Today’s Passage: “Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” Proverbs 31:10-12
Most of us are familiar with Proverbs 31:10-31 and the qualities that God values in a woman. I ask you to travel with me through this well-known passage as we study the qualities of a virtuous woman in depth throughout the next couple of weeks if the Lord wills. Perhaps new insight will be gained along the journey. At the very least, it does no harm in reviewing familiar passages to ensure that they are fresh on our minds as we travel through our daily lives seeking to please God as Christian women. Please note that although this passage refers to a virtuous wife and mother, the lesson is applicable to every Christian woman, regardless of marital or family status.
The “Virtuous Woman” text beginning in verse 10 was written as an alphabetic acrostic in which the verses of each stanza begin with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet in order. Below is a very simplistic example of the same idea in English. Please forgive me as this is my first venture into acrostic poetry!
Always am I honored
By your willingness to study and your
Concern for God’s will in your lives.
Deeply and humbly I feel towards
Every woman who reads these devotionals…
As you can see, the first letter of each line begins with a letter of the alphabet (A-E) and would continue on until the letter Z. In the Hebrew alphabet, there are 22 letters, hence 22 lines from Proverbs 31:10-31. Acrostic poetry is used often in the Bible, especially in the Psalms. For example, Psalm 119 begins each stanza with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet from beginning to end (Aleph, Beth, and so on through Tav).
Although some of the beauty of the Hebrew poetry in its original language has been lost in translation, we know that God’s “divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue” II Peter 1:3. Since this knowledge comes through the study of His Word, we know that the things He revealed have been kept intact throughout the various languages in which the Bible is available today, though we should take caution to ensure that the translation we study is as close to the original as it can be. In fact, comparison of various texts is generally a good way to develop a better understanding of the meaning. The translation used in the study today is the New King James version unless otherwise specified.
Before we begin, a definition of “virtuous” is in order. The American Heritage dictionary defines virtuous as “having or showing virtue, especially moral excellence” and “possessing or characterized by chastity; pure”. Moral excellence and purity are key thoughts throughout the twenty verses describing a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31.
Proverbs 31:10 - “Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.”
This verse shows how difficult it was to find a virtuous wife in the days of old and indeed this question can apply today. Matthew Henry wrote in his Commentary on the Whole Bible Volume III, “This intimates that good women are very scarce, and many that seem to be so do not prove so.” How true that statement is! Those of you who are raising teenagers surely know how difficult it is to keep them pure and godly though they face immorality, promiscuity and indecency wherever they turn. Having written that, I should mention that it is sometimes no less difficult to keep ourselves from being conformed to the lusts of the world.
Yet we know that such a woman can be found if she is striving to be a woman approved by God. When she is found, she is worth more than costly jewels or all of the money in the world; for she is a Christian woman who will bring honor to her husband and raise her children to follow the Lord. How wonderful to be labeled a virtuous woman and to be considered a rare gem!
Proverbs 31:11 - “The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.”
The first quality that we should have as Christian women is trustworthiness. If our spouses, friends or family (as applicable to your situation) cannot trust us because we are dishonest, we will be unable to develop any virtuous qualities in our relationship. Note that “lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight” (Proverbs 12:22) and “an honest answer is like a kiss on the lips” (Proverbs 24:26 NIV). No friendship or marriage can be happily sustained if its foundation is not built on truth.
Not only can the husband in this verse trust his wife to be honest, he can trust her with his money. Reading further, we see that “he will have no lack of gain”. Several commentators describe this to mean that his wife can be trusted with his earnings so that he does not have to make a living in underhanded ways. The seriousness of our ability to use our money wisely is indicated by the suggestion of the husband turning to dishonest gain. Certainly, the husband would be accountable for his own actions, but how many men’s lives have been ruined by the unchaste behavior or lack of good stewardship exhibited by their wives?
The next sentence states that “she does him good and not evil all the days of her life”. It is a shame to see couples who are at odds with each other belittle their spouse to others. I have been privy to conversations that should have been kept behind closed doors. Certainly, this does not mean that couples should not seek the counsel of other Christians or a marriage counselor, but it is not Christ-like to publicly air one’s “dirty laundry”. Doing so can only bring shame to the other party and will seek to further drive a wedge into the relationship.
No matter how unhappy we are with our marriage, we should seek to show Christ’s love by doing good to our husband instead of seeking to tear him down. The same can be said of children who demean their parents or parents who continually criticize their children in front of others. It is paramount for us to remember Jesus’ sacrifice as Paul reminds us in Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” When Christ was being spit upon, He remained silent. When He was nailed to the cross, He prayed for man’s forgiveness. How then can we feel justified in speaking ill of our loved ones because they are “mean to us” if Christ looked upon those who were crucifying with compassion?
We should read Proverbs 31 on a regular basis to remind ourselves of God’s standard for His children. We are instructed to do our husbands good and not evil every day of our lives. That is indeed quite a high standard, but one which we should all strive to meet.
Thankfully, if we find ourselves as Christians having fallen short of this standard (and who could claim to have never failed to do good to her spouse throughout her marriage or to her parents throughout her childhood?), we are given the opportunity to learn of God’s will through the Word, consider our attitudes and actions, confess our sins to the Lord and make adjustments to our lives as necessary. Every day should be spent seeking to do good to others.
Let us end with another very simple acrostic: JOY.
Jesus
Others
Yourself
By putting God first and others second, we have much less time to worry about our own selfish desires. By finding the true joy that comes being women of great worth, valuable more than rubies, we may soon realize that our husband or family member’s attitude toward us has changed and that their heart can indeed safely trust us.
God bless you in your unique journey as you seek to be a virtuous woman, morally excellent and pure. May we all benefit from daily study in His Word and discover the great riches that He has promised us if we are obedient to the gospel and remain faithful until the end.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Trials of Life and the Joys Therein
Today’s Passage: “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12
Oftentimes, I have a devotional planned but then life happens and something else is foremost on my mind. This week, as I have witnessed friends struggling with adversity, health issues or other trials, I have been reminded of a few passages in the Scriptures that have helped us make it past the darkness and back into the light. I share these thoughts with you in the hopes that they will comfort you when you are faced with difficulty. You may consider printing it and sharing it with someone who is undergoing trials so that they may review the passages contained herein and be encouraged by God’s Word and your concern for their situation.
1. Trials are temporary.
It may seem that we are facing a trial that is neverending, but we can take comfort in the fact that there will be an end to our pain if we trust in the Lord. An end to suffering may come in our earthly lives as it did to Job when children were born and possessions were restored to him. No doubt he missed the children that he had lost and thought of them for his entire earthly existence, though he was blessed with more children and greater possessions than he had owned previously. Job was a very special man who kept his faith in God and never gave up even in the direst of circumstances, even though at times he felt the human emotions of fear and loneliness. Job stated, “Terrors overwhelm me; my dignity is driven away as by the wind, my safety vanishes like a cloud. And now my life ebbs away; days of suffering grip me.” Job 30:15-17. This was surely a man with whom we can relate when overwhelming trials seem to be all we know for a time and I find the reading of Job to be comforting during troubling times.
James also advised that our life of earthly struggles is not forever in James 4:14: “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away”. The trials of this life, though difficult to bear sometimes, are only temporary if we have been saved and follow the Lord’s commandments faithfully.
2. Every child of God faces difficulties.
This statement is very key to answering the question of, “Why me?” The first century Christians faced death in terrible ways such as in the Roman coliseum, in prison, by the hand of soldiers or by an angry mob. The Bible tells us that James was put to death by Herod likely beheaded as was John the Baptist. Various historical accounts detail the death of the other apostles and if they are correct, Peter and Andrew were crucified (Peter possibly head downward), Thomas was speared and James Alpheus thrown from the temple, stoned and then bludgeoned to death. It is suggested that Bartholomew was flayed with a whip. Though we cannot know for sure what happened to the apostles other than James and Judas Iscariot, we can be sure that many of them suffered and were killed for preaching the gospel as James and John were told in Matthew 20:23 (“You will indeed drink from my cup”). Jesus also told his disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" John 16:33. One thing that we do not see in Jesus’ life is the question, “Why me?” Though He did not desire to be persecuted, Jesus prayed to God, “May your will be done” Matthew 26:42.
Paul also suffered for the gospel. God said of Paul, “I will show him how much he must suffer for my name" Acts 9:16. Paul gave a long list of things he had suffered for the gospel (II Corinthians 11:23-33) but he gives us hope when he summarizes by stating, “…That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
3. Suffering does not necessarily mean that we are more sinful than someone else.
Some feel that certain people’s struggles (i.e., natural disasters) are a result of their sins, and certainly sin can lead to consequences; however, the presence of suffering does not in itself indicate the presence of sinfulness. Christ and his disciples’ suffering in the examples above should quickly clear up any doubt on that issue. Furthermore, Jesus responded to the people who believed that Galileans who were persecuted must have been sinful, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”
We should be careful to follow God’s will but we should be just as careful to ensure that we do not judge a person’s soul by the suffering that he or she undergoes. We should look upon others’ plights with compassion, in a spirit of love and concern. When undergoing trials ourselves, we should take comfort in the fact that God sees our suffering and will answer in His time and that we are not being punished for being “bad” because we were stricken with a disease or lost a beloved family member.
4. Only through suffering can we mature.
There are many passages that discuss sufferings as a means of purification and growth in the Lord. A very meaningful passage for Christians who are experiencing trials is Romans 5:3-5: "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope." The patience we learn from undergoing trials will help us build character and this gives us hope through Christ’s sufferings and His example of hope. Further, those around us can be inspired to endure their own trials as several of my fellow cancer patients have served as models of perseverance in my life and have reminded me of spiritual blessings during my own journey. Never doubt the incredible example that you can be to others as indeed many of you have been for me.
5. Our sufferings for Christ will be rewarded.
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” James 1:12. What an amazing message to us! No matter how difficult our test, we shall be filled with peace and comfort when we receive God’s crown of life and what a beloved thought that God will reward us for our perseverance, though we are weak and fail him so often. This verse encourages me to get up off of my seat of pity and remember what God has in store for me if I endure. I could never deserve such a gift as this.
The beloved disciple of Christ, James, continues this thought in James 5:11: “As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.” Blessed be the Lord God whom we serve! He does not leave us alone in our sufferings but instead guides us along our journey. We are reminded in this passage of Job’s patience as we discussed earlier.
6. Jesus empathizes with us.
We serve a Christ who is not unable to relate to us, but instead who was persecuted and was tempted just as we are. Luke 17:25 states, “But first he (Christ) must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.” Christ was subjected to more sufferings than we can imagine and by His example and His willingness to serve as a mediator for us, we can overcome our sufferings as well.
7. Our fear can be overcome through Christ.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” I John 4:18. Perfect love is that which God showed for us when He sent Christ to die for us that we might be saved and live forever in heaven with Him. This perfect love should cast away doubt and fear from our minds, even when facing an enormous battle, for we know that God is on our side. And “if God is for us, who can be against us”? Romans 8:31.
Again we can know freedom from fear even while suffering for good: “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear what they fear’; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” 1 Peter 3:13-15
8. God cares for us.
Paul encourages the Christians in Corinth that, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” I Corinthians 10:13. God cares for us and does not want us to fail!
This thought is presented further in I Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God does not want us to suffer but due to the sin that came into the world through mankind as a result of ignoring God’s commandments, we live in an imperfect and troublesome world. Yet He does not intend for us to stay in this present state forever because He cares for us. What a joyful thought indeed!
9. The Spirit intercedes for us as we pray to God.
God also has not left us alone in our prayers. Jesus serves to mediate between God and man in our prayers and the Spirit of God intercedes on our behalf if we are living in the light. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” God has is always with us!
10. Bad situations can lead to good outcomes.
One of the most quoted passages in the Bible is very fitting as we think of our present sufferings. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28. Even though we may suffer now, we can know that good can come of the situation. The death of a child may bring about the salvation of a parent. Disease can lead to the repentance of a wayward Christian. Regardless of the circumstance and how hopeless it may seem at the time, God is in control and knows how to rescue us from eternal harm if we trust and obey.
11. Heaven will be worth it all.
Our study cannot end without the consideration that heaven will be worth any trouble we encounter on this earth. Romans 8:18 is a powerful passage: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us”.
And finally, let us consider Revelation 14:13 and the fruition of our faith and trust in our beloved Jehovah. “Then I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.’” Revelation 14:13. Praise God and Hallelujah for our future home in heaven with the saved of the earth and the Lord God Almighty!
May you find peace and comfort in these passages. If you have a special need, I would be honored to add you to my prayer list. Contact me at saintschic@comcast.net. God be with you!
Amy
Oftentimes, I have a devotional planned but then life happens and something else is foremost on my mind. This week, as I have witnessed friends struggling with adversity, health issues or other trials, I have been reminded of a few passages in the Scriptures that have helped us make it past the darkness and back into the light. I share these thoughts with you in the hopes that they will comfort you when you are faced with difficulty. You may consider printing it and sharing it with someone who is undergoing trials so that they may review the passages contained herein and be encouraged by God’s Word and your concern for their situation.
1. Trials are temporary.
It may seem that we are facing a trial that is neverending, but we can take comfort in the fact that there will be an end to our pain if we trust in the Lord. An end to suffering may come in our earthly lives as it did to Job when children were born and possessions were restored to him. No doubt he missed the children that he had lost and thought of them for his entire earthly existence, though he was blessed with more children and greater possessions than he had owned previously. Job was a very special man who kept his faith in God and never gave up even in the direst of circumstances, even though at times he felt the human emotions of fear and loneliness. Job stated, “Terrors overwhelm me; my dignity is driven away as by the wind, my safety vanishes like a cloud. And now my life ebbs away; days of suffering grip me.” Job 30:15-17. This was surely a man with whom we can relate when overwhelming trials seem to be all we know for a time and I find the reading of Job to be comforting during troubling times.
James also advised that our life of earthly struggles is not forever in James 4:14: “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away”. The trials of this life, though difficult to bear sometimes, are only temporary if we have been saved and follow the Lord’s commandments faithfully.
2. Every child of God faces difficulties.
This statement is very key to answering the question of, “Why me?” The first century Christians faced death in terrible ways such as in the Roman coliseum, in prison, by the hand of soldiers or by an angry mob. The Bible tells us that James was put to death by Herod likely beheaded as was John the Baptist. Various historical accounts detail the death of the other apostles and if they are correct, Peter and Andrew were crucified (Peter possibly head downward), Thomas was speared and James Alpheus thrown from the temple, stoned and then bludgeoned to death. It is suggested that Bartholomew was flayed with a whip. Though we cannot know for sure what happened to the apostles other than James and Judas Iscariot, we can be sure that many of them suffered and were killed for preaching the gospel as James and John were told in Matthew 20:23 (“You will indeed drink from my cup”). Jesus also told his disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" John 16:33. One thing that we do not see in Jesus’ life is the question, “Why me?” Though He did not desire to be persecuted, Jesus prayed to God, “May your will be done” Matthew 26:42.
Paul also suffered for the gospel. God said of Paul, “I will show him how much he must suffer for my name" Acts 9:16. Paul gave a long list of things he had suffered for the gospel (II Corinthians 11:23-33) but he gives us hope when he summarizes by stating, “…That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
3. Suffering does not necessarily mean that we are more sinful than someone else.
Some feel that certain people’s struggles (i.e., natural disasters) are a result of their sins, and certainly sin can lead to consequences; however, the presence of suffering does not in itself indicate the presence of sinfulness. Christ and his disciples’ suffering in the examples above should quickly clear up any doubt on that issue. Furthermore, Jesus responded to the people who believed that Galileans who were persecuted must have been sinful, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”
We should be careful to follow God’s will but we should be just as careful to ensure that we do not judge a person’s soul by the suffering that he or she undergoes. We should look upon others’ plights with compassion, in a spirit of love and concern. When undergoing trials ourselves, we should take comfort in the fact that God sees our suffering and will answer in His time and that we are not being punished for being “bad” because we were stricken with a disease or lost a beloved family member.
4. Only through suffering can we mature.
There are many passages that discuss sufferings as a means of purification and growth in the Lord. A very meaningful passage for Christians who are experiencing trials is Romans 5:3-5: "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope." The patience we learn from undergoing trials will help us build character and this gives us hope through Christ’s sufferings and His example of hope. Further, those around us can be inspired to endure their own trials as several of my fellow cancer patients have served as models of perseverance in my life and have reminded me of spiritual blessings during my own journey. Never doubt the incredible example that you can be to others as indeed many of you have been for me.
5. Our sufferings for Christ will be rewarded.
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” James 1:12. What an amazing message to us! No matter how difficult our test, we shall be filled with peace and comfort when we receive God’s crown of life and what a beloved thought that God will reward us for our perseverance, though we are weak and fail him so often. This verse encourages me to get up off of my seat of pity and remember what God has in store for me if I endure. I could never deserve such a gift as this.
The beloved disciple of Christ, James, continues this thought in James 5:11: “As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.” Blessed be the Lord God whom we serve! He does not leave us alone in our sufferings but instead guides us along our journey. We are reminded in this passage of Job’s patience as we discussed earlier.
6. Jesus empathizes with us.
We serve a Christ who is not unable to relate to us, but instead who was persecuted and was tempted just as we are. Luke 17:25 states, “But first he (Christ) must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.” Christ was subjected to more sufferings than we can imagine and by His example and His willingness to serve as a mediator for us, we can overcome our sufferings as well.
7. Our fear can be overcome through Christ.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” I John 4:18. Perfect love is that which God showed for us when He sent Christ to die for us that we might be saved and live forever in heaven with Him. This perfect love should cast away doubt and fear from our minds, even when facing an enormous battle, for we know that God is on our side. And “if God is for us, who can be against us”? Romans 8:31.
Again we can know freedom from fear even while suffering for good: “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear what they fear’; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” 1 Peter 3:13-15
8. God cares for us.
Paul encourages the Christians in Corinth that, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” I Corinthians 10:13. God cares for us and does not want us to fail!
This thought is presented further in I Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God does not want us to suffer but due to the sin that came into the world through mankind as a result of ignoring God’s commandments, we live in an imperfect and troublesome world. Yet He does not intend for us to stay in this present state forever because He cares for us. What a joyful thought indeed!
9. The Spirit intercedes for us as we pray to God.
God also has not left us alone in our prayers. Jesus serves to mediate between God and man in our prayers and the Spirit of God intercedes on our behalf if we are living in the light. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” God has is always with us!
10. Bad situations can lead to good outcomes.
One of the most quoted passages in the Bible is very fitting as we think of our present sufferings. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28. Even though we may suffer now, we can know that good can come of the situation. The death of a child may bring about the salvation of a parent. Disease can lead to the repentance of a wayward Christian. Regardless of the circumstance and how hopeless it may seem at the time, God is in control and knows how to rescue us from eternal harm if we trust and obey.
11. Heaven will be worth it all.
Our study cannot end without the consideration that heaven will be worth any trouble we encounter on this earth. Romans 8:18 is a powerful passage: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us”.
And finally, let us consider Revelation 14:13 and the fruition of our faith and trust in our beloved Jehovah. “Then I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.’” Revelation 14:13. Praise God and Hallelujah for our future home in heaven with the saved of the earth and the Lord God Almighty!
May you find peace and comfort in these passages. If you have a special need, I would be honored to add you to my prayer list. Contact me at saintschic@comcast.net. God be with you!
Amy
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Women in God’s Service
Today’s Passage: “All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.” Acts 9:39
Have you ever stopped to think how important women have been in the service of the Lord? When our Lord came to this earth to dwell among us, He was born of a woman, Mary. What a wonderful woman she must have been to have been chosen as the mother who would guide little Jesus and provide the nurturing He needed.
Elisha, the prophet, was indebted to a woman’s service in Shunem. Not only did she cook meals for him, she also arranged for Elisha to have his own room in her home so that he could stay with her and her husband whenever he came through the town. (II Kings 4:8-10)
Jesus and His disciples were also supported by women as they journeyed to various places, teaching the people about the kingdom of God. Luke 8:1-3: “…The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”
Beause of their support, Jesus and the twelve apostles were able to focus on saving souls instead of fishing in order to purchase food and clothing. Paul in like manner was supported by various congregations of the church so that he could travel on missionary journeys, spreading the gospel far and wide. Offering financial support to missionaries and providing meals or a place to stay are wonderful ways in which we can serve as Christian women.
Additionally, God can make great use of us in his kingdom by our willingness to help those who are less fortunate. In Acts 9: 36-40, Dorcas (aka Tabitha) was a great blessing to others through her skill at making clothing. One of the greatest things that could ever be said of us was written of Dorcas. She “was always doing good and helping the poor”. At her death, the widows cried in mourning for their beloved friend.
As women, we have great opportunity to spread the good news of Christ and His love for us by reaching out to our neighbors and friends, rejoicing when they rejoicing and mourning when they mourn. I have heard on several occasions that the kindness of a Christian during someone’s time of grief or hardship led to their salvation. The ability to reach others through our compassion is a great blessing from God.
Besides hospitality, we are also given examples of Christian women who served the Lord through ministry. Just because we do not stand up before the congregation to preach does not mean that the Lord has not given us the gift of ministry. We can teach others of the gospel as Priscilla did with her husband in Acts 18:26 and work diligently in the church, taking care of various needs. Paul was grateful for the women who helped him during his ministry, including those in Romans 16:12 and Philippians 4:3.
One of my favorite passages regarding women who have served to further God’s kingdom is Lydia. In Acts 16:9, Paul received a vision from the Lord of a man from Macedonia pleading, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Realizing that God wanted the people of Macedonia to hear the gospel, Paul began a journey to the region. He traveled to Philippi and stayed there several days. On the Sabbath day, Paul and his companions went to the river because they expected to find people praying there. As they sat down and began speaking to a group of women gathered there, they met Lydia, a woman from the city of Thyatira. Lydia believed in God but Paul taught her the truth of the gospel and she was baptized. Not only so, her entire household believed and was baptized.
If you have not considered the power of the message spoken in Acts 16, please read the chapter in its entirety. God sent Paul to Macedonia to preach to the Gentiles and when he arrived, a woman and her household were baptized. The significance that this woman had on the spreading of the gospel is undeniable. God led Paul to her because she would be of service to the kingdom. Though the vision had been a man of Macedonia, Paul recorded that Lydia and her household were saved, indicating that God’s intention had been to lead Paul to her so that the church might be established there.
Dear sisters, we should never allow ourselves to become discouraged in our role as Christian women or feel that we are insignificant. The Bible is filled with stories of women who stood up against evil and served as role models. God blessed Ruth and Rahab, both foreign women who were raised in idolatry, to leave their countries and take their places in the ancestry of Jesus. Rahab was also included in Hebrews 11, the great “hall of faith” chapter, as it is commonly called.
Let us rejoice in our differences and thank God for our unique talents and service. No one else has the same opportunities, talents and blessings as each of us. Each and every Christian woman was given the qualities that God wants us to have. Let’s consider daily how we can use these talents to make a difference where we are and spread the gospel throughout the world. May we always strive to remember that we are special to the Lord and that He has a special place of service designed just for us.
Have you ever stopped to think how important women have been in the service of the Lord? When our Lord came to this earth to dwell among us, He was born of a woman, Mary. What a wonderful woman she must have been to have been chosen as the mother who would guide little Jesus and provide the nurturing He needed.
Elisha, the prophet, was indebted to a woman’s service in Shunem. Not only did she cook meals for him, she also arranged for Elisha to have his own room in her home so that he could stay with her and her husband whenever he came through the town. (II Kings 4:8-10)
Jesus and His disciples were also supported by women as they journeyed to various places, teaching the people about the kingdom of God. Luke 8:1-3: “…The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”
Beause of their support, Jesus and the twelve apostles were able to focus on saving souls instead of fishing in order to purchase food and clothing. Paul in like manner was supported by various congregations of the church so that he could travel on missionary journeys, spreading the gospel far and wide. Offering financial support to missionaries and providing meals or a place to stay are wonderful ways in which we can serve as Christian women.
Additionally, God can make great use of us in his kingdom by our willingness to help those who are less fortunate. In Acts 9: 36-40, Dorcas (aka Tabitha) was a great blessing to others through her skill at making clothing. One of the greatest things that could ever be said of us was written of Dorcas. She “was always doing good and helping the poor”. At her death, the widows cried in mourning for their beloved friend.
As women, we have great opportunity to spread the good news of Christ and His love for us by reaching out to our neighbors and friends, rejoicing when they rejoicing and mourning when they mourn. I have heard on several occasions that the kindness of a Christian during someone’s time of grief or hardship led to their salvation. The ability to reach others through our compassion is a great blessing from God.
Besides hospitality, we are also given examples of Christian women who served the Lord through ministry. Just because we do not stand up before the congregation to preach does not mean that the Lord has not given us the gift of ministry. We can teach others of the gospel as Priscilla did with her husband in Acts 18:26 and work diligently in the church, taking care of various needs. Paul was grateful for the women who helped him during his ministry, including those in Romans 16:12 and Philippians 4:3.
One of my favorite passages regarding women who have served to further God’s kingdom is Lydia. In Acts 16:9, Paul received a vision from the Lord of a man from Macedonia pleading, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Realizing that God wanted the people of Macedonia to hear the gospel, Paul began a journey to the region. He traveled to Philippi and stayed there several days. On the Sabbath day, Paul and his companions went to the river because they expected to find people praying there. As they sat down and began speaking to a group of women gathered there, they met Lydia, a woman from the city of Thyatira. Lydia believed in God but Paul taught her the truth of the gospel and she was baptized. Not only so, her entire household believed and was baptized.
If you have not considered the power of the message spoken in Acts 16, please read the chapter in its entirety. God sent Paul to Macedonia to preach to the Gentiles and when he arrived, a woman and her household were baptized. The significance that this woman had on the spreading of the gospel is undeniable. God led Paul to her because she would be of service to the kingdom. Though the vision had been a man of Macedonia, Paul recorded that Lydia and her household were saved, indicating that God’s intention had been to lead Paul to her so that the church might be established there.
Dear sisters, we should never allow ourselves to become discouraged in our role as Christian women or feel that we are insignificant. The Bible is filled with stories of women who stood up against evil and served as role models. God blessed Ruth and Rahab, both foreign women who were raised in idolatry, to leave their countries and take their places in the ancestry of Jesus. Rahab was also included in Hebrews 11, the great “hall of faith” chapter, as it is commonly called.
Let us rejoice in our differences and thank God for our unique talents and service. No one else has the same opportunities, talents and blessings as each of us. Each and every Christian woman was given the qualities that God wants us to have. Let’s consider daily how we can use these talents to make a difference where we are and spread the gospel throughout the world. May we always strive to remember that we are special to the Lord and that He has a special place of service designed just for us.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Submission, the Lord and the Repugnance of Men
Today’s Passage: “For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands” I Peter 3:5.
Few topics regarding our Christian walk as women are as misunderstood as submission. Today, an article appeared in Politics Daily stating that Jimmy Carter is leaving the religious organization with which he has been involved for sixty years because women will not be ordained for ministry. Note his reason: “At its most repugnant, the belief that women must be subjugated to the wishes of men excuses slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation and national laws that omit rape as a crime. But it also costs many millions of girls and women control over their own bodies and lives, and continues to deny them fair access to education, health, employment and influence within their own communities” (Jimmy Carter, quoted in Politics Daily).
Frankly, I find this statement to be violently repugnant. Why? Because the Lord God Almighty inspired Paul to write a completely contrary statement than Carter’s to the church in Corinth, “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church” I Corinthians 14:33-35. He also inspired Peter to write: “Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives” I Peter 3:1.
How then does a man deem the submission of Christian women in the services of the Lord and in the home to be equal with “slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation” and rape? Are we to assume that Jehovah God was not intelligent enough to design the role of His creatures correctly and therefore we should improve on His Word because of changes in society? Assuredly NOT. Could God not foresee that some men would overstep their roles as husbands and demand more of their wives than He intended? Of course He could forsee this, but God’s laws have never been based on what man thinks is best. God’s laws are based on what GOD knows is best. If man is foolish enough to think he knows better than God, he has the choice to follow his own laws but there will be eternal consequences for such a decision.
Never in God’s Word can we read of any allowance for the changing of God’s commandments to fit the times. In some cases, commandments were changed when the new law went into effect because Christ fulfilled the old law and replaced its sacrificial requirements (i.e., the need for animal sacrifices, the forbidding of anyone but the Levitical priests to enter the Holy Place); however, these laws were not changed simply because society had changed and the Word was outdated. God does not change and neither do His laws. “He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a man, that he should change his mind" I Samuel 15:29. And in like manner, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” Hebrews 13:8.
God had a plan before the earth was created and part of this plan was that woman would serve as a helper for man (Genesis 2:18). This in no way implied that woman is less important than man nor did God intend for women to be abused. If we are truly seeking God’s Word and striving to live according to it, love will be the result and not violence. God’s laws call for every one of us to be humble and to consider others better than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). Christ did not just forbid murder; he forbade the hatred that precedes a murderous act. Certainly the call for brotherly love and kindness is on the farthest plane from those who hate women and want them to live in fear and ridicule because of their gender.
God’s plan also required the submission of Jesus Christ to God the Father and the willingness to come to the earth in the form of a lowly servant. If you wonder what the attitude of a submissive servant should be, read the words concerning Christ in Philippians 2:6-8: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!” I do not find a passage indicating that Jesus approved sexual deviancy, mutilation and violence to the Son of God because He followed God’s plan placing Him in the role of a servant. How repulsive a thought indeed!
Are we above Christ that we are unwilling to submit ourselves to God’s will? For Christ in Matthew 20:28 and Mark 10:45 noted, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Are we unwilling to be the Christian women that God intended us to be from the creation because we believe submission to be a belittling and outdated concept?
We are called as Christian women to submit to our husbands, the elders and deacons of the church, governing authorities and above all, God Himself. This in no way indicates that mankind is to look upon women as less than important to God. We are children of God, created in God’s image just as man was! This gives us great importance in God’s kingdom. In fact, there are many acts of service in the church that may be more suited for women, generally speaking. The older widows of the church where Timothy preached were known for their acts of service: “…and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds” I Timothy 5:9-10. Women often serve as children’s Bible school teachers, bake dinners for the sick, serve with their husbands as missionaries and send cards of encouragement to those who are in need. These duties as well as many others are no less important than standing up in the assembly of the Lord and leading a prayer or serving communion. Remember that no member of the body is more important than another as each has different necessary functions (Romans 12:4).
Additionally, for someone to insinuate that husbands, by serving the Lord as the head of our Christian households, are likened to sexual sadists who torture women is the most ridiculous and abominable belief I have ever heard. To condemn Christians who seek to follow God’s Word as it is written is not only unwise, it is absolutely deplorable. Our nation is quickly eroding into a cesspool where not only are Christians ridiculed, but we are slandered into appearing as if we are the ones who are full of hatred. I recall a couple of occasions in Scripture where this happened before. Christ was slandered by false witnesses to appear as an enemy of the Jews, plotting to tear down the temple, because He was trying to save lost souls by teaching the Scriptures. Stephen, full of love and seeking to save the souls of those around him, was stoned to death, all the while being accused of blasphemy. As I recall, he was also attempting to teach the people the truth as revealed by God.
It amazes me that people have taken this one commandment in God’s Word and have twisted it into something evil, as if God could ever be the author of confusion or evil. Why is the requirement for the submission of women torn out of the pages of the Bible and held up by nonbelievers as if it were the only requirement for submission? The Word of God has been so maligned that few seem to note other commandments for or examples of submission:
All Christians: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” James 3:17
Angels, authorities and powers: “It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.”
Citizens: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
Employees, servants and citizens: “Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority” I Peter 2:13
Jesus: “During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.” Hebrews 5:7
Young men: “Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” I Peter 5:5. Interestingly, I have never heard anyone complain that their teenage boys should not be in submission to them because times have changed.
Yes, these Scriptures above as well as others instruct us to be submissive to others, but the only ones that seemed to be pulled out of context and bashed over the head of Christians as outdated are the following:
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission” I Timothy 2:11
“For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands” I Peter 3:5.
“Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says.” I Corinthians 14:34.
Let us note in each of these cases that these statements are made in God’s Word and are therefore not subject to private interpretation. There is an old saying, “God said it. I believe it. That settles it.” May I suggest a change: “God said it. That settles it.” My belief does not change His truth one tiny bit.
Which brings me back to those who believe that God’s Word should be updated for today’s society. Note the next statement quoted by Carter, “The truth is that male religious leaders have had -- and still have -- an option to interpret holy teachings either to exalt or subjugate women. They have, for their own selfish ends, overwhelmingly chosen the latter. Their continuing choice provides the foundation or justification for much of the pervasive persecution and abuse of women throughout the world.”
I submit to you that NO ONE has the option to change God’s law. One might interpret holy teachings differently, but only one way – the Lord’s actual teaching – is correct. We would do well to remember that “there is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” Proverbs 14:12 and Proverbs 16:25. Our feelings of what is right or wrong do not negate God’s laws.
In conclusion, following God’s commandments does not justify the “persecution and abuse of women”. Choosing NOT to follow God’s commandments and falsely teaching that this is the right thing to do is what leads to the persecution and abuse of all mankind. Man seems to think that he is wiser than God and therefore can rewrite God’s laws to fit his own desires. And that, my dear sisters, is what is truly repugnant.
Few topics regarding our Christian walk as women are as misunderstood as submission. Today, an article appeared in Politics Daily stating that Jimmy Carter is leaving the religious organization with which he has been involved for sixty years because women will not be ordained for ministry. Note his reason: “At its most repugnant, the belief that women must be subjugated to the wishes of men excuses slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation and national laws that omit rape as a crime. But it also costs many millions of girls and women control over their own bodies and lives, and continues to deny them fair access to education, health, employment and influence within their own communities” (Jimmy Carter, quoted in Politics Daily).
Frankly, I find this statement to be violently repugnant. Why? Because the Lord God Almighty inspired Paul to write a completely contrary statement than Carter’s to the church in Corinth, “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church” I Corinthians 14:33-35. He also inspired Peter to write: “Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives” I Peter 3:1.
How then does a man deem the submission of Christian women in the services of the Lord and in the home to be equal with “slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation” and rape? Are we to assume that Jehovah God was not intelligent enough to design the role of His creatures correctly and therefore we should improve on His Word because of changes in society? Assuredly NOT. Could God not foresee that some men would overstep their roles as husbands and demand more of their wives than He intended? Of course He could forsee this, but God’s laws have never been based on what man thinks is best. God’s laws are based on what GOD knows is best. If man is foolish enough to think he knows better than God, he has the choice to follow his own laws but there will be eternal consequences for such a decision.
Never in God’s Word can we read of any allowance for the changing of God’s commandments to fit the times. In some cases, commandments were changed when the new law went into effect because Christ fulfilled the old law and replaced its sacrificial requirements (i.e., the need for animal sacrifices, the forbidding of anyone but the Levitical priests to enter the Holy Place); however, these laws were not changed simply because society had changed and the Word was outdated. God does not change and neither do His laws. “He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a man, that he should change his mind" I Samuel 15:29. And in like manner, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” Hebrews 13:8.
God had a plan before the earth was created and part of this plan was that woman would serve as a helper for man (Genesis 2:18). This in no way implied that woman is less important than man nor did God intend for women to be abused. If we are truly seeking God’s Word and striving to live according to it, love will be the result and not violence. God’s laws call for every one of us to be humble and to consider others better than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). Christ did not just forbid murder; he forbade the hatred that precedes a murderous act. Certainly the call for brotherly love and kindness is on the farthest plane from those who hate women and want them to live in fear and ridicule because of their gender.
God’s plan also required the submission of Jesus Christ to God the Father and the willingness to come to the earth in the form of a lowly servant. If you wonder what the attitude of a submissive servant should be, read the words concerning Christ in Philippians 2:6-8: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!” I do not find a passage indicating that Jesus approved sexual deviancy, mutilation and violence to the Son of God because He followed God’s plan placing Him in the role of a servant. How repulsive a thought indeed!
Are we above Christ that we are unwilling to submit ourselves to God’s will? For Christ in Matthew 20:28 and Mark 10:45 noted, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Are we unwilling to be the Christian women that God intended us to be from the creation because we believe submission to be a belittling and outdated concept?
We are called as Christian women to submit to our husbands, the elders and deacons of the church, governing authorities and above all, God Himself. This in no way indicates that mankind is to look upon women as less than important to God. We are children of God, created in God’s image just as man was! This gives us great importance in God’s kingdom. In fact, there are many acts of service in the church that may be more suited for women, generally speaking. The older widows of the church where Timothy preached were known for their acts of service: “…and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds” I Timothy 5:9-10. Women often serve as children’s Bible school teachers, bake dinners for the sick, serve with their husbands as missionaries and send cards of encouragement to those who are in need. These duties as well as many others are no less important than standing up in the assembly of the Lord and leading a prayer or serving communion. Remember that no member of the body is more important than another as each has different necessary functions (Romans 12:4).
Additionally, for someone to insinuate that husbands, by serving the Lord as the head of our Christian households, are likened to sexual sadists who torture women is the most ridiculous and abominable belief I have ever heard. To condemn Christians who seek to follow God’s Word as it is written is not only unwise, it is absolutely deplorable. Our nation is quickly eroding into a cesspool where not only are Christians ridiculed, but we are slandered into appearing as if we are the ones who are full of hatred. I recall a couple of occasions in Scripture where this happened before. Christ was slandered by false witnesses to appear as an enemy of the Jews, plotting to tear down the temple, because He was trying to save lost souls by teaching the Scriptures. Stephen, full of love and seeking to save the souls of those around him, was stoned to death, all the while being accused of blasphemy. As I recall, he was also attempting to teach the people the truth as revealed by God.
It amazes me that people have taken this one commandment in God’s Word and have twisted it into something evil, as if God could ever be the author of confusion or evil. Why is the requirement for the submission of women torn out of the pages of the Bible and held up by nonbelievers as if it were the only requirement for submission? The Word of God has been so maligned that few seem to note other commandments for or examples of submission:
All Christians: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” James 3:17
Angels, authorities and powers: “It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.”
Citizens: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
Employees, servants and citizens: “Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority” I Peter 2:13
Jesus: “During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.” Hebrews 5:7
Young men: “Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” I Peter 5:5. Interestingly, I have never heard anyone complain that their teenage boys should not be in submission to them because times have changed.
Yes, these Scriptures above as well as others instruct us to be submissive to others, but the only ones that seemed to be pulled out of context and bashed over the head of Christians as outdated are the following:
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission” I Timothy 2:11
“For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands” I Peter 3:5.
“Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says.” I Corinthians 14:34.
Let us note in each of these cases that these statements are made in God’s Word and are therefore not subject to private interpretation. There is an old saying, “God said it. I believe it. That settles it.” May I suggest a change: “God said it. That settles it.” My belief does not change His truth one tiny bit.
Which brings me back to those who believe that God’s Word should be updated for today’s society. Note the next statement quoted by Carter, “The truth is that male religious leaders have had -- and still have -- an option to interpret holy teachings either to exalt or subjugate women. They have, for their own selfish ends, overwhelmingly chosen the latter. Their continuing choice provides the foundation or justification for much of the pervasive persecution and abuse of women throughout the world.”
I submit to you that NO ONE has the option to change God’s law. One might interpret holy teachings differently, but only one way – the Lord’s actual teaching – is correct. We would do well to remember that “there is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” Proverbs 14:12 and Proverbs 16:25. Our feelings of what is right or wrong do not negate God’s laws.
In conclusion, following God’s commandments does not justify the “persecution and abuse of women”. Choosing NOT to follow God’s commandments and falsely teaching that this is the right thing to do is what leads to the persecution and abuse of all mankind. Man seems to think that he is wiser than God and therefore can rewrite God’s laws to fit his own desires. And that, my dear sisters, is what is truly repugnant.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
God’s Family Reunion
Today’s Passage: “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” 1 John 3:2
Just a few months ago, I attended my twenty year high school reunion and reconnected with friends with whom I had lost contact. Just this week, I have been blessed to be able to visit family and to be reacquainted with old friends while enjoying a wonderful gospel meeting in Bawcomville, Louisiana. While visiting with our dear friends this week, our conversation turned to the happiness of reuniting in heaven. It is a special blessing from God to see dear souls who we haven’t seen in many years and to catch up on old times at reunions, homecomings and other events.
While in Louisiana, I had an opportunity to visit several family members’ graves and place a new floral arrangement at my grandfather’s headstone. I enjoy visiting cemeteries, always looking for the oldest tombstone and feeling the messages of love poured into the epitaphs on the stones. It is amazing how long some of the monuments have lasted, standing up to the weather in order to honor the beloved person who was laid to rest so many years before. Gravesites can be very sad locations as we attend a memorial service to honor our loved ones who we will no longer see on this earth, yet the Lord has assured us that if we obey His Word, we do not have to worry about such sadness or pain in heaven.
Many wonder whether we will know each other in heaven, and after studying this subject in God’s Word and speaking to others, I believe that we will indeed know each other. The Lord has provided several passages to indicate that we will have our earthly memories and will be conscious of our surroundings in heaven. I have found no passage in the Scriptures to indicate otherwise.
Perhaps one of the most recognized passages on the subject is in Luke 16:19-31. “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'”
As we see in this passage, the rich man retained his memory and knew his brothers after he died. He also recognized Abraham and Lazarus. This indicates that we will know one another in the next life. Whether this story is a parable or an actual event, it describes the hadean realm as it will be. Additionally, Abraham told the rich man, “Son, remember that in your lifetime…” This indicates that our memories will be retained, though God will protect us from sadness.
David understood that he would be with his son again in heaven and this gave him comfort. II Samuel 12:21-23 states, “His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!" He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.' But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me." The fact that David would “go to him” infers that he would recognize his son. What a comforting thought!
Jesus, impressed by the centurion’s faith, remarked that many will eat alongside Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. Surely we will recognize them if we feast with them. “When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, ‘I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’” Matthew 8:10-12
On the mountain where Jesus was transfigured in Matthew 17:1-4, there is no indication that Jesus introduced the three disciples to Moses and Elijah, yet Peter recognized them. This is another example of the recognition of other saved ones in God’s kingdom.
Furthermore, John wrote, “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” This indicates that we will know and recognize Jesus and we will be like him. The fact that we shall be like him and recognize him is indication that we will recognize each other as well when we are transformed into our eternal bodies.
Other passages indicate that we will know one another such as Paul’s statement in I Corinthians 6:2 that the saints will judge the world and Jesus’ answer to the Pharisees in Matthew 12:39-42 regarding the men of Ninevah and the Queen of Sheba. If we are to judge the world, memory of this present world and those in it is indicated.
God be praised that we will be able to reunite with loved ones and worship God together forever. God’s great family reunion in heaven will be grander and more joyful than any reunion we can imagine. Dear loved ones, let us all live in such a way that we will be joined together in the glorious kingdom which the Lord has prepared for us.
Just a few months ago, I attended my twenty year high school reunion and reconnected with friends with whom I had lost contact. Just this week, I have been blessed to be able to visit family and to be reacquainted with old friends while enjoying a wonderful gospel meeting in Bawcomville, Louisiana. While visiting with our dear friends this week, our conversation turned to the happiness of reuniting in heaven. It is a special blessing from God to see dear souls who we haven’t seen in many years and to catch up on old times at reunions, homecomings and other events.
While in Louisiana, I had an opportunity to visit several family members’ graves and place a new floral arrangement at my grandfather’s headstone. I enjoy visiting cemeteries, always looking for the oldest tombstone and feeling the messages of love poured into the epitaphs on the stones. It is amazing how long some of the monuments have lasted, standing up to the weather in order to honor the beloved person who was laid to rest so many years before. Gravesites can be very sad locations as we attend a memorial service to honor our loved ones who we will no longer see on this earth, yet the Lord has assured us that if we obey His Word, we do not have to worry about such sadness or pain in heaven.
Many wonder whether we will know each other in heaven, and after studying this subject in God’s Word and speaking to others, I believe that we will indeed know each other. The Lord has provided several passages to indicate that we will have our earthly memories and will be conscious of our surroundings in heaven. I have found no passage in the Scriptures to indicate otherwise.
Perhaps one of the most recognized passages on the subject is in Luke 16:19-31. “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'”
As we see in this passage, the rich man retained his memory and knew his brothers after he died. He also recognized Abraham and Lazarus. This indicates that we will know one another in the next life. Whether this story is a parable or an actual event, it describes the hadean realm as it will be. Additionally, Abraham told the rich man, “Son, remember that in your lifetime…” This indicates that our memories will be retained, though God will protect us from sadness.
David understood that he would be with his son again in heaven and this gave him comfort. II Samuel 12:21-23 states, “His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!" He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.' But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me." The fact that David would “go to him” infers that he would recognize his son. What a comforting thought!
Jesus, impressed by the centurion’s faith, remarked that many will eat alongside Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. Surely we will recognize them if we feast with them. “When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, ‘I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’” Matthew 8:10-12
On the mountain where Jesus was transfigured in Matthew 17:1-4, there is no indication that Jesus introduced the three disciples to Moses and Elijah, yet Peter recognized them. This is another example of the recognition of other saved ones in God’s kingdom.
Furthermore, John wrote, “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” This indicates that we will know and recognize Jesus and we will be like him. The fact that we shall be like him and recognize him is indication that we will recognize each other as well when we are transformed into our eternal bodies.
Other passages indicate that we will know one another such as Paul’s statement in I Corinthians 6:2 that the saints will judge the world and Jesus’ answer to the Pharisees in Matthew 12:39-42 regarding the men of Ninevah and the Queen of Sheba. If we are to judge the world, memory of this present world and those in it is indicated.
God be praised that we will be able to reunite with loved ones and worship God together forever. God’s great family reunion in heaven will be grander and more joyful than any reunion we can imagine. Dear loved ones, let us all live in such a way that we will be joined together in the glorious kingdom which the Lord has prepared for us.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Keeping the Peace At All Costs?
Today’s passage: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
As a subscriber of various political and religious news lists, I am appalled by the enormous barrage of sin that faces us daily and the tolerance of its invasion of government policy, education and “entertainment”. The intent of our nation’s forefathers to protect this country from a politically run national religion via the writing of the First Amendment to the Constitution has been taken so far out of context and manipulated into such a ridiculous mess that to even allude to God or Christianity now strikes fear in the hearts of many politicians and judges. The concept of “separation of church and state” is being used by the government to silence or even invoke intolerance of Christians themselves for attempting to speak the truth in love while it simultaneously supports the message of particular hatemongering anti-religious groups. Large corporations of long-standing American brands sponsor “gay pride” events and a national space flight center announced June as “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month”. And if these examples are not enough to confirm the decay in our nation’s moral fiber, formerly kid-friendly fast-food chains have pushed the limit of decency in their television ads so far in their efforts to sell hamburgers to our families that the FCC barrier is indistinguishable.
As Christian women, we may become so discouraged that we feel our impact is insignificant. Every day that we open the newspaper, turn on the TV or read the online headlines, we may feel less and less that our efforts to fight the evil in this world are making a dent in the side of human depravity. We may also face opposition in our own homes whenever we attempt to limit our family’s exposure to inappropriate TV programs, movies and music and teach our children that modesty and purity, though rare, are still required by God in this modern age. The decisions we face may appear to be: a) keep quiet and maintain peace or b) speak up and be lumped in with the “haters” and activists or considered an outdated religious fanatic who lacks the intellectual depth to comprehend scientific “fact” or welcome diversity of religious beliefs.
To a Christian, the decision is much easier than choosing between peace and persecution if we understand peace as the Word intends. Although Paul wrote that we should keep peace with one another as far as it depends on us, he introduced this command from God with the words “if it is possible” (Romans 12:18). Peace does not mean keeping silent about the commandments of God. Some in the church believe that keeping the peace may sometimes mean overlooking sin or accepting a different interpretation of a specific command that God gives us in the Bible. “Peace at all costs” is a common phrase that some apply to matters of religion. Never in God’s Word are we commanded to keep the peace by remaining quiet about sinfulness and avoiding confrontation; in fact, the truth lies on the opposite plane from tolerance of sin.
Jesus’ words to the twelve apostles in Matthew 10:34 make it clear that “peace at all costs” was not His intent: "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” How can we justify the fact that the Prince of Peace came not to bring peace to the world but division? (Luke 12:51) In order to answer that question, we must compare man’s definition of peace to God’s definition. Humans may define peace very broadly, from the idea of “no religion” in John Lennon’s Imagine to the concept of all creatures living in unity on the earth (sometimes a misapplication of Isaiah 11). Merriam-Webster Online has five definitions of this one word ranging from a state of tranquility to a political pact to end war. Jesus did not come to this earth in order to ensure that we live without conflict among others; assuredly, man in his sinful state is in direct opposition to God’s holy nature. Jesus knew that His disciples would face persecution and that He himself would be killed by the very ones who He had created and would soon die to save. No, Jesus did not come to give his followers a rosy pathway absent of trials; instead, He came to save those who would follow Him and in so doing, they might make enemies of their friends and family who did not believe. This division was predicted of Christians who followed Jesus against the desires of their non-believing family members (Luke 12:52-53).
We see then that Jesus did not come to bring man’s idea of peace to the earth. God’s peace is not focused on a utopian society of physical happiness on the earth but is instead the result of a Christian’s absolute faith in God, resulting in a lack of anxiety that comes only to those who have a healthy prayer life with God the Father. “Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Christ modeled both peace and the lack of peace based upon the situation. To those who followed Him, sick and hungry yet eager to hear His words, He was peace as He looked upon them with compassion; but to those who were unmerciful and full of pride, He was not peace. The peaceful Jesus who forgave a thief justly hung on a cross was the same Jesus who used a whip to clear out the moneychangers from the temple. He is also the same Lord who told the disciples to bless those who received the gospel and remove their blessing of peace for those who would not listen because God would punish them on the Day of Judgment (Matthew 10:12-15).
In like manner, we as Christian women must be willing to stand up for God’s Word, even if it means confrontation with those who choose to align themselves with sin. We must be bold when, by doing so, we are considered to be intolerant or hateful. If we speak the truth in love and are persecuted for it, we will be rewarded in Heaven (Matthew 5:11-12). John the Baptist’s refusal to stop speaking to Herod of his sinful relationship with Herodias (Matthew 14) and Stephen’s continued preaching to the crowd (Acts 7) led to their physical deaths but God’s reward was worth more to them than any amount of physical persecution. They were willing to stand up alone, save for God, and warn people of the consequences of their sins.
Further, we must be aware that the presence of peace does not necessarily constitute righteousness. As Paul warned the church at Thessalonica, “While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape” (I Thessalonians 5:3). We see that feeling peaceful and safe while at odds with the Lord will lead to our soul’s destruction when He returns. Peace is not a warm, fuzzy human feeling but a state of being in the right relationship with God and the comfort that comes from knowing that we are saved because we continually test our actions and beliefs against the Word of God (II Corinthians 13:5).
In conclusion, we return to the original question proposed in the heading of this devotional. Does Jesus teach us to keep the peace at all costs? The answer, very emphatically, is no. As we are taught in Hebrews 12:10-12, sometimes confrontation and discipline must come first before peace can take place: “Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Likewise, James writes the order in which peace will be found: “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17) Only after purity has been established can the peace then come.
To keep foremost in our thoughts that true peace cannot dwell where sin freely abounds, we should write upon our hearts the words of God through Isaiah the prophet: “There is no peace,” says my God, “for the wicked.” Isaiah 57:21
May God increase our efforts to make peace, embolden us to stand up against sin and grant us the wisdom to recognize when we should break the peace in order to restore righteousness. God bless each of you this day!
As a subscriber of various political and religious news lists, I am appalled by the enormous barrage of sin that faces us daily and the tolerance of its invasion of government policy, education and “entertainment”. The intent of our nation’s forefathers to protect this country from a politically run national religion via the writing of the First Amendment to the Constitution has been taken so far out of context and manipulated into such a ridiculous mess that to even allude to God or Christianity now strikes fear in the hearts of many politicians and judges. The concept of “separation of church and state” is being used by the government to silence or even invoke intolerance of Christians themselves for attempting to speak the truth in love while it simultaneously supports the message of particular hatemongering anti-religious groups. Large corporations of long-standing American brands sponsor “gay pride” events and a national space flight center announced June as “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month”. And if these examples are not enough to confirm the decay in our nation’s moral fiber, formerly kid-friendly fast-food chains have pushed the limit of decency in their television ads so far in their efforts to sell hamburgers to our families that the FCC barrier is indistinguishable.
As Christian women, we may become so discouraged that we feel our impact is insignificant. Every day that we open the newspaper, turn on the TV or read the online headlines, we may feel less and less that our efforts to fight the evil in this world are making a dent in the side of human depravity. We may also face opposition in our own homes whenever we attempt to limit our family’s exposure to inappropriate TV programs, movies and music and teach our children that modesty and purity, though rare, are still required by God in this modern age. The decisions we face may appear to be: a) keep quiet and maintain peace or b) speak up and be lumped in with the “haters” and activists or considered an outdated religious fanatic who lacks the intellectual depth to comprehend scientific “fact” or welcome diversity of religious beliefs.
To a Christian, the decision is much easier than choosing between peace and persecution if we understand peace as the Word intends. Although Paul wrote that we should keep peace with one another as far as it depends on us, he introduced this command from God with the words “if it is possible” (Romans 12:18). Peace does not mean keeping silent about the commandments of God. Some in the church believe that keeping the peace may sometimes mean overlooking sin or accepting a different interpretation of a specific command that God gives us in the Bible. “Peace at all costs” is a common phrase that some apply to matters of religion. Never in God’s Word are we commanded to keep the peace by remaining quiet about sinfulness and avoiding confrontation; in fact, the truth lies on the opposite plane from tolerance of sin.
Jesus’ words to the twelve apostles in Matthew 10:34 make it clear that “peace at all costs” was not His intent: "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” How can we justify the fact that the Prince of Peace came not to bring peace to the world but division? (Luke 12:51) In order to answer that question, we must compare man’s definition of peace to God’s definition. Humans may define peace very broadly, from the idea of “no religion” in John Lennon’s Imagine to the concept of all creatures living in unity on the earth (sometimes a misapplication of Isaiah 11). Merriam-Webster Online has five definitions of this one word ranging from a state of tranquility to a political pact to end war. Jesus did not come to this earth in order to ensure that we live without conflict among others; assuredly, man in his sinful state is in direct opposition to God’s holy nature. Jesus knew that His disciples would face persecution and that He himself would be killed by the very ones who He had created and would soon die to save. No, Jesus did not come to give his followers a rosy pathway absent of trials; instead, He came to save those who would follow Him and in so doing, they might make enemies of their friends and family who did not believe. This division was predicted of Christians who followed Jesus against the desires of their non-believing family members (Luke 12:52-53).
We see then that Jesus did not come to bring man’s idea of peace to the earth. God’s peace is not focused on a utopian society of physical happiness on the earth but is instead the result of a Christian’s absolute faith in God, resulting in a lack of anxiety that comes only to those who have a healthy prayer life with God the Father. “Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Christ modeled both peace and the lack of peace based upon the situation. To those who followed Him, sick and hungry yet eager to hear His words, He was peace as He looked upon them with compassion; but to those who were unmerciful and full of pride, He was not peace. The peaceful Jesus who forgave a thief justly hung on a cross was the same Jesus who used a whip to clear out the moneychangers from the temple. He is also the same Lord who told the disciples to bless those who received the gospel and remove their blessing of peace for those who would not listen because God would punish them on the Day of Judgment (Matthew 10:12-15).
In like manner, we as Christian women must be willing to stand up for God’s Word, even if it means confrontation with those who choose to align themselves with sin. We must be bold when, by doing so, we are considered to be intolerant or hateful. If we speak the truth in love and are persecuted for it, we will be rewarded in Heaven (Matthew 5:11-12). John the Baptist’s refusal to stop speaking to Herod of his sinful relationship with Herodias (Matthew 14) and Stephen’s continued preaching to the crowd (Acts 7) led to their physical deaths but God’s reward was worth more to them than any amount of physical persecution. They were willing to stand up alone, save for God, and warn people of the consequences of their sins.
Further, we must be aware that the presence of peace does not necessarily constitute righteousness. As Paul warned the church at Thessalonica, “While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape” (I Thessalonians 5:3). We see that feeling peaceful and safe while at odds with the Lord will lead to our soul’s destruction when He returns. Peace is not a warm, fuzzy human feeling but a state of being in the right relationship with God and the comfort that comes from knowing that we are saved because we continually test our actions and beliefs against the Word of God (II Corinthians 13:5).
In conclusion, we return to the original question proposed in the heading of this devotional. Does Jesus teach us to keep the peace at all costs? The answer, very emphatically, is no. As we are taught in Hebrews 12:10-12, sometimes confrontation and discipline must come first before peace can take place: “Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Likewise, James writes the order in which peace will be found: “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17) Only after purity has been established can the peace then come.
To keep foremost in our thoughts that true peace cannot dwell where sin freely abounds, we should write upon our hearts the words of God through Isaiah the prophet: “There is no peace,” says my God, “for the wicked.” Isaiah 57:21
May God increase our efforts to make peace, embolden us to stand up against sin and grant us the wisdom to recognize when we should break the peace in order to restore righteousness. God bless each of you this day!
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