accomplishment is not automatic, it is earned through discipline, sacrifice and hard work. In making a spiritual application Paul says, “play to win!”

In order to win, discipline is needed in all areas of life. An athlete will train physically, prepare mentally, will watch their diet, monitor their schedule. Attention will be given to anything that will serve as a distraction to winning the prize. Anyone remember the, “no-girl-friend” policy during a high school sports season?

The bottom line is, if an athlete goes through all of that self-control to win a prize that is soon forgotten or perishes, how much more should the follower of Christ exercise the discipline that is needed to win the “prize of heaven?”

This is not an issue of salvation, and I’m glad that there is not just “one winner.” Paul uses this to point to the importance of faithfulness to Christ and not bringing reproach on the gospel. We see this in Paul’s words, “I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:26,27 HCSB)

The greatest prize for any believer are the words of Jesus, “well done good and faithful servant.” The life we live is important; the goal before us is of great value and eternal.

Prayer for today… “Lord help me to maintain my focus, self-control and discipline as I “run the race” to gain the prize that is set before me. Help me, like Paul to seek that “crown of righteousness” from you when you return or when I come to the end of this life’s journey.”

Most of my day was spent in traveling to Denver and attending a meeting related to my energy work. There are several potential ballot issues aimed to curtail the energy industry in Colorado. I was pleased the the Loveland Reporter-Herald printed an editorial of mine, related to ballot initiatives in general:  http://www.reporterherald.com/opinion/guest-columns/ci_29926129/citizens-guide-ballot-initiatives

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For since there is envy and strife among you, are you not fleshly and living like unbelievers?” 1 Corinthians 3:3 HCSB

The late Richard Halverson, Chaplain of the US Senate, talked about “practical atheism.” He explained it as believing there is a God, but acting as though He doesn’t exist. I believe that was much of Paul’s frustration with the believers in ancient Corinth and it is the often the frustration of spiritual leaders today.

There is nothing that promotes God’s blessing like unity and there is nothing the hinders God’s blessing and the work of the gospel like strife and division. Paul has just finished telling the Corinthians, “…the unbeliever does not welcome what comes from God’s Spirit…The spiritual person, however, can evaluate everything, yet he himself cannot be evaluated by anyone….But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:14-16 HCSB)

But it was obvious to Paul that these believers were acting more like “childish” unbelievers than spiritual “adults.” What lead to that conclusion? “Envy and strife.” There actions and attitudes were stagnating their spiritual development.

That is the first thing Paul addresses. “I was not able to speak to you as spiritual people but as people of the flesh, as babies in Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:1 HCSB) The writer of Hebrews explains, “…solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.“  (Hebrews 5:14 NIV) Christ’s desire is for His Church to “grow up” and be strong. It takes place through embracing and being confronted with the truth, “speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15 NIV)

Beginning in this chapter and the following ones, Paul confronts these believers with the “truth” of their condition. They were divided over various leaders, they were turning to the courts to solve church disputes, there were those who were claiming spiritual superiority due to “gifts,” there was the toleration of blatant immorality, there was confusion over the “Lord’s Supper” and misunderstanding about the resurrection, just to name a few issues. The key area keeping the Church in spiritual toddler-hood was their division over teachers and leaders.

Paul begins by explaining that there is no competition among various spiritual leaders because each has a part to play. “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.“ (1 Corinthians 3:6,7 HCSB) Paul emphasized that all of those who had ministered among them were all equally servants of Christ, fulfilling a different function. Each ministry gift should be aimed at the same goal, strengthening believers in the faith. Each person should be “building on” and “adding to the contribution” of another, not tearing down and starting over.

With that being the case, it is interesting to observe even in the “church” today how, people will gather around and support various leaders within a church to the detriment of church unity. This “my-guy-is-better-than-your guy” attitude is as it was in Paul’s day, “childish!”

In the final analysis God will judge each person’s work and the impact on the church. “Don’t you yourselves know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you?  If anyone destroys God’s sanctuary, God will destroy him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.” (1 Corinthians 3:16,17 HCSB)

God desires to dwell among His people. God’s church (people) is His sanctuary, the place where He dwells. Those who act in a way that “destroys” the unity and the growth of God’s people, whether teacher, preacher or believer, are risking being “destroyed” by God. That’s how serious God views the growth and unity of His people. The Church is the “Bride of Christ” and He is jealous over it.

Prayer for today…. “Lord thank you for the “people of God” your Church. May your Church be all that You desire it to be. Allow us to function in unity and maturity as Your people, that the world may know of your love. Thank you for all those who build on the foundation of Christ. Keep us from strife and division and enable us to grow in Christ who is the head of the Church.”

We have been working for close to a year to finish off our basement. It was great to reconnect with our friend Brian Maesberg who is coming to help finish out our project. The Maseberg family attended our church in Littleton and we have known them for over 20 years. Brian helped us with some work in our home in Lakewood and was helpful when we first purchased our home in Fort Collins.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “When I came to you, brothers, announcing the testimony of God to you, I did not come with brilliance of speech or wisdom. For I didn’t think it was a good idea to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I came to you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. My speech and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a powerful demonstration by the Spirit, so that your faith might not be based on men’s wisdom but on God’s power.” 1 Corinthians 1:1-4 HCSB

There is a quote that I was sure I heard years ago from my friend Dick Foth. However, I did find it attributed to the late Howard Hendricks, famed professor from Dallas Seminary. It goes like this, “You can impress people from a distance, but you can only impact them up close.”

I believe Paul understood this dynamic. Paul was a man who knew how to communicate with words. He could debate with the Greeks in Athens on the Areopagus. He could stand his ground in defense of his life and the gospel before religious and political leaders. Paul knew how to communicate in written words as well. Even then he had his critics as any well known person does. Even some among the Corinthians said, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing.” (2  Corinthians 10:10 NIV)

Perhaps some of that criticism was out of jealousy, perhaps it was due to the fact that in Corinth, Paul decided not to “bowl people over” with his power words and sharp intellect. If he had, his spoken words would have better matched his written words. However, the result would have been people more impressed with Paul than God.

Paul knew the tendency even in ancient days for people to be followers of personalities. He addresses this in his letter when he points out, “Each of you says, “I’m with Paul,” or “I’m with Apollos,” or “I’m with Cephas,” or “I’m with Christ.” (1 Corinthians 1:12 HCSB) In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul finds the need to defend himself in relationship to some “super apostles” who were having influence over the Corinthians. (2 Corinthians 11:5)

Paul lived among the Corinthians for 18 months. This was probably the longest time he spent in any one city outside of his own town or area. Paul took a different approach in this city. He was not just trying to make an “impression” he was trying to make an “impact.” As a result, his life style and approach was just to, “know Christ and Him crucified.” He kept his message simple.

The lifestyle he lived was “in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.” His reliance was not on words but, “with a powerful demonstration by the Spirit.” Paul’s desire was not for the people to be “impressed” with him, but to be “impacted” by Christ and the gospel and the power of the Spirit. Paul’s familiar statement certainly applies to those in Corinth, “You know how we lived among you for your sake.“ (1 Thessalonians 1:5 NIV; Acts 20:18)

The question that faces us all is “Are drawing people closer to Christ through the way we speak and live?” That was Paul’s desire and it is a good example to follow.

Prayer for today… “Lord don’t let me settle for making an “impression” on others. Help me today to live in a way that impacts people so they see a “great God” who loves them and wants to change their life. Help me to connect in a meaningful way with people, but may they always see “Christ in me.” 

Busy Monday. I actually didn’t attend any meetings or even go to the fitness center. But it seemed like I got a lot of “functional” exercise in tilling the garden, trimming a tree, mowing the grass and getting the sprinkler system turned on and making several trips up and down stairs. I think last fall was the latest I turned my sprinkler system off and this spring this is latest in the season I turned it on. (picture of our friends Rod and Jenni Carlson of Living Logos Ministries)

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me. Lord, Your love is eternal; do not abandon the work of Your hands.”  Psalm 138:8 HCSB

Many years ago Rick Warren wrote, “The Purpose Driven Life.” The has sold millions of copies and has encouraged people all over the world, that they are born for a purpose. That this world is not all about “you” but about God accomplishing His purpose through you.

The verse above is the last verse of this psalm of David. The verse just before this affirmation declares, “If I walk into the thick of danger, You will preserve my life from the anger of my enemies. You will extend Your hand; Your right hand will save me.” (Psalm 138:7 HCSB)

The fulfillment of God’s purpose may not be “smooth sailing.” Often stepping into God’s purpose and seeing His work in our life is a journey; sometimes a journey of “trial and error.” There can be frustration and questioning along the way. But we can be confident in God’s faithfulness to guide our life.

I think of my friend Rod Carlson, who with his wife Jenni for the last fourteen years have been challenging people to memorize God’s Word through dramatic presentations of memorized scripture. (http://livinglogos.org/Welcome.html) Rod had a career that involved radio broadcasting and serving as a pastor. When they accepted God’s call into a new phase of ministry, it launched them into a direction that they never would have anticipated.

I even think of how Jenni found herself, “pushed” into the presentation of reciting scripture while on a missions trip. She shares how the scripture presentations were “Rod’s thing” and she saw herself in a supporting role. Now Jenni has memorized several passages of scripture including the Book of Ruth and Esther. It is great to see God’s purpose being fulfilled in the lives of our long time friends in a powerful and effective way.

I am thankful for what I have observed in my own life. I started out as a high business teacher and coach, served almost 28 years on pastoral ministry and then served in the Colorado Legislature, while filling the role of executive director of Teen Challenge of the Rocky Mountains. Now through a health crisis, I have found doors of opportunity and influence in ways that I would never have imagined.

I am conducting Sunday chapel services at some local assisted living facilities. One of those services takes place in a memory care unit. There is a lady resident who is always sharply dressed, very pleasant and alert. The last time I was there I had a copy of my book, so I took time to just show some of the pictures to her and tell my story in that way. He comment to me was, “it looks like you have a lot to live for!” I thought, “wow, I didn’t expect that kind of response!” But it challenged me about the importance of living for God’s purpose.

David declares his confidence in God’s purpose being fulfilled because, “God’s love is eternal.” God doesn’t give up on us and He will not “abandon the work of His hands.” God has made us and created us for a purpose….”His purpose.” There is no greater joy or satisfaction that can be found than to sense God is fulfilling His purpose in your life.

Prayer for today… “Lord, thank you for the assurance that you will fulfill your purpose for me. Even when challenges arise and frustrations clouds the light of your presence, allow me to know that you are working through your love, grace and presence in my life. Allow me to see change and new opportunities as a way for you to fulfill your on-going purpose in my life. Thank you for Your love and faithfulness to me.”

Today was a day I have looked forward to for several weeks. Debbie and I spoke to the Day by Day Sunday School class at Southern Gables Church. It was great to share our story and my book with many who were so supportive in many ways during my health crisis. We ended up coming home earlier than anticipated and missed some planned connections. I have noticed the last two days of early mornings and trips resulted in more fatigue that what I seemed to have experienced recently. I’m thankful for the refreshing I get through some rest.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.“ Proverbs 4:23 NIV  “Watch your life and doctrine closely…” 1 Timothy 4:16 NIV

We are in graduation season once again. It is a time for young adults to be planning for their future and establishing a vision and direction for their life. Solomon and Paul address some important aspects of life. Solomon says, “guard your heart…” That has to do with your affections and what drives your passion in life. Paul says to Timothy, “Watch your life and doctrine.” In doing so, he points to the importance of how we live and what we believe as being critical for our future.

Robert Hunt (the father of our friend Cyndy Luzinski) passed away three years ago in 2013. In Wisconsin, he was known as “Mr. Trout” and “Mr. Gideon.” Those two nicknames reveal his two passions. Fishing and a commitment to Christ. It is interesting how those two find their connection to Jesus’ first disciples.

Robert spent a career working for the Department of Natural Resources. Among his duties was developing and enhancing the fish population in Wisconsin’s streams and rivers. When he retired he enjoyed spending time catching the fish he spent a career ensuring were in plentiful supply.

His other nickname points to his passion for God’s Word and work. His life motto flowed from this commitment. It is reflected in six words. “Walk Worthy. Press On. Finish Well.” When I heard those words they made an impact on my life.

Walk Worthy. Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “…I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.“ (Ephesians 4:1 NIV) Paul’s prayer for believers was that “God would fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God…” (Colossians 1:9,10 NIV)

It is natural to seek and desire to fulfill “God’s will for your life.” But as one mentor of mine reminded me, “God’s will is not so much a place as it is you as a person.” We should seek to know Christ and know Him better. To obey and to seek His wisdom and guidance for all that concerns us and all that will confront us in life.

Press On. The familiar words of Paul are, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.“ (Philippians 3:14 NIV) Perseverance and focus are indispensable qualities for life. Tests do not stop with formal education. Life is a test! It presents continual challenges that “test our mettle.” Will we get back up when knocked down? Will we settle for just “getting by” in life?

Pressing on, I believe involves the “and then some” attitude in life. Show up for work, fulfill your duties, and “then some.” Do the best you believe you can, “and then some.” Seek to do your best for Christ and His cause, “and then some.”

We can always be grateful for a God who is the “ever-present help in time of need.” (Psa. 46:1) His the “God of all encouragement….” (2 Corinthians 1:3 CJV) I recall the words of a song my wife Debbie sang years ago that contained the words, “In Jesus name, I press on!”

Finish Well. Often when you are later in a career or viewing your home stretch in life, you think of “finishing well.” But finishing well, needs to be what motivates us throughout life and each day of our life. Life is about today, the present. Just today Debbie made the comment that she realizes that, “My reputation is just as good as I conduct myself today.”

I’m thankful that God redeems and helps us to overcome failures. Perfection is not required, but faithfulness is. Faithfulness to God, ourselves and others. May we all seek to hear those words of Jesus, “…well done good and faithful servant….enter in the joy of your Lord.” (Matthew 25:21)

Prayer for today… “Lord, I seek your help in living life well. I realize this doesn’t happen by accident. Give me the focus and determination to “walk” worthy, to press on and to finish well. Guard my heart and mind in you and enable me to always put you first in my life and to seek to bring you glory. In every way, do your work in me each day of my life.”

This morning we traveled to Lakewood for grandson Caed’s flag football game. His team won and Caed threw a touchdown pass. He was very excited and so were his seven-year old teammates. We went by to see my mother and drop off some books for her. We then returned to Fort Collins for a graduation reception for Anna Luzinski (youngest daughter of our friends Craig and Cyndy). We brought granddaughter, Eliana home with us for the night. We return to Lakewood tomorrow to speak at a Sunday School class at Southern Gables Church.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you will be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; you were called by Him into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”  1 Corinthians 1:8,9 HCSB

The words of the well-known hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” contains that words, “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow…” I don’t know if the hymn writer took those words from Paul’s opening words to the Church at Corinth but they certainly fit that theme.

Corinth was a tough Roman city in which to be a follower of Christ. Paul recognizes God’s “amazing grace” in this city and among this people that he lived with for eighteen months. He said, “I always thank my God for you because of God’s grace given to you in Christ Jesus…” (1 Corinthians 1:4 HCSB) Those who seem to struggle the most and seem self-sufficient and see no need of God in their life are good candidates for God’s grace extended through Christ. Knowledge and intellect and cultural advancement don’t earn relationship with God, it is all because of God’s grace.

Paul goes on and observes that this church displayed the evidence of Christ’s work in them and through them. They had the knowledge and ability to declare Christ’s message and spiritual gifts that demonstrated a power beyond human ability. “You were enriched in everything—in all speech and all knowledge…you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.“ (1 Corinthians 1:5,7 HCSB)

This church was well aware of the promised return of Christ. As a matter of fact at the end of this letter, (Chapter 15) Paul will address how the resurrection of Christ guarantees our own resurrection into Christ’s presence. What we see of importance is the continuing work of  Christ’s grace from the time of “spiritual birth” to the time when Christ returns.

Paul says with confidence, “He will strengthen you to the end…” We can be assured that the Lord allows us to go from “strength to strength.” The psalmist asserts that those whose “….hearts are set on pilgrimage…go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.“ (Psalm 84:7 NIV) We are to view ourselves as “pilgrims” headed for a spiritual City of God, our own promised land, that will be our permanent home.

As God provides on-going strength for the journey, He works in us and through us to accomplish His purposes. Even as Paul addresses important issues that needed attention and correction in the Corinthian church, so the Lord “admonishes and corrects” us for our good. God uses the context of His church to those ends as well. Paul wrote to the Colossians, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom…”  (Colossians 3:16 NIV)

In all of this we see the Lord’s commitment reflected in Philippians 1:6 (NIV), “…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” What the Lord begins by His grace and strength, He completes. When He returns our “work on earth is done.” Our confidence and hope is, “…we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:2 NIV)

We have this confidence, because God is faithful. Even when we are not, He is.

Prayer for today…. “Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and grace. Grace that calls us into fellowship with you and Your faithfulness that demonstrates Your commitment to work in me and through me. Continue to give me the strength I need for each day as I trust in You. Thank you for the hope of an eternity in Your presence and Your work in me until that day comes.”