BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is.” 1 John 3:2 NLT

I’m visiting Stephanie and her family in Georgia this week. Today, while it is sunny and 70 degrees in Fort Collins, it is windy and cold here in Canton. Carter had a Lacrosse game today and we endured our way through it all bundled up. Most of the other games planned for the weekend were cancelled. Mason did play his football game yesterday.

At the church service I attended this morning the pastor made reference to a statement by another pastor that said, “we spend a lot of time, resources and money getting people “to like” Jesus, but our real call is to “be like” Jesus.

That concept is part of the call and the mystery of the gospel. Our relationship with Jesus does begin with our desire to know Him, because we like who He is and what He has to offer. But a commitment to Him goes deeper to where as we walk with Him we become like Him.

I think of human relationships. A man and woman begin a relationship because they “like” each other. But it is interesting to observe that after several years of marriage a couple can become “like” each other. I think of the disciples in Acts, those who tried to stop them declaring the gospel observed, “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)

I believe this was more than just a recollection that theses men had been followers of the Nazarene. I believe there was something about them, that reminded them of Jesus and then they made the connection.

We see that God’s plan is for us to be like Jesus in our character. “For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” (Romans 8:29 NLT)

Being like Jesus is seen in reflecting the fruit of the Holy Spirit. “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22,23 NLT)

Being like Jesus is reflected in doing what Jesus did. “…whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12 NIV)

Being like Jesus is reflected in our faithfulness and resilience for the cause of the gospel. “I want to know Christ–yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” (Philippians 3:10 NIV)  “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” (1 Peter 2:21 NIV)

Being like Jesus is found in our destiny and hope for eternity. “Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” (1 Corinthians 15:54 NLT) This is what we see in John’s observation that we are “now” the children of God, but when He appears, we shall be like Him…” 

Christ calls us and invites us into a transformed life. We don’t lose ourselves and our uniqueness with which He has made us, but as we follow Him, we are to become more like Him in this life and to look forward to the day when His work of transformation will find its fulfillment when He comes.

Prayer for today…. Lord, thank you that when we become like you, we don’t lose ourselves, but we find the true fulfillment you have for each of us. Help us to be those who are recognized as those who have “been with you” through our character, conduct and works.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him….do not waste your strength on women…Rulers should not crave alcohol….Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…” Proverbs 31:1

About a month ago, I attended a business appreciation lunch where the Colorado Governor was the keynote speaker. During his speech, he shared some of the concepts about life that his mother held which had an impact on his life.

Proverbs 31 is known for the verses on the “wife of noble character” found at the end of the chapter. However, the first part of this chapter provide some insight and are of significance as well. The reference to “King Lemuel” is uncertain, but seems to have evidence of a reference to King Solomon. We can certainly see some reinforcement of these concepts from his mother in many other proverbs of Solomon.

The “Queen mothers” of the east were held in high regard. If this is Solomon, we know that his mother was Bathsheba which holds some significant history and context.

This advice from a mother relate to that which can render a ruler ineffective at best and allow him to become a tyrant at worst. The failure of some of this advice can be seen in Solomon’s weakness.

Solomon was to guard his heart and control his passions. His mother cautions the King to not, “give your strength to women.” We see that Solomon had hundreds of wives and concubines and that in his old age they turned his heart away from fully following after the Lord.

Solomon was to control that which would control him. “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine. Rulers should not crave alcohol. For if they drink, they may forget the law and not give justice to the oppressed.” (Proverbs 31:4,5 NLT)

Mothers advice provides the “why” – the consequence – of allowing a mind and heart to be influenced by alcohol and a “party priority.” A leader is first to learn to lead himself. The adage I am often reminded of is, “the higher the calling, the fewer the choices.”

The final advice in this triumvirate is related to governing with justice and equity. “Speak for those who can’t speak for themselves.”  We see this priority reflected in Psalm 82:3, “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” 

A King, a leader, is to understand the entire spectrum of individuals who are in his kingdom. When John the Baptist asked about the ministry of Jesus the report was, “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.” (Matthew 11:5 NIV)

Wise leaders are to give attention to and guard their hearts, their minds and to speak for those who can’t speak for themselves. That is good advice for any leader and for any follower of King Jesus.

Prayer for today…. Thank you for godly advice and wise instructions from mothers, fathers and others that “speak into our lives.” Allow us to be wise in paying attention and applying those principles to our lives.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY….   “…everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:13,14 

It looks like my website got hacked!! Sorry about that. I thought I had even purchased some extra protection. I trust this will not create problems for any who get my blog via email.

I will confirm that I have everything straightened out before I post again.

Ken Summers

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Evil people don’t understand justice, but those who follow the Lord understand completely.” Proverbs 28:5 NLT

What is fair? What is right? What is just? These questions that we see addressed in our day, have been questions of concern through the ages. As we view demonstrations in cities of all kinds, related to all types of issues; often the term “justice” is in the forefront.

The use of the term “justice” can be easily misused, because who wants to be on the side of injustice?

Justice is an important biblical concept. We see the psalmist declare, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne….” (Psalm 89:14 NIV) He prophet Micah said the Lord’s will is for us “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8 NIV)

In the Old Testament injustice was reflected in how the poor were treated. It was seen in the paying of bribes, unjust judgments, mistreatment of widows and those who could be taken advantage of.

In our day, what is labeled as “unjust” can be similar to but still a far cry from what we can observe in different times and cultures. Many feel it is “unjust” that some have greater financial resources than others. Some feel it is unjust to enforce certain laws, expectations and behaviors across the spectrum of society. For example, I often point out that we can have compassion and show respect for the poor, but poverty is not an excuse to be self-centered, rude and inconsiderate. Let alone to break the law.

Our verse for today reveals that those who are “evil” don’t understand true justice. That can be reflected in those in power, who are guilty of oppression having a distorted view of “justice.” It can also be those who claim to be for marginalized groups in our world today, accusing others of being “unjust” in order to push their social agenda.

The poetic contrast of the proverb then states, “those who follow the Lord understand it [justice] completely.” That brings the focus to what the Lord has to say and not what an individual or an interest group would have to say. We need an impartial judge or perspective to help us understand justice. That comes from the Lord and His Word. The challenges still persist, but the frame of reference and the orientation makes all the difference.

I am on the board of an organization called, “G.L.O.B.A.L. Justice.” Our challenging name speaks to “Geo-political Leadership Opportunities for Biblical Advocacy and Leadership” related to justice.

While our founder addresses a number of “justice” issues in a variety of settings, both secular and sacred; the perspective that is offered comes from an understanding that true justice comes from the One who is Just, Holy and True.

Instead of looking at the Lord and declaring Him and His ways “unjust” we need to ask the Lord to give us understanding and insight into that which is truly just. Moses declared of the Lord, “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NIV)

Justice is an issue that continually needs to be addressed. But if we are going to understand it completely, we need to look to the Lord and make sure our thoughts, actions and attitudes align with His character and words.

Prayer for today….. Lord thank you that you are just in all of your ways. When we follow you, we can understand true justice and how to apply it to our world and lives today. 

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain.” Psalm 73:13.14 NLT

Following the Lord is a path of life and blessing. But challenges and trials arise from life, a secular world and the rise of wickedness and evil. Keeping on the “straight and narrow” can often be a challenge is we focus too much on “all that is happening around us.”

That is what we see expressed in this psalm written thousands of years ago. The same thought process and temptation to “throw in the towel” in the fight of faith has been faced by believers down through the years. As a matter of fact we see as the second coming of Christ comes near that “spiritual casualties” will be greater than anticipated. Jesus even asked, “…But will the Son of Man find faith on earth when he comes?” (Luke 18:8 GNT)

In Psalm 73 we see a reflection on the “prosperity of the wicked.” The struggle here is, the life of faith was filled with hardship and the life of the wicked was one of ease. Just the opposite of what we would expect, or the way we would want it to be.

It was a conundrum, that defied human reasoning. It was in a sense “driving the psalmist crazy.” He says, “I was like a brute beast.” But something happened. Insight did not come by human logic or some simple formula or cliche. It came by time in God’s presence. “Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.” (Psalm 73:17 NLT)

The psalmist was able to see the wicked and life from God’s perspective and from the vantage point of eternity. The wicked and those who reject God reject hope and a future. They will be quickly gone and God views their dreams and plans and “laughs.”

But we see that in spite of all the confusion, frustration and anger in the heart of the psalmist, he had the assurance that God was with Him. God was with him in the time of question. The time of doubt. The time of wanting to “give up” or even “join the other side.”

“Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant—I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.” (Psalm 73:21-24 NLT)

The Lord is able to deal with our “nearsightedness” and is not quick to give up on us. He holds to us even when we don’t hold to Him as tightly as we should. If we hang in there, we will find Him guiding us to a glorious destiny.

I think of an Old Testament and a New Testament verse that relates to this theme of faith and our future. The Lord though Malachi gives this promise to those who hold fast to the Lord,

“On the day when I act,” says the LORD Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him. So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.” (Malachi 3:17-18 NIV)

When Peter asked the Lord, in a sense, “what’s in it for us?” He responded,  “I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life.” (Mark 10:29,30 NLT)

Eternity itself will prove that it is “worth it” to follow the Lord and to trust in Him.

Prayer for today…. Lord thank you that you know us and love us anyway. Our doubts, temptations and frustrations with life, don’t throw you off. You are there and if we recognize your presence and seek you, we will be steady and strong in all kinds of storms, life may bring.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring.” Proverbs 27:1 NLT

This familiar proverb of Solomon’s would seem to be contrary to confident living. But when we look at this simple admonition, there is as much to it as what is infers as what it says.

First it has a focus on a self-reliant confidence that ignores that life is fragile. This doesn’t negate plans and dreams and mapping out a “life plan” for those who are more purposeful and strategic in their view of life.

It is good, however, to hold to life and what is “today” with an open hand and a cautious approach. What we have may be short-lived. what we cherish may soon be gone. Without a God-centered existence that can create more discomfort, and discouragement.

But it calls us to understand where we place our confidence and hope and how we prioritize our life. The workaholic may push to accomplish some career and financial goals and “then” spend time with his family. Only he learns by that time kids are raised and life has changed. The one who says, “I will take care of my relationship with God, when I have time” finds that time never comes, or is cut short.

This verse catches my attention, not only because of its personal application to my life, but because of how the concept is repeated in the New Testament.

The Apostle James addresses the concepts in these words,  Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring…” (James 4:13,14 ESV) He goes on an talks about how life is like a “vapor” or a “mist.” It is quickly gone.

He then gives this advice, Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.” (James 4:15,16 ESV) 

In the verses that precede James’ admonition he deals with strife and conflict among believers. It is apparent that there was self-centered living. It was reflected in their relationships with others and their view of life. It is just a few verses before James talks about pride-filled plans that he says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will exalt you.” (James 4:10)

If we don’t humble ourselves before the Lord, we might find the Lord or life humbling ourselves before the eyes of the world. We can recognize that life is fragile, but we can live life confidently when our focus is on the Lord and trusting Him to guide and direct our lives.

In closing, this verse from Proverbs 27:1 brings another one into context, “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3 NLT)

Prayer for today…. Lord thank you that You help us to understand life and give us the way to navigate it and make the most of these days that You give us on this earth. Thank You that when we commit our ways to You, You allow all of our life to have greater purpose and significance. 

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” Proverbs 14:12 NLT

While many want to believe it to be true, the idea that “all paths, end in the same destination” is not just the “way it is.”  This “path” of life is more than just a decision about what to do with my life. It speaks more of the direction of my life and who is in control and in whom do I trust. Is it myself? Others? God?

I have people be so bold as to say, “I have tried to live a good life, work hard, provide for my family and if that isn’t good enough for God, then…..” When we “choose our own path” not so much in life but of life that makes all the difference. “Death” does not come by choosing one occupation over another. It does not come from what college I attend or if I choose to pursue a particualar goal in life.

Death comes when we choose a path that ignores God and turn a deaf ear to His invitation to follow Him in life’s journey.

David declared, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:11 NIV)

The psalmist declared, “Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” (Psalm 139:24 NLT)

Jesus put it in straight forward words, “The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” (Matthew 7:13,14 NLT)

So, the call and the challenge is to follow the Lord in the path of life. The reality is that all of us start out charting our own direction in life as seems “best” to us. It is the Lord’s grace and mercy that call us to “follow Him.” Our natural inclination is our “own way.” That is why the prophet declared, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way….” (Isaiah 53:6 ESV) 

It was Thomas who seemed to ask in frustration, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (John 14:5 NIV) Jesus simply said, “I am the way….” (John 14:6 NIV)

We can be confident in living our lives following “Jesus the way” and have confidence that on that path He will guide and direct our steps and allow us to know the joy and satisfaction of living our lives according to His will and purpose. With the psalmist our confidence as we on the “right road” is, “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me…” (Psalm 138:8 ESV)

Prayer for today…. Lord thank You that you show us the way to life and You give us purpose as we walk in the life that You have for us.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.” Psalm 55:22 NLT

When a I received a legal brief from our City Attorney, the memo will include a highlighted section entitled, “The Bottom Line.” It is a summary or capsule of the issue at hand that is explained in detail.

The “Bottom Line” for today is, the Lord is our partner in life’s journey and is present not only to help, but to “take” our burdens as we trust in Him.

Our mental picture of our relationship with the Lord and the challenges of life can often run contrary to what we see in scripture. There is a stark difference between carrying our own burden and allowing the Lord to carry our burdens.

Yes, we have the responsibility to act, to do what we can and should do as we face the circumstances of life. Yet often the greatest impact of the “burdens” we carry in life is the worry and anxiety that can grip our life.

We feel that we have to just “bear our cross” and realize that the “Lord won’t give me more than I can handle.” These misunderstood concepts promote an idea that the Lord is a distant bystander, watching us struggle our way through life.

David’s admonition is to, “Give your burden to the Lord….” I think of the physical application that I experience as I attempt to carry something that is bulky as I try to walk with two crutches. Often someone will offer to help me carry my “load.” I am usually glad to take them up on the offer. It helps me save my strength and lessens my frustration and helps my mood! I believe the same is true of the issues of life that wear on our spiritually and emotional strength.

I find it of interest, but not inconsequential that we see a similar admonition found in Psalm 55 in the New Testament. The Apostle Peter writes, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT) I like the versions that use the word, “cast.” “Casting all you cares on the Lord…” To me it is a picture of not a reluctant giving up, because of realizing my weakness, but a willing and eager throwing off that which unnecessarily weighs us down.

In both Psalms and in Peter, we see the reason we are willingly relinquish our “burdens.” Psalms says, “…He will take care of you….” Peter says, “….He cares for you….” We need to remember that because the Lord cares “for” us, He stands ready to take care “of” us as we trust in Him.

When we give our burdens to the Lord, we can be confident that He will not “let us down.” He will work in our behalf, He will make a way and He will show us the way. Remember Jesus’ great invitation, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NLT) 

Our “burden bearer” is standing at our side. Don’t refuse His invitation. Don’t needlessly struggle. Trust in His care.

Prayer for today….. Lord thank You that You stand ready for us to relinquish that which would burden us down in life to You. Help us to be quick to turn to You and allow You to help us as we journey with You through life.