Captive Thoughts

Posted on October 2, 2013 by suemariericker

I think most of us recognize how very essential it is to “take our thoughts captive” in obedience to Jesus, particularly thoughts of covetousness and lust; however, we must recognize that our minds are both the playground and battlefield of the enemy.  Paul taught the Corinthian church (the one that had some serious “issues” going on), “Though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.  We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).

Captivity speaks of imprisonment, loss of independence and bondage—and I had an epiphany moment just a bit ago.  I always thought taking my thoughts captive meant ushering them into a cell and handing Jesus the key.  Yet the implication here is that we not only shove them inside, but we also lock the door and hold onto the key—and in doing so, we obey Jesus.

Interestingly, the reason I want to write this blog—TODAY—has nothing to do with obvious temptation; rather, my purpose touches a deeper, more subtle aspect of spiritual warfare—the assault on our faith.

Most people living in the United States right now recognize that the government is in a mess, and if everyone thought alike, nurtured the same values, and held the same beliefs—whether liberal or conservative—then we would have a perfect country. …possibly not the country as it was initially created, but it would be a pretty darn good place to live.  However, opinions vary and division is rampant.  Finger pointing, lies, manipulation, intimidation, exaggeration, as well as arrogance, seem to characterize every side of our government, the population, and the media in particular—at least from what I am seeing and hearing.  That is not my point, though.

Our country may have been established by some Christians and on some Christian principles, but this is not a Christian nation, it is a divided nation.  We are not united under God; so, for everyone who is fighting to preserve the Pledge of Allegiance as it stands, realistically, we must acknowledge that it is obsolete.  …but that is not my point, either.

My point is, what are we, as Christians, going to do with our thoughts (which often influence our words) in the midst of the war that is raging all around us?—just because we haven’t seen physical weapons does not mean we are experiencing peace, much to the contrary!  If you think that conservatives and liberals represent the “us and them” sides, you do not understand scripture, “for we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).

There is no way to know at this point exactly what the coming days will bring, however there is already evidence of anger (which often disguises fear), anxiety, and uncertainty over the future.  And now is the time to take all of these thoughts and fears captive.  Now is the time to pick up the divine weapons of warfare:  Truth, Righteousness, the Gospel of Peace, Faith, Salvation, Holy Spirit infilling, the Word of God, and Prayer.  Now is the time to know the Promises of God and live in the assurance of His love and faithfulness, His provision and healing, His goodness and mercy, and His presence for, while everything around us seems to fall apart, it is by Jesus that “all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.  And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:16, 17).

Now is the time to know our God and be confident in the one we serve:

El Shaddai, Almighty God—

 Mighty in power and authority!

 

Adonai,

 My Lord and my master.

 

Yahweh,

You are Jehovah.

 

Jehovah Raah,

You, O Lord, are my shepherd, I shall not want.

 

Jehovah Rapha,

O God, you are my healer!

 

Jehovah Tsidkenu,

You are my righteousness!

 

Jehovah Mekoddishkem,

I worship you, Lord, for you sanctify me!

 

El Olam,

You are the everlasting God.

 

Jehovah Jireh,

You are my provider.

 

Jehovah Shalom,

O God, you are peace—I have no reason to fear!

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No Longer A Widow

Posted on September 29, 2013 by suemariericker

I like to pray; I like to take long walks in the woods and pour out my heart to God, telling Him of my fears, my goals, my concerns, relating thoughts and observations about my kids and grandkids…telling Him just about everything I can think of.  I have not mastered the “discipline” of prayer, but I do like to spend time with my Friend. …most of the time that is.  Sometimes, though, I just want to be left alone, trying to figure things out on my own, without any demands or constraints on my time or thoughts.

My prayer life has been a journey.  Somewhere, sometime in my life, in my 20s I think, a prayer seed was planted in my heart—I know that I am not unique in that, because God desires to communicate with everyone, particularly those who belong to Him.  And every good relationship requires communication—which includes both listening and speaking.  I confess, even for quiet me, talking is much easier than listening to God.

Sometimes listening to the prayers of others takes me back in time to where, in desperation, I would plead with God over very real, intensely desperate situations.  Hopeless, really, at least in my estimation.  I was thinking about that the other day as I assessed one of those “backed in a corner” and seeing “no clear path through the jungle” circumstances.  …and I am not experiencing panic!  I’ve been in this corner (or one very much like it) before and God faithfully made a way out—many times!  The only thing different here is me.

…which brought to mind a story Jesus told:

And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.  He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man.  And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’  For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’”  And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says.  And will not God give justice to his elect who cry to him day and night?  Will he delay long over them?  I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily.  Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:1-8)

This is a story about a widow, not a judge; because righteousness and justice are the foundation of [God’s] throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before [Him]” (Psalm 89:14).  The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed (Psalm 103:6); and I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy” (Psalm 140:12).

This is a story about relationship—do not give up, do not lose heart, do not turn away from prayer, from communion with our Savior just because life is difficult and situations appear impossible.  God is not unjust; rather, He is good!  We are not widows; instead, we are the elect!  Yet often, not understanding my identity in Christ or recognizing His lovingkindness, I have, out of an anguished heart, begged God for mercy just as this widow pleaded with the unjust judge.

Granted, we have an adversary who prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour,” yet we are encouraged to cast all of our anxieties on God because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).  Peter goes on to urge us to resist our enemy, “firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world” (v. 9).

Jesus concludes the story of the persistent widow with a statement that identifies the heart of prayer:  “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”  The writer of Hebrews defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen”; and he goes on to write, “without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:1, 6).

I have to ask myself when I am praying in times of desperation, do I trust the one I’m talking to?  If I don’t trust Him, why am I praying?”—is it because I have a vague hope that He is real and at this moment I don’t have a back-up plan?  Would I continue a friendship with someone I do not trust?

…and if I truly do trust Him, how will that set the tone of my prayers?

The apostle Paul says it best when he encourages, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6, 7).

A widow is alone, abandoned, and often left with no means of support—many times taken advantage of by ruthless people.  Widows are frequently considered “less than” people because the one who brought them social standing and significance is no longer by their side, once in a home and position of security, mere survival becomes the focus of their lives—the unrelenting demands of the widow in Jesus’ parable was her fight for survival!

Living (and praying) with a widow mindset is not humility; rather, saying, “Not my will but thine be done” is the essence of a humble and contrite heart—acknowledging that God will keep His promises in His way and in His timing is evidence of surrender to God’s purposes.

We can be confident that “the Lord will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage…when I thought, ‘My foot slips,’ your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up.  When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul” (Psalm 94:14-15, 18-19).  [God] delivers the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper.  He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy.  From oppression and violence He redeems their life, and precious is their blood in his sight” (Psalm 74:12-14).  Our lives are precious to Him!  In Him, we have significance, because He formed us and we are “fearfully and wonderfully made!” …and destiny—for His eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them” (Psalm 139:14, 16).

We may experience abandonment or rejection by others; however, the passion which drove nails into Jesus’ hands—and kept them there—forms a forever bond of love and commitment to our lives, and we can rest assured that in His heart He holds “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give [us] a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

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Fruitful Lives

Posted on September 26, 2013 by suemariericker

I read an article in CNN Health recently that struck a chord with me.  It was titled, “Where is self-control in the brain?” (Elizabeth Landau, September 14, 2013).  Having encountered many defeats and experiencing battle fatigue over confrontations with my enemy, food, I really wanted to figure out where self-control is in my brain (if indeed it is there) and tap into it.

Research shows that there are specific areas of our brains involved in decision-making and will power; and activity in those areas are affected by the choices we make.  Designing boundaries that restrict access to temptation proves to be more effective than just plain ole’ self-determination.  I can’t say I needed any research to verify that; however, researchers now want to come up with a drug to help with the lack of self-control.  Figures.

I’ve wrestled with the issue of self-control for a long time, and not just in regards to food, but also time and money management (when one doesn’t have time or money to manage, the issues become moderately less difficult to deal with).  The thing is, I know I have self-control because when I received Jesus as my Savior, He gave me His Spirit—and “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22, 23)—yet I do not always see the fruit manifest through my life in the ways I hope they will.

The conundrum I experience is that I know people who are not Christians yet they are extremely self-controlled in regards to diet and radically disciplined at exercise.  There are many who do not believe in Jesus, are not filled with the Holy Spirit, yet there is evidence of love, patience, and gentleness, along with other characteristics of the Spirit in their lives.  So what differentiates between human kindness and that which is born of the Spirit?  …or self-control birthed in personal discipline or will power and divinely ignited self-control?  The answer is obvious:  the power behind it, either human strength borne in fallible humanity or the power of the eternal, almighty, sovereign God.

…which leads me to the next question:  If I am empowered with the Holy Spirit, why do I not act like it sometimes?  With my whole being I identify with the apostle Paul’s anguished cry, “O wretched man that I am!  Who will deliver me from this body of death?”  But he doesn’t leave it there, he goes on to respond, “I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:24, 25)

I find hints of victory dancing through scripture; for instance, James writes about the development of one fruit in cooperation with another—“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience (1:3).”   It appears that the fruit of the Spirit, like peaches or apples, develop and ripen through the climate (joy) and environment (trials) surrounding them.

Paul also writes in Romans, “We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (5:4, 5).

The book of Galatians teaches with intent the difference between attempting to build relationship with God through adherence to rules or attempts at righteousness through self-effort in contrast to immediate position in God’s family through adoption.  Paul’s frustrated cry, “my little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!” (Galatians 4:19) speaks of the journey of faith we began the moment we received Jesus as our Savior and continues until the day we see Him.

It is through His work in our hearts that Christ is formed in us—“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).

Another verse, frequently used as a goad to direct the unsuspecting into pet doctrines, urges, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12, 13).

The “fear and trembling” acknowledged here is easy to account for when you recognize “Therefore…” follows the passage where Paul exhorts the Philippian church to, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who…made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant” (Philippians 2:5-7).  Recognizing God at work in our lives leads to humility instead of self-righteousness.  The Spirit who gifts us with power, love, and self-control also invites us to “come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

I cannot begin to tell you how many years I spent attempting to work out my own salvation without paying any attention to what God was working in me—my attempts were based on the desires and expectations that either others had for me or my own beliefs about life.  However, the emphasis must not be on our efforts; instead, God’s intention is His work in our hearts.  His pleasure is our cooperation.

He has called us to live fruitful lives, and this is how it is possible:  “Abide in me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.  I am the vine; you are the branches.  Whoever abides in me and I in him he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing…By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples” (John 15:4-5, 8).

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This Is How It’s Done

Posted on September 20, 2013 by suemariericker

I admit that there are scriptures, particularly in the gospels, that I have read many times and they become almost overly familiar to me—the story of Jesus’ encounter with the woman of Samaria at Jacob’s well is one of those biblical passages.  I won’t go so far as to say I wasn’t paying much attention to our pastor last Sunday as he recounted the story (having a special service in the park carries along with it an interesting set of distractions!); however, my senses were alerted by one phrase that he read.  “Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship” (John 4:20).

Interestingly, the Samaritans had a very good Moses-based logic for their worship mountain (Mount Gerizim, the ancient mount of blessing), yet they were a mixed race—Jewish and Assyrian—rejected by the Israelites because of their heritage.  While the Jews had the God-Moses instituted laws and temple, in the midst of their traditions, they also rejected the perfect Lamb of God.  What seems so very significant to me is that nowadays many people hold to opinions or doctrine based on a religious tradition or a point of history that has biblical basis yet they are not open to the possibility that God is alive and well all over the earth and in places where those closely held doctrines are not observed.

Jesus goes on to tell this dear woman during their encounter, “You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.  But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.  God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:22-24).

We miss focus when, for even a moment, we think that God is seeking any characteristic in His people other than worship.  Truly, doctrines come and go but God’s Spirit and His Truth will continue to exist; and when our spirits are transformed by the Spirit of God, we will become worshippers of our Father in heaven.  At those times when we equate truth as doctrine, we can easily overlook the essence of Truth, which exists only in the identity and mission of Jesus Christ—“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me’” (John 14:6).

When our focus is on the doctrines unique to particular denominations or teachers, and teachings that are popular for a time, divisions often result—and frequently, condemnation and fear surface.  However, “there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1); and, “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7).

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

As with the Jews and Samaritans, every one of us has a unique heritage and journey of faith as we have grown up into Jesus.  There are unique expressions of the body of Christ that fit who we are and where our lives have taken us.  It is important, though, to remember that God is seeking worshippers, ones who will worship Him in spirit and truth; and when the body of Christ is working properly, we will be growing, built up in love, and supporting one another.

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My Reason…

Posted on September 12, 2013 by suemariericker

I’ve been thinking quite a bit about a scripture in the book of Isaiah that describes the treatment Jesus received from many people when He lived as a man on earth—“He was despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3).  I have experienced rejection and I do NOT like it!  …and I suppose I choose denial over acknowledging that I may be despised by some, though it would not surprise me at all to find out that there are those who do despise me.  The thing is, if that is how mankind treated the perfect son of God, how can I expect to be treated any differently, particularly with my human imperfections?

The reality is that if someone wants to believe the worst about Christians, they will, and they will look for any reason to justify their conviction.  It is best for Christians to move beyond defending themselves in the view of their accusers and follow the advice of the apostle Peter (if there is any man who could be vulnerable to the finger pointing of non-believers and Christians alike, Peter is the one!):  “Even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed.  Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect….” (1 Peter 3:14, 15).

I was raised in a proof-texting religion that taught (from my perception) an aspect of defense that entailed proving me right and you wrong—the basis of which was (faulty) doctrine but having very little to do with hope; sadly, that is a position many Christians adopt. Although I recognize the importance of apologetics, the bottom line is personal—Jesus asking the disciples, and now each one of us, “Who do you say that I am?”

It is important to understand the meaning of the word “hope”; hope is not a place of insecurity, rather it exists along with faith and love—hope is founded in Deity and expressed through Jesus.  Hope, for the Christian, is confident expectation birthed in the grace of God, evidenced through the sacrificial gift of His Son on Calvary.  Living in the eternal realm of hope is much better than living without hope—if the opposite of hope is hopeless. I am sure many who do not have a faith relationship with God would not admit hopelessness, so where is their hope invested? …and what is the return on that investment?

Here is the reason for my hope:  God gives every person a measure of faith (Romans 12:3) and gifts for the purpose of investment in His kingdom.  I have chosen to invest the faith given me into the person of Jesus Christ and the Bible as the inerrant, infallible Word of God—however, I have only experienced a small part of the dividend of glory God has for me.  I know there is more coming because of His goodness and mercy (Psalm 23:6).  Often life is not easy but He has preserved me and provided for me, and He has walked with me through the difficult and dark times of life—I didn’t always recognize His presence and there were times I did not want Him interfering, yet in His love and faithfulness, He did not abandon me!  I will turn 63 soon and throughout my life, I have experienced the goodness and faithfulness of God—some situations have not turned out the way I hoped, however, circumstances are not a good basis for hope, but God is!

As I have invested time in Bible reading and prayer, He has graciously given me more faith to match the scriptures as I read them.  There have been many, “The Bible says that?” moments when the words on the pages did not match either the earlier teachings I’d received or my experiences—at those time I was given a choice, will I believe what others say He says, will I believe in just what is visible and what my limited life experiences (particularly in the light of eternity) tell me, or will I trust the matchless power of the Holy Spirit and believe the words of the sovereign God?

My Hope

“For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence

For my hope is from him.” (Psalm 62:5)

 

“You are my hiding place and my shield;

I hope in your word.” (Psalm 119:114)

 

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,

Plans for welfare and not for evil,

To give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

 

“We rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  More than that,

We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing

That suffering produces endurance, and endurance

Produces character, and character produces hope,

And hope does not put us to shame,

Because God’s love has been poured into our hearts

Through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

(Romans 5:2-5)

 

“For the grace of God has appeared,

Bringing salvation for all people, training us

To renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live

Self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing

Of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

(Titus 2:11-13)

 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!

According to his great mercy, he has caused us

To be born again to a living hope through the resurrection

Of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance

That is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading,

Kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power

Are being guarded through faith for a salvation

Ready to be revealed in the last time.”

(1 Peter 1:3-5)

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Who is God, Anyway?

Posted on September 7, 2013 by suemariericker

Recently, some ladies and I were discussing an issue that concerned us, and one of my friends made the comment, “God is spontaneous!”  Her statement got me to thinking about some of the characteristics of God and from my experiences and Bible reading, “spontaneous” was not a word that I could reasonably attribute to Him.  Patient—yes.  Long-suffering—yes.  Intentional or purposeful, yes.  But spontaneous, with all of its implications, such as feeling-based action, or an impulse without premeditation, runs counter to One who knows everything and all time is within His view.

…and that got me to thinking about what I wrote the other day concerning “bias”.  Do we hold views of God based on our limited experience and understanding without truly grasping just who the Bible reveals Him to be?   Often we can discover the basis of our God-bias in our life experiences or the doctrines taught to us early on in our lives—it is difficult to grasp the tenderness of our heavenly Father with souls touched by childhood trauma or lessons of a vindictive God, eager to punish our slightest misstep.

Many people, Christians and non-believers alike, grapple with the issue of suffering, particularly in the light of the current tragedies in Syria and Egypt and violence within schools and communities—If God is a loving God, why does He allow this suffering to go on?  Christians recognize that suffering is the result of sinful human nature running its course throughout history, yet many people see God, if they think for a moment that He exists, through the glasses of a God-bias which paints Him as uncaring, indifferent, a spectator to the events on earth but uninvolved, or a cruel deity, perhaps able to intervene in the affairs of man but unwilling to get involved.  Minds unwilling or unable to grasp a realm outside of the visible world around us have a God-bias that proclaims He could not possibly exist, particularly as Creator, all-powerful, omniscient, and eternal.

As easy as it would be to digress into exploring different views of God, that is not my purpose here.

The best way to know God is to explore the life and the teachings of Jesus, God embodied in a man.  The New Testament teaches about a Savior who offers salvation and redemption; yet, we find words in the Old Testament that reveal God’s character and identity; and His interactions with people in ancient times foreshadow the relationship of faith that is available to us as Christians.

I have been reading the book of Ezekiel lately and am overwhelmingly touched by God’s desire for relationship with people, His unwillingness to allow anything to get in the way of that, His defense of those He calls His own, and His commitment to healing and restoring the lives of His children.

The Psalms record many of God’s characteristics:

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits;  Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.  The Lord executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed….The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy….For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.  As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him.  For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust” (Psalm 103:2-6, 8, 11-14).

Isaiah describes Jesus as one without physical attraction, who was despised and rejected by mankind—both then and continuing to this day.  Yet, “surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.  But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.  We have turned everyone, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:4-6).

As I get older, I am beginning to see the value of patience.  Paul identifies God as being the God of patience and comfort and he prays that our Father grant us like-mindedness (patient and comforting) towards each other (Romans 15:5).  He writes to the Thessalonian church and instructs them, “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ” (2 Thessalonians 3:5)—the testing of our faith produces patience; it is through patience we inherit the promises, and we become complete, lacking nothing.

Why do I bring up patience?  Because the description of God in the Bible may not fit into your experiences, understanding, or view of the world as it exists today.  But God is faithful and “the Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance”  (2 Peter 3:9).  Because of His grace, we can be confident that no matter how bleak our lives, our communities, our nation, and the world may appear at times, we can trust in the faithfulness of God.  …and that every attempt of the enemy to destroy our faith, our hope, and our presence in the love of God, will work contrary to his purposes; instead, his attacks will work to strengthen our patience and confidence in the goodness of the One who is good and whose steadfast love endures forever!

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Bias

Posted on September 4, 2013 by suemariericker

This past weekend my daughter and I watched the film adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, Emma.  I think most Jane Austen fans recognize that her books are far more than romantic stories, they are social commentaries, ever as much applicable today as when they were originally written.

If you have read the book or seen the movie you know that Emma was a young woman given to meddling in the affairs of others, determined to set up “appropriate matches” amongst available young men and women, and quite opinionated about “station” and appropriate behavior—the thing is, she did not recognize her biases as such.  Her good works and kindnesses were born of a sense of duty rather than compassion for the poor, the weak, and the vulnerable.  Graciously, she recognized her faults and honestly experienced grief for the pain she caused.

One of the most insidious aspects of bias is that we do not recognize it in ourselves, and yet nothing causes more division than the recognition of our differences in the light of “better than”, “smarter than”, “worse than”, or the myriad of other ways we use to compare ourselves to the lives of others.

I felt a bit of bias this past week as I glanced at the headline of an article sharply criticizing a less than stellar action taken by some Christians.  I didn’t read the article, didn’t want to and really did not want to get into a position of defense.  I just felt a sense of wounding in my heart and the silent objection, “Hey! Not all Christians behave that way—we’re not all like that!”  I also understand that anyone who wants to be offended with Christians and Christianity will be, and they will find ample fuel for the weapons of media and opinion.

In the realm of opinion and conviction there is bias between liberal and conservative, democrat and republican, Christian and atheist, between races or “cultural demographics”, in social identity and standing, as well as in employment and financial status—wherever there are differences, there is potential for bias.

Sadly, Christians are not exempt from spirits or attitudes of bias—between denominations, the day we attend church, our acceptance or rejection of the gifts of the Holy Spirit and their relevancy, interpretation of doctrine and end times, just to name a few bases for division.  And yet, the apostle Paul teaches that, “God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another” (1 Corinthians 12:24, 25).  Amazing! That God so deliberately gives honor to those who otherwise do not have it.

The apostle Paul also urges us to “do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interest of others.  Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:3-7).  Our problems with bias begin when we think of ourselves as something and others as nothing.

Bias, or partiality in thought, wears many disguises such as self-righteousness (not limited to Christians), intellect clothed in a robe of superiority, limited vision—focusing on what one expects to see without recognizing the limitations of that view, considering the “blessed” to be clothed in financial prosperity rather than soul health and prosperity, differences in manners and mannerisms—I cannot begin to list the many ways that bias affects our attitudes and relationships! …and yet, I can guarantee that they do.

James, the brother of Jesus teaches, “My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality….but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors” (James 2:1, 9).  Sin is first bound up in our attitudes and inner beings before it ever gets translated into actions.  The thing is, we usually have a very strong rational and defense for how we view and relate to others—and we do not recognize the blind spots that may exist.

The beauty and grace of God offers sight to the blind, and those who claim enlightenment are truly blind—Jesus taught the Pharisees this principle, “’For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind.’  Then some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these words, and said to Him, ‘Are we blind also?’ Jesus said to them, ‘If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, “We see”.  Therefore your sin remains’” (John 9:39-41).  (We mustn’t condemn the Pharisees because our attitudes very often resemble theirs!)

My prayer is that my vision not be clouded; instead, I recognize the vulnerability of my humanity in that I am prone to bias and criticism.  I am eager to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal sin in my life, because when I confess my sins before God, He is faithful and He is just to forgive them. …and the best part?  He cleanses me from unrighteousness, not only in my actions but also in the attitudes of my heart.

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Allegiance

Posted on August 27, 2013 by suemariericker

As I’ve been reading through the prophesies in the Biblical book of Ezekiel, my heart has been touched by the messages about the nation of Egypt, particularly in light of the tragic violence occurring there now.  Once a great nation, it will never again attain the status it once held amongst the nations.

As I read about the fall of nations in this book, there seems to be one predominate characteristic underlying their destruction—the existence of nationalistic pride founded in abundant resources, military strength, and wealth of commerce.  Ezekiel compares Egypt to a tall tree, exalting itself above all others, while its roots reach deep to take advantage of its natural resources, thriving on life giving water.  As the nation prospered, many people and other nations clung to its branches to receive sustenance and provision for themselves; and when the nation of Egypt fell, so also did those who clung to its power and government for support.

Reading through the book of Ezekiel is an interesting journey for me; I recognize it as a prophetic treatise, yet I also believe the scripture, 2 Timothy 3:16, 17, that informs, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man [and woman] of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”  There is truth for every Christian throughout God’s Word, and the Spirit who initially breathed it to faithful scribes continues to give life and understanding to scripture today.

Throughout the Bible we have the historical record of people and nations who, in pride, exalted themselves, their knowledge, their abilities, their attractiveness, their idols, and their power over the Name of the Lord our God—and it did not work at all well for them!  When we truly understand that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), that He is God (John 1:1-3), and God proclaims, “I am the Lord, that is My name; and My glory I will not give to another” (Isaiah 42:8), then we will also understand that no nation—no matter how powerful, prosperous, or blessed—will be able to continue in rebellion against God.  “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10).  “The loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be brought low; the Lord alone will be exalted in that day” (Isaiah 2:17).

As Christians, we have dual citizenship—we have homes in countries on this planet and a responsibility to be good citizens where we live (Romans 13:1-7).  However, our primary allegiance belongs to the kingdom of God, for “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13, 14).  “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).  It is in Jesus that we now live, and move, and have our being—He is our source for life and provision; God is the one we depend on!

My purpose for writing this blog is primarily to be a resource of encouragement and teaching for my children and grandchildren—I am just making my words public so others can join us on this journey.  My intention is not to rail against anyone or anything—government or politician; rather, I just prefer sharing scripture and letting others come to an understanding of what God is saying.  We are living in perilous times, though, and I will not back down when it comes to being aware of the obvious turmoil amongst the nations and the lawlessness rife within our borders.  A nation cannot exalt itself, ignore God in underlying principles and continue to prosper—history attests to that!

My caution to all who will listen is, be careful of how you live out a sense of nationalistic pride and patriotism in a country that will not honor God in its identity, lifestyle, and decisions.  Do not become dependent on a government, a system, or a person for provision, or for the pursuit of life, liberty, and the freedom we can only experience through a faith relationship with the Son of God.  Most important of all, though—exalt God above all else in your life.

Finally, let me also encourage you to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).  We have many brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering persecution, imprisonment and torture for their faith in Middle Eastern countries—we can bear their burdens by continuing to lift them up in prayer.  Pray for the people  of Syria and Egypt!

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Light!

Posted on August 20, 2013 by suemariericker

I admit that I love these days when I can walk away from church having my perspectives altered and my faith strengthened—there is no challenge to Biblical doctrine, however, my perception of truth is confronted.

Not in the least unique to the denomination in which I grew up was the belief that we had the “light” and every other church that didn’t hold to our particular doctrines either did not have the “light”, were deceived, or they were living in rebellion towards God’s commandments or the “truth” —and every denomination, those who adhere to a particular teacher or teaching become a standard-bearer for what is truth and everything that represents light in their understanding.

The problem with making “truth” and “light” about a particular doctrine or belief system is that it becomes something much more complicated or exclusive than God ever intended them to be.  Jesus himself tells us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).  And the apostle Paul reminds us, “But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He save us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, who He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:4-7).

As with many of the more conservative expressions of American Christians, it is easy for me to bemoan the moral decline of our country while maintaining an attitude of religious superiority—the difficulty with that attitude is the separation it creates between “us and them”, when in reality, the only thing that separates “saved” and “unsaved” is the presence of Jesus in the lives of those who have chosen to receive Him.  In our whitewashed perception of Christianity, where is there room for a prostitute, an adulterer and murderer, and the child of that illicit relationship in the lineage of the perfect one, Jesus?

True, I am not the same person now as when I first accepted Jesus as my Savior—however, my allowing Him to be Lord is an ongoing process of change, accomplished by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.  I recognize, though, that the changes in my attitudes, habits, thought processes, and behaviors are not at the center of my significance; rather, it is the one who is making the alterations that deserves all honor.  As with the apostle Paul, I have nothing to boast about except for the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 6:14).

As Christians, we are encouraged to “walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.  He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” Colossians 1:10-14). This passage of scripture articulates some characteristics of those who are in the “light”:  pleasing the Lord, fruitful in good works, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with His glorious power, patient, longsuffering with joy, and thankful for our inheritance in Jesus—attributes birthed in faith and intimacy rather than obedience to creed.

When Jesus walked on earth, He instructed His disciples, “You are the light of the world.  A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).  Although many denominations define what those “good works” should be, James, the brother of Jesus gives us some good advice when he recommends that everyone should bridle their tongue, visit orphans and widows in trouble, keep oneself unspotted from the world, reject prejudice, and provide for the destitute.  Our good works do not save us; rather, it is in the way we live, the words we speak, the attitudes we nurture, and the kindnesses we show—that the windows of our soul open up and the light of our life shines out.

For much too long, Christians have been finger-pointers; in our attempts to establish our personal righteousness, we condemn the faults of others.  Sadly, it is much too common amongst Christians, condemning other Christians, though we happily join to condemn those who are not a part of the kingdom of light.  I am not quite sure what we are expecting—something akin to speaking Greek to an Englishman, unfamiliar with the language.

Someone who does not want or need a boat will not buy one—but a fisherman will!  Someone who does not want or see the need for the Savior will not receive Him—but those broken by sin and life experiences may!  And one who does not understand that they are in darkness will not desire light.  There is no point in bringing condemnation to the world because Jesus did not; instead, He brought light and life—“in Him was life, and the life was the light of men” (John 1:4).  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.  For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:16, 17).

Today is a good day to consider how we are being light in the world—it is not optional; rather, it inevitable in our attitudes and the ways we conduct our lives.  Are we being the light of Jesus? …bringing light and life through His life and death  on the cross.  It is time to quit both receiving condemnation and administering it to others!  Only one is an accuser and it is not God!

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The War on Terror

Posted on August 12, 2013 by suemariericker

With acts of terrorism in the news and the embassy closings in the past week, it is a little difficult not to be affected in one way or another by the threat of terrorist acts.  This is a random thought, but I wonder how many people terrorists injure and kill in comparison to the other acts of violence that are perpetrated daily?  And yet, the concept of terror is just that—terrifying!  I think the uncertainty involved in these violent acts exacerbate the problem in our thinking and emotions.  What an effective tact of the enemy—to cripple us with fear, isolate us, and damage trust!

I thought I would look at the CIA website to learn a little more about terrorists because satan was the first terrorist and continues to be the spiritual funding behind every act of terrorism and violence.  How do I know that?  Because his purposes are to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).  Have you ever commented is frustration or despair, “I didn’t see that coming”?  One of the enemy’s most effective strategies is to catch us off guard—where we are not looking or expecting an attack.

I find interesting some of the strategies terrorists use (identified on the CIA website under a listing for Global Trends 2015 – Related Excerpts).  They do not want to engage in combat; the enemy prefers to exhaust the will, minimize strength, and exploit weaknesses.   Some areas of target are communications, transportation, financial, and energy networks.

It is no secret that we have an adversary who seeks our destruction—the Bible confirms it in 1 Peter 5:8:  “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”.   The apostle goes on to instruct, “Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.”  We can be assured that there are those amongst our brothers and sisters in Jesus who are experiencing the same trials, suffering, and spiritual attacks as we are—what an amazing opportunity to intercede for other Christians!  The amazing outcome of suffering and trials is that our God of grace will perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us in Jesus.  The downside for our enemy is that everything he intends for harm, God uses for good!

We make a serious mistake when we do not recognize that the enemy does not fight fair; rather, he fights strategically.  He is a wily character who seeks to attack us in our vulnerable spots, so it is crucial to be prepared for battle and willing to fight—“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11).  Victory lives in our faith; “this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith!”  (1 John 5:4).  The apostle Paul exhorts Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12)—we can be guaranteed that the enemy is always going to attempt to undermine our faith.

The enemy also seeks to exhaust our will; however, we are given strange advice, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4).  The apostle Peter also encourages us in his statement, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6, 7).  Again, faith is a key to inner strength:  “For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith…” (Ephesians 3:14-17).

Our strength begins on the inside with the Holy Spirit dwelling powerfully in our lives—“strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy…He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:11, 13).  Like Paul, we can say with confidence, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

And again we see an upside-down perspective from what may seem logical in the natural realm—“And He [God] said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’  Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake.  For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10).

Just as terrorists attack in the physical realm, our enemy also has unseen targets: communication within the church and those outside, transportation–or our spiritual journey, financial aspects of our lives, and our energy source—the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical advice on communication:  “But no man can tame the tongue.  It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.  With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.  My brethren, these things ought not to be so!” (James 3:8-10) [We can have victory over the words we speak, through Jesus]. “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6).

In Jesus, we live and move, and have our being (Acts 17:28), and we have a race set before us—“let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1, 2).  We cannot be the least bit surprised that the enemy attacks our identity (in Christ) and our destiny (the race set before us).

One aspect of financial vulnerability to the enemy’s attacks is discontentment; the writer of Hebrews (13:5) cautions us, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have.  For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  However, there are many in this world who have very legitimate concerns about food and clothing.  Jesus speaks these comforting words to those people, “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘what shall we eat?’ or ‘what shall we drink?’ or ‘what shall we wear?’…For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.  But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:31, 33).  We also have this promise in Philippians 4:6, 7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

The most effective way to combat terror in our lives has everything to do with our energy source, the Holy Spirit—for we receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us (Acts 1:8).  God’s Spirit gives us gifts and He makes life-changing alterations to our lives—“I say then:  Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.  For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another…the fruit of the Sprit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:16-17, 22-23).

“But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:4-7).

Today is a good day to remember that we have a defeated foe, and we serve a sovereign God!

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