BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires.” Colossians 2:23 NLT

Conquering evil and the snares of our sinful nature is something that has been a challenge since creation. Someone once observed, “we make our choices and then our choices make us.” We see that principle played out in many ways and even in our current society with various scandals in Hollywood, politics and the media.

If you have lived very long, you understand that will power often gives way to the power of our natural desires. We even see the Apostle Paul describing the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit in his words to the Romans.

^“And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. “ (Romans 7:18,19 NLT)

So, the bottom line is we can’t will our way out of temptation and live a life that is pleasing to God. But we see the hope that Christ provides

Paul says to the Colossians, “You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world.” (Colossians 2:20 NLT)

We we surrender our life to Christ, He gives us a new life and places His Spirit in our lives. Paul’s discourse in Colossians presents some interesting dichotomies. He begins by saying, “you were dead in your transgressions and sins” but have been made alive in Christ. He then says, you are dead. Alive in Christ, but dead to the world and the bondage of the sinful nature.

Paul to the Romans said, “you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.” (Romans 6:11 NLT) To the Galatians Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 NIV)

Right after Paul shares with the Romans about the struggle between the flesh and Spirit, he makes the great declaration that counters the failure of shame with the words, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” (Romans 8:1,2 NLT)

When it comes to our greatest challenge in life, the battle with our own nature, the victory does not come from our will power, but from embracing what Christ has done for us and understanding the new life and new strength that comes from His forgiveness and His Holy Spirit at work in our lives.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY….  ^“I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Philippians 3:7,8 NLT

It has been observed that religion is spelled, “D-O.” It is based on my actions, my efforts. The focus is on the “good” outweighing the “bad.” The hope is that when the end of life comes that the good I have done and the positive aspects of my character will “tip the scales” in my favor.

In contrast true Christianity is spelled, “D-O-N-E.” I realize that my actions and character regardless of how good versus how bad it not sufficient to atone, or make up for my sin. I don’t need to “make up” for my sin, I need someone to “take away” my sin.

That is what Jesus did on the cross. He lived the life that no one else could. He offered His sinless life for our sinful life and as a result he became the “atoning sacrifice for our sin.” (1 John 2:2) When John the Baptist introduced Jesus he declared, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29)

As a Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus was well acquainted with the law and what it means to strive to amass a long list of “religious merit badges.” As the Apostle Paul, he reflects on his past life with all of his spiritual credentials.

“I was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure-blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin—a real Hebrew if there ever was one! I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law. I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault.” (Philippians 3:5,6 NLT)

But Paul had his eyes opened after he experienced blindness for three days following his encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus. As a result, we see the change in his understanding and attitude. ^“I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless…” 

All of these things that brought Paul recognition and status in the eyes of the religious elite he discovered were of no value and he now looked at them as worthless. Worthless compared to what Christ had “done” for him.

There is no greater test of humility and gratitude than to be willing to accept a gracious gift, especially one that we believed we could acquire through our own efforts. I think of my children and what I have observed in my grandchildren. I recall when one of my grandchildren was doing something with her dad (my son) standing right there. She said, “I want to do it MYSELF.” Soon after being frustrated and tired of her own failed efforts, she humbly looked to daddy and pleaded, “will you help me?”

In the past four years, I have had to learn a lot about receiving help. It is not always easy, but it has made life easier and less frustrating.

This is a great time of the year when we focus on receiving gifts as an expression of love and value, to open our hearts to what Jesus has to offer. He doesn’t help us do what we can’t, He does it for us and we become the beneficiaries. Through Christ’s forgiveness His righteous becomes ours.

Here is what Paul learned, “I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith.” (Philippians 3:9 NLT)

Rest in what Christ has “done” for you.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.” 1 Peter 1:21 NLT

As we enter the Advent Season, we are reminded that Jesus was born as “Emmanuel” – “God with us.” The wonder and consequence of Jesus coming to this earth for 33 years, was to reveal and to redeem. His death on the cross would redeem all who place their faith in Him from their sins.

But we see Christ’s role as the “Revealer” of God the Father being significant as well. Paul wrote, “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15 NLT) Jesus told His disciples, “Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father.” (John 14:9 NIV)

This statement of Jesus to Philip was in response to the request, “show us the Father.” That is a request that is born out of a desire to fully know God the Father.

As Peter writes his first letter he reminds believers that because of Christ our trust in God is solidified. He goes on and states that this is affirmed by the fact that God raised Christ from the death. As a result, all those who embrace Christ’s forgiveness, place their faith and hope in God. What God did for Jesus, He will do for us one day. He will bring us resurrection and a home with Him for eternity.

Drawing closer to Jesus, brings us closer to God the Father. Learning more about Jesus, is learning more about God the Father. Paul declares, “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him [Jesus Christ]...” (Colossians 1:19 NIV)

In this season of advent, it is good to contemplate with awe once again the miracle of the “Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us.” (John 1:14) In most religions people try to elevate themselves to a status equal to their god. In Christ, God came to His sinful and fallen world to reveal Himself to us.

God’s desire for us to know Him and to know His purpose for our life is so great that He sent the eternal Son of God to this earth to be seen and to be observed. John put it this way,  “But the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.” (John 1:14 NLT)

In this Christmas season, heed the invitation of the songs of old to, “come let us adore Him” As you “behold Him” and learn of Him, your trust in God the Father and your faith and hope will be strengthened. That is God’s gift to you.

Christian and Bridget and the grandkids arrived this afternoon for our Thanksgiving Day celebration tomorrow. This is their first time to be in Fort Collins since our little dog, “Andy” had to be put to sleep. I have him buried in the garden so, we decided to make a maker for his grave.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 NLT

Here we are marking another Thanksgiving holiday and the Christmas season. This time of the year is marked by nostalgic remembrances, gatherings with family and friends and reflections on the past year.

We truly have much to be thankful “for.” In the midst of the political tensions it is easy to look at a certain class or race as being “privileged.” The reality is when you look at the world in which we live, everyone who lives in the United States can be viewed as being “privileged” compared to most of the nations in the world.

I realize that I have much to be thankful for. This week at our City Council meeting a tribute was given to Northern Colorado Acute Hospital in recognition of their national achievement in excellence in providing respiratory care services. The tribute listed several acute medical conditions that they treat. As the list was read I found myself mentally checking off those that I had when I was a patient at their facility four years ago. I believe all but one was something that I could identity with.

Scripture admonishes us to possess a continual attitude of gratitude. The Apostle Paul simply admonished believers to “be thankful in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Thankful people, are happy people.

However, the most repeated command related to thankfulness is who our gratitude is directed “to.” Giving thanks “to” focuses our attention on the source of blessing in our life. It points to the source that bestows and sustains and that can be trusted.

Psalm 105 and Psalm 136 are to well-know psalms of thanksgiving. Psalm 136 is written in an antiphonal style. It is good to reflect on two large groups with one declaring, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.” and the other responding, “for his faithful love endures forever.”

The following stanzas take us on a journey where we are reminded who the Lord is, what He does and what He has done. All of these are important. The Lord’s character is consistent and unchanging. He is the God who does not change and can be trusted. I am thankful for that.

We are reminded that He is Creator, mighty and powerful in His revelation to His creation. I am thankful that there is “nothing to hard for Him.” Whatever the challenge, struggle or that obstacles that come our way, we can turn to the Lord and seek Him.

We are reminded of what the Lord has done in the past. Being reminded of the Lord’s intervention for His people in the past, encourages our faith and gives hope for the future. I am thankful for all that the Lord has done. the old hymn calls us to “count your blessings.” We can become so focus on the “here and now” and have concerns about what is ahead, that we ignore times of being reminded of prayers that have been answered in the past.

As we mark this Thanksgiving and move through the holiday season, let’s allow us to be continually thankful for our blessings, let’s possess an attitude of gratitude, but foremost may our hearts be directed toward the source of our life and the One who bestows all good gifts on His children.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.”  Psalm 145:4 NLT

This morning as Debbie and I made a breakfast stop at Chic-fil-A, Debbie was greeted by a lady that knew her from a few years ago in her role as a hospice nurse. It was another great story of a “good death” for this lady’s mother. The woman is a strong believer today, but told how her mother made sure that the children went to Sunday School, but she didn’t exhibit faithfulness to church attendance herself.

However, as the mother faced the end of her life and as her dementia allowed her to reflect on the years of her youth, a strong faith came to the surface. This mother, was one who always took the approach of her faith being a “private thing.”

I was glad to know that the solid faith of the mother came out before she died, but what a lost opportunity for those conversations to take place in the prime of life.

Our children and grandchildren need to know of God’s love, His acts and His power…from us! God is more than the aloof deity that watches us from “a distance.” He is the up close and personal God, who desires us to know Him and His power. It was Paul the apostle who declared, “that I may know him and power of his resurrection.” (Philippians 3:10) May it be our desire for others to “know him and power of his resurrection.”

What do others need to know? We have some direction in Psalm 145. We read phrases and statements such as:

“awe-inspiring deeds…share the story of your wonderful goodness… Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; they will give examples of your power.” (Palm 145:8-12)

But that’s not all, the psalmist continues, “The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The Lord helps the fallen…The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it…you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing…The Lord is close to all who call on him….He grants the desires of those who fear him…The Lord protects all those who love him;” (Psalm 145:13-20)

The list and descriptors are bountiful and powerful. They are encouraging and plentiful. We like to share with others the things that are important to us, and near to us. We talk about hobbies, interests, golf scores, vacations. We often share our views on a number of topics. So, let’s not be shy about sharing about the goodness and power of a great God, especially to our children and grandchildren.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “He made a solemn promise to the Lord. He vowed to the Mighty One of Israel, “I will not go home; I will not let myself rest. I will not let my eyes sleep nor close my eyelids in slumber until I find a place to build a house for the Lord, a sanctuary for the Mighty One of Israel.” Psalm 132:2-5 NLT

As I read this psalm of ascent, my attention was drawn to the words that describe David’s focused dedication and commitment to bringing the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem and building a Temple to the Lord.

We see a lot of attention given to organizations being dedicated to a mission and having a “compelling” vision. One that unites and creates focus and establishes priorities. If there was a vision that drove David and his rule as King of Israel, it was building the Temple. It was not the winning of battles or the conquering of other kingdoms. Those actions took place, but David was not an ancient “General Patton” who needed war in order to find purpose and meaning.

His focus as a “man after God’s own heart” was to make sure that worship to God and the physical symbol of God’s presence was in the very center of the capital city of his kingdom.

David’s commitment was not just a desire in his heart or a “campaign” promise. It was a “solemn promise” to the Lord. It was a vow to the Almighty One. It was a consuming desire that provided meaning and focus for his life and one that would define his sense of accomplishment.

We can say this desire drove David. He ate, slept and dreamed the accomplishment of that goal. Or we can say, he didn’t eat, rest, sleep or dream until the goal was accomplished. Such was the description of the intensity of the of his commitment.

The first task was locating the ark of the covenant. If there was no ark, there would not be a need for a Temple. So we read, “We heard that the Ark was in Ephrathah; then we found it in the distant countryside of Jaar. Let us go to the sanctuary of the Lord; let us worship at the footstool of his throne.” (Psalm 132:6,7 NLT)

We know two things about David’s pursuit of this vision. It wasn’t easy. He found the ark, but failed at his first attempt to bring it to Jerusalem. But David persisted, he did not let “failure” discourage him from the ultimate goal. When he was successful on his second attempt is was a cause for great rejoicing.

Then we see that David was not allowed to see his vision to completion. The Lord told him that he would not be the one who would build a house for Him, but He (the Lord) would instead build a “house” for David in the form of an enduring dynasty.

David’s response was to do everything that he could in preparations for the building of the Temple. Plans, materials, instructions were all prepared. All that Solomon had to do when he became King was to execute the plan.

David’s vision drove him for most of the 40 years of his reign. The fulfillment of that vision was fulfilled by others.

The commitment, persistence, patience and all that we see in David working toward the fulfillment of his vision, is something that can speak to us and challenge us in our lives today.

Prayer for today….. Lord, thank you for what we can observe and learn from David and his desire and commitment to a “vision.” What he did was not for human glory or goal, but it was to bring your glory to people. Help us to understand that “God honoring visions, are accomplished in God’s way and in God’s timing.”

Today on my birthday we traveled to Lakewood for Caedmon’s water baptism. It was a special day as much for that events as my 64th birthday and fourth since my health crisis. Dad and mom had the privilege of “dong the honors.”

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end.”  Psalm 119:112 NLT

I was recently re-reading Psalm 119. As I read most of this psalm in one sitting in my daily devotional time, I picked up on a theme that I had missed in my previous readings. It was a commitment to obey the Lord’s instructions and to follow His ways regardless of what life brings.

Perhaps that was due to some recent mass murders that have taken place in such a compressed timeline from Las Vegas, to New York to Texas. It is always during this time that people question about God’s love and sovereignty and care. This is especially the case when the victims include the lives of innocent children.

We read in verses in this section the psalmist recognizing God as creator and the One who gives life and purpose. As such it only makes sense to follow the One who is the Creator of all.

“You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands.” (Psalm 119:73 NLT) Obeying God’s commands is the way that we demonstrate our love for Him. John would write in the New Testament, “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3 NLT)

So we see the psalmist express a dead-fast commitment to follow the Lord….regardless. Regardless of the assaults and attacks of others. He says, “They almost finished me off, but I refused to abandon your commandments.” (Psalm 119:87 NLT)

Even in the midst of facing death and all the questions that can come when life takes unexpected turns. “My life constantly hangs in the balance, but I will not stop obeying your instructions.” (Psalm 119:109 NLT)

Even when it was necessary to “stand alone.” Even when the taunts and temptation come not from our own hearts, but from those in the world around, the psalmist stands firm in his commitment. “The wicked have set their traps for me, but I will not turn from your commandments.” (Psalm 119:110 NLT)

The Lord’s ways and instructions to us are not just “good suggestions.” They are not to be viewed as a supplement to my own ways or thoughts. They are to be viewed with great value and held with great tenacity. “Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart’s delight.” (Psalm 119:111 NLT)

What we treasure is held on to tenaciously. So it is to be with the instructions that we have from the Lord. God’s commands tell us what to do and what to avoid. They are of great value, they are a treasure and they are a reward. “They are a………great reward for those who obey them.” (Psalm 119:11 NLT)

Following the Lord’s instructions with a firm commitment reveals that we understand that He is our Creator, the He is God and “not we ourselves,” It shows that we hold them as a “treasure” and it shows we understand that following them results in “great reward.” 

Prayer for today…. Lord help us to understand that your instructions are more than suggestions or “nice” guidelines for our life. They are to be held on to tenaciously as a path of reward regardless of what we face or what comes against us. 

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “I will be careful to live a blameless life…I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all who deal crookedly; I will have nothing to do with them.”  Psalm 101:2,3 NLT

As I once again read Psalm 101, I was struck with the words that communicate the commitment of one who would lead or rule. David was God’s anointed leader over a nation, but he realized that he had to rule his own heart. That lesson for him came with some great heartache.

However, this psalm has some challenges for us whether we are in a position of authority and leadership or whether we are seeking to live an honorable life as one who commands a rule over our own passions, character and focus. The Lord’s promise is that those who follow Him will “rule” with Him in His coming kingdom. So this psalm is instructional on how to be prepared for that calling.

David begins with a statement of resolve and a plea. “I will be careful to live a blameless life – when will you come to help me?” Without the Lord’s help and without dependence upon the Lord our commitments will be short lived and a source of constant struggle and failure. The goal of any leader should be to live “above reproach.”

Paul desire for the Philippians was for them to be, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” (Philippians 2:15 NIV) Paul told Titus that church leaders,  “…must be above reproach.” (Titus 1:7 NIV) Paul admonished Timothy, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:16 ESV)

David’s next commitment is, “I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.” David realized that real leadership and commitment was both public and private. I have been saddened to hear of accounts of ministers and other leaders who were failures at home; not because of their lack of focus, but due to their words and actions that caused a spouse and children pain and emotional or even physical harm.

David realized that importance of putting a guard over his own heart and mind. He says, “I will refuse to look at anything vile or vulgar.” I don’t know how that was applicable thousands of years ago, but it is constantly in “our face” in our day of television, movies, internet and in our modern culture.

David then realized that “those around you determine the level of your success.” I recently viewed a video where a speaker was addressing teens and told them, “show me your friends and I will show you your future.” 

The type of people that David would allow to be in his presence and on “his team” is articulated in several statements in this psalm. David’s key qualification for those who served him is stated in these words, “I will search for faithful people to be my companions. Only those who are above reproach will be allowed to serve me.” (Psalm 101:6 NLT) David doesn’t mention intellect or skill or experience. He focuses on character and conduct that is above reproach.

In our world more than ever we need leaders of churches, communities and families who will make the same commitment as David did. David learn some tough lessons, to understand the importance of these commitments. We are well advised to pay attention and learn.

Prayer for today…. Lord without your help, we are indeed, “helpless.” As we make a commitment to live a blameless life and one above reproach and to surround ourselves with those who are individuals of integrity and character, we ask for your strength and guidance.