Happiness - Pt. 8

 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7 ESV).

 

Sadness is a daily struggle of many people. The world is full of suffering and hardship, and it can be difficult to find peace and happiness. As a result, people can become bitter about the adversity and struggles in their lives, and many blame God for their hardship and sorrow. The apostle Paul, however, had a different message to share. Though he was in prison and had gone through many hardships, he knew he could find joy in the Lord, his Creator and Savior. He wrote to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

 

Joy in the Lord is not a trivial or fleeting emotion. Instead, it results from the deepest possible peace of knowing that your destiny is secure in God’s hands. As a result, a person can have deep and lasting joy in the Lord even during great suffering and pain.

 

Life is not intended to be a series of exhilarating amusements. We are not living in a theme park. Our fallen world presents us with struggles and dark valleys. Our journey is sometimes filled with challenges that seem insurmountable. But our happiness is not a superficial, fleeting emotion. Our joy does not depend on the circumstances in which we find ourselves.

 

As Paul puts it, our joy is in the Lord. In other words, Jesus is the source of our joy. He is the content of our happiness. Our happiness is not just in the absence of bad things or in the presence of good things. Our happiness is in Jesus, knowing that he loves and cares for us and is with us always—forever!

 

Happiness - Pt. 7

 

Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him; the Lord protects him and keeps him alive; he is called blessed in the land; you do not give him up to the will of his enemies. The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health. (Psalm 41:1-3 ESV).

 

A compassionate heart is not among the most popular qualities in our world today. If you want to climb to the top, people say, you often must trample on others. Compassion is considered an attribute of people who are weak. However, this is not the message of Scripture.

 

The Bible says, “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak.” And this does not mean just thinking about people who are disadvantaged; it means caring about them and doing something about it. People who care are those who open their hearts with the willingness to share what they have with people in need. Generosity goes hand in hand with compassion and care as people seek to show God’s love in this world.

 

We find happiness not when we have everything in our hands but when we share with people in need, giving from our abundance as the Lord has given to us.

 

The generous person sows happily and reaps the blessed fruit of God’s ongoing favor. God himself multiplies our sowing so that we can continue to give generously. God provides for us and gives us health and strength to do more by spreading his love to others. When we open our hearts, hands, and pockets to share from all that God has given us, we find joy and happiness in giving freely as the Lord gives, without strings attached.

 

Happiness - Pt. 6

The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, for he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully. He will receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob. (Psalm 24:1-6 ESV).

 

Faith is not disconnected from happiness. If you imagine the Christian as sullen and gloomy, that is not what God has in mind. Happiness is a matter of the heart, and it has to do with holiness and purity.

 

As the psalmist writes in our reading today, those who have “clean hands and a pure heart . . . will receive blessing from the Lord.” They will be able to stand in the holy presence of the Lord. Or, as Jesus put it, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

 

Yet we cannot be pure in heart without the saving work of Jesus. As Proverbs 20:9 makes clear, “Who can say, ‘I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin’?” Only Jesus can say that, and only he has made it possible for us to be purified so that we can live in the presence of God.

 

If we think that happiness lies in the pleasures that the world offers, we are mistaken. The attractions of the world may give pleasure for a moment, but they do not satisfy the heart forever. The blessed are not people who give free rein to their passions. The blessed are those whose hearts are made pure through the power of God in Jesus Christ.

 

Indeed, they are abundantly blessed because God is the one who purifies them. They are truly and eternally happy!

  

Happiness - Pt. 5

 

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV).

 

The Apostle Paul writes our reading today from a Roman prison. A prison would surely seem more like a cage than a classroom. But some of God’s faithful servants landed in prison, and they learned precious lessons from their time in captivity. The apostle Paul, for example, waited in a Roman prison for two years to appeal his case to Caesar. And during that time he was able to share the good news of Jesus with many people who visited him (cf. Acts 28:16-31). Paul had been through many trials and hardships—all related to sharing the gospel of Christ. And he gave thanks that even “the whole palace guard” had learned why he was in chains (Philippians 1:13). Instead of allowing bitterness to fill his heart, Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

 

Happiness is not a reality that is outside of us; it is an attitude that flows from within us. There are people who seem to have everything—and yet they have nothing. There are rich poor and poor rich. Though a person may be in chains, their heart can live in paradise. Others may tread on velvet carpets, but their soul can be in the torment of hell. Happiness is not automatic; it involves a learning process. We are happy when our source of pleasure is in our relationship with God and others.  If it is in material things, it will never produce happiness. It is only when our soul delights in the provider and not in the provisions. God is the source of our happiness, not things!

 

What a great time of the year to reflect on the real things to give thanks for. Use the time this year to focus on the blessings of God. After all, it cost Him everything to give us such a great gift… eternal life and a relationship that can never be taken away!

 

Happiness - Pt. 4

 

Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens. Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth, and it stands fast. By your appointment they stand this day, for all things are your servants. If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life. (Psalm 119:89-93 ESV).

 

When I was in the Corps at Texas A&M we would often practice in formation. It was not long until we all learned how to march in columns and lines without any deviation. The picture I’ve attached with today’s devotional pictures the precision of the Cadet Corps and the Aggie Band at halftime of the game last Saturday. That Block T required over 2,500 men and women precisely lined up in their positions. Reliance on your fellow cadets is essential. This principle is at the heart of finding happiness in our lives. Happiness is not just about avoiding the way of wickedness and folly. And it’s not about staying away from people. The life of the monk or the hermit is not the ideal of the Christian faith, as some early Christians believed. Christianity is distinguished by a lifestyle in tune with the will of God. He is the One we can get our “columns and lines” straight. And, that produces happiness.

 

Psalm 1:1-2 answers, “Blessed is the one . . . whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.” The Word of God is our source of joy and happiness. We are encouraged to meditate on it daily. We must fill our minds with God's truth. We must feed our hearts with the promises that come from the Word of God. His Word is better than refined gold and sweeter than honey. God’s Word restores the soul and gives wisdom to the simple. This is what walking in His steps looks like.

 

In this time when so much misinformation circulates on the internet and other media, the Word is bread that nourishes and water that purifies. Through it we keep our hearts pure, and we triumph over the enemy. Today and every day, remember to feed on God’s Word and to enjoy the nourishment that sustains us, heart and soul, on the way to full life.

 

Happiness - Pt. 3

 

I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who do astray after a lie! You have multiplied, O Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you! I will proclaim and tell of them, yet they are more than can be told. (Psalm 40:1-5 ESV).

 

If you read yesterday’s devotional you may have come away with the impression that being happy is a matter of doing good things. Nothing could be further from the truth. While doing good things is a privilege we have been given because of our gift of eternal life in Christ, one of the most comforting truths for our lives is the providence of God. The Lord Almighty takes care of us. The same God who created us also sustains us. In this comfort we live and move and have our being.

 

God is the one who gives us breath and everything we need. God gives life to the seeds and plants we need for food. God gives us our daily bread and good health to enjoy. He even gives flavor to our food so that we can savor it. God is the one who preserves our life and delivers us from evil. The Lord God is our creator, provider, protector, redeemer, and comforter.

 

The apostle Paul asks, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). Our life does not drift at random, at the mercy of mere circumstances. We are in the hands of the one who controls the universe.

 

How comforting it is to know that the God who rules the world is in control of our lives! It is a great assurance to troubled souls and burdened hearts to know that God cares for them. He is thinking about you right now and has not forgotten your pain and need. Knowing this, everyone who seeks the Lord can be filled with joy.

 

Happiness - Pt. 2

 

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:5-10 ESV).

 

The first step in learning to be happy is to understand who we are and why we are here. Maybe you have asked or heard these questions before. These are philosophical questions that have kept some of the brightest people busy. The Bible teaches that we are created by God and made in his image. “We are God’s handiwork,” and he sent Jesus to redeem and renew us so that we can have eternal life with him. God renews us so that we can do good, and this is our purpose in life. With the new life that God makes possible for us in Christ, we seek to live God’s way and to do good so that we can show others the way to know God.

 

We find true happiness in being created by God for an extraordinary purpose. We are not a adrift in the sea of life, floating aimlessly through the ocean. We are not like a loose leaf carried by the wind. Life has a truly meaningful purpose. We are created by God to have full life with God and to shine the light of his love to others. God is the source and the destiny of our life.

 

The very meaning of eternal life is to know God and his Son, Jesus Christ, through the life-giving work of his Holy Spirit. This creates value in who we are and why we are here. Through God’s grace we are chosen for this wonderful purpose of helping others to recognize their calling into eternal life. That’s the beginning of our greatest and most complete happiness.

 

Happiness - Pt. 1

 

I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:7-11 ESV).

 

I am often surprised by the number of people who believe that God desires us to experience pain over pleasure, or grief over happiness. God created us to enjoy the greatest of happiness: communion with him. We experience true happiness by loving God and enjoying intimacy with him. In the presence of God there is fullness of joy. Today we are beginning a series in the discovery of happiness in our lives. My prayer is that you will see the purpose of God to bring joy into your experience.

 

The best gifts in life come from God. It is tragic that so many people prefer to look elsewhere. Many seek happiness in possessions, power, or fame. People also seek happiness in pleasures, or they follow their dreams of success, hoping to find fulfillment in their lives. But in the end, they discover that those things offer only a mirage and not true happiness.

 

Happiness is a legitimate desire. Many people look for it eagerly every day of their lives, but they end up empty-handed. The source of happiness is not in things or in our own selfish pursuits, but in God. The best things of this world cannot make us happy, but God can, because he created us, calls us by name, and makes us his own. We become truly happy only when we know God and love him with all our heart and soul.

 

In the coming days we will see some of the genuine paths that lead to happiness. Know where you’re going and choose the route carefully. Genuine happiness is only found in Jesus.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 12

 

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:30-32 ESV).

 

I have found that retribution never ends well. The Scripture teaches this truth clearly, though often we tend to ignore it in favor of “getting even.” We have even developed a few common proverbs to describe this principle: “I don’t get even; I get ahead”; or “to the victor belongs the spoils.” There are many others, however, the teaching of the bible is clear. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God forgave you” (v. 32).

 

The life of Nelson Mandela provides a great illustration. He courageously fought against apartheid in South Africa. His actions led to wrongful convictions and time in prison because of political enemies. As he was leaving prison, he was quoted as saying, “As I stand at the door of my freedom, I realize that if I don't leave my pain, anger, and bitterness behind, I will always be in prison.”

 

Self-imprisonment is worse than the imprisonment that is imposed on us. Many people suffer from self-imposed prisons by refusing to forgive. But the inner walls of anger and resentment do not make us strong; instead, they make us bitter and miserable. When Nelson Mandela later came to power as the president of his country, he did not establish the law of the victor. Rather than seeking revenge against his political enemies, he showed forgiveness to all.

 

Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, and he even died for his enemies—that is, all of us. Christ's compassion for us is incomprehensible; he showed it by forgiving us all and dying for us. This love also moves us to forgive others for their faults against us. The Lord can help us to forgive everything.

 

Perhaps you have fallen into the temptation that it is acceptable to hate others for their differences. We are closing in on the season of Thanksgiving. Use this time to reevaluate your attitude toward others. Get rid of all bitterness and practice forgiveness.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 11

 

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. (1 John 4:7-12 ESV).

 

John teaches that “God is love.” One of the clearest ways God has shown his love to us has been through sending Jesus to us. And it’s important to note when God did this: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

 

God wants us to reflect the love he has shown to us as we interact with the people around us. As John puts it, “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Likewise, Paul calls us to “follow God’s example” by showing love to all people. This is the response we should have in gratitude for His grace and mercy.

 

In some ways, love is what makes Christianity special. Other religions seem to focus more on obedience or a system of rewards for certain actions. And human reason cannot make sense of the focus on love. Loving actions that reflect the love of God can be so contrary to corrupt human reason. Our hearts are used to a quid pro quo—I’ll do this because you did that. Following that system, love is merely earned and not a gift.

 

But if God's love had to be earned, none of us could ever be loved. Christian love is free; it is expensive for the one who offers it, but not for the one who receives it. Take care to cover all your actions in the same kind of love God has shown to us.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 10

 

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:29-32 ESV).

 

The Bible urges us to guard our hearts, for our actions flow from what is in our hearts (cf. Proverbs 4:23). Jesus also teaches that whatever fills the heart overflows into our words and actions. He points out that if there is wickedness in our words, that is the result of what is rooted in our hearts. (cf. Matthew 5).

 

It is so easy to harbor negative or destructive feelings in our hearts. Biblical history is full of stories of bitterness, envy, and anger that caused serious problems in families and among God's people. Cain, Adam's first son, was bitter about how Abel’s offering was received with God’s favor. Rather than dealing with his anger, he let bitterness and envious anger rule his heart. Because he could not quench this fire in his heart, the fruit followed: he committed the first murder (Genesis 4). In another story, Joseph's brothers were so blinded by their jealousy of Joseph that they sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). These are just two examples about anger causing serious problems in people’s lives.

 

In the history of the church, we see divisions without justifiable causes; conflicts and individual interests have often been the root of these problems. As adopted children of God, we are already seated with Christ in heavenly places, but we must daily examine our attitudes and motives to see if our desires match with who we are in Christ.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 9

 

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:29-32 ESV).

 

Many studies have been conducted into the emotional and psychological effect of negative versus positive words. In fact, numerous conclusions have shown that in order to cancel the devastating effects of one negative word, four positive words need to be spoken. This shows how negative, harsh, and humiliating words can do great damage to human beings.

 

Our reading for today uses vivid imagery to speak about the impact our words can have. Just as a small rudder can steer a ship or a bit can control a horse, so the words of our mouths can make a big difference in life. Further, our speech can have the same effect as a spark: it can cause great destruction! We are encouraged, then, to choose our words carefully and to recognize the impact our speech makes (cf. James 3:1-12). The Apostle Paul echoes these words in these verses today. We are called to build others up and speak in a way that helps the people who hear our words.

 

There are many children who suffered from such harshness. Demeaning words used by a domineering father or mother, spouse who cannot model kindness and graciousness haunt them for a very long time. Thankfully, the love of Jesus can heal much of this trauma. I am grateful to the calling of God in my life to help people find this grace and break the cycle of this kind of abuse.

 

As we reflect on the power of words, let’s consider how—with the Spirit’s help—we can all bring healing for people who have faced trauma.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 8

 

But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:20-24 ESV).

 

Mary and I went to Chedder’s Scratch Kitchen recently for a bite of lunch. We have always found the food tasty and plentiful. In fact, we rarely return home without enough left over for dinner! One of our favorite parts of the meal is the honey-butter glazed croissants they serve prior to the meal. You can see from the picture they are amazing. When we went this last time we were seated quickly and a server came almost immediately to get our drink orders. In the past, the rolls were always served with the drinks, prior to ordering. It is a wonderful way to start a “lunch-date.” This time I was a bit surprised that the server did not bring the rolls with the drinks. We ordered and I asked if she was going to bring us any rolls. She said, “We have a new policy. Our guests need to request the rolls before we bring them to the table.” Well, I did request them, but thought, who wouldn’t want them? It was odd to me.

 

Our Christian life can be like that in some ways. We often do not realize that everything has been provided for us in the grace of God. And we merely need to rely on the wisdom and power of the Holy Spirit who already resides within us.

 

As Christians, we are—so to speak—in a new system. We are no longer prisoners of our old lives. Every child of God has a new life in Jesus Christ. We have entered a new reality. In Christ, your old life has been put to death, and you are called into new life. You have received a new nature, conformed to Christ and pleasing to God.

 

This is good news for us all. Instead of feeling weak and powerless against our sinful nature, we can live into the new reality that Christ has paid for everything we need to be saved to new life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live grateful lives that are filled with God’s righteousness and holiness.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 7

 

Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:17-23 ESV).

 

In some translations of the Bible, this passage tells us not to live “as the pagans do.” That term “pagans” might make you think of primitive people groups of long ago, with idols and all sorts of superstitions and outdated religious rites. But Paul thinks differently. In this passage, “pagans,” or “Gentiles,” are people who get stuck in idle thoughts and unrestrained behaviors associated with human depravity and sin. The idols of these people are mainly in their own hearts. In fact, greed seems to be at the heart of this sinful behavior.

 

This problem is subtle; it hides behind all sorts of modern-day expectations and appearances. The behaviors associated with greed are complacency, the need to be in the limelight, material comforts, popularity, fashion, freedom, and more. And all of these are idols.

 

When Israel entered the land of Canaan, God warned them not to imitate the neighboring peoples in their pagan behaviors (cf. Deuteronomy 8:17-20). And Jesus prayed for his disciples, knowing they were still in the world but “not of the world” (John 17:16). In Ephesians, Paul reminds us again that the Lord calls us to follow him and to leave our old, pagan ways behind.

 

Gratitude for our new life through the grace of God calls us to live differently. This is a good time of the year to reexamine our priorities and values. Seek the real treasure of Christ in your life. Be different!

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 6

 

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:11-16).

 

Our culture often ignores or discounts elderly people.  Many societies in the world today tend to neglect elderly people. They often focus on youth, innovation, and the desire to get ahead. Being young is fashionable, and people who can't keep up are often pushed aside. I like the old proverb that says, “What an old man can see sitting down, the youth cannot see standing up.” It is a reminder that while young people are full of youth and energy, they often don’t have the wisdom that is acquired through experience.

 

Even in the early days of the church there were winds that could blow new believers off course. Ideas, ideals, and ideologies could sway new Christians one way and then another. To withstand the storm of doctrines and sort out what is wise from what is foolish, it is important to become mature. An immature Christian may be joyful and full of energy but can also be unstable and undiscerning. Mature Christians confess the truth in love while continuing to grow. They know that love and truth, doctrine and life, grace and holiness go hand in hand and should not be separated. It is wonderful to be able to grow in this way. All of us continue to grow in faith, no matter how long we have followed Jesus.

 

God has generously provided for this in the gifts He gives to people within the church. A part of our expression of gratitude for these gifts is to connect with others in a community of faith to continue to mature.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 5

 

The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:7-11 ESV).

 

I must confess that there are times when I find myself being a bit more “direct” than is comfortable for others. Mary has said that as I have aged, I haven’t become more direct, but I have become grumpier. Perhaps she is right, though I think we must be balanced between being a service to others and enabling them not to serve themselves. Neither of those positions is the intended plan of God. He has gifted all of us to be a part of the welfare and health of the community of faith. I remember one time specifically. In one of the churches that I pastored a lady came to me in between the two morning services complaining loudly in the hallway that the ladies restroom had run out of toilet tissue. I suppose the look on my face gave away my surprise that she thought this was a task that I needed to perform at that moment. I did have the presence of mind not to respond with my “grumpy side”. I merely said, “Follow me.” I then walked here to the supply closet and pointed to the stacks of tissue and said, “Thanks for the information, perhaps you should fix it.” You know… she did!

 

Our reading includes some important reminders for the church. No member is more important than the others, and each one has gifts from God that can bless others. In the church, there are often people who think they have not received any special gifts from God. They think they have little or nothing to contribute. But that is a mistake. Another mistake is for people to think they don't need others or the gifts they can share. But God has given us many gifts and abilities, and we depend on each other in many ways.

 

You are an essential part of the church. Don’t fail to exercise your gifts in whatever capacity presents itself! Gratitude for God’s grace means all of serve others in different ways at different times.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 4

 

But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore it says, “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.” (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:7-15 ESV).

 

Citizens of the same country have many things in common. For example, they share the same territory, language, and history. In a similar way Christians are one in Christ. We are united spiritually with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In terms of doctrine, we are united by the same confession: the same faith, the same hope, the same baptism. And in day-to-day life we as Christians are called to demonstrate this unity.

 

Rather than focusing on differences, which are only of minor importance, Paul lays the foundation for our unity. We have all been baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We profess the truths that Jesus lived among us, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. Our lives are led by the same Lord. As Christians, we share the same hope of living in the fullness of joy in Christ forever. As Christians, we are filled with the same Spirit, through whom we cry, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15-16). Let us therefore make this unity visible. When we are focused on the things that bind us together, we can live in unity and maintain the bond of peace.

 

Gratitude demands that we emphasize what we have in common through Christ rather than the differences in our family, church, and community. It is often difficult to do that. The differences seem so personal. However, these differences can be a great strength when they are used in the plan and purpose of God to bring about His will.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 3

 

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. (Ephesians 4:1-7 ESV).

 

Again, we return to tis reading for today’s devotional. Did you notice the Apostle Paul’s strong encouragement to Make every effort to “maintain unity” in this reading? He says, “… be eager” toward an attitude of unity and a bond of peace. Paul urges us as followers of Christ to “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” As Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (cf. Matthew 5). When we strive to live together in peace, the Spirit brings unity, but each of us can promote unity or destroy it. The unity of the church and of society must be preserved by the bond of peace. In Christ we have found peace with God; he came to save us even though we were his enemies (cf. Romans 5:8-11). Jesus is the Prince of Peace (cf. Isaiah 9:6), and he invites us to make peace in his name.

 

This is certainly a contemporary issue we ought to be aware of in our families, our churches, and our communities. We have not be as divided as a nation as we are today since the War Between the States. How could we have become so divided? Many people would point to the extreme differences in philosophy and belief; however, I think it is a deeper problem than that.

 

The people around us will not always be nice, fair, or do what is right. But even then, our role is to bring peace. We do this in our families, our churches, and wherever we spend our workdays. In this way we can help to make our world a place that reflects more of the values of God’s kingdom. This is rooted in the grace of God given freely, though pricelessly procured by the death of God’s only begotten Son (cf. John 3:16). How can we hate one another knowing God loved every one of us? Respond to others with understanding and grace in every circumstance of life.

 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 2

I therefore, ma prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. (Ephesians 4:1-7 ESV).

 

I am returning to yesterday’s reading for a thought today. The Apostle Paul begins with what would have been extremely difficult for the people of his culture to understand. For example, look at the experience of Jesus going to Zacchaeus’ house for dinner and conversation (cf. Luke 19:1-10). Remember that in Jesus’ day people despised the local tax collectors for collaborating with the Romans, who had taken over their nation. The tax collectors could also overcharge people in order to pay themselves, so they often got rich at the expense of their local community.

 

When Jesus came to visit, he shocked Zacchaeus, the local tax collector, and everyone in the crowd by inviting himself to stay at Zacchaeus’s house. In this way Jesus showed Zacchaeus great honor and respect, and that turned Zacchaeus’s life around. The tax collector stood up and acknowledged his wrongdoing, made amends, and gave half of his wealth to the poor. What joy in the city of Jericho!

 

Zacchaeus met grace in the person of Jesus, who accepted and honored him instead of rejecting him. He was overwhelmed and humbled, and immediately he became generous to the people around him. In Ephesians, Paul invites us to live a life that responds to God’s grace. He calls Christians to be humble, gentle, and patient. As people who have received generous grace, we are called to live gracious lives. God's grace to us fuels us to show grace and generosity to others.

 

This is all a part of our gratitude toward the immeasurable gift of God through Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Our eternal life is not something we deserve or earn. We could not have done anything to obtain it. That is the grace of God. For that we must be grateful. This means showing humility in the face of both victory and defeat. Apply that in your life today! 

Responding with Gratitude - Pt. 1

 

I therefore, ma prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. (Ephesians 4:1-7 ESV).

 

With the beginning of November, we begin a particularly delightful season of the year. Most of the things I like to do take place in the fall of the year. The sights and sounds of the next two months make me rejoice with fond memories of years past. I hope you can have some of that as well in the next few weeks as we explore how we might respond to the grace of God with gratitude. In order to accomplish this I will be focusing on Ephesians 4-6. I pray these devotional readings will also prompt us to reflect on various Scripture passages to highlight many aspects of living a life of gratitude, including practical actions like showing humility, being gracious, striving for unity, and serving others.

 

I will also be drawing from my experiences both from ministry and personal interactions with others to emphasize the call to respond to God's grace by living transformed lives. He challenges us to examine our relationships, actions, and attitudes considering God's mercy and love.

 

Through reflections on honesty, self-control, and generosity, these devotions encourage readers to embrace the new life offered in Christ, embodying gratitude in every aspect of daily living. Because of Christ’s saving work on the cross, we are called to live out our gratitude in ways that reflect the transforming power of God's grace. Make a commitment today to use this time as we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas to consider just how you are expressing your gratitude both to God and to others.

 

Learning from Jesus - Pt. 20

 

And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest?” (Mark 14:32-41 ESV).

 

Today’s reading makes it very easy for us to condemn the disciples. However, we have all been in such a place. They had eaten a full meal, and it had been a long day. The disciples had experienced several days that were really challenging—emotionally and physically. They were worn out and tired. Even in the cool night air, they could barely stay awake. They knew they needed be alert because Jesus has asked them to keep watch, but their eyelids were getting heavier by the moment. Soon their heads bobbed, and they were fast asleep. They didn’t plan it that way. Jesus nudges them awake and asks, “Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour?” Startled, they hear him say, “Watch and pray.” They must have nodded in agreement, feeling horrible that they hadn’t managed to stay awake. He steps away, and the heaviness settles in again. Their eyelids close. Later he wakes them again, and they don’t know what to say. Then a third time they are awakened—and now there is a crowd coming. Sleep vanishes. They look at the one who asked them to pray, and he is in the hands of his enemies!

 

Though our lives today are much different from the disciples’, the need for staying alert and praying is not. Our world needs our attention, and the Lord is calling us to stand watch. It is encouraging to know that Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the Father, praying for us (cf. Romans 8:34), but today he still needs us to do the same for his world and for all God’s children in it. Stay alert!

 

Learning from Jesus - Pt. 2

 

A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he [Jesus] said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves. You are those who have stayed with me win my trials, and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” (Luke 22:24-30 ESV).

 

It is amazing how things change through the years. No doubt you have experienced the “game” of calling shotgun when your children ride with you. Perhaps you are not aware of the origin of “riding shotgun.” In the early years of transportation in our country people travelled by stagecoach. Often the route went through some dangerous territory. The threat from highwaymen or marauding gangs was very real. Therefore, someone was always assigned the seat by the driver as a guard. Because the roads were often uneven and bumpy, the guard carried a shotgun for protection. The aim was not as critical as it might be with other types of firearms. It was a very important seat. Today the “shotgun” seat is more about comfort and convenience, which makes it the preferred seat.

 

Today’s reading is rooted in the disciples’ desire to be in the preferred position of the new kingdom Jesus was establishing. Our desire to be in first place can get in the way of how we respond to a situation. Can you imagine being at the Last Supper with Jesus and having an argument break out about who is the greatest? Had the disciples learned nothing from Jesus about service in God’s kingdom?

 

Jesus patiently tried again. He told his disciples that they were not like kings and other worldly leaders who lorded it over others; instead, his followers were citizens of heaven, where serving is more important than being served. He said, “I am among you as one who serves.” And he assured them they would be able to eat and drink at the table in God’s kingdom, but the time for that would come later. As you reflect on this story, what is your posture? Do you need to be seen, or are you willing to open doors so that others will be treated in a way that brings glory to God?

Learning from Jesus - Pt. 18

 

So he [Jesus] told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:3-10 ESV).

 

I have a few things that are very special to me. Some of them are heirlooms from family, others are meaningful for the memories they bring to me from times past. These are things that I “save” in very “secure” places. My problem is that these secure places are often forgotten. Thankfully Mary remembers where I put them and they are not lost to me. A few days ago, I looked where I thought I had put our voter registration cards to make sure everything was in order to vote early. I looked in my Aggie accessories box and found mine, though Mary’s was not there. I wondered why I would have put mine and not hers in the same place. I looked all over the house. Finally, somewhat distraught, I asked her if she had seen her card. She responded with, “It’s in my purse.” I know I didn’t put it there and asked if she had put it there. Thankfully she had and my relief was palpable.

 

Like the woman in our reading who found her lost coin, I celebrated. For her, the loss of a coin that was worth a day’s wages was significant. She was determined to find it, and when she did, she wanted to celebrate with her friends and neighbors. In this story, like the other ones in Luke 15, Jesus is illustrating how important it is when one of his children, who has been lost, is found and can be brought back into his family. Even the angels sing and celebrate.

 

Jesus’ story is a thoughtful reminder that no matter who you are or what your circumstances are today, there is a Savior who is looking for you and watching over you—always.