July 29 - Gracious and Compassionate

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 57-59; Psalms 103; 2 Peter 3

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

God’s threats of wrath and judgment are
counterbalanced by His promises of grace! 

When we read through the books of history and prophecy it is easy to see God’s wrath and judgment. One family member at Buchanan challenged my beliefs with an article questioning God’s laws. It was written by a Rabbi, of all people, who dismissed some Bible verses because they seem judgmental in our day of political correctness.  But our readings today emphasize the counterbalancing theme of God’s grace.

I will not accuse forever, nor will I always be angry....I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him (57:16a,18).

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities (103:8-10).

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (3:9).

We saw it yesterday with the promises of a suffering Saviour. God couldn’t be more gracious and compassionate. But He is also just. There are very real consequences to rebellion. Peter warns us that we have the freedom to walk away from God’s amazing grace, and in doing so actually fall from our secure position (3:17). So much for those who believe “once saved always saved.”

“Lord, where would we be without Your grace. Thank You for loving me when I was unlovable, for forgiving me when my sins were unforgivable, and for extending to me mercy when I deserved Your judgment!”

July 28 - Prophetic Proof Positive

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 53-56; 2 Peter 2

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Pride is public enemy #1
and if we don’t deal with it, God will!

I’ve learned over the years not to rush through the prophetic books of the Bible, dismissing them as old news, no longer relevant to our day or our lives. For me, at least two passages in today’s readings dispel that notion.

First is the incredible description of the suffering Saviour, found in chapter 53. This passage, written 700 years before Jesus was born on earth, provides some of the most irrefutable proof that the Bible is God’s Word and that Jesus was indeed the long-awaited Messiah:

• Despised and rejected (3)
• Bore our infirmities (4)
• Considered smitten by God (4)
• Wounded for our transgressions (5)
• We are healed by his stripes (5)
• He was flogged (5)
• Silent before His accusers (7)
• Died for our sins (8)
• Died with the wicked (9)
• Buried with the rich (9)
• Lived a sinless life (9)
• Offered for our sin (10)
• Justified many (11)
• Numbered with transgressors (12)
• Made intercession for sinners (12)

The second passage that convinces me of the importance of prophecy is found in chapter 54. It is far more subjective and intensely personal for Jan and me. We are at a wonderful stage of life now when we have more time to spend with our two adult children and three precocious grand children.  But there was a time when we thought we wouldn’t be able to have any children of our own.

Late December 1981, as we were fasting and praying about whether to adopt, God pointed out Isaiah 54:1, His promise of offspring for the “barren woman,” to Jan and to me separately. We then picked that same verse from the offering plate during a New Year’s Eve service a week later. It is not a typical promise normally found in the Daily Bread promise cards used that night. It applies to Israel and seemed far out of context for our situation, but that week God showed us through a miraculous chain of events (involving a random friend, a waiting room and The National Enquirer!) what was wrong medically and how to fix the problem. Our two beautiful children and three incredible grand kids are the result of God’s prophetic words spoken directly into our hearts.

“Lord, for me there is no doubt Your Words are true, whether they are written in the pages of Scripture or spoken directly to us by Your Spirit. The gift of our children and grandkids are proof positive!”

July 27 - A Sure Word of Prophecy

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 50-52; Psalms 92; 2 Peter 1

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

God’s prophecies are history recorded in advance!

It is no coincidence that our NT reading explains the significance of biblical prophecy, setting up the incredible promises of the coming Messiah recorded in Isaiah: And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts (1:19). That Morning Star he refers to is none other than Jesus, the most remarkable hero of history (Rev. 22:16). He is remarkable because He fulfilled over 300 minutely detailed prophecies written centuries before He arrived on planet earth. But what is even more remarkable is the unpredictability of these predictions.

Isaiah is addressing nations who pride themselves in their power. They puff themselves up, posturing like peacocks trying to intimidate each other. But God puts them in their place with His promises: Listen to me, my people; hear me, my nation: The law will go out from me; my justice will become a light to the nations. My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way (51:4,5a).

What is startling is the Promised One who will bring salvation to our world. Everyone expects a powerful leader, a great military strategist, the conquering hero. Instead, what is promised is a type of antihero, not because He is flawed, but because He comes as the suffering servant, the Saviour who lays down His life. His apparent defeat foils everyone, including His arch enemy, Satan, and his demonic hordes.

Isaiah, in describing himself, reaches ahead in time (a common element in biblical prophecy) with a description of Jesus: I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting (50:6). We know these are messianic predictions because they applied to Jesus at His crucifixion, not to Isaiah (like the descriptions from the psalmist in Ps. 22).

Then, Isaiah sets up one of the most detailed descriptions of the suffering Saviour, chapter 53 (tomorrow’s reading) with this preamble: See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. Just as there were many who were appalled at him - his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness (52:13,14). 

“Lord, this description of Your death, written 700 years before it happens, convinces me of two things. First, the Bible is undoubtedly Your Word and I love it! Second, what You did for me was the greatest act of love imaginable and I love You!”

July 26 - Humble Yourselves

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 46-49; 1 Peter 5

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Pride is public enemy #1
and if we don’t deal with it, God will!

Even though all of Scripture is God-breathed (2 Tim. 3:16), He still chose particular human authors to write these inspired thoughts. He also allowed for His words to be conveyed through their own unique style and personality. I think of these things whenever I read Peter’s letters, just because we know so much about his brash behaviour. Throughout his internship with Jesus, Peter suffered from a chronic case of “foot in mouth” disease.

Peter matured quickly after the death of Jesus. His arrogance was crushed under the pressure of persecution the night of Christ’s crucifixion. It looked like all the progress he had made in walking with Jesus for at least two years was gone, wiped out in one moment of testing. He was back to his old ways, cursing like a Galilean fisherman, denying he even met Jesus. But after a couple of days in deep remorse, a tender time of restoration with His risen Lord, and a dramatic baptism with the Holy Spirit, the new Peter fully emerges. He quickly rises to prominence in the formation of the early church.

So when he speaks through this letter to other church leaders about humility, from his own testimony of dramatic life change, inspired by the Holy Spirit, we need to pay attention: All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time (5:5b,6).

God is saying, and Peter is saying, if you don’t humble yourselves, God will. Pride keeps us from God. Apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5); with Him we can do all things (Phil. 4:13). It’s really quite simple - pride is public enemy #1, and if we don’t deal with it, God will.

That’s exactly what Isaiah is saying to Judah, Israel, and Babylon as well: See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another (48:10,11).

“Lord, thank You that I do have the option of humbling myself, because I know what it’s like to be humbled by You. This morning I dress myself with well-deserved humility toward You and everyone I meet today!”

July 25 - “Idol” Talk

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 43-45; 1 Peter 4

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Why waste our time with “idol” talk, consulting stars or psychics, when we can go to the One who made both.

The accuracy of the prophecies within the book of Isaiah is stunning. The minute details fulfilled in the many messianic prophesies are convincing enough, but Isaiah also predicts other historical events with startling accuracy. Then God dares the idols people worshipped at this time to do the same.

This is what the Lord says – Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: “I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God. Who then is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before me what has happened since I established my ancient people, and what is yet to come - yes, let him foretell what will come” (44:6,7).

Then God, through His prophet Isaiah, predicts that a man named Cyrus, leading the next world power (the Medo-Persians), would conquer the great Babylonian Empire and release the deported Israelites back to their homeland (44:28; 45:1-7). This prophecy was written down 150 years before Cyrus was even born. It all happened, according to biblical history and substantiated by extrabiblical records!

No dumb idol then (literally “dumb”) or celebrity psychic today (also dumb) could come close to competing prophetically with the Alpha and Omega, First and Last, Author and Finisher of our faith. He has been there since the beginning and will be there at the end of our time. His prophecies are history written in advance. You can check the stars for guidance (astrology) or the seers who will interpret them for you (psychics, mediums, fortune tellers), but “Lord, I put my money, and my life, in the hands of the One who made those stars and created those people. I will not waste my time with ‘idol talk’ when I can go to The Source!” 

July 24 - Star Maker

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 40-42; 1 Peter 3

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

We may not be a star in the world’s eyes but we are greater than any star in the eyes of the Star Maker!

I must admit, I do enjoy talent shows like The Voice, American Idol and AGT (America’s Got Talent). It’s amusing to see so many young people (some not so young) with undaunted dreams of becoming a star. Many have deluded themselves, encouraged and entitled by doting, often tone-deaf parents to chase their dreams no matter what others may think. They hear the boos from the crowd and the hard critiques of the judges, and still shake their fist in defiance saying “I’ll show you, you’ll all be begging for my autograph one day!” These people already think of themselves as stars, as idols.

To hotshots like that I would say, “lift your eyes beyond yourselves and the other stars you worship and consider the Star Maker.” Isaiah is amazed at the idolatry of his day, wondering how anyone can compare a man-made idol to the One who made man: “To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One. Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name? (40:25,26).

I love this section of Isaiah, with its grand, sweeping descriptions of Almighty God. Over 1000 years before the rest of the world realized the earth was round with a surrounding atmosphere, Isaiah declares: He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy (40:22). And just when you are completely humbled by the immensity of God, Isaiah shocks us all with just how personal and loving this God can be.

Chapter 40 marks the change from the 39 “Old Testament” chapters to the last 27 “New Testament” chapters. It foreshadows the gospels with a clear prophecy of John the Baptist (40:3) and numerous prophecies about Jesus (40:2,9-11; 42:1-4,6-7). From this point on in Isaiah we see this loving, tender, redemptive God revealed through the promises of the coming Messiah. Just when we think we are insignificant in His eyes (40:27) we are assured of His personal care for each one of us (40:28-31).

“Lord, it is humbling to think You made the trillions of stars and know each one by name. But if You can do that, it is easy to believe You also know me by name. I may never be a star in the world’s eyes but I am greater that any star in Your eyes. I am loved by the Star Maker!”

July 23 - Freedom in Slavery

 Read today’s texts first: 2 Kings 20; Isaiah 38,39; Psalms 75; 1 Peter 2

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

As slaves to God we have freedom from sin,
not freedom to sin!

At first I entitled today’s devo “Free Slaves,” but that sounded like a campaign for emancipation. While that’s a noble cause, it isn’t what Peter was talking about in 1 Peter 2. Our readings today suggest that the only way we can truly be free is to become a slave to Christ: Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God (2:16). It’s one of those paradox principles, like give to receive, serve to lead and die to live. Though it sounds contradictory, it’s more proof that God’s Kingdom functions completely opposite to the world. The world’s system is upside-down; God’s Kingdom is right-side up.

The god of this world is Satan, known for rebelling against his creator and usurping God’s authority (Is. 14). Pride, arrogance, self-sufficiency, selfish ambition, all find their source in him. The pathway to freedom, according to the Father of Lies, is to come out from under authority, be your own person, look out for #1, don’t let anyone tell you what to do. In other words, be your own god. It’s the lie he sold the first man and woman and everyone after them! For good reason the psalmist warns the arrogant: I said to the boastful, “Do not boast,” And to the wicked, “Do not lift up the horn; Do not lift up your horn on high, Do not speak with insolent pride” (75:4,5).

The problem is when we try to do that, we become slaves to Satan and sin (Rom.6:16). Those who try to free themselves from God sink into the worst bondage imaginable. They spiral down into darkness, depression, dependencies and despondency. They not only lose the freedom they sought, but they also lose hope, joy, peace of mind and real love. On the other hand, when we finally realize we were created to be dependent on God and interdependent with each other, then we find true freedom. Peter makes it clear that it is freedom from sin, not freedom to sin. It begins with becoming a “bondslave” of God. Bondslaves are voluntary; they serve out of love, not obligation. “Lord, the more I set my heart to serve You, the more freedom I enjoy. I say with Hezekiah, I will walk humbly with You all my years” (38:15). 

July 22 - Be Holy

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 36,37; Psalms 76; 1 Peter 1

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

We can be holy because He is holy - no excuses!

Yesterday we saw the potential for living right; today it is a command. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1:14-16).

We hear Christians rationalize their sin with comments like “I’m just a sinner saved by grace” or “nobody’s perfect” (I’ve done it too!). We suffer from low expectations not only of ourselves, but also of God. We must remember we are not expected to live holy in our own strength. God is working in us through the “sanctifying work of the Spirit” and “through the living and enduring word of God” (1:2,23). We are to be holy because a holy God is living in and through us.

Even before the arrival of the Messiah and His abiding Spirit, God’s people were expected to obey Him, from Adam to Hezekiah. Our Isaiah reading repeats the exploits of King Hezekiah, who faced two extraordinary tests of his faith and faithfulness. The first was a threat of war with the far superior army of the Assyrians. Hezekiah admitted his helplessness and dependence on his God, who is Lord “over all the kingdoms of the earth,” who “made heaven and earth” (37:14-20). In answer to his prayer, God sent His death angel to fight the battle for Hezekiah.

The second challenge was even greater, requiring a miracle of life, not death. Hezekiah faced impending death from an incurable disease, so again he cried out to God for mercy (38:2,3). God came through with an unprecedented gift of 15 extra years of life. The reason seemed to be Hezekiah’s exemplary life.

“Lord, it is clear in Your Word, both by instruction and example, that I can and should live holy every day. I am grateful You are with me. I can be holy because You are holy!”

July 21 - Righteous Prayer

 Read today’s texts first: 2 Kings 18,19; 2 Chronicles 32; James 5

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Human will factors not only into salvation
but also into “working out” that salvation.

Back to the divine tensions we talked about three days ago. We are saved by God’s grace, not our own works. It has nothing to do with our righteousness and everything to do with His. And the Calvinists would say “Amen!” But what we are reading in James creates the counterbalance: we prove our faith in God’s grace by our works, and the fact of Christ’s imputed righteousness by our own right living (2:14-26). Can I get an “Amen” from the Arminians?

In our reading today it becomes clear that the power of human will factors not only into salvation but also into “working out” that salvation (Phil. 2:12). Some would say that once you are saved you are always saved, but then why so many warnings about possible apostasy. If we cannot fall away, why would James urge us to turn around a straying brother (one who was saved) and in doing so, save him from death (5:19,20)?

And if our righteousness (right living) is a non-issue, why does it affect the effectiveness of our prayers? The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective (5:16b). Our OT readings beautifully illustrate how our own right living is a huge factor in answered prayer. Hezekiah was facing overwhelming odds, the same army who had just defeated and enslaved the ten northern tribes of Israel. But his prayers were heard and answered like no other’s. They didn’t even have to lift a finger, or a spear, to fight back. God sent their enemies running for home by deploying just one of His angels (32:20,21). Hezekiah’s success was clearly linked to his own right living (18:5-7).

“Lord, I know that I did not earn or even deserve Your salvation, but I also know that You expect me to work out that salvation with fear and trembling. Thank You for filling me with Your Spirit so He can help me make those right choices and pray righteous prayers!”

July 20 - Guess Who Moved?

 Read today’s texts first: 2 Chronicles 29-31; James 4

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Drawing near to God means eliminating
things in our life that might draw us away from Him. 

You may have seen it on a bumper sticker or a church sign: “If you feel far from God, guess who moved?” The truth behind that rhetorical question comes out in both our readings today. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you (4:7,8). James was calling the early Christians back to a place of humble reliance on God. Hezekiah was doing the same thing in Judah.

While the northern tribes of Israel were being deported to Assyria because they consistently moved away from God, Hezekiah boldly led Judah back to complete devotion to Him. All of the kings of the northern tribes, as well as the evil kings of Judah, led the people away from God into idolatry. The good kings led them toward God and away from idolatry. But only Hezekiah had enough gumption to tear down the high places and every remnant of idolatry throughout his kingdom. That speaks to me on a personal and leadership level - drawing near to God requires the elimination of anything in our life that might draw us away from Him.

James refers to these things as “the world.” You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the Spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely? (4:4,5). God is jealous; He simply will not tolerate anything in our life that competes for our highest devotion. Our walk with God is like a marriage; complete fidelity is the foundation of that relationship.

“Lord, this past year has been a wonderful season of identifying and eliminating the things in my life that have at times distracted me from You. Today and every day left of my life I devote to drawing closer to You!”

July 19 - Religious Smorgasbord

 Read today’s texts first: 2 Kings 17; 2 Chronicles 28; Psalms 46; James 3

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

A smorgasbord of idolatry is
always toxic and eventually deadly.

Jan and I recently experienced a luxurious Mediterranean cruise. Part of the reality of the real world we returned to was making our own meals again, which was a difficult adjustment from the endless buffets we enjoyed on our cruise ship. Who doesn’t love a variety of foods to suit fleeting fancies at any hour of the day? That thought sets the backdrop for our readings today, but instead of food, the smorgasbord was religion!

Over six hundred years earlier God set His people free from enslavement in Egypt. Ironically, those refining fires of adversity forced them together as a community and forged a pure faith in their God. They did this in secret, in fear for their lives, while the Egyptians all around them worshipped many gods. God miraculously delivered them and provided for them. They became the great nation of Israel, blessed with their own prosperous land and the freedom to openly worship the God who made it all possible. Instead, they turned their backs on Him to embrace the worthless man-made gods of the nations who once fled in terror from the God of Israel (17:15-17).

Wisely, God brought them back to their former state of captivity, this time to Assyria, to help them regroup as a nation and rediscover their faith in Him. It would take a while, and it would get worse before it got better. The Assyrians sent their own people and those from other enslaved nations into the cities of Israel, who then introduced their gods into what was already a multi-faith culture (17:29-33).

Sound familiar? It bears a remarkable resemblance to our land in our day. God’s people arrived in North America to set up our nations with founding principles and laws based on Judeo-Christian values. God blessed us and the rest of the world took notice. But lately, as we began to question our founding faith, we opened ourselves to man-made idols, some home-grown, others imported. Immigrants from other nations offered their interesting array of designer gods to help us prepare the veritable smorgasbord of idolatry we have today.

Unlike the buffets on our cruise ship, which may have been excessive and a tad unhealthy, idolatry is always toxic and eventually deadly. The politically correct tolerance of our day seems to embrace every faith but Christianity. Bibles were thrown out of public schools and replaced with yoga mats. Christ was dropped from Christmas and many now consult the stars for daily direction instead of the Star Maker (17:16).

“Lord, as Jan and I return to simple, healthy meals together I pray for that same simplicity in our diet of spiritual food, based solely on You and Your Word.” Taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalms 34:8).

July 18 - Divine Tensions

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 32-35; James 2

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

When it comes to judgment and mercy, faith and works,
God is not “either/or” but “both/and.” 

As humans with limited perspective we tend to be either/or. We see tensions in the Bible, like judgment and mercy, faith and works (all mentioned in our James reading today) and we choose up sides: judgment or mercy, faith or works. We divide the church into doctrinal camps and waste valuable time defending our bias and decrying those who disagree. Most of the time, if we would just open our minds, our hearts, and the whole Bible, we would hear God’s Spirit say, “Stop – You’re both right! It’s not either/or; it’s both/and.”

First we need to realize our limited understanding. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8,9). Second we need to be okay not knowing how two seemingly contrary positions can both be true.

We need to be able to read through the lengthy judgments of God against those who reject Him, and be content with the moments of mercy He shows to those who humbly accept Him. The sinners in Zion are terrified; trembling grips the godless: 'Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?' He who walks righteously and speaks what is right (33:14,15b).

We also need to know that we are saved by grace alone, not by works lest any should boast (Eph. 2:8,9). At the same time, we need to embrace the truth that faith in that grace is only made evident by our works. Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead (2:17).  Saying we believe is simply not enough. As James wisely points out, demons believe in God but you will never see them in heaven. So whether we read through Isaiah or James, God’s Word is clear, the redeemed are the same people as the righteous (35:8-10; 2:20-24).

“Lord, I am grateful for Your ‘both/and wisdom,’ that Your mercy triumphed over judgment (2:13) at Calvary and that my faith in that redeeming moment allows me to live righteously today and every day of my life with You! 

July 17 - Pollution Warning

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 29-31; James 1

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Even with clear skies above,
a more insidious form of pollution is still lurking!

We may see it in L.A., occasionally in Vancouver, and in particular the Fraser Valley, especially lately with forest fires burning out of control. I’m referring to a pollution warning, being prompted by the last verse of James 1. But even when there are clear skies above us, a more insidious form of pollution is always there!

James, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, reminds us about real religion: Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world (1:27). I love reading through James - he tells it like it is, practical, no nonsense. If you say you have faith, show me by your words, better yet, your actions because they speak louder than words. And one of the things pure faith requires is just that, “purity,” staying uncontaminated by the world.

When visiting Puerto Vallarta recently, it appeared to be unspoiled paradise. However, one evening at the resort, before the live entertainment started, a music video was playing. I actually thought I liked the artist they were featuring until I finally heard the words to a song I’ve hummed along to before. There are good words, like “spiritual,” “born again,” “faith,” and “heaven,” but they all refer to sex, and I suspect it’s not the kind within the holy bonds of matrimony. What was more shocking was the mother and her 5 year old son beside us singing and dancing to those lyrics. It looked harmless, even heart-warming, but it was an insidious reminder of the pollution we see everywhere on this planet.

Our Isaiah reading talks about Israel’s fascination with returning to Egypt. The Egyptian Empire represents the world and Israel kept forgetting that God had miraculously delivered them from the bondage of that sin-contaminated environment. Reading God’s Word and applying it every day, even while on vacation, will keep us pure and we will be blessed in all we do (1:21-25). “Lord, thank You for the pollution warning I needed to hear today!”

July 16 - God of Peace

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 25-28; Hebrews 13

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Memory verses learned as a child
are seeds of faith we harvest later in life.

Memory verses learned as a child stay with you. The testimonies I’ve heard in 50 plus years of ministry are strikingly similar, from the youth I pastored to the young adults I taught at Bible college to the adults of NorthRidge to the seniors I work with at Buchanan. Most of them started with seeds of faith planted as a child, possibly in Sunday School, Wee College, Catechism, summer camps, Vacation Bible School or bedtime Bible stories. This should encourage every parent and every children’s worker in every church. It should also give hope to parents whose children started out well but may have since wandered from their childlike faith.

All of that came to mind when I spotted in our readings today several familiar Bible verses learned as a child that I will never forget. At first they seemed so out of context with some of the violence surrounding them, but upon second thought I saw them as hinge points. When we put our faith in the God of peace, when He is the foundation of our lives, we are safe from the chaos and confusion experienced by those who reject God.

Listen and be encouraged by these familiar words: You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal (26:3,4);  So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed” (28:16); Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (13:8).

To these familiar words that shaped the direction of my life before I fully understood them, I would add this blessing memorized later in life: May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen (13:20,21).

July 15 - Shaken, Not Stirred

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

The earth-shaking Day of the Lord will leave many,
with no foundation of faith, quaking in their boots!

The alignment in our readings today is earth-shaking, literally! We’ve seen how accurate biblical prophecy is, particularly as it relates to the first appearance of the Messiah on planet Earth. To students of God’s Word, there should be no doubt that Jesus will come again. Many missed or misunderstood His first coming, but no one will miss the second. Unfortunately, while everyone will believe He is Lord in that moment, it will be too late to receive Him as Saviour.

Some struggle with the wrath of God we read about so often in the Old Testament. I must admit I do too. I much prefer to focus on the tender, merciful, compassionate ministry of Jesus we read about in the gospels. But we must always remember God is both merciful and just. Those who reject His gracious gift of salvation will face His judgment. The wrath Jesus endured for us on Golgotha will be poured out on the rest of the world. The world they love and trust in will be shaken to its core.

Compare these passages: The floodgates of the heavens are opened, the foundations of the earth shake. The earth is broken up, the earth is split asunder, the earth is thoroughly shaken. The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls - never to rise again (24:18b-20).  See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens” (12:25-26).

The Day of The Lord will be terrifying to those who have no foundation, but Hebrews 12 ends with this promise to those of us who are part of His Kingdom: Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire (28). That is my prayer today!

July 14 - Faith is the Evidence

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

The greatest evidence for the existence of God, and for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, is our faith! 

We often hear from skeptics, “give us evidence for your faith!” I love to do that, because there is more than enough objective proof. But the greatest evidence for the existence of God and the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is more subjective – it is our faith. Hebrews 11 starts with this truth: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. It then illustrates the point with the “hall of faith,” an impressive list of Bible heroes whose lives and, in some cases, martyred deaths, provide irrefutable proof that there is a God. They obviously knew Him personally. When we want to introduce Jesus to those who don’t know Him, there is nothing more compelling than our own testimony.

As for objective proof, our readings in Isaiah provide a small sample. Most of us may skip through the prophecies about the nations surrounding Israel, dismissing them as irrelevant. But former skeptics, like Josh McDowell, came to faith because of seemingly insignificant passages like these. Check out his books on Evidence Demands a Verdict where he documents how these prophecies were fulfilled to the smallest detail.

The only mention of Sargon, King of Assyria, in Scripture (20:1), was considered a mistake by many secular historians (earlier editions of Encyclopedia Britannica said just that) because no other extrabiblical sources mentioned him. That was until French archaeologist, Paul Botta, discovered King Sargon’s 27 acre palace in Khorsabad, Iraq. Documents were found confirming not only his attacks against Ashdod, mentioned in Isaiah 20:1, but also his capturing of 27,290 Israelites mentioned in 2 Kings 17:5-6 (started with Shalmaneser but ended with Sargon). If you’ve ever wondered why the Bible includes so many facts and figures, truth is in the details. The Bible is the greatest archaeological document ever written!

Beyond the objective support is some powerful subjective evidence. It is my joy to work with people who have walked with Jesus for a long time, up to eight or nine decades. They may not be able to express everything they’ve experienced over that time, but the resilience and perseverance of their faith inspires me. God’s grace so evident in their lives confirms not only God’s existence, but His unfailing love and care for His children.

“Lord, knowing You is all the proof I need. I pray that my faith will become the evidence others may need to believe.”

July 13 - He Who Promised is Faithful

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 15-18; Hebrews 10

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Most of God’s promises are better understood
from an eternal perspective. 

A recent chapel at Buchanan focused on this passage:  Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful (10:23). There are more than 8,800 promises in the Bible, 85% of them from God to His people. But they can be confusing. When you are addressing seniors who are suffering from various chronic physical and mental conditions, your context must extend beyond this very temporary life on earth. Most of God’s promises are better understood from an eternal perspective (Heb. 11:13-16).

While I was reading through these passages and reflecting on that recent chapel, Jan was having her own church service via TV. She was listening to a popular prosperity teacher who bragged about God using him even though he had no seminary training, and then promptly took some promises of healing out of context. Maybe a course or two on hermeneutics might have helped him, his congregation, and TV audience avoid a sense of spiritual disillusionment the next time they experience a season of suffering.

During that chapel service we sang two classic hymns with very different back stories. The first was written by Kelso Carter, the epitome of real success. He could do it all: excellent student, star athlete, coach, teacher, pastor, musician, song writer, and medical doctor. His biggest challenge was an incurable heart condition, but after memorizing and quoting God’s promises on healing he was dramatically healed. His song “Standing on the Promises” came out of that miracle.

The other hymn was written by Thomas Chisholm, a very ordinary man born in a humble log cabin in the back woods of Kentucky. He too tried ministry as a career, but lasted only a year. He suffered from a chronic illness his entire life, selling insurance when he could to barely survive financially. Most of his senior years were spent in a nursing home in New Jersey. Among the few songs he wrote was one of my favourite hymns, “Great is Thy Faithfulness.”

“Lord, I will hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful, to sustain us during this temporary testing ground on earth and on to our promised destination in the life to come.”

July 12 - Pomp and Circumstance

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 11-14; Hebrews 9

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

The only Pomp with good Circumstances will be at
God’s coronation, when we lay our crowns at His feet. 

It was an ongoing debate at PLBC every graduation: some of our staff liked the sound of “Pomp and Circumstance” playing while our grads marched down the centre aisle. I always contended for a hymn like “Great is Thy Faithfulness;” there should be no pomp when students step into a life of ministry. We wouldn’t want them to face the circumstances of a pompous life.

Satan is the perfect, or should I say imperfect, illustration. In a rare passage (one of two, the other being Ezekiel 28), we learn about Lucifer (“Morning Star”), the archangel who was cast out of heaven (what started as a denouncement of the King of Tyre, a mere man, turns into a double prophecy, with a layer applying to a heavenly being). Satan’s pomp sent him to hell (14:11). Ours will lead to the same circumstance.

Satan was expelled from God’s presence because of his pride. He didn’t want to serve God; he wanted to be God (14:12-15). Solomon warned us: Pride goes before destruction; a haughty spirit before a fall (Prov. 16:18). Lucifer, aka. Satan, was the classic example. The captivity of Israel during the height of their arrogance, while Isaiah was prophesying, is another.

In glorious contrast, our reading in Hebrews offers the opposite circumstances for those who humbly follow behind Christ's selfless sacrifice.  Instead of being cast out of His presence, we who were on the outside looking in, are invited to come boldly before His throne. In fact, the curtain that once separated ordinary people from entering the Holy of Holies, was torn in two after Jesus became the final, perfect sacrifice (Mat. 25:51,52).

We get to it tomorrow, but here’s a sneak preview: Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith (10:19-22).

“Lord, the only pomp with good circumstances will be Your coronation, when I get to lay any crowns I may have earned in this life at Your feet (Rev. 4:10).”

July 11 - Great Government

 Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 8-10; Hebrews 8

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Trying to modify behaviour through reward and
punishment doesn’t work - Jesus introduced life-change based on transformation, not conformation. 

Just typing the above title gives me a warm feeling. While I’ve always tried to speak well of our human governments (complaining is a downer), the truth is, they are flawed! Criticizing government provides employment for newspaper and media outlets and fodder for lunchroom conversation. But what do we expect when we elect sinners to govern other sinners?

The day is coming, and from what I can see very soon, when Jesus will return. As sure as we are about His first arrival on earth (those who are unsure are ignorant of the obvious - see yesterday’s blog), we can be equally confident in His second coming. The prophesies continue in our reading today:  For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace  (9:6,7).

Our Hebrews reading helps us understand why this new government will be so great. We will no longer have to rely on outward compliance with written laws. Trying to modify behaviour through reward and punishment doesn’t work very well, in parenting young children or governing immature adults. But Jesus introduced a whole new covenant, life-change based on transformation, not conformation.

“This is the covenant I will make with [my people] after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will a man teach his neighbour, or a man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” By calling this covenant “new,” he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear (8:10-13).

“Lord, knowing You personally makes all the difference. Knowing Your blood was shed to make this new covenant possible, that You love me that much, means I can trust You to rule in my life!”

July 10 - Jesus: Accept No Substitutes

 Read today’s texts first: Micah 5-7; Hebrews 7

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life -
accept no substitutes. 

I just saw this title on a church sign and it ties in beautifully to our readings today. It also confirmed why I’m glad I didn’t pursue chaplaincy in a secular environment. When I first began to explore part-time chaplaincy as a possible retirement ministry, I discovered secular positions paid well but the cost of compromising my faith was too high. There is nothing more gratifying than being paid to talk about Jesus all day with staff, residents and family members. He is the Messiah, the Son of God, the Way, the Truth and the Life. When people’s eternal destination is on the line, we can accept no substitutes.

I recently spoke in chapel from Hebrews 10:23, “He who promised is faithful.” Then we defended that verse with the evidence of fulfilled messianic promises. Over 300 detailed prophesies came to pass in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Micah 5:2 is one of these remarkable verses, written 700 years before Jesus was born: But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.

Not only did Micah predict the town where Jesus would be born, but he described his existence as eternal, with no beginning, a reference to God being His Father. This is the qualifier the writer of Hebrews uses to explain His role as our High Priest: For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests. And what we have said is even more clear if another priest like Melchizedek appears, one who has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. For it is declared: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek”.... because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood (7:14-24).

“Lord, I can come to the Father through You, my High Priest. You proved who You are to the world, and to me personally. I will accept no substitutes!” 

July 9 - Pity the Prodigals

 Read today’s texts first: Micah 1-4; Hebrews 6

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

We often have to reach rock bottom
before we reach up to God again for help! 

As we read through the spiritual decline of Israel and the harsh words in Hebrews about apostasy, it becomes clear: it just might be better to be a pagan than a prodigal, at least in the short run. Those who don’t believe in God seem to struggle less with guilt and shame. The Bible says their consciences are “seared” (1 Tim. 4:2) – they’re basically numb. Recent readings in the psalms suggest that the wicked may also be more prosperous (73:3-12).

Let’s face it, those who have experienced the goodness of God and then walk away know what they’re missing. On top of that, they have people praying for them, prophets warning them, and God constantly trying to humble them to bring them to repentance. When we become arrogant and think we know better than God, we often have to reach rock bottom before we reach up to God again for help!

Remember the pig slop moment in the story Jesus told about the prodigal son (Luke 15:13-17). God disciplines those He loves, especially those who once loved Him (Heb. 12:6,7).  It is hard for parents to watch their prodigals suffer, but it is an important part of the process. It’s a good indication that God is answering our prayers. It may just get worse before it gets better, but don’t stop praying. The first three chapters of Micah seem pretty bleak but Israel and Judah both needed to be taken into captivity before they would ask God to set them free.

The promise in chapter four may encourage both the prodigals and their parents: “In that day,” declares the Lord, “I will gather the lame; I will assemble the exiles and those I have brought to grief. I will make the lame a remnant, those driven away a strong nation.”  The Lord will rule over them in Mount Zion from that day and forever....now many nations are gathered against you. They say, “Let her be defiled, let our eyes gloat over Zion!” But they do not know the thoughts of the Lord; they do not understand his plan (4:6,7,11,12).

“Lord, You do indeed have a plan for Your prodigals and we will never give in or give up praying for Your plan to prevail.”