In His Time

Posted on April 24, 2012 by jimdavenport

Background:

I have always known that I am a very impatient man.  I think I was born that way.  As a child I never wanted to wait for anything.  I remember the anxiety and impatience I had as eight year old boy because I had to wait another year for my first bicycle since Santa “didn’t have room on his sleigh” that year.  Those closest to me, including my parents, my wife, our son and my siblings know very well of my impatience and have rightfully told me about it so many times over the years.

The vocational work that I performed for over forty-five years in the Information Technology field was stressful and built around deadlines and often resulted in severe penalties when those deadlines were not met.  So my profession fit well with my type “A” personality.  As a leader, I required those on my project teams to set goals, determine specific and real requirements, develop and stick to realistic timelines, complete the effort in the agreed upon time-frame, and then develop lessons learned to improve the quality of the next project.  I must admit that I sometimes thought of myself as a person who could make things happen … someone with a special ability to deliver as agreed upon and in the time-frame promised.

Looking back on my life now, I expected just about everything to happen “in my time”, not just the work related projects, but just about everything in my personal life as well.  Over the past eighteen months as I have dealt with significant health issues for the first time in my life.  I have come to realize that my view of time and God’s view of time don’t always line up very well.  I want these medical issues to be behind me, but they continue and have impacted me in such a way that I now faithfully realize that they are in God’s hands and He will deal with them “in His time.”

As a younger man I often prayed that God would give me wisdom and patience.  Most of those prayers were genuinely earnest.  But some were prayed with deep set reservations and even sometimes in a selfish demanding manner similar to the comical prayer that goes something like: “Lord, please give me patience … and give it to me right now!”

This brings me to the point of this article … namely, God alone is in control of time!!!  Time is His.  He does things “in His time.”  God was there before time was established. God was there at creation and He created everything “in His time.” God was there when He led the Amorite Abraham away from His home in Ur to the place God chose “in His time.” God was there when He led his chosen children out of Egypt into the promised-land “in His time.” God was there when David killed Goliath and when he was crowned King of Israel “in His time. God was there when He allowed Israel and Judah’s enemies to devastate their homeland, kill their mighty warriors and force most of those remaining alive into bondage “in His time.”  God was there when He sent Jesus to be born of a non-descript virgin girl ‘in His time.” God was there when Jesus was crucified “in His time.” God was there when Jesus was raised from the dead and conquered sin and death once and for all “in His time. God was there when Jesus ascended back into Heaven “in His time.” God has promised that Jesus will again return to this earth to claim His chosen ones “in His time.”  I’m sure you get the point!

Scripture:

Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 (KJV) – focus on verse 11.

1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:  2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;  3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;  4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;  5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;  6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;  7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;  8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.  9What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?  10I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.  11He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

Discussion:

The above scripture passage comes from the Book of Ecclesiastes.   The Chronological Study Bible (TCSB) of The New King James Version of the Bible published by Thomas Nelson describes Ecclesiastes as a “bleak and weary” book focused on the inability of man to understand the inexplicable mysteries of life.  The overall thesis, “…All is vanity” (Ecc. 1:2) permeates the entire book. At the very end of the book, the Preacher finally seems “to make peace with his world and his God” (Ecc. 12:13-14 NASB): 13 The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.

But there is really a scriptural gem found in Ecclesiastes 3:11 (KJV) – “11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.”  I like the translation for the last part of verse 11 as presented in the NIV: 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.  Why should I expect things to happen in my time?  My time may be the wrong time.  Only God knows the right time!  When things happen “in His (God’s) time” every thing is beautiful.  Who am I to think that I know when it is best for things to happen?  God ordained time.  He, and He alone, is in control of time.  Who am I to think that I have the human ability to reason beyond God’s instruction in the Bible to “fathom” what God has done, is doing, and will do to accomplish His ultimate purpose.  God wrote our life instruction manual, the Bible.  It is His perfect and infallible Word.  It is without error.  Nothing ever happens in His time early or late.  It is always in accordance with what is “in His time.”  He’s an on-time God!  Every time!!

Reflection:

I am encouraged by my recent medical hardships to allow God to also be the God of all comfort for me personally and to my friends and Christian brothers and sisters.  Paul said to those new Christian converts in the city of Corinth in 2 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV) – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”  I will look to Him in His time, and to Him alone, for that deep comfort, the inner healing and the encouragement to continue my earthly life journey and share God’s message with as many as I can before I join those already in eternity.

Paul also encouraged the church at Phillipi saying “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11-13) NIV.

Are you as hard-headed as I am?  Are you listening to the plain word of God?  The children of Israel didn’t.  In their own time they allowed the worship of  other gods such as Baal to replace the worship of the one and only true Jehovah God.  In the midst of their wayward lives, God’s prophet Jeremiah using God’s own words continually reminded Israel that they had repeatedly taken things into their own hands: “While you were doing all these things, declares the Lord, I spoke to you again and again, but you did not listen; I called you but you did not answer” (Jeremiah 7:13 NIV).

God said through Paul in Galatians 4:4-7 (NIV) that He sent his son Jesus into the world to pay the price for man’s sin when the time was right.  It was “in His time.” “4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. 6 Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba,Father.” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”

I find this verse particularly comforting in my recent stressful times: Psalm 69:13 (NIV) – “But I pray to you, Lord, in the time of Your favor; in Your great love, O God, answer me with Your sure salvation.”   But at the same time, I realize that God has a purpose in my mortal travail and that “in His time” and when I humble myself, that only He has the strong and mighty hand to lift me up.  Peter spoke to this as well in 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV) when he said “Humble Yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

The Maranatha Singers have recorded a wonderful version of a song written by Diane Ball in 1978.  The lyrics are provided below and are the property of Maranatha! Music.  This is one of those songs like “Thank You Lord for Saving My Soul” that will keep running through your mind over and over once you hear it.  I was exposed to it many years ago, but it has recently come back to my mind and I could not get past the message.

In His Time

In His time, in His time
He makes all things beautiful in His time
Lord, please show me every day
As You’re teaching me Your way
And I’ll do just what You say
In Your time.

In Your time, in Your time
You make all things beautiful in Your time
Lord, my life to You I bring
May each song I have to sing
Be to You a lovely thing
In Your time

Be to You a lovely thing
In Your time.

I can’t think of a more fitting way to end this article than for you to view a couple of videos of this song by going to these youtube links.  Both will allow you to sing or hum along.

Video one with beautiful scenes of God’s nature set to the music with lyrics.

In His Time – Maranatha! Singers – Video One

Video two with scripture and lyrics:

In His Time – Video Two

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When God Has Had Enough

Posted on April 9, 2012 by jimdavenport

Special Note: This article is included in Jim’s book “An Attitude of Thankfulness” along with 19 other articles and is available for purchase in Paperback and eBook formats at this link:  Jim’s Books

Background:

There are consequences for ignoring the commands of God.  God is forgiving, but at the same time, God is righteous.  He cannot and will not ignore man’s sin.  Sin has eternal consequences.  Additionally, man, both individually and collectively, often suffers here on earth as a result of sin.  This has been true since the beginning of time.  Consider the consequences of the sin of Adam and Eve and the guilt placed on all future generations.

The same is true of nations.  Even the highly favored and blessed nation of Israel formed by God through the descendants of Jacob suffered earthly consequences for their sin and for continuing to turn their back on Jehovah God.  Having possessed the promised land through God’s mighty power, they shamelessly ignored His commands and even worshiped other gods.  Among others, God hand-picked Amos and Hosea, often referred to as minor prophets, to deliver His message of the impending doom for the northern kingdom of Israel.  The consequences of their sinful ways and their worship of foreign gods would lead them to a massive slaughter and a centuries long captivity.  Ultimately, the southern kingdom of Judah would also fall to the Babylonians as foretold by the prophet Jeremiah.  Judah too would be torn away from their homes only to live in exile for several generations at a later date.

Scripture:  All scripture references are taken from “The Chronological Study Bible” (TCSB), copyright 1997 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. unless otherwise noted.

Amos 2:4 – Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept His commandments.  Their lies lead them astray, lies which their fathers followed.”

Amos 2:6 – Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not turn away punishment … “

Amos 7:11 – For thus Amos has said: Jeroboam shall die by the sword, And Israel shall surely be led away captive from their own land.”

Hosea 1: 2-4 – When the Lord began to speak to Hosea, the Lord said to Hosea: “Go take yourself a wife of harlotry, for the land has committed great harlotry by departing from the Lord.” So he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son.  Then the Lord said to him: “Call his name Jezreel, for in a little while I will avenge the bloodshed of Jezreel on the house of Jehu, and bring an end to the kingdom of the house of Israel.”

Discussion:

Amos was one of the minor prophets and not the only one to severely chide Israel for their complacency regarding God’s commands.  Amos was from Judah, but he primarily spoke to Israel.  He foretold of God’s judgement that would surely come.  The ministry of Amos occurred before 753 B.C.  He was a sheep herder from Tekoa in Judah during the reign of king Uzziah.  At the same time Jeroboam II, the son of Joash, was the king of Israel.  Amos, chapters 1-2, records that God sent a vision to Amos regarding the transgressions and impending judgment for the surrounding nations of Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom and Ammon.  This would have been music to the ears of Judah and Israel.

But God and Amos did not stop there.  God also pronounced to Amos harsh judgment for His chosen people, both Israel and Judah.  In particular, Israel’s pride had swelled during Amos’ time because of their relatively minor military victories over Judah’s Lo Debar and Karnaim by their “own strength” (Amos 6:13).   Worst of all, Israel had continued to worship false gods.  Israel had been called to be God’s special people and to worship Yahweh alone.  God pronounced the destruction, slaughter and exile of Israel in Amos 9:8 – “Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are on the sinful kingdom, And I will destroy it from the face of the earth…”

Hosea was native to the northern kingdom of Israel.  Hosea spoke against the worship of false gods such as Baal and Asherah.  These were religions that promoted the worst kind of sexual behavior in their worship including prostitution, or as referred to by Hosea, harlotry.  Hosea had first-hand experience with that in his own family (see chapter one of Hosea).  He passionately pleaded with the unfaithful bride of God, Israel, to return from their harlotry or face the consequences.  Hosea foresees the fall, but he also sees and predicts Israel’s restoration when they ultimately return to God.

Just as God had so easily brought His children into the Promised Land, He removed them from that land and scattered them throughout the world.

Reflection:

God will not be mocked.  There are consequences to sin, both here and now and for eternity.  God’s righteousness demands it.  Could the same consequences God allowed to fall on Israel and Judah be true for America?  Could we be at the point in our history “when God has had enough?”  I for one believe that we are wearing God’s patience very, very thin.  When one, or a nation, continues to live in sin, never accepting God’s plan for forgiveness of sin, the eternal consequences are sad and dire.  But God does provide a way out of our dilemma.  He has provided His Son Jesus Christ as the deliverer from the consequences of our sin.  Americans need to turn to Jesus for salvation.  America must stand for what is right in the sight of God.  I pray that it is not too late for us.

God has promised us that He will heal our land.  But there are requirements.  God said “If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 – NKJV)

Christian, it is time that we take action and stand up to the world around us.  There is a price that the nations will pay for willful disobedience of God’s commands and the sinful worship of other gods.  Together we can make a difference.  Be bold in your witness and make His message known.

Oh, Heavenly Father, may I never be ashamed of my faith in You and have the courage to stand up and speak up for what is right in the sight of God!

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In His Own Image

Posted on December 27, 2011 by jimdavenport

Background:

The Bible says that God created man in His own image.  Why would God do this?  What does this actually mean?  Do we look like God?  Do we act like God?  If we are created in His own image, why don’t we have God’s powers?   These are questions, along with countless others, that have been pondered for thousands of years by men from all walks of life.  For this article, let’s focus on just one question:  Why would God create man in His own image?

Scripture:

Genesis 1:27 (KJV) – So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them.

Discussion:

Ever since his creation, man has attempted to describe and represent God in words and images that are based on man’s perspective and man’s physical/fleshly nature.  Master artists have even portrayed God as some sort of super human with a physical likeness to and the characteristics of man.  Countless writers have described God in human terms with which man can more easily identify and understand.  However, I am quite sure that man’s images and word descriptions of God don’t come close to adequately portraying Him and His true nature.

So, let’s look at the creation of man from God’s perspective.  God created man in His spiritual and moral image … not His physical image.  Man can think and reason.  Man has an inner sense of morality.  Man can grasp deep concepts.  Man has the ability to appreciate beauty and purity.  Man can make choices … right or wrong.

The Bible teaches that God wants a close relationship with man and desires to fellowship with him.  Revelation 3:20 says “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. I believe that this is the primary reason that God created man in His image … so that man may commune with God.  When Christians commune with God on a spiritual level, they share their most intimate thoughts and feelings with God.  God cares.  God understands.  God provides comfort, direction and leadership.  God communes with man.

Reflection:

Being created in His own image is such a wonderful gift!  Along with this gift God gave man a sacred responsibility to commune with Him.  I have to admit that far too often my relationship with God has been one-sided.

God sent His Son Jesus to die for me and save me from my sins.  Since accepting Jesus as my Savior, God has provided opportunity after opportunity to commune with Him on a personal basis.  God has favored me throughout my life.  He gave me Christian parents, a wonderful Christian wife, a devoted Christian son and Christian daughter-in-law, and loving Christian grandchildren.

Far too often I have either been too busy or too lazy to take my responsibility to commune with God seriously.  How about you?  Christian, as we enter a new year of opportunity, let’s take God’s promise seriously and eagerly open the door to commune with God!

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The Word Became Flesh – A Christmas Devotional

Posted on December 21, 2011 by jimdavenport

Background:

46F85E61-6A15-4EAC-A5A6-18203BC3D386Christmas is all about celebrating the birth of “Christ” Jesus … not Santa Claus, not giving and getting, not friends, not even family.  Not to say that the traditions that surround Christmas are unimportant.  But when our traditions interfere with or take the place of the true purpose of celebrating Christmas, we miss the whole point of Christmas.  The focus for Christians at Christmas should be on Christ and not traditions.  When Christ entered the world as a human baby He came from heaven to earth as the very specific living expression of His Father God.  In reality, God became Flesh through His Son Jesus.  This was God’s gift to man.  Through the life of Christ, God would show us and even speak to us all that He ever wanted us to know about Himself.

Scripture:

John 1:1-5, 10-12, 14 (NKJV)

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

Discussion:

The “Word” referred to by John is Jesus.  The Greek word for “Word” is “Logos.”  John also refers to God as the “Word” using the term “Logos.” The personhood of Jesus was there from the beginning along with God, as was the Holy Spirit.  So God=Jesus=Holy Spirit!  Christians refer to this three-personhood nature of God as the Holy Trinity.  The enormous gift from God was thus the gift of Himself.  The gift of Jesus was (and is) personal to each of us as individuals.  Through Jesus, God revealed (and continues to reveal) Himself to us.  As the source of all wisdom and knowledge, God communicates Himself to us through Jesus.  He is the Creator of all that was made.  He dwelt among us so that we could behold Him and His glory.  He alone is full of grace and truth.

If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, then you have the personhood of the Holy Spirit indwelling you.  There is no comparison of God’s gift of Jesus to any other gift.

Reflection:

Christian, as you celebrate Christmas don’t forget that the Word, Jesus, is the very specific living expression of His Father God.  As you give and receive gifts and enjoy your family and friends keep the focus on Jesus and the fact that The Word Became Flesh!

Has your life been transformed by the living Word, Jesus?  God still speaks to us today through His Son Jesus.  Are you plugged in?  Is Jesus your Lord and Savior?  If not, He can be!  Refer to the following link for help in accepting Jesus personally:

How to Become a Christian

 

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The Believer’s Sufficiency in Christ

Posted on November 30, 2011 by jimdavenport

Background:

One of my pastor friends, Dr. Terry Fields, once preached a sermon the gist of which was “we don’t know how good we have it.”  Paul wrote from prison to the church at Phillipi which he had visited on his second missionary journey (Acts 16).  Yes, Paul was in prison … wrongly accused … yet he wrote his letter of thankfulness for an offering that had been provided by the members of the church at Phillipi. As Paul closed his letter he related that Christians can rejoice even when steeped in turmoil and immense anxiety because Christ is the root of their strength.

Scripture:  (all KJV unless otherwise noted)

I have chosen three specific verses from chapter 4 for the purpose of this article, but the entirety of the chapter is rich and worth the reading.

Philippians 4:11; 4:13; 4:19 – 11Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.  13I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 19But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Discussion:

These verses in particular remind me of Christ’s sufficiency to strengthen and sustain us no matter the circumstances.  Christ lives and indwells the Christian through the presence of the Holy Spirit.  Verse 11 closes with the phrase “to be content.”  The state of contentment means a state of satisfaction … to be pleased, in the state of peaceful happiness.   Hebrews 13:5 (WBT) reads “Let your manner of life be without covetousness and “be content” with such things as ye have; for He hath said I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.”  What an eternal promise from a changeless Christ!  Why would I question this promise?

In verse 13 Paul confidently says he can do ALL things through Christ’s strength.   ALL doesn’t mean some, or part, or nearly everything … in the words of my current pastor, Dr. Keith Pisani, “ALL means ALL and that’s ALL that ALL can mean.”  Even in the toughest situations, Christ’s strength is sufficient. Without Him we can do nothing (John 15:5 – I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.).  The emphasis in this verse is not on “I”, nor “my” strength.  Rather it is through “Christ” Jesus and “His” strength that we can accomplish ALL things.  When we take on situations with our own strength, we are basically defenseless against evil and the wiles of the devil.  Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”  You see, we can’t do it, but God can!  And He should receive the glory … not us.

In verse 19 Paul adds his final encouragement to his beloved brothers saying that God will supply everything they need.  No matter how impossible situations may seem God is able to overcome.

Reflection:

God, and God alone, is due ALL of the glory for what He accomplishes through the Christian.  Glory heaped on the Christian for his accomplishments is grossly misplaced.  Paul is clearly saying that God is the “source” and “provider” for all our needs.  We are only the “pipeline” through which God works. The believer has sufficiency in Christ … and there is sufficiency in none other.  Why would we depend on ourselves when we have the promise of the Master of the Universe that He alone is sufficient?

So in closing, do you agree with Dr. Fields bold statement that “we don’t know how good we have it.”  I, for one, can truly say that I identify with this truth.

I recently wrote another article titled “Do!” based on selected verses in Philippians 4 that you can read by following this link: https://jimdavenport.wordpress.com/2011/11/23/do/

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Blessings in Disguise* – a Thanksgiving Devotional

Posted on November 24, 2011 by jimdavenport

20 Additional Thanksgiving Devotionals may be found at this link.

Special Note: This article is included in Jim’s book “Christian Devotions & Quick Studies” along with 33 other articles and is available for purchase in Hardback, Paperback and eBook formats at this link:  Jim’s Books

Devotion:

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Ephesians 5:20 (KJV)

We find it so easy to thank God for the flowers, the springtime, the gentle winds, and the good health we enjoy.  Very few of us, however, find ourselves thanking God, also, for the storms, the wintertime, the nighttime, and the sickroom experiences along the way.

Yet, these latter experiences are likely to have wrapped up within themselves life’s richest blessings.  In thanking God for “all things,” have you thought to thank Him, too, for the hard things of life?

Fanny Crosby’s greatest blessing came through blindness; John Bunyan’s greatest contribution was made possible by imprisonment; Beethoven’s sublimest compositions were impelled by deafness.  Many of our most useful inventions were born from direct experiences.  The world’s greatest gift, salvation, would never have come except Gethsemane, Golgotha, and the open grave.

Let us search for the hidden blessing of every such experience.

Father, help me accept life’s storms as rich blessings.

*Source:  Open Windows – Author:  Chester Swor – deceased; evangelist and popular speaker at students; dean of men and assistant professor, Mississippi College; author.  Originally published November 21, 1941 – reprinted in Open Windows in Fall, 2011 edition for November 25, 2011 daily devotion.

Reflection:

I often use the Open Windows devotional guide as an inspirational resource for my personal daily devotion.  I’ve reproduced one of these devotions above because it says so much in such a few words.  It has indeed inspired me to be thankful for ALL things.  At times I have been so focused on “asking” in my prayer life that I have often neglected to thank God for “the storms, the wintertime, the nighttime, and the sickroom experiences” that my wife and I have faced over the years.

On this Thanksgiving day 2011, as you gather around your table with your family for a prayer of Thanksgiving will you also include thanks for the Blessings in Disguise that God has used to shape and mold your life?  I certainly intend to do so!!  Thank you “Open Windows,” and thank you Chester Swor, for this short but powerful devotional gem.

Father, forgive me for focusing so much of my prayer life to asking and so little to thanking you for the blessings of life’s storms.

Related Articles by Jim Davenport:

Other Christian Articles by Jim Davenport:

Southern Gospel Music by The Good News:

  • Listen to The Good News – includes over 2 hours of southern gospel music recorded by The Good News quartet; once you are there scroll down and click on the tune you want to hear. Share “the good news” from The Good News with your friends.

Special Note:  Jim has a number of books available for purchase in Hardback, Paperback and eBook formats at this link:  Jim’s Books

 

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“Do!” – A Call to Right Christian Action

Posted on November 23, 2011 by jimdavenport

Background:

What a simple two letter word … “do” … yet it seems that to “do” what is right is one of the most difficult things for man to achieve.  “Do” can take on so many meanings so let’s narrow it down to three basic definitions:

  1. perform – practice, accomplish, act, put into action, complete, achieve, make, execute, carry out, get something done
  2. fix – prepare, organize, ensure, see to, sort out, look after, make sure of
  3. solve – resolve, work out, figure out, puzzle out

Why is it so hard for man to “do” what is right?  An easy answer is that while God created man in His own image, He also gave man the ability to choose.  One can conclude that it’s by choice that man makes most of his own decisions and turns those into his own actions.  The choice to “do” the easy thing, the convenient thing, the popular thing, the tempting thing, the thing that seems right unto man … almost always results in a poor choice.  On the other hand, the choice to “do” what is right, what is Godly, what is scriptural, what is tough, what is not convenient, what is not popular … always results in a good choice.

Paul was so thankful for his friends at the church at Philippi.  They had provided him a special offering to support him while he was in prison.  Though Paul was undergoing such tough circumstances he wrote a powerful and positive letter of thankfulness to the Philippians encouraging his dear friends to put into action those Godly things that they had recently experienced.  His words to the Philippians ring true in my ears even today.  They are God’s words and are inspired by God Himself.

Scripture:

All scripture is KJV unless otherwise noted:

Philippians 4:8-9 – 8Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  9Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do, and the God of peace shall be with you.

Discussion:

Let’s break down these two verses by doing a word study to discover the full meaning of Paul’s advice.  In the context of these verses, each of these words describes an attribute of Christ that His followers are to emulate as His children who are created in His image.

  • true – true as to fact; true and in accordance with God’s Word; not man’s perverted and selfish view of what is true; God is the final test of what is true and what is right;
  • honest – the focus is on what is “right” in God’s sight … honest based on God’s honesty, not man’s; not determined by man’s definition of honesty which is so often clouded by situational ethics and/or convenience.  2 Corinthians 8:21 says in part … “not only in the sight of the Lord but also in the sight of man.”
  • just – “… that which is altogether just shalt thou follow …” Deuteronomy 16:20; “just” as defined by God who wants what is best for man; man’s justice is often perverted by man’s desire for vengeance and getting even; God sets the standard; see 1 John 3:7-8 – “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.  He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.”
  • pure – not tainted with foreign matter; highest in quality; unadulterated; refined; holy; see James 3:17 – “… wisdom that is from above is first pure.”
  • lovely – what is pleasing, agreeable, attractive; in the context of Phil. 4:9, pure and attractive as in Jesus is “lovely”; the root of the word is love (charity) which is so well-defined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.  Lovely means much more than good looks.  It encompasses the idea of long-suffering, kindness, unselfishness, wanting the best for the one who is the object of the affection; this type of love never fails, is full of hope, and endures to the end.
  • of good report – speaks well of someone; a deserved reputation. 1 Samuel 2:24 relates that a lack of good report leads to sin and transgression; God alone is good; we will stand before Him and be judged according to God’s standards and His mercy; “There is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12b).
  • virtue – excellence as in moral virtue; what else needs to be said?
  • praise – not the praise of men; every attribute and act of God is praiseworthy; Isaiah 38:19 “The living, the living—they praise you, as I am doing today; parents tell their children about your faithfulness”; see also Psalm 22:25, Romans 2:29, and John 12:43.
  • think – think as in “program your minds” by consistently recalling these attributes; incorporate them into your every response; concentrate on clean thoughts.
  • learned – acquired by experience; read or observed in another.
  • received – incorporated into one’s own self; to receive into one’s mind.
  • heard – to understand; to perceive; to give ear to a teaching; to comprehend.
  • seen in me – seen in action in the life of Jesus; observed in another (in this case Paul) and know that it is right.
  • do – to act with the mind of Christ in you; to practice continuously; done with the idea of getting better at it overtime; to perfect; to exercise.

Reflection:

In Philippians 4:8-9 Paul exhorts Christ’s followers to develop a Christian thought life and then “Do!”  Paul’s focus is not at all on the flesh.  The focus is on Christ and Christians emulating Him through their actions.  Christ put God’s Word into action in every aspect of His life.  All power belongs to God (Psalm 62:11), the Master and Creator of everything.  “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:3).  Man had no part in God’s creation.  The power belongs totally to God.  He gives power to man for His reasons … not ours.  And He admonishes us through his servant, Paul, to “think” and “Do!”

In closing, Paul’s teaching is diametrically opposed to that of the “the power of positive thinking” gospel popularized by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and countless others.  Neither is it akin to the “health and wealth” and “name it and claim it” movements commercialized by so many TV evangelists.

Consider these lessons derived from this brief scripture passage:

  • As a disciple and pupil of Christ, things are learned by devoting one’s self to the Master Teacher, Jesus Christ.
  • Guard what goes through your mind and comes out in your actions.  Keep it clean and pure.
  • Do!  Put into practice the things you have learned and know to be true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, are virtuous, and result in praise of and to the Lord God Almighty.

How does your thought life stack up with that described in this passage?  What kind of things do you think about?  What kind of actions do you regularly “do”?  Are your choices based on doing what is right in the sight of God?

Final note:  Friend, if you find yourself unable to “think” and “Do!” as it is described herein, perhaps it is because you haven’t yet taken the first step by accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and the Lord of your life.  I invite you to follow this link for advice on how to do so:  https://jimdavenport.wordpress.com/2011/03/05/how-to-become-a-christian/.

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Seven Keys to Successful Christian Living

Posted on November 16, 2011 by jimdavenport

Special Note: This article is included in Jim’s book “Christian Devotions & Quick Studies” along with 33 other articles and is available for purchase in Hardback, Paperback and eBook formats at this link:  Jim’s Books

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Background:

Paul wrote the first of two letters to the Thessalonians soon after his rather short stay in Thessalonica where he preached in the local Synagogue on three successive Sabbaths.  Paul preached that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, which so many had long been seeking.

Luke provides a brief synopsis of Paul’s Thessalonian ministry in Acts 17:1-10.  As a result of Paul’s convincing preaching “Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women (Acts 17:4 NIV).”  Disagreeing vehemently with Paul’s teachings, some jealous Jews “rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city (Acts 17:5 NIV).”  Under darkness, Paul and Silas were sent away to Berea by their new-found Thessalonian brothers for their personal safety.  Because of his brief stay Paul was moved to write his letter to commend the Lord’s followers for standing steadfast in their faith in the midst of such turmoil and ridicule.  Paul explicitly reminded them of the Godly truths he taught them while they were together.

As Paul closed out his letter, he seized the opportunity to clear up some doctrinal questions the church had regarding Christ’s return.  Paul provided  seven keys for successful Christian living that applied so well in that day and still do for modern-day Christians who are living in the turmoil and ridicule of today’s society.

Scripture: 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (KJV)

16Rejoice evermore.  17Pray without ceasing.  18In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.  19Quench not the Spirit.  20Despise not prophesyings.  21Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  22Abstain from all appearance of evil.  23And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  24Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Discussion:

Key #1 – Rejoice evermore.  Be positive and enthusiastic in our faith and actions.  Be joyful as Christians have no reason to be sad.

Key #2 – Pray without ceasing.  Pray continuously and not sporadically or just in times of trouble.

Key #3 – In everything give thanks.  It is God’s will that we give thanks.  We don’t have to pray for His guidance here.  Giving thanks is His will … even in tough situations!!

Key #4 – Quench not the Spirit.  This is key to the other rules.  Quenching the Holy Spirit has dangerous consequences.  Quenching interferes with the successful application of the other six rules.  Quenching is like putting out a fire abruptly.  Christians at all levels have a special responsibility to protect the “spirit” of the church, the Christian school, Christian institutions of higher learning such as colleges and universities, and other Christian organizations.  Let the Holy Spirit do His work.  Don’t try to do it for Him.  It is His work … not ours!

Key #5 – Despise not prophesyings.  The prophets were inspired to preach and to teach.  Their teaching was inspired directly by God … not man.  At the time of this writing, the New Testament was not yet available.  “Despising” the preached word of God (as so many choose to do) in and of itself would quench the Spirit.

Key #6 – Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  To prove is to test.  We are to choose “right” no matter the cost.  What is “right” is defined in God’s Word and is not subject to man’s definition.  We should NEVER, repeat NEVER, support decisions of convenience that are in conflict with God’s Word.

Key #7 – Abstain from all appearances of evil.  As my pastor regularly says, “All is all, and that is all that all can mean.”  The Christian is to stay away from places and practices where it could appear that we agree with some form of evil and/or sinfulness in opposition to what the Word teaches.

Reflection:

Christian, are you going through turbulent times because of your beliefs?  Persecution is inevitable when you stand for what is right in the Word of God.  Paul’s advice to the church at Thessalonica rings true for you as well.

Verse 24 provides the Christian absolute assurance that God will not let you down … under any circumstances!  Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it! You can be positive that God has called you for a purpose.  He is the source of your strength and power.  You are simply the conduit for God to work in this world.  There is no need to question any of God’s promises.  Why not plug into these seven keys for successful Christian living as we await the return of our Lord Jesus Christ?

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Lifestyle Choices and Biblical Truth

Posted on November 4, 2011 by jimdavenport

Background:

Our modern 21st century society is in a dangerous downward moral spiral.  The definition of what is right and what is wrong has become a situational and individual decision.  Sadly, this is true of not only our general society, but agonizingly true of so many Christians.  Unfortunately, otherwise Godly Christian leaders have fallen prey to believe in situational ethics by supporting lifestyle choices that are diametrically opposed to what God’s Word teaches.

Discussion:

Man has always tried to tell God what to do with lifestyle choices. In nearly every case this has led to disaster (i.e., the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the great flood, the Babylonian captivity, etc.).  Man seems to think that he knows better than God what is right, what is wrong, and how he is supposed to act.  In effect, man has determined his own set of rules and his own definition of sin.  So, never mind that God gave man the Bible as His guide for men’s lives.

Absolutely nothing regarding the definition of sin is left out of the Bible and little is subject to misinterpretation if a born again Christian seeks the leadership of the Holy Spirit for His understanding.  But man has insisted on making his own set of rules, many of which contradict God’s rules.  For example:

  • The Bible teaches purity in our speech, yet I regularly observe Christians acting like society in general by using profanity, passing along lewd jokes, and profaning the name of God.  Our movies, radio and TV are full of cursing and the FCC even allows seven acceptable curse words. What are we teaching our youngsters?  James 3:9-12  (NIV) 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
  • The Bible has so much to say about drinking alcohol in verse after verse.  I believe that the Bible teaches that abstinence is the proper way for a Christian to handle alcohol.  I realize that I am going against what a lot of even many of my devoted Christian friends believe.  But I would ask you to consider the impact that drinking alcohol has on our children and our society in general.  I will spend more time on alcohol and the use of illegal drugs in a future post.  That is not the primary point of this article.  For now refer to Proverbs 23:29-35 for significant Biblical advice from Solomon on the subject by clicking the following link. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2023:29-35&version=NIV
  • The Bible teaches purity in our sexual relationships. Hebrews 13:4 (ESV) Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Society in general and even some misguided Christians accept premarital sex and co-habitation prior to marriage as normal behavior.  More than 50% of “couples” now live together and engage in sex prior to wedlock.  In addition, the family unit is falling apart as marriage partners are not faithful to each other and engage in adulterous acts.  Proverbs 6:32 (ESV) He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.  Children suffer economic, social and spiritual deprivation in single parent homes because of the infidelity of their parents.
  • The Bible teaches that homosexuality is a sin, yet USA law says that homosexuality is an acceptable lifestyle that should not be discriminated against in any way form or fashion.  Man says it is a lifestyle choice.  It has become an acceptable way of life even to many Christians. 1 Timothy 1:8-11(NIV) 8 We know that the law is good if one uses it properly. 9 We also know that the law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, 10 for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine 11 that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
  • The Bible teaches that abortion is a sin and that the sanctity of life (including that of the unborn child) is precious, yet man has decided that abortion is not a sin and has legalized the genocide of countless millions.  On the one hand, man has agreed with God that murder is a sin and a punishable crime even unto death here on earth . Yet man has also decided that aborting (in my opinion murdering) an unborn child is not murder and thus not a sin and is legal (see my article on sanctity of life at this link for additional discussion – https://jimdavenport.wordpress.com/2011/01/25/on-the-sanctity-of-life-and-abortion/).

Scripture:

The Bible speaks very specifically to those who reject its Truth and lean on their own preferences and understanding with regard to lifestyle choices.  Consider these representative scriptural passages which condemn wrong choices and encourage Christians to stand firm against the persecution they will receive for choosing to do what is right:

  • Proverbs 14:11 (NASB) – There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
  • Jude 1:17-25 (NASB) – “But you, beloved, ought to remember the words that were spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they were saying to you, “In the last time there will be mockers, following after their own ungodly lusts.” These are the ones who cause divisions, worldly-minded, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh. Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” 
  • 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NASB) – Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Reflection:

Those who stand for what is right in the sight of God are often ridiculed and persecuted for holding to their convictions and what the Bible teaches. Have you observed the outcry when churches and other Christian based institutions take a stand for what is right and speak out against non-Biblical lifestyle choices?  The opposition unites and moves into high gear and loudly and collectively attacks the character of those standing for right living.  At times, even well-meaning Christians fall into the trap of ridicule as they condemn the stand in order to support their friends and family members to “keep the peace” or “not rock the boat” or elevate their idea of morality above that taught by Bible.  In every case, ignoring or passively supporting man’s poor lifestyle choices over what God’s Word teaches eventually leads to the general decay of our morals and the degeneration of our society.

I believe the Bible is indeed God’s inerrant and infallible Word and that it provides the blueprint for how man should make his lifestyle choices.   Man will surely suffer the consequences when he disobeys God’s Word.  Christians should set the example by standing firm on God’s Word and by doing what is right to the glory of God before their family, their church, and their community regardless of the opposition and public opinion.  Rest assured that the persecution of the Christian will come, but God will provide the strength to withstand ALL of the opposition.

As Christians, we should point people to Jesus whenever we are given the chance.  We should not use profanity.  We should avoid the snares of alcohol and drugs.  We should remain sexually pure, oppose homosexuality, and oppose abortion.  We should seek to glorify God in all of our lifestyle choices.

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Revisiting … “On Christians Spreading Rumors and Gossip in the Church”

Posted on October 28, 2011 by jimdavenport

Special Note: This article is included in Jim’s book “Christian Devotions & Quick Studies” along with 33 other articles and is available for purchase in Hardback, Paperback and eBook formats at this link:  Jim’s Books

Background:

Since I wrote and posted my original blog “On Christians Spreading Rumors and Gossip in the Church” in early June, 2011, (On Christians Spreading Rumors and Gossip in the Church) it has by far become the most visited article in my collection. That tells me something … the problem of spreading rumors and gossip in the local church must be very troubling to a significant number of people.  So I have decided to add some additional insight and scriptures on the topic for those who are seeking guidance on how to best deal with such a problem in their local church.

Based on feedback I have received regarding the post some seem to be a little confused as to what actually constitutes “gossip” and “rumors”.  The Hebrew word for “gossip” is lashon hara which means an evil tongue and generally refers to a making a critical/derogatory remark or statement about someone.  Even if the gossip has an element of truth, the Bible clearly teaches we should guard our tongues and intentionally refrain from spreading that gossip.  Lashon hara is serious business to Jews and it is serious business to God Almighty.  Gossip is related in many aspects to slander and even man’s laws treat the act of slander and defamation of character very seriously.  The Bible is chock full of condemnation and advice on spreading rumors and gossip.  It is an age-old problem and it can destroy the mission and witness of the local church.

Scriptures (all NIV unless otherwise noted):

Below are some additional scriptures not addressed in my previous post.   In these verses Solomon repeatedly provides advice for his son Rehoboam and to us in the book of Proverbs;  Moses expounds on how spreading false reports violates the Law; Paul provides advice to the new converts in the church at Thessalonica; Nehemiah relates how his enemies used twisted lies to attempt to subvert him while he led the successful rebuilding of the walls of the city of Jerusalem in just fifty-two days; David repeatedly shows his heart toward lying and guarding our tongue in his Psalms.

  • Proverbs 20:19 – A gossip betrays a confidence;   so avoid anyone who talks too much.
  • Proverbs 16:28 – A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.
  • Proverbs 18:7-8 –  The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives.  The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.
  • Proverbs 21:23 – Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.
  • Exodus 23:1 – Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness.
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 – and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
  • Nehemiah 6:12-13 –  “I realized that God had not sent him, but that he had prophesied against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 He had been hired to intimidate me so that I would commit a sin by doing this, and then they would give me a bad name to discredit me.”
  • Psalm 5:9 – Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice.  Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies.
  • Psalm 15:2-3 – The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others.
  • Psalm 34:12-13 – Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.
  • Additional verses for those wishing to dig further into the topic: Psalms 17:3; Psalms 59:12-13; Psalms 101:5; Prov 8:13; Prov 15:4; Prov 16:28; Prov 20:19

Discussion:

The above verses speak for themselves.  But I am also reminded of an additional situation faced by one of God’s champions.  In Genesis 37:2-36; 39:1-23 the Bible records a remarkable event in the life of young Joseph in Egypt.   Joseph’s spotless reputation and character was stolen as a result of the intentional gossip and lies by Potiphar’s wife and her servants.   Yet, Joseph remained faithful and obedient to God rather than become angry and vindictive.  Do you identify with this?  If this happened to you would you follow Joseph’s example or would you work to get even?   Just look at the results of Joseph’s choice to be obedient in honoring God.  God’s favor remained with him and stayed on him though he was wrongly imprisoned and over time Joseph continued to prosper.

Let’s face it, when we gossip, listen to gossip and/or spread rumors we are knowingly participating in and condoning a destructive purpose that can result in character assassination.  Could it be that the gossiper has a need to feel good about themselves by disparaging the character and reputation of others?  I most certainly think so!

Reflection:

Jesus faced and dealt directly with the Pharisees in their attempts to trap him with His own words.  Matthew (22:15-22) and Mark (3:1-6)  record these events in their gospels.  Jesus called them hypocrites in Matthew and Mark says that Jesus “looked around at them in anger and (was) deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts …”  I believe this is how Jesus looks at us when we participate in spreading gossip and rumors.

If you didn’t read my first post on this subject, then I encourage you to do so by clicking on the link mentioned in the first paragraph of this blog.

Related  Articles by Jim Davenport on this subject:

See all of Jim’s Books.

Other Christian Articles by Jim Davenport:

Southern Gospel Music by The Good News:

  • Listen to The Good News – includes over 2 hours of southern gospel music recorded by The Good News quartet; once you are there scroll down and click on the tune you want to hear. Share “the good news” from The Good News with your friends.
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