Tag: hope

Habakkuk: Living By Faith (III)

Do you have a “no matter what” faith? How does one develop such a faith, one that grows and develops even when life is hard? Habakkuk knows.

FAITH TRIUMPHANT (3:1-19)

Neal Pollard

Nothing has changed in the circumstances Habakkuk is wrestling with. Babylon is still coming to execute God’s wrath for Judah’s sin. Babylon is still more wicked than Judah, the catalog of sins just reviewed in the previous chapter. But we notice the change in tone in the last verse of Habakkuk 2. The prophet has gladly resigned himself to the fact that God is on the throne, still in charge and perfectly knowing what He is doing.

This transformation leads directly to the prayer with which he ends this short book. The odd notation, “according to Shigionoth,” identifies it as a highly emotional poem. BDB Lexicon speaks of it as a “wild, passionate song, with rapid changes of rhythm” (993). So dramatic was this form of poetry that it “would be a song which provoked great excitement by its performance” (Koehler, HALOT, 1414). Habakkuk has come through the thick and dangerous fog of the trial of his faith, and he emerges into the clear blue sky of confidence in God’s character and work. What does his triumphant faith look like?

Appeal (2). He petitions God out of a deep fear and reverence that is apparent throughout this prayer. Yet, he is bold enough to ask God to revive His work and make it known. He asks for mercy amid His just wrath. It’s the only two things he asks for in the whole prayer. Habakkuk will describe the wrath in the latter part of the chapter (8,12). He wants God to swiftly answer (“in the midst of the years”). 

Admiration (3-4). As he copes with God’s pending judgment, Habakkuk still has a heart to praise. He writes of God’s splendor, radiance, and unmistakable power. He is pictured as a king coming in procession, only His harbingers are the radiance and rays of His glory. 

Awe (5-12). Habakkuk’s response to the greatness of God’s power is to describe His coming in judgment. He envisions the carnage in the aftermath of God’s wrath on the disobedient. He comes with pestilence and plague (5), standing, surveying, then shattering (6), rage, anger, and wrath (8), chastisement (9), and indignation and anger (12). All creation trembled at His coming (10-11). This God with whom Habakkuk had debated is transcendent, doing what is right in the proper measure at the proper time. Habakkuk can only watch in jaw-dropping wonder. 

Acknowledgement (13-16). Habakkuk proclaims the acts of God with four “you” statements–You went forth, You struck, You pierced, and You trampled. He acted in salvation for His people and in retribution against the wicked. Habakkuk’s acknowledgement of such perfect justice is telling: “I heard and my inward parts trembled, At the sound my lips quivered. Decay enters my bones, And in my place I tremble. Because I must wait quietly for the day of distress, For the people to arise who will invade us.” Not only does he acknowledge the greatness of God, but the justice of His decision to bring about the Babylonian Captivity against his sinful brethren. 

Acceptance (17-18). Out of this comes the resignation of trusting faith. It’s a “no matter what” faith on Habakkuk’s part. These verses have become some of the best known and most quoted of the entire book (along with 1:13, 2:4, and 2:20). How can we illustrate triumphant faith? How about these words? “Though the fig tree should not blossom And there be no fruit on the vines, Though the yield of the olive should fail And the fields produce no food, Though the flock should be cut off from the fold And there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” If every earthly blessing is withheld from me, I know that God is worthy of my trust and deserving of my worship and praise. This is the faith that will cause us to live (2:4)!

Acclamation (19). Habakkuk’s final declaration is of his strength through the Lord (cf. Phil. 4:13). Though the Chaldeans are knocking on the door, ready to break it in and take them away, the prophet pictures himself (and the faithful) as those who are still standing through God’s help. Like Job, praising God despite his pain (Job 42:2), Habakkuk rises from the ashes of his perplexity and the trial of his faith. He stands on the rock solid foundation of God’s trustworthiness. After the trial, with God’s help and by God’s mercy, he will stand. 

Where am I in my faith? Is it being tested? Am I listening to God’s truth as He teaches it? If so, then, no matter what, I will triumph through Him! 

Assurance Of Truth

Carl Pollard

A few years back, my dad and I traveled to Cambodia for a mission trip. One evening, we wandered through the night market, looking at all the different shops. They had everything from designer clothes to headphones like Beats, Gucci belts, and even iPhones—all unbelievably cheap! I mean, we’re talking $5 for a Casio watch, $10 for an iPhone, and $12 for an iPad. 

At first, it felt like a dream, but the longer we looked, the more we realized something was off. Those “Beats By Dre” headphones actually said “Beats By Bray,” and the Ray-Ban sunglasses actually said “Roy-Bans.” The Casio watch I bought? It seemed legit but died after a few weeks. These knockoffs looked real at first glance, but upon closer inspection, the truth was clear. 

These fake items exist because somewhere, genuine designer products are out there, creating a market for the fakes. Just like those counterfeits, false truths abound today. Jesus warned us about false prophets, and we see their influence everywhere. Satan takes what’s valuable and crafts knockoffs that seem real but lack true worth. As Buddy the Elf famously said, “You sit on a throne of lies.”

In a world filled with deception, false teachings threaten our faith. Yet, John, the apostle Jesus loved, assured early believers that they could have confidence in their relationship with God. There’s no reason to fear; we can have the assurance of truth. God desires for us to feel secure in our faith, knowing that we are saved, a privilege not extended to those outside of Christ.

John makes it clear why he wrote his letters. In 1 John 5:13, he states, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” This assurance isn’t a gamble; it’s a certainty for those who believe.

John encourages us to evaluate our faith through three tests. First, do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 4:9-10 emphasizes God’s love for us, even when we were unlovable. He sacrificed His Son so we could live through Him. Recognizing this love is crucial.

Next, do you obey God’s commands? 1 John 2:3-6 tells us that knowing Him means keeping His commandments. Obedience isn’t just about fear; it’s rooted in love. We must trust and obey God, finding assurance in our faith through our actions.

Lastly, do you show love toward others? 1 John 3:14 states that love for our brothers and sisters shows we’ve passed from death to life. Love is an active choice, demonstrated through our actions and sacrifices. 1 John 3:18-24 challenges us to love not just in words but in deeds. 

In summary, ask yourself three essential questions: Do you believe in Jesus? Do you obey the Father? Do you love others? If you answered no to any, you may not be right with God. But there’s hope. With a repentant heart, God is ready to forgive and embrace you. So, how badly do you want eternal life? Enough to change your behavior? Let’s strive to embody belief, love, and obedience in our lives.

What To Say To God When You’re In Trouble

Neal Pollard

Have you ever found yourself in over your head, when you had to ask for help? We never like to get to that point, financially, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. But, unless we callous our hearts to the truth, we need God constantly–especially spiritually. In Psalm 38, David comes before the Lord pleading with Him to help in a dire situation. While it involves the opposition of earthly enemies (12,19), the main concern is his own opposition to God’s will. The main problem on David’s mind is his sin problem. David gives us an example of how to pray to God in time of trouble, especially the self-induced kind. 

ACKNOWLEDGE HOW YOUR SIN MAKES HIM FEEL (1-3)

David knows that God hates sin and is displeased by its presence in our lives. Meaningful repentance and change is not possible until we can see our sin through His perfect eyes. This honest assessment will keep us from being defensive or from rationalizing.

SPECIFICALLY ADDRESS THE SERIOUSNESS OF YOUR SIN (4-8)

Look at all the descriptive terms and synonyms David uses regarding his sin. His “iniquities” are heavy burdens, foul and festering wounds, that which causes him to be bent over and bowed down, the cause of constant mourning, a debilitating sickness, and a numbing, crushing, agitating thing. See your sin that way and there is no way to hang onto it, much less embrace and defend it. 

CONFESS YOUR INABILITY TO RESOLVE THIS ALONE (9-14)

Pride is such a destructive thing! David shows no sign of it in this psalm. He feels isolated from friends and tormented by foes. He feels incapable of solving this problem himself. Resolution must be preceded by recognition of how daunting our circumstance is without God. 

TELL GOD OF YOUR HOPE THAT HE WILL HELP YOU (15-22) 

The state of mind David has expressed inevitably leads to divine dependency. He hopes in God. He’s confident that God will answer him. Though he knows he’s close to falling, he pleads with God to intercede. His final plea as he speaks to God? “Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation.” 

We must resist the devil and our own fleshly desires. God has equipped us with the ability to be disciplined and to deny self. But, the battle cannot be won without leaning on the Everlasting Arms. Don’t just know that. Express it to God daily, throughout the day. It will help you see your problems more clearly and to see God as the solution. 

14 Tips For Voting

Neal Pollard
  • Exercise your right and privilege as a citizen of this nation to cast your vote. But, if you are convicted such is morally wrong, you would sin to violate your conscience (Rom. 14:23).
  • Pray (for wisdom, for peace, for God’s will, for the future of your family, for our leaders)(1 Tim. 2:1-2).
  • Study the many issues and thoughtfully examine each candidate’s position, making a choice that honors God more than it honors background, family, tradition, or friendships (Mat. 6:33; 10:37).
  • Remember that your decision is private and does not have to be shared with anyone else; if asked, you can always change the subject or respectfully decline to answer.
  • Take comfort in the truth that God is in control and elections do not thwart or overtake His will, but they are the result of His sovereign will (Rom. 13:1ff; Dan. 2:21; 4:17,25).
  • Do not make politics more important than relationships in the church, discerning that the diversity of the spiritual family includes new and weak Christians who might stumble as you assert your rights (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 8:13; 9:19-22).
  • Make sure any public and/or social media comments on politics (including memes, sharing posts and articles, etc.) pass the salt and light tests (Mat. 5:13-16) and the truth in love test (Eph. 4:15; being both truthful and loving).
  • Place your devotion and allegiance to Christ above your politics, being more passionate to proclaim Him than your candidate of choice (Mat. 6:33).
  • Never forget that, as Christians, our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20); we are citizens of heaven trying to make our way through earth rather than citizens of earth trying to make our way to heaven (2 Pet. 2:11).
  • Take all campaign promises with a grain of salt, realizing candidates may say just about anything to get elected (carefully study their positions over time to get a better idea of where they stand).
  • If you experience anger (associated with politics) before, during, or after this election, do not sin in that anger (Eph. 4:26).
  • Watch your tongue (keyboard)(Jas. 3:2-12).
  • Exercise righteous judgment when seeking to insert political statements and sentiments into the public worship of our God.
  • Never let politics (whether we perceive winds as fair or foul) eclipse your view of your true identity, mission, or destiny (1 Pet. 2:9; Mat. 28:18-20; Col. 3:1-4). Elections always have consequences, but so do our actions (Gal. 6:7-8).

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXIX)

“Fear Not” (43:1-28)

Neal Pollard

The content of this chapter is connected with exhortation, “fear not,” seen in 41:10,13, and 14. God has just delivered sobering news at the end of the previous chapter, so through the prophet He encourages them regarding their future. The trouble was a consequence of their own unfaithfulness, but God shows them what He wants to do for them as they return to Him.  He makes several promises, all fortified by His proven integrity in the past–He created, formed, and redeemed them (1). They can trust that His promises would encourage and embolden them. 

There will be redemption (1-4). What motivated God was the Fatherly love. He says, “I have called you by name, you are mine” (1). Whatever adversity confronted them, God would be with them (2). He is Savior (3). In affectionate terms, God tells His people they are precious in His eyes, honored, loved, and valued (4). 

There will be return (5-7). God speaks of His people coming from every direction–note the east, west, north, and south of verses 5-6. Summarized, He speaks of their returning “from the ends of the earth” (6). In this promise, there is a reminder of divine ownership. He called, created, formed, and made them for Himself and His glory (7). That they would ever have a lowered sense of their identity and purpose is mind-boggling! Is it any less for God’s people today?

There will be rescue (8-28). In this lengthiest section of the chapter, God repeatedly reminds them of His unmatched power. Twice, He reminds, “I am the Lord” (11,15). He points out that He is Redeemer (14), the Holy One (14), the Creator of Israel (15), King (15), and, most frequently, “the Lord” (10-12, 14-16). As He will contrast Himself with the gods of the nations throughout this section of Isaiah (see verse 10), He is distinguished from all rivals as an animate, omnipotent One who has the power to do what He wills. There is the rescue He effected in the past (16-18). Now, He says, “I am doing a new thing” (19). It would cause the creation to praise Him (20), and He wanted it to make His people praise Him (21).  Incredibly, they had rejected and neglected Him (22-24) and burdened, wearied, and hurt Him with their sins (23,26-28). But how did He respond in the midst of such moral failure? “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins” (25). However, the rescue is conditional. If they persist in transgressions and iniquities, God would allow them to suffer destruction and reviling (28).

Despite their persistent unfaithfulness, God’s perseverance and patience held out the hope of redemption, return, and rescue. He longs for man’s salvation, proven most fully at the cross. He wants a relationship with us, even if we so easily allow the world to blind us. He will not unconditionally save us, but there is nothing He wants more. In a scary world, that should lead us to “fear not.”

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXIX)

The Righteous King And The Spirit (32:1-20)

Neal Pollard

It is difficult to say whether or not the king in verse one is Messianic, especially since he is mentioned in tandem with princes who also rule. Yet, his coming is mentioned in connection with the Spirit being poured upon God’s people from on high (15). The princes may refer to those subordinated to this king, whether apostles or disciples. Of course, there is a contextual meaning as with previous Messianic passages (7:14; 9:6,7). The more immediate application, if this is dual-fulfillment, could apply either to Hezekiah or Josiah, since the general time line is close to the invasion of the Assyrians in 701 B.C. Contrasted with a more hopeful future is the disastrous leadership of the current rulers. 

The hope of a better day is set against the spiritual troubles of the present. Whereas there is wind and drought (2,13), blindness and deafness (3), hastiness and deficiency (4), folly and dishonor (5), sin and error (6), and weak women (9-12), Isaiah says these will be done away by a better day. He also writes of the turning point that will happen with the coming of the Spirit (15-20). The blessings include fruitfulness (15), justice and righteousness (16), peace (17), security (18), and prosperity (19-20).

Is Isaiah referring to the spiritual blessings to come in the day of Christ? I believe so. Yet, I also think in the more immediate sense that Isaiah portrays the day that would come after the oppression of foreign invaders when the nation returns. They were about to endure some intensely frightening things as a means of turning their hearts back to God (9-14). What Isaiah holds forth would come after this. Ultimately, the spiritual blessings that would come with the appearance of the Messiah would bless “the people who walk in darkness [that] will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, The light will shine on them” (9:2; Mat. 4:16)!

Encouragement

Travis Harrison

It’s not hard in today’s world to find things that discourage us. There are plenty of things that can bring us down. At times it really does feel like wherever we go, whatever we do, or say, there is something ready to discourage us. Unfortunately, people can be those roadblocks as well. That’s far from what we as Christians are called to do.

It was important in the days of the early church to encourage one another. So important that God commands it. It was important to God then – its important now.  Thankfully we have blessings such as the church and our church family to help us through those discouraging times. How do we go about finding ways to encourage each other? Is it the way we speak or how we live, or is it in our faith? Is it all the above? The fellowship we have with our friends, our family, along with worshipping and singing praises, and studying God’s Word are just a few. These are blessings that we receive when we meet together no doubt, but let’s not contain our encouragements just to the assembly. Our everyday lives are just as important and those around us everywhere need to feel encouraged regularly.  I just want to share briefly a few examples of what the Bible says about encouraging others and ways we can do just that.

Encouraging others is important, it’s necessary, it’s a command. Paul was one, if not the, most influential apostles of the first century church. He was a great teacher, preacher, mentor, and guess what? He was great at encouraging people. At the beginning of most of his letters he would begin with words of praise and thanks. (1 Thess. 1:2-3,) (Phil. 1:3-8,) (1 Cor. 1:4-5) are a few examples. In (Romans 1:12) Paul writes that he longs to be with them so that they can encourage one another in the faith. These types of encouragements were part of his everyday life.

We can’t discuss encouragement without mentioning Barnabas, the “son of encouragement.” He is mentioned several times in the New Testament, but he wasn’t a main character like Paul – he played a smaller, but still very important role.  Paul spent his early life persecuting Christians. The people of the first churches, as well as the disciples feared this man, and rightfully so. After he became a Christian, the disciples didn’t believe he was one of them, so what did Barnabas do? He encouraged Paul by standing up for him in Jerusalem (Acts 9:26-31). He was a fellow missionary with Paul, Mark, Titus, and others. He encouraged those in Antioch to remain faithful in the Lord with steadfast purpose, (Acts 11:23.) Paul and Barnabas visited these churches, they taught, and they lived out their teachings. They encouraged them in their works and through their faith. They instilled hope, strengthening the church’s faith. (1Thessalonians 5:11) – Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. We can all benefit from their examples. 

Let’s face it, life is hard at times. Certain situations bring us discouragement and can distort and change our thinking. Who wouldn’t want to be encouraged and uplifted in these hard times?  It might not seem like a big deal to some, but kind words of encouragement and praise could make all the difference in the world. (Proverbs 16:24) – Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. (Proverbs 12:25) -Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. We shouldn’t be surprised that little things like sending a card or giving a compliment, sending a text message, phone call or email, could make a big difference. How underrated but so appreciated those things can be!  It’s hard not to smile and be filled with some kind of encouragement if someone messages you to say they’ve missed you, and been thinking about you, been praying for you.  Check in on those you haven’t seen recently – Invite someone new to dinner – someone not typically in your crowd or someone new to the church. Practice hospitality as it says in (Romans 12:13.) Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor, (Romans 12:10.) 

When we encourage people we show our love, compassion, understanding, and we give them hope. It helps reset our minds, builds our confidence in each other, and allows us to see God more clearly. More than anything we are showing others how we live our faith just as Paul and Barnabas did. We show we want to be like Christ and people can see God through our actions towards them. Encouragement is powerful! Just remember that sometimes the smallest things can have the biggest impacts. 

A Shot In The Arm

Carl Pollard

The promises of God can get us through the toughest of times. His love is the shot in the arm we need to remain faithful. Paul says in Romans 8:35, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?” So far in this section, Paul has asked four questions: 

  1. Who Can Be Against Us? 
  2. Who Can Accuse Us? 
  3. Who Can Condemn Us? 
  4. Who Can Separate Us? 

The Love of Christ is unbreakable, nothing can affect it. “Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?” We can let these push us away from Christ and His love, but His love toward us is unbreakable. 

Several years ago, on a hot summer day in South Florida, a little boy decided to go for a swim in the pond behind his house. He flew into the water, not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore. His mother, in the house and looking out the window, saw the two as they got closer and closer together. In utter fear, she ran toward the water, yelling to her son as loudly as she could. Hearing her voice, the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn to swim to his mother. It was too late. Just as he reached her, the alligator reached him. From the dock, the mother grabbed her little boy by the arms just as the alligator snatched his legs. That began an incredible tug of war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the mother, but the mother was too passionate to let go. A farmer happened to drive by, heard her screams, raced from his truck, took aim and shot the alligator. After weeks and weeks in the hospital the little boy survived. His legs were extremely scarred by the vicious attack of the animal. On his arms, were deep scratches from where his mother’s fingernails dug into his flesh in her effort to hang on to the son she loved. The newspaper reporter who interviewed the boy after the trauma asked if he would show him his scars. The boy lifted his pants legs. And then, with obvious pride, he said to the reporter, “But, look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms too. I have them because my Mom wouldn’t let go.” 

Just like a mother who loves her child, so God loves us. The scars on the hands and feet of Jesus remind us that God, in His great love for us, could not let us go. But His love doesn’t mean that we won’t face famine or peril or sword. We will still have to endure suffering, Just know that no matter what scars may be on your legs from the world, Christ has scars on His hands and feet. If The Son of God suffered, what makes us think we won’t as well? 

36 As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” Paul isn’t saying that none of these things will happen to followers of Jesus. He isn’t saying Christians won’t experience hardship or distress; or that they won’t be persecuted, or face famine, nakedness, danger, or sword. Paul knows this firsthand. If our earthly bodies survive the tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword, then all of those things will draw us into a closer relationship with God. If our bodies don’t survive, then we will find ourselves in the presence of God. Either way, we win. 

This is what Paul was talking about when he said in Philippians one that to live is Christ, and to die is gain. The love of God makes us immune to the worst of the world’s fears. And that love can be a shot in the arm in the worst of times!

It Ain’t Me

Gary Pollard

One of the most difficult things (at least for me) to accept about grace is this: There’s nothing we can do to deserve it, or be “worthy” of it. When I sin, it just makes me feel even more unworthy. This can quickly devolve into apathy — why even try? Every sin seems to compound, every prayer for strength seems ignored. If prayers for strength are ignored, surely prayers for forgiveness are, too! 

This mentality is not a healthy one. But how does one go from an intellectual understanding of grace’s power to accepting the reality of human imperfection? How do we prevent defeat in the aftermath of mistakes? If there’s a fix-all answer to this, I haven’t found it. 

Perhaps the answer is a lack of faith. At its core, faith is really confidence — that God exists, that he rewards people who try hard to have a relationship with him, that his grace is enough for us because his power is most effectively displayed through weakness. 

Maybe it’s disbelief. Does Jesus really forgive us when we sin? Yeah, Paul says “I don’t understand why I act the way I do. I don’t do the good I want to do, and I do the evil I hate. … But I am not really the one doing the evil. It is sin living in me that does it” (Rom 7.15, 17, 20). But later he says, “You are not ruled by your sinful selves. You are ruled by spirit, if God’s spirit really lives in you” (8.9). What does he mean by “ruled”? If I can’t seem to avoid sin, am I not ruled by it? What about Rom 6.2? “So do you think we should continue sinning so that God will give us more and more grace? Of course not! Our old sinful life ended. It’s dead. So how can we continue living in sin?” Which is it? Are we ok because we sin even when we don’t want to? Or are we in trouble because we’re not immune to sin? Maybe this would be better classed under confidence, but it’s so hard to believe that God still wants a relationship with people who claim to love him while vulnerable to sin’s influence. 

Scripture seems to clear this up, if we can only accept its significance: “We know that the law is spiritual, but I am not. I am so human. Sin rules me as if I were its slave. I don’t understand why I act the way I do. I don’t do the good I want to do, I do the evil I hate. And if I don’t want to do what I do, that means I agree that the law is good” (Rom 7.14-16). 

The question each person seems to have to answer is, “Do I really hate sin’s influence in my life?” God knows the true answer to that question. Romans 6.12 says, “Don’t let sin control your life here. You must not be ruled by the things your sinful self makes you want to do.” A few verses later, “In the past you were slaves to sin and you did not even think about doing right.” Verse 23, in the context of these chapters, says that all people are going to die physically because every human has sinned. But all who despise sin (while still vulnerable to its influence) and follow God will be “no longer under death’s power” because Jesus defeated sin’s ultimate punishment. 

We can’t avoid death, just like we can’t avoid sin. Where our heart really is makes the difference. “So I have learned this rule: When I want to do good, evil is there with me. In my mind I am happy with God’s law. But I see another law working in my body. That law makes war against the law that my mind accepts. That other law working in my body is the law of sin, and that law makes me its prisoner.” 

God knows we’re human. God knows we’re weak and constantly fighting sin’s influence. We’re not God, we’re not impervious to its control. Even Paul said, “What a miserable person I am! Who will save me from this body that brings me death?” The answer is Jesus, the one who will rescue us from our current bodies if our “minds serve God’s law, even as our bodies serve the law of sin” (7.25). 

Finally, “Now there is no more condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. This is because the law of the spirit of life that comes from Christ Jesus has freed us from the law of sin and death. … God used a human life to destroy sin.” What does this mean? This means if we live to do what God wants us to do, he will give our bodies life on the last day (8.11). We’re never going to be free of sin’s influence in our lives, but we choose our masters. Will we pursue sin with our hearts and actions, or will we serve God with our hearts while the weakness of sin only makes us anticipate freedom (8.18ff) even more? We aren’t doing this alone — we have Jesus defending us (I Jn 2.1-2) and we have God searching our intent (Rom 8.26-27). 

“We know that everything God made has been waiting in pain like a woman ready to give birth to a child. Not just the created world, either — we’ve also been waiting with pain inside us. We have the spirit as the first part of God’s promise. So we are waiting for God to finish making us his children. I mean we are waiting for our bodies to be made free.” 

Executed, But Still Rescued

Neal Pollard

In the very intimate correspondence to his spiritual son that we call the epistle of 2 Timothy, Paul seems very aware that the time of his departure from this earth had come (4:6). Paul was not under house arrest, like we read at the end of Acts. He is in chains (1:16). 

The city of Rome burned between July 19-24, 64 AD. The fire started in the Circus Maximus stadium, but burned 10 of the city’s 14 districts before it was extinguished. Some historians blame Nero, but there is no doubt Nero blamed the Christians. He rounded up Christians already in the city, including Peter (cf. 2 Pet. 1:14-15), and had many of them executed that same fall. 

Lenski says Paul was in Spain at the time of the fire, but he was captured in a continuing dragnet of Christians: “Christianity had become a religio illicita, and especially its propagation became a crime against the state. Not long after Paul’s return from Spain he was arrested. Now he would be charged with a crime; Paul was, therefore, thrown into a dungeon as a felon. After some delay he was tried and executed. Tradition asserts that he perished under Nero who died June 9, 68. The details of his martyrdom are not known. He must have been condemned to death for spreading a religio illicita” (474).

So, as the time drew nearer for him to die, Paul uses an interesting word to describe his anticipated situation. He reviews some of the events of his first missionary journey, reminding Timothy that at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra he endured many persecutions, “and out of them all the Lord rescued me!” (3:11). You may remember that this including being stoned by the Jews and left for dead. That was a miraculous rescue!

Now, confined to chains with an insane emperor breathing down his neck, Paul says that the Christians had deserted him. Considering the enormous scrutiny they were under simply for being Christians, visiting a notorious, incarcerated Christian was risky! He charitably prayed that it might not be counted against them (4:16). Then, he says that he was rescued from out of the lion’s mouth (4:17), and “interpreters have identified the lion as the literal lions of the amphitheater, the emperor Nero, or Satan” (Lea and Griffin, The New American Commentary, Vol. 34, 256). But, we cannot be sure. But, even if the lion was figurative, the rescue was literal.

At nearly the end of his last letter, Paul confidently adds, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom” (4:18).  Consider Nero and the Roman machine! He had already been beaten numerous times. Who knows the terrible hardships he endured in the squalor of this dungeon? Yet, he would state with confidence that God would rescue him from the worst of them. Perhaps weeks or days after he dispatched this letter to Timothy, guards unlocked him and took him to the chopping block where, as a Roman citizen, he died by beheading rather than a harsher death like crucifixion or burning.  What about his inspired words in 2 Timothy 4:18?

Paul teaches us to think eternally and heavenly. On the other side of that beheading, there was safety and arrival to God’s heavenly kingdom. It was what he lived for. It was what he died for. What a reminder as we live in this body for such a short time, that we await our rescue. Our rescuer is Jesus, “who rescues us from the wrath to come” (1 Th. 1:10). He “delivered us from so great a peril of death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope. And He will yet deliver us” (2 Cor. 1:10). 

Marks

Gary Pollard

Every normally functioning person is acutely aware of something wrong within them. Most people subconsciously or consciously understand that they’re horribly wrong somehow. Historically we’ve tried to fix this in different ways. The Pharisees and Sadducees are two archetypal mentalities among religious people — one extreme goes to the right and mandates excessive behavioral restrictions in an attempt to earn God’s favor through what is not far from asceticism. The other side says, “What’s the point in dwelling on it?” and mostly ignore the problem.


The problem with both groups is that they cannot control their bodies’ enslavement to sin. Paul warns against the legalist and traditionalist by saying, “These rules may seem to be wise as part of a made-up religion in which people pretend to be humble and punish their bodies. But they don’t help people stop doing the evil that the sinful self wants to do” (Col 2.23). He warns against those who show no self restraint when he said, “So do you think we should keep sinning so that God will give us more and more grace? Of course not!” (Rom 6.1).


Right now reality is enslaved to death. Death is still a thing because sin is still a thing. Death was not a part of earth’s reality until sin was. Sin introduced death to earth, and it hasn’t left us since. Sin is a proof that we will die — everyone carries that proof because everyone is going to die at some point.


We carry a different proof with us, though. We still have the proof of sin because we’re all still going to die (Hb 9.27). But we also carry proof of immortality. Paul makes it very clear in I Corinthians 15 that our death is no different from a seed being planted. It is planted as one thing, it comes back to life as something much more impressive. So death is imminent for each person because of sin, but our death brings us life! Just like sin is transcendent proof of imminent death, grace is transcendent proof of imminent immortality!

Heaven: Worth The Hype

Todd Childress

There are times in our lives when we get hyped up and get excited about events we want to attend or new places we want to visit or new restaurants we want to try out and we go to these events, new places, and restaurants and they end up not meeting our expectations and we are left feeling disappointed. We can also get hyped up about our sports teams at the beginning of the season. The season ends and we are disappointed of the season’s outcome. I know several of us sure have been disappointed over the past four years with that Kentucky basketball team.

Fortunately for Christians, we know of a place that will always live up to the hype and surpass our highest expectations: Heaven.

  1. Why do we have the opportunity to be in Heaven with God/Jesus?

John 3:16 

Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins so that we can all have a home with Him and God for eternity in Heaven. We should always be grateful for his ultimate sacrifice.

In John 14:2-3, Jesus says, “In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

There is room for all who seek and do God’s will. Jesus gave us this great promise that he has made a way for us to be in God’s presence and is actively working on a perfect place for us to live.

     2. Descriptions of Heaven, based on what the Bible says:

Revelation 21:4 tells us, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes: there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Really, if you think about it, Heaven is opposite of the World we live in. No pain, no death, no sorrow, no cancer, no sickness, no diseases, and NO SIN.

I also think about how we have had to say goodbye to loved ones who have passed on from this life. In Heaven, no more saying goodbye. We will be with them for eternity. Imagine the most beautiful ocean, or beach, or waterfalls, the most beautiful places on Earth you have seen. They do not compare to what our eyes will witness in Heaven. 

Likewise, think of the most wonderful and peaceful sounds like birds chirping, the relaxing sound of streams flowing, waves crashing on the shore. None of these sounds will compare to the sounds we will hear in Heaven.

  1. What can we do to make sure we are in Heaven?

In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus says “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Earthly treasures wear out and can be stolen and are only temporary, but our treasures in Heaven will last for eternity. Jesus warns us against stockpiling money and possessions on earth. Instead, believers should make choices that allow them to store up treasures in Heaven. A person’s top priority can be God, or money, but cannot be both. We strive after what we desire and THAT is our treasure. What we treasure indicates what really owns us. So let us treasure God and make him our top priority.

Colossians 3:1-5 teaches,

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.  When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

In this scripture, Paul tells the Colossians since they have been buried and raised to new life, they ought to set their minds on things above rather than following religious rules and seeking to satisfy the opinions of men. We should do the same.

In October 2001 the Christian band Mercy Me released the song I Can Only Imagine.

In the song, the narrator wonders what it would be like to stand before God in heaven. 

 In the refrain, the singer ponders, “Will I dance for You Jesus/or in awe of you be still/Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will I fall/Will I sing hallelujah/will I be able to speak at all/I can only imagine/I can only imagine”.

I want to encourage you and challenge you. Let’s not just imagine what Heaven may be like, let’s do God’s will and lay up treasures for ourselves in Heaven.  Let’s turn our imaginations into reality.

 I am really looking forward to when we are in Heaven together someday.

If you have not put Christ on in baptism to have your sins forgiven, but want to do so, today is a great opportunity. If you are a Christian and you have struggles that have kept you from focusing on Heavenly treasures, we will pray with you and encourage you. Heaven is worth the hype!

You Can Rely On This

Dale Pollard

“This is a trustworthy statement…” (Titus 3.8).

Definition of Trustworthy: “That which can be relied on”

The Statement You Can Rely On (v.4-7) 

“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”

The Substance of the Statement: 

What Should We Trust? 

  1. He showed up to show love  (v4)
  2. Mercy was the motivator  (v5)
  3. Total transformation is true (v5)
  4. The Savior is the Solution (v6) 
  5. Grace is the greatest (v7)
  6. Our destination is definite (v7) 

“Come Unto Me”

Carl Pollard

The Pharisees placed an unbearable amount of teachings on the people. They forced traditions and self-made commands on every person to the point that they became weary. They did this to gain power, to appear holy, and to validate their egos. Jesus dealt with the Pharisees on numerous occasions, but the condition of their hearts was too far gone. They refused to let go of the teachings they had forced on the people. 

In Matthew 11, Jesus warns the cities where He performed many miracles but the people refused to believe and change. He mentions several cities by name who refused to obey the Son of God. Turns out, these cities were heavily influenced by the Pharisees. Jesus ends this section by saying, “it will be worse for these people on the day of judgment than for Sodom.”However, after this harsh teaching, Jesus offers an invitation. He uses three significant words to call us to Him. He invites us to “come, take, and learn.” 

Considered by many to be the greatest invitation ever offered, these words have the power to change your life. The false teachings of the Pharisees had called the people to embrace their rules and regulations. They were no longer rejoicing in their faith. They were forced, instead of seeking after God. Following God had become more of an obligation than an adoration, lacking a genuine hunger and thirst for God. They showed up at the synagogue because it was just a habit. Worship was not something that they longed to do; it was something they HAD to do in order to acquire God’s blessing.

At this point in Matthew 11, Jesus is addressing people who have lost their longing for God. To a group of weary men and women, Jesus says, “Come to me, take my yoke, and I will give you rest.” 

“Come To Me” (28)

You ever had someone over and they just wouldn’t leave? What do you do? Do you drop hints? Do you just hope that they decide to leave soon? Do you perform the classic stretch, yawn, and look at the watch?

This can be a tricky situation, especially if the people that are there are the ones that would stay all night if you let them. There are actually many cultures where guests will not leave until you tell them to. I read about a missionary group that traveled to the island of Yap in Micronesia. They invited some locals over for supper at the home they were staying in. After several hours the conversation died down, and things got a little awkward. The missionaries kept wondering when these people would leave. 

At this point they were just sitting in silence looking around. Finally, a local missionary came over and told the others, “Here in Yap, guests will not leave until you tell them to.” So that’s exactly what they did, they told their guests “it’s time for you to leave” (after which everyone seemed to breathe a sigh of relief).

In Matthew 11:28, Jesus does the exact opposite. Rather than telling us to leave, He implores us to COME. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Look at who Jesus invites to come to Him: the labored and the heavy laden. Both of these words in context are a description of what happens when you try to work your way to salvation. The Pharisees forced traditions and commands on the people so that they would be saved. This mindset and lifestyle is a burden. In case we have forgotten, Galatians 2:16 says, “Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified.” 

If you are trying on your own deeds instead of trusting in Jesus, that will make you weary. 

This mentality the Pharisees forced on the people is still seen today. It is wearying, but it is also a heavy burden. The word used here is, “phortizo” means to “load up something on an animal or to load cargo onto a ship.” The Pharisees had laid many burdens on the people and their religion did not give rest and peace. No human religion can give peace to the heart. In Matthew 23:4, Jesus says this about the Pharisees, “They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger.”

Weariness like this comes from trying to earn salvation on your own. Salvation comes through Christ, which is why He implores the weary and heavy laden to come to Him!

A Place To Rest

Carl Pollard

David, the king of Israel, wrote more psalms than any other author in the book of Psalms. He is specifically mentioned as being the writer of 72 individual psalms. Out of all the ones he composed, Psalm 23 is probably the most well known. And for good reason! Today we still have songs in our song books that were inspired by Psalm 23. It is a psalm of comfort and often read at funerals and eulogies. Millions of people have been touched by these words. In darkest of times, many find joy in these words of David. 

We could study and analyze this psalm repeatedly, and still continue to find new truths and powerful reminders each time. Many of us have most, if not all, of this Psalm memorized. Which can be a good thing…and also not so good at the same time. Often times when we study a passage that we have heard our entire life, it can be easy to breeze past without truly diving in. 

In this article we are going to focus on The Lord, Our Shepherd. David tells us what The Shepherd has done for us. It is good for us all to look at what God HAS done and will continue to do for us in the future. David begins in v. 1 by saying, “the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” This phrase is the building block, the foundation for the remaining 5 verses. Since the Lord is my shepherd I’m not lacking anything! David was content because the Lord was HIS shepherd. 

The story is told about a pilot who always looked down intently on a certain valley in the Appalachians when the plane passed overhead. One day his co-pilot asked, “What’s so interesting about that spot?” 

The pilot replied, “See that stream? Well, when I was a kid I used to sit down there on a log and fish. Every time an airplane flew over, I would look up and wish I were flying… Now I look down and wish I were fishing.”

It is always tempting to think that others have it better than we do, and that if we just had “a little more” everything would be fine. But contentment cannot be achieved by increasing possessions. Being truly content is only possible when the Lord is OUR shepherd. David explains why in this beautiful Psalm. 

David is content because…The Shepherd Gives Rest. Psalm 23:2 “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.” If you remember, David was a shepherd before he became king of Israel.

So he is speaking from firsthand experience concerning what is necessary for sheep to live and necessary for a shepherd to provide. These images of shepherding are lost on many of us but we need to understand the shepherd/sheep relationship to make proper application of this psalm.

There’s a book called “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.” The author was a shepherd himself for eight years and recalls his experiences while studying this psalm. The author says this about verse 2, “It is almost impossible for them (sheep) to be made to lie down unless four requirements are met. Due to their timidity they refuse to lie down unless they are free of all fear. Because of the social behavior within a flock sheep will not lie down unless they are free from friction with others of their kind. If tormented by flies or parasites, sheep will not lie down. Only when free of these pests can they relax. Lastly, sheep will not lie down as long as they feel in need of finding food. They must be free from hunger.”

This information deepens the meaning of “he makes me lie down.” This is exactly what David is describing concerning his relationship with the Lord. David is able to rest because all his provisions have been provided by the Lord. Verse 2 describes being in the green pastures where eating is plentiful. The sheep are beside the still waters where they can freely drink without fear. It is interesting that the psalm begins by describing the rest available in God. 

We are able to release our burdens and our cares upon the Lord. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Rest and release is available because God has promised to carry our burdens. It’s heartbreaking when so many Christians do not let God carry their burdens. Instead, Christians remain burdened with worries, anxieties, care, struggles, guilt, and numerous other troubles that we fight daily. 

God is offering us rest but we have to hand Him the burdens. We must have the faith that knows God will take care of it. He is our Shepherd, in Him we find rest.

Off Your Face And On Your Feet

Dale Pollard

The God whose presence will bring us to our knees, is also the God who sets us on our feet. 

That stormy wind, felt by the prophet on the banks of the Chebar river, carried with it sights, sounds, feelings, and tastes, allowing us to experience God in a profound way. The text demands our attention like the very voice of the Almighty (v.24), an appropriate name for God that’s found repeatedly in Ezekiel. From the first chapter it becomes clear that if the Spirit hadn’t breathed through the prophet and guided his pen, these preserved glimpses into the spiritual realm would not have been possible. The liberal use of words and phrases such as, appearance, then I saw, then I  looked, it’s likeness, it was likened to, sounded like, then I heard, it felt as if, the taste was like— all these attempt to describe the indescribable so that the earthly reader may vaguely comprehend them.

God first appeared to Ezekiel as a rainbow in the midst of a great storm. The symbolism is one that reminds us that God’s promise will remain even in the midst of peril. At the sight of His glory the prophet would fall on his face. God’s response is a command, “son of man, stand on your feet” (1.28). That term “son of man” is a telling one. It highlights Ezekiel’s humanity and in the presence of the Almighty— the contrast is a sharp one. It’s obvious that he can’t stand on his own so the Spirit enters into him and sets him on his feet (2.2). 

That act of raising up one who otherwise couldn’t is a thematic one; showing up again in the valley of the dry bones. This time, God doesn’t raise a single living man to his feet, He brings up the dead by the thousands. The Author writes, “…the breath came into them, and they lived and stood on their feet, an exceedingly great army.” God demonstrates that He can lift up one, and He can also lift up every one. How long a person has been spiritually dead or how decomposed sin has turned a Christ-less corpse—  doesn’t matter. The God whose presence will bring us to our knees, is also the God who sets us on our feet. 

The One Who Came Back

Carl Pollard

Luke 17:11-19, ”On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Two friends met each other on the street one day. One looked upset, almost on the verge of tears. His friend asked, “What’s wrong?” The other answered and said, “well, three weeks ago, my uncle died and left me forty thousand dollars.” The friend responded and said, “That’s a lot of money.” 

“But you see, two weeks ago, a cousin I never even knew died, and he left me eighty-five thousand dollars.” The guy answered back, “Sounds to me that you’ve been very blessed.” “You don’t understand!” he interrupted. “Last week my great-aunt passed away. I inherited almost a quarter of a million from her.” Now the man’s friend was really confused. “Then, why are you so upset!?” “Because…this week I got nothing!”

We can often come to the point where we expect to get certain blessings that God never promised us, and when they do not come, it is easy to get bitter. As Christians, our lives should be filled with gratitude. There’s so much that God has already done for us! But there are times where we expect God to do things, or give us something that isn’t promised to us. When the moment comes and we don’t get it, what is our response? If God’s answer is yes, be grateful. If God’s answer is no, be grateful. 

Gratitude is a forgotten and dying attitude. Which sadly, has long been difficult for mankind to express. A well known example of this is found in Luke 17. This account is unique to the gospel of Luke. Up to this point Jesus has been giving parable after parable, but what happens in 11-19 takes place on their journey to Jerusalem? 

A real life example that we should take to heart. Gratitude is a lost art. 

But we can learn what God expects of us from these few verses: 

  1. Gratitude Is Not Conditional (11-14) 
  2. Gratitude Must Lead To Action (15-16) 
  3. Gratitude Is Uncommon (17-18) 
  4. Gratitude Is Life Changing (19)

Ten were healed, but only one came back. And he came back because he realized that he had something to do. Jesus changed his life, and he couldn’t just leave and not show his appreciation. He HAD to turn back, because Jesus was his salvation!

I’d like to suggest that as Christian’s we ALL have a reason to turn back. 

Eph. 2:4, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.“

God has shown His love, so let’s show our gratitude. You can do that by praising Him each day, because every day He is with us and is forgiving of our faults. Show God that you are grateful for what He has done by giving your life to Him. There’s no greater joy than trying to give back to a God that has given so much to us.

GENESIS: THESE ARE THE GENERATIONS (XXXI)

The Birth Of The Nation Of Israel (29:31-30:24)

Neal Pollard

God promises a nation to Abraham, an elderly man whose wife was barren. Sarah takes matters into her own hands and complicates things with Hagar and Ishmael. Finally, a lone son, Isaac, is born. He grows up, marries Rebekah, and she has twins. The strife between those sons goes literally to their beginning. Jacob wrests the birthright and blessing through cunning and deceit. Now, Jacob settles in Haran amidst the household of a man more cunning and deceitful than himself and marries two of his daughters.  As James Smith puts it, “God would have all self-righteous Israelites to realize the context of jealousy and superstition out of which the twelve tribes emerged” (The Pentateuch, 191). His remarks center specifically on the birth of Jacob’s twelve sons.

Children were conceived out of an unwanted marriage (29:31-35; 30:17-21). Isn’t it interesting that the most prolific child bearer of the four women who slept with Jacob is Leah, the one with the weak (or sparkle-less) eyes whom Jacob never asked for? Repeatedly, these verses speak of how the Lord saw and heard these women who appeal to Him. Leah bears Jacob Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and Dinah. 

Have you considered that two of the most important features of the Israelite system, the priesthood (Levi) and the monarchy (Judah), came from this unwanted union? The handmaids were proxies of these sisters. From a fleshly point of view, one would conclude that Jacob neither suffered nor complained about these arrangements. But how it sullied the resulting nation! Contrast the establishment of Israel with the establishment of the church. The founder of the church was born of a virgin and was conceived by the Holy Spirit. Resulting from this union was a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession” (1 Pet. 2:9). 

Children were born of proxies (30:1-7; 30:8-13). As already mentioned, each sister gave their handmaid to Jacob to raise up children in their name. This seems an odd arrangement to the modern, western mind, but such children were recognized as belonging to the woman who loans her out to her husband. Think of the many complications that arose from deviating from God’s plan for marriage. Polygamy, concubines, and handmaids were not part of God’s original pattern (Mat. 19:8). Rachel’s maid, Bilhah, gives Jacob Dan (“vindication”) and Naphtali (“wrestlings of God”). Leah’s maid, Zilpah, bears Jacob Gad (“fortune”) and Asher (“happy”). Incidentally, notice the brighter outlook of Leah contrasted with Rachel–who apparently despite her beauty might have had a more difficult-to-deal-with side (see 30:1-3). Rather than waiting on the Lord, these women imitated their ancestor, Sarah, in getting ahead of God! 

Children were attempted through superstition, but granted through supplication (30:14-16,22-24). An interesting event is recorded in the midst of the childbearing wars that may be confusing without closer investigation. In the late spring or early summer, Leah’s eldest, Reuben, found mandrakes in the field and brought them to his mom (14; see Song 7:13). When Rachel hears about this, she arranges a deal with Leah in which she gets conjugal rights to Jacob in exchange for this fruit/herb. 

This might be baffling, but a little research explains why Rachel would want this so badly. Easton explains, “The weight of authority is in favour of its being regarded as the Mandragora officinalis of botanists, ‘a near relative of the night-shades, the ‘apple of Sodom’ and the potato plant.’ It possesses stimulating and narcotic properties….The fruit of this plant resembles the potato-apple in size, and is of a pale orange colour. It has been called the ‘love-apple.’ The Arabs call it ‘Satan’s apple.’ It still grows near Jerusalem, and in other parts of Palestine” (Easton Dictionary, 442-443).

Notice, however, that Leah appeals to God and He blesses her with three more children. She credits Him in the naming of Issachar and Zebulun (18-20) and apparently also in the naming of Dinah (“acquitted”; “vindicated”), Jacob’s only daughter mentioned in the account. The text tells us that God remembered Rachel and finally opened her womb as she apparently cried out to Him for help (22). If the mandrakes played a part, Scripture does not say so. In fact, we have every reason to believe that it was only by Rachel’s trust and God’s power that the heretofore impossible was finally done. 

Eleven sons and a daughter now make up Jacob’s dysfunctional domicile. As we will see next, Jacob’s family has grown to the extent that he is ready to leave his father’s household and establish his own in what he considers “my own country” (25-26). The family and faith failures enmeshed in these births, the resulting dysfunction, will show itself again in several future events among them. Violence, envy, and even murder lay ahead. 

One cannot help but think of passages of Scripture like Job 4:8, Proverbs 22:8, Hosea 8:7, and Galatians 6:7-8. Each adult in this account resorted to their own wisdom and power, and there were decided consequences as the result! How important for us to trust God, His time, His way, and His plan. Scripture repeatedly shows the problems we cause when we go our own way! I think about my own life, where I have gotten in trouble for the same thing. Rather than trusting God’s will, we exert our own and inevitably pay the price! May we engrave this on our heart: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” (Prov. 3:5).

“God Is So Good”

Neal Pollard

You might notice over your heading of Psalm 107 that it begins “Book Five.” You also do not see David’s name over this psalm. There may be clues pointing to this being one of the later psalms, even after Babylonian Captivity (1-3). Many believe this was a song sung by Jewish pilgrims who sang it on their way to Jerusalem for one of the major feast days. It is full of parallelism, where the writer says the same thing two similar ways (nearly every verse contains this, except 3,12,26,34,37, and 40). 

But as we pay attention to its structure, it looks like it contains four main “strophes” (poetic stanzas).  Each strophe ends with the same chorus or refrain: “Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness, and for His wonders to the sons of men” (8,15,21,31). It covers the full range of human distress and problems and God’s gracious response. We struggle, God delivers, and for that we should always be thankful! Truly, God is so good!

GOD IS GOOD WHEN WE WANDER (4-9)

Historically, we would think of the wilderness wandering or even being scattered by captivity. But this seems bigger than just one occasion. Whether we wander by sin, wander because of struggles and distresses, God is still so good to be our beacon and compass. He will help us find our way home, which should fill our hearts with gratitude. He can lead us back from any and every direction we have gone. 

GOD IS GOOD WHEN WE ARE OPPRESSED (10-16)

Sometimes our struggle is not of our own making and choosing. Sometimes, though, it is the result of our rebellion. Either way, when we face darkness and death, chains and misery, He brings us out and breaks us free. No one has to stay in spiritual prison. God offers freedom. That should draw our gratitude, He’s so good! 

GOD IS GOOD WHEN WE ARE HURTING (17-22)

He writes of afflictions and distresses, again some of which are self-inflicted and others which are brought upon us. It doesn’t matter which way it happens, God can heal our wounds. His word is medicine and He is the Great Physician. There is salvation and deliverance. 

GOD IS GOOD WHEN WE ARE IN DANGER (23-32)

Perhaps one of the most graphic illustrations of danger is of being storm-tossed at sea. Stormy winds and waves threaten to capsize us and expose us to the deep. We may at times feel like we’re hanging on by a thread, in desperation. 

This psalm makes me think of the hymn, “Does Jesus Care?” The writer brings up four different scenarios where we hurt or struggle, and we are reminded of how much He cares! There’s a good chance you are struggling right now or you have just been through struggle or are about to go through it. Please remember the goodness of God and His ability to help you through it.  But He hushes the winds and stills the storms. God is so good! 

The writer closes by speaking of all the ways God turns chaos into calm (33-43). He may not have mentioned your specific trial in this psalm, but he covered it. Remember, no matter what you face, He will bless you and help you through it all! No doubt, it will make you sing, “God is so good!”

Jesus Is Better (II)

Gary Pollard

Humans have a tendency to project their own weaknesses onto others. We are all guilty of this. Sometimes that carries over to our prayers — can Jesus forgive me, even with how I’ve failed him over and over? Sometimes we find it hard to forgive others, so we may assume Jesus feels the same when we beg his forgiveness. We’re only forgiven to the extent that we forgive others, but it seems we (that includes me) project our human weakness onto Jesus. 

Jesus is still human, but perfect. He’s human, but at God’s right hand. He’s human, so he understands and feels for our weakness. “We have a better high priest, one who understands our weakness, even though he never sinned.” Jesus gets it! It must’ve been a miserable few decades in a constant war with himself. He was tempted every single way that we are, but never made a mistake. 

How many people do you know who are tempted by everything? Most of us have a few weaknesses, and those are hard enough to manage. But imagine being tempted by every single thing that had ever or would ever tempt a human! Jesus understands, even though he never sinned. That’s our perfect high priest! He can say to the father, “I understand how difficult [your temptation here] is to face.” 

Jesus is better because he knows what we go through, he’s experienced it all, and he never once made a mistake. He didn’t do that to make us feel inadequate — though we are all inadequate by ourselves — but to help us when we fall. Jesus is better because he’s a high priest who can empathize with every human on the planet, and he lives to do just that for us!