BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “That night the king had trouble sleeping, so he ordered an attendant to bring the book of the history of his reign so it could be read to him.” Esther 6:1 NLT

There are a lot of reasons for not being able to sleep and many ways to address the issue. One of those may be reading. But when you are king, you don’t read when you can’t sleep, you have someone read to you. The readily available material was the record of the king’s reign.

I’m not sure reflecting on the events of you life is something that should put you to sleep, but perhaps you will discover something like King Xerxes did.

  “In those records he discovered an account of how Mordecai had exposed the plot of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the eunuchs who guarded the door to the king’s private quarters. They had plotted to assassinate King Xerxes.  “What reward or recognition did we ever give Mordecai for this?” the king asked. His attendants replied, “Nothing has been done for him.” (Esther 6:2,3 NLT)

The king found out that someone (Mordecai) had saved his life, but nothing had been done to thank him or recognize his loyalty.

It is good to take time, whether it is during a sleepless night or night to reflect on the events of our life. Perhaps like King Xerxes you will recall someone that you need to contact to thank or express gratitude for. They may not have “saved your life” but have been a significant source of encouragement, support, influence or friendship.

Paul wrote to the Philippians and said, “I thank my God every time I remember you.” (Philippians 1:3 NIV)

When we stop and reflect on the Lord’s majesty and faithfulness we just might find ourselves like the psalmist who declared, “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” (Psalm 8:3,4 NIV)

When we reflect on the Lord’s faithfulness to us over our life we can relate to the words of Psalm 37:5 (NLT) “Once I was young, and now I am old. Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned or their children begging for bread.”

When we are restless we can reflect on the Lord’s greatness, His love and faithfulness confident that the Lord “…grants sleep to those he loves.”‘ (Psalm 127:2 NIV)

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching.”               Titus 2:1 NLT

Three words of contrast set the stage for instructions from the Apostle Paul to one of his “sons in the faith” -Titus. We know that Paul had several traveling companions and fellow ministers. But in the New Testament Timothy and Titus stand out as those who were entrusted with responsibility to establish and oversee churches. They were to build upon and secure the work started by Paul.

This calling is very clear when Paul tells Titus, “I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you.” (Titus 1:5 NLT) But Paul realized that the task before Titus would not an easy one. He was tasked with building on the ministry “beachhead” established by Paul in a challenging moral environment.

We read Paul’s’ assessment, “For there are many rebellious people who engage in useless talk and deceive others….Even one of their own men, a prophet from Crete, has said about them, “The people of Crete are all liars, cruel animals, and lazy gluttons. This is true.” (Titus 1:10,12 NLT)

Paul goes on and tells Titus that what is in a person’s heart will be revealed by their lifestyle.  “Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.” (Titus 1:16 NLT)

In this environment Titus was to be one who stood strong and spoke out against those whose lifestyle would subvert and pervert the gospel and its impact on the lives of people. But Paul wanted Titus to know that he had a high calling and responsibility.

So after describing the character of those in Crete and the hypocrisy of those who claim to “know God” Paul speaks three important words, “as for you….” Titus was not to “coddle the carnality” of individuals but to provide instructions on how to live a “victorious Christian life.” His message was to be one of “how to” live as much as “what not to do.”

Titus was to, “Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience….teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good…encourage the young men to live wisely…” (Titus 2:2,3,6 NLT)

Titus’ responsibility was not to just “tell” but to “show.” “And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized….” (Titus 2:7,8 NLT)

We could summarize Paul’s instructions to Titus as “As for you…be an example by how you live and what you teach and challenge others to live in a manner that pleases the Lord and sets them apart.”

Titus was to “set himself apart.” He was to show that his gospel was true by how he lived and the lifestyle he encouraged others to live and teach. Paul realized that others were watching. So he gives the bottom line to Titus. It was not to claim some moral superiority over others that alienates people, but it was so “those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.” (Titus 2:8 NLT)

Titus was not to allow himself or other believers to be conformed to the mindset and character of those they were among, but they were to show the power of the gospel through a transformed life.

It would seem that challenge is good for us to consider in our world today.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “...Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.”                          2 Timothy 2:22 NLT

I had read this sentence that is at the end of 2 Timothy 2:22 just before our long-time friend Paul Irwin came for a visit. Paul and his wife Colleen have been friends since our early years of marriage. For the last 10 years plus they have been serving in Washington D.C.

I find our friendship always spiritually challenging. Our times together focus as much on our ministry activities and spiritual life as weather, family and normal “conversation.”

This last Saturday one of my former legislative colleagues, Spencer Swalm came to Fort Collins for a visit. We discussed a recent blog of his on John the Baptist that I found insightful and challenging. We always end our visit with a time of prayer.

On Sunday I was able to catch up with a local Christian businessman and community leader who has just gone through a surgery for some cancer. During our conversation he asked more questions about me and how I was doing and how he could prayer for me than talking about himself.

Yesterday morning I made a re-connection after a long absence with a Tuesday morning prayer time with some county officials and others who join for a brief time of devotion and prayer. It is usually a meaningful 15 minute session.

I review these recent personal connections and activites because they gave me an opportunity to reflect and experience what Paul tells Timothy is so important, “companionship with those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” We need, I need, to be around those who encourage my “spiritual commitment and fervor.” It doesn’t mean that is all we discuss, but it is certainly something that goes beyond normal conversations.

Why is this important? I believe Paul gives the explanation in the first part of this verse. “Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace…” (2 Timothy 2:22 NLT)

If we are going to pursue a life of strong faith and godly character, we need the strength the comes from the fellowship and encouragement of others.

At times that can be challenging, perhaps even make us uncomfortable at times. A pastor friend of mine when we meet will often take a break from discussing the business of the ministry that connects us and ask, “How is Ken? How is your family? How are you emotionally? Spiritually?” The quick response is usually “fine…doing good.” It is much more difficult to say, “I’ve been struggling recently. I need prayer.” 

But as we read in scripture, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” (Proverbs 27:17 NLT) When I was in the legislature our caucus leader would remind us that “serving in the legislature is a ‘team sport'” If that is important for survival in politics, it certainly applies to our lives as followers of Christ. We actually see several scriptures that remind us of that fact.

So, do you have conversations and connections with other believers that go beyond the surface of normal conversation? Do those times at least on occasion serve to encourage and challenge you spiritually? Do they help you “pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace.”?

I am pleased to report that I am doing much better. It seems that the prednisone boost, and medication to relieve nerve pain in addition to prayer has give me relief from the constant pain I was experiencing. I trust that I will be able to return to some of my therapy and work out routines and just normal activities..

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!” Job 19:27 NLT

The song “I Can Only Imagine” propelled the music group Mercy Me to national prominence. The movie titled after the song relays the story of how the words and music of the song emerged out of the illness and death of songwriter Bart Millard’s father. His abusive and alcoholic father experienced a true change of life when he began a journey of surroundings his life to Christ.

Because of his changed life Bart’s father went from misery in life and relationships to a place of healing and hope. In similar fashion with vastly different circumstances Job found himself in the deep misery of life. His family and fortunes are gone. He has lost his esteem in the eyes of others, and felt the pain of misunderstanding and rejection.

He says, “My servants and maids consider me a stranger. I am like a foreigner to them. When I call my servant, he doesn’t come; I have to plead with him!…Even young children despise me. When I stand to speak, they turn their backs on me. My close friends detest me. Those I loved have turned against me.” (Job 19:16,18-19 NLT)

Job then utters some familiar sounding words, “I have been reduced to skin and bones and have escaped death by the skin of my teeth.” (Job 19:20 NLT) (From my past health crisis, those are words of Job I can relate actually relate to.)

However, in the midst of all the “gloom and despair” Job offers a resounding declaration of hope and a future. “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God!”   (Job 19:25,26 NLT)

But Job doesn’t stop there. As He considers the prospects of the glory of God’s awesome presence, he goes on and says, “I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!” (Job 19:27 NLT)

Job knew “of” God. He had learned and believed in this powerful, awesome God. But actually beholding Him “face to face” was an overwhelming thought! Job “could only imagine” what that would be like, and was overwhelmed by the thought.

As Paul wrote to the Corinthians he encouraged them with the words, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9 NKJV)

The old hymn declared, “O that will be glory for me, when by His grace, I shall look on His face.”  One of our former church members passed away recently. As a friend was visiting her just a few hours before she left this life, she told her friend, “Jesus is coming for me!” Then she declared, “Look there He is!” 

The anticipation of heaven is not being with those who have gone before us, it is beholding our Savior face to face. Imagine that and like Job you will be overwhelmed by the thought.

Here we are at the end of June! It was five years ago today that Debbie and I moved into our home in Fort Collins. At this point I am still in recovery mode from my back surgery. After feeling I had “turned a corner” a few weeks ago, I have had some challenges with some pain in my left leg and foot. This may be part of the healing process for the nerves, but it does present some challenges. My surgeon said that it may take up to three months to know the final outcome of the surgery. It looks like patience is the watch word.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened.  This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry. So he complained to the Lord about it: “Didn’t I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran away to Tarshish!…” (Jonah 3:10; 4:1,2 NLT)

Jonah is often referred to as the “reluctant prophet.” His story is known for being swallowed by a “great fish” and being spit out on the shores of Nineveh. There are many events in scripture where we don’t know all the details or have all the questions answered that we would like to, but this doesn’t apply to Jonah’s attitude and perspective.

The text of this book and Jonah’s own words are very clear as to why he ran from the Lord. He knew that the Lord was a “merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.” (Jonah 4:2 NLT) It is important to remind ourselves that Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrians the greatest threat to the existence of Israel and Jerusalem. The fact that Nineveh was going to be destroyed would seem to many like good news.

The Lord instructed Jonah to go to that “great city” and to announce His judgment due to their extreme wickedness. That seems like an appropriate message for a prophet. But what if…..the people repented and God relented?

Jonah’s message was not a call to repentance, but simply a pronouncement of judgment. The message was brief and to the point, “Forty days from now Nineveh will be destroyed!”  (Jonah 3:4 NLT) When the message was heard it was the people who believed God’s messenger. To them the proper response was to repent with genuine repentance. Even the cattle were put on a fast. They didn’t “party hardy”, until judgment day came giving into their fate. No. They took action to escape their coming doom.

Remember, Jonah was a prophet, not an evangelist. As a result, he was very well aware of God’s word about prophets. “If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously, so do not be alarmed.” (Deuteronomy 18:22 NIV)

So we get some insight into Jonah’s anger when he says to God, “You are eager to turn back from destroying people. Just kill me now, Lord! I’d rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.” (Jonah 4:2,3 NLT)

How does a prophet have any credibility is what he declares does not come to pass?! His reputation would be ruined and his future as God’s voice would be undermined. God tries to teach Jonah a lesson by having a vine grow up overnight to provide shade from the sun, only to have it quickly whither. The Lord was trying to show Jonah that he cared more for a vine and his own comfort and his for own reputation than the lives of people who need the Lord and turn to Him and seek forgiveness.

James would later write in his letter, “… judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:13 NIV) God is absolutely true to His character. The problem for Jonah was not that he didn’t realize that, but that he did. In our lives we need to remember that our task is obedience to the Lord and leave the rest up to the Lord, letting God be God.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.” Luke 7:7 NLT

We see in scriptures some of the greatest faith expressed from some of the most unlikely individuals. Perhaps it is because some people don’t know any better than to take Jesus as His Word. That simple child-like faith can be a challenge to us who have been followers of Christ for years.

What is interesting in this account is that Jesus was not approached by the disciples in behalf of the centurion, but by some of the “elders of the Jews.” This is part of the group that was constantly at odds with Jesus. But we see their request included this plea, “If anyone deserves your help, he does,” they said, “for he loves the Jewish people and even built a synagogue for us.” (Luke 7:4-5 NLT)

The motives of the elders of the Jews was perhaps more related to maintaining the favor of an important military leader of the occupying force of Rome more than a recognition of Christ as Messiah. But none the less Jesus was willing to go.

The centurion then takes actions that reveal his faith and understanding of authority. He tells Jesus he is not worthy for Him to come to his house, but if He would just “speak the word” his servant would be healed.

I began to recall the power of Jesus words we see in scripture. He stopped the storm with “peace, be still.” He raised the dead by saying, “arise.” To others He affirmed that their faith had already made them well, “go in peace, your faith has made you whole.” To the leper He said, “be clean.” When the world was created the Lord said, “Let their be light.”

John’s gospel opens with simply referencing Jesus as “the Word.” People often say, “enough talk, we need action!” For Jesus His word is action.

In the Old Testament another solider named Naaman, an Assyrian, came to the prophet to be healed. In this account he was told to go wash in the Jordan river. He at first refused and was insulted because he had in his mind how the prophet would bring healing. But a servant girl urged him to simply obey and as a result he was healed.

What we can observe is that faith, trust and obedience are interwoven. The Roman centurion allowed his understanding of authority in the military realm, give him faith for the Lord to act in the spiritual realm. For Naaman, his preconceptions of how the spiritual realm works for a moment, hindered his obedience in how the Lord was going to reveal Himself to him and bring healing.

Finally we see at the living word of God, the name “Jesus” is a word of power. Paul declares,  “…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10,11 NLT)

Jesus told His disciples, “…whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” (John 15:16 NIV) We read, “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

There is power in the name of Jesus. There is power in Jesus speaking a single word, to bring life, healing, hope and help to your situation. Our part is to believe, trust and obey.

This is my first-day “post-op.” Yesterday I had surgery to address a herniated disc in my lower back. The surgeon actually referred to it as “blown” which means it was worse than the MRI revealed. Surgery was definitely needed. I am glad that I am progressing. The greatest post-surgical pain has been in my throat. That may be due to the tube they insert and my history of being on a trach. Thank you for your continued prayers for my recovery and progress in the coming days and weeks.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “…David and his men were in the thick of battle, David became weak and exhausted. Ishbi-benob was a descendant of the giants…had cornered David and was about to kill him. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue and killed the Philistine. Then David’s men declared, “You are not going out to battle with us again! Why risk snuffing out the light of Israel?” 2 Samuel 21:15-17 NLT

David was known as a mighty warrior and a great military leader. His exploits were many. From the killing of Goliath to serving as Saul’s armor bearer to being the commander of the armies of Israel to serving as King. He was feared and revered.

But like all great fighters and leaders, his active role in battle faced an end. It came in dramatic fashion as David was about to be killed and was rescued at the last minute by the fast actions and bravery of one of his men.

This escape from death on the battlefield caused David’s leaders to let him know that his fighting days were over. He was more valuable in the palace than on the battlefield.

That can be a difficult realization for any warrior. But it appears that David took the advice of his men and allowed others to fight the battles and lead the charge for God’s people.

I notice with interest this account of David’s final battle is followed by a list of the exploits of some of the bravest and best soldiers in David’s army. God was with His people, but the skill and success of his men are impressive indeed.

This points to the fact that success is not dependent upon one individual or leader. The Lord has many “in the wings” who are active and ready to assume greater responsibility when the need arises. I have seen this when great leaders come to their “final” battle and there can be anxiety over what’s next or who will “fill his shoes.” We can be confident that in every area and in all times God has those He is using and will use to advance His divine purposes.

Then I notice the next chapter after a review of the mighty acts of David’s mighty men is a song of praise to the Lord by David. David extols the Lord for being his “rock, fortress, savior; my God in whom I find protection…my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise…” (2 Samuel 22:1-4 NLT)

Wow! I think he covered it all. This shows where David’s focus and confidence were in spite of his accomplishments. He was able to remain humble and submissive in the mountain tops of victory and in the valley of failure.

David had a role to play at a given time in God’s plan. Others would come behind and the situation would be different as well as the challenges and the leadership that was needed. As we see the course of history we can observe God calling using individuals in strategic ways. Regardless of their qualifications and human weakness and failings.

When our “final battle” comes to an end, we can be confident there are others who will faithfully continue to win battles and advance the cause of the Lord’s kingdom.

With each medical challenge, we pray it will be the last. This Wednesday (May 23) at 11 a.m. I go in for surgery on a herniated disc. The procedure is a one to two hour outpatient surgery. The surgeon will trim the herniated portion of the disc away from my siatic nerve. I appreciate your prayers and trust that this will remove a roadblock to continued improvement in my mobility and overall health.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY... “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 NLT

This verse is one of the most well-known in the New Testament. This wording is probably more familiar. “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19 NKJV) This verse of assurance has been an anchor of hope and faith for many in a variety of challenges and situations.

As I read this passage some days ago, my attention was drawn to the broader context. Paul is commending the Philippians for their faithful and generous support of his ministry. Their actions provide some characteristics about those who are generous and concerned for others and the gospel.

1 – Generous givers give when others don’t. In other words, Spirit-led giving is not a result of “peer pressure.” It responds regardless whether others do or not. Givers respond to Spirit-directed giving even if they “stand alone.” Paul says,   You…were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News…No other church did this.” (Philippians 4:15 NLT)

2 – Generous givers invest in others. It’s one thing to support the Apostle when he is living among you. When you are receiving the benefit of his life and ministry. It is another when he leaves and you continue to support him that others might hear the gospel as well. That’s what the Philippians did. Paul comments, “Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once.” (Philippians 4:16 NLT)

3 – Generous givers continue to give. Paul says they sent him support, “more than once.” We observe their faithful and consistent support of the gospel when Paul was in Philippi when he traveled on on Macedonia and their support was more than a “one-time” gift.

4 – Generous giving is an offering to the Lord. Paul is very clear in his commendation of the Philippians that he is not trying to thank them so to get more but to affirm their giving had spiritual implications. He says,  “I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.” (Philippians 4:17 NLT) He also says, “…the gifts you sent me…are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God.” (Philippians 4:18 NLT)

5 – Generous giving produces confidence in the Lord’s supply. The gifts of the Philippians in their support of Paul provided “more than enough.” This provided the security and stability  at this point in time for the apostle. As a result, he reassures the Philippians “And this same God who takes care of me [through you] will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 NLT)

Paul was recognizing the support of the Philippians as supply from the Lord. The Philippians had responded in faith an obedience to the Lord. In the natural, it was a two-part transaction from the Philippians to Paul. Spiritually it was a three-part transaction from the Philippians to the Lord and then from the Lord to Paul. That’s what makes spiritual giving different from human philanthropy.

Paul wanted the Philippians to know that the Lord who received their gifts would honor them by not only meeting Paul’s needs, but that they could have confidence that the Lord would also meet their needs. Human resources are limited, divine resources are infinite.

Debbie and I can relate to what Paul experienced. Not from a single source, but from many friends and family members who provided financial assistance that has helped cover many of the extraordinary medical expenses I have incurred over the last almost five years. So my prayer for you, is the same as Paul’s, that as you were instruments of the Lord’s blessing in our lives at a crucial time, that the same God who supplied for us, will supply for you according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.