Issue 15 - Day 1

2 Thessalonians 1

2 Thessalonians 1:6-9
6)  Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
7)  And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8)  In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9)  Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

We don’t often look at the destructive power of God in the final day, however this is what makes it a great and terrible day. We are hooked on the concept of a tender, loving God. The greatest lie of our days is “God is Love”. This is not technically a lie, but people understand it to mean God is nothing else than love, which is a lie. Above all else, God is holy and just.

On the final day, at least for those who refuse the gospel, God will descend on them and destroy them utterly. No sci-fi movie can ever come close to the level of destruction that will occur. The words of Revelation are graphic, yet are equally clear there is an amazing amount we do not understand. One thing is clear, we do not want to suffer in that destruction, and the only way to avoid it is to repent now.

How many people do you know who will burn on that day? How many people will you meet today that will burn on that day? How many people will burn because you failed to open your mouth? How much do you hate them to not say a word?
Share the gospel this week, today even. Pick a friend, pray for them, and plan to witness to them.

Complete in Christ - Philosophy

Being complete in Christ is only possible by the power of his Word. Beware of world philosophy. Listen to part 2 now.

Issue 14 - Day 7

1 Thessalonians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
16)  Rejoice evermore.
17)  Pray without ceasing.
18)  In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19)  Quench not the Spirit.
20)  Despise not prophesyings.
21)  Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22)  Abstain from all appearance of evil.

The problem with rules is they tend to be, “do not...”, and while we are told here not to quench the Spirit, this could also be said as “Let the Spirit work in you, and appreciate prophecy”. It is always better to do, rather than to not do. When you are actively doing the will of God that will automatically mean you are not doing wrong.

So, do rejoice and pray. There is never a bad time to pray, and never a time when there is nothing to rejoice over. Even in the deepest trials and moments of despair we have still been assured of eternity with Christ, therefore you can rejoice. I don’t doubt that Christ himself, in anguish upon the cross, did not jump around filled with laughter, and there can never be a worse place for anyone to be in. However, even in that moment, he quotes, and applies to himself Psalm 22, which is a triumphant celebration of the deliverance and power that was to come as a direct result of what was happening. In that moment Christ could also rejoice in accomplishing his father’s will.

Finally, check everything to be sure it is good, and hold on to that. Then, even if you know something is technically okay, still don’t do it if it looks to be wrong, or even some people think it to be wrong. God deserves purity.

Issue 14 - Day 6

1 Thessalonians 4

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12
9)  But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.
10)  And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;
11)  And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
12)  That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

Passages like these are always contentious in areas of high unemployment and a generous benefits system. It is changing here in England, but still the system encourages people to stay in the system. Good news, Paul is not exactly in favour of our benefits system , however other passages make it clear that helping the poor is to be one of our top priorities.

In this context however this is two sides of the coin of brotherly love. On the one side we are to love one another. Christ himself commanded that we love one another has he loved us. There is nothing he was not prepared to do for us, if it would bring us closer to God, even, and especially, giving his life for us. We know this, yet there is always room for improvement. Love toward your brothers in Christ, and honesty toward the rest of the world. Honesty, includes that love of Christ that wants all to come to salvation.

On the other side, our ability to help others, and our need for help ourselves is driven by how we live our lives. Do you keep quiet, and not react? Are you doing everything you can to help yourself, that you are not a burden to others, as Paul was himself when in Thessalonica? Are you honest in all your dealings, so that you can receive help when you need it? Where is your heart attitude.

Issue 14 - Day 5

1 Thessalonians 3

1 Thessalonians 3:8-10
8)  For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.
9)  For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;
10)  Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

Have you ever thought that your faith, or lack of faith may be effecting others? It is certainly a new thought to me, yet Paul clearly states that he was intensely worried about the faith of the Christians in Thessalonica. In fact it came to the point where he couldn’t take it anymore and just had to send Timothy to find out how it was going. Now he states his very life to be dependant on them standing fast in God!

One of the primary areas of spiritual growth is in how we relate to others. The more of God’s love we have for others, the more we also grow closer to him. When close by this manifests itself in practical help. When further away it turns to prayer. Two particular prayers, thanksgiving for what God is doing in their lives, and intercession that God may add that which is lacking. So the question is, how much do you love your brothers in Christ? Do you ache for them as Paul did, praying for them night and day? When you haven’t heard from them in a while, do you feel pressed to go and find out what is wrong? Or from the other side, is your desire to seek God to some degree influenced by a desire to be a blessing to those praying for, and assisting you in your walk with God?

Ask God to increase your love for others. Pray for them continually, and with his love and understanding. To what end? That he would establish your heart holy and blameless before God.

Issue 14 - Day 4

1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:9-12
9)  For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
10)  Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:
11)  As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,
12)  That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

Paul was never one to blow his own trumpet, however he often had to remind people of how he had acted. Why? To encourage them to act in the same manner. This is why your actions and reactions are so vital to your witness. Everything you do or say is under the microscope, and your friends and relatives remember the bad more than the good most of the time.

Can you genuinely say to your friends, “you remember how holily and justly and umblameably we behaved ourselves among you?” This is why your walk, how you life your life, is the most preached subject in any church worth attending. We have all been called to glory, that is to an eternity with Christ, and to the kingdom of God. This kingdom is the spiritual kingdom that is God reigning in the heart of every believer, the kingdom that is all about our lives now. In contrast, the kingdom of heaven is physical, and has everything to do with the return of Christ to rule as the Messiah, and therefore is connected to the call to glory.

We are called to be part of both kingdoms. Look to the future, seeking the return of Christ, and live in the present walking worthy of Christ.

Issue 14 - Day 3

1 Thessalonians 1

1 Thessalonians 1:6-10
6)  And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7)  So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
8)  For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.
9)  For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;
10)  And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

Why are we here? When you are without purpose you become directionless, despondent and depressed. With purpose you are filled with drive and enthusiasm. God has given us a purpose, or rather several, in this passage.

Firstly we are to be followers and examples. This is discipleship in its purest form. Follow the good example of other believers, implement the same Godly attributes in your life, and demonstrate these to others in turn.
Secondly we are to be witnesses. Our words, deeds and lives are to be examples to the World. We often pray for revival, but the truth is that revival is just people seeing your witness, coming to know the Lord, and going out to do the same again. Without our witness it will never start.
Thirdly, we are to serve God. In today’s materialistic world the question is always, “so what do I get out of it?” In God’s economy it is “What does He get out of it?” Service is not like employment, as service means willingly doing whatever you are asked no matter the cost.
Finally, we are to look to Christ’s return. This is the ultimate sequel. We are minding the shop until the boss gets back! Pray he goes quickly!

Issue 14 - Day 2

Galatians 6

Galatians 6:2-5
2)  Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
3)  For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4)  But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
5)  For every man shall bear his own burden.

What law is it that tells us to bear one another’s burdens? It is the law of Christ, that we love one another as he also has loved us. We are indeed to bear one another’s burdens. What does this mean in practice?

There are three parts to bearing other’s burdens. Firstly, do not think too highly of yourself. If you are believing yourself to be more than you really are, you certainly won’t be thinking of others. Secondly, we are to check our own work, so that we know we are doing God’s will. God has given each of us tasks to perform and we must do them, or we will not be able to help others. take pride in what you do, not in the failings of others. Thirdly, act from a heart of love. God’s love reached to the ultimate sacrifice for us on the cross. How much do you love your brother in Christ, and what are you prepared to do to help him or her through difficult times?

From a practical point of view, in any line of work, if you do not get your own assignments finished you cannot help others. Any help you do give will just appear to your boss to be avoidance of your work. Get it done then help others and you will be appreciated doubly. It is the same spiritually speaking. Keep your eyes open, fulfil the will of God for your life and ask God to give you a servant heart towards others.

Issue 14 - Day 1

Galatians 5

Galatians 5:7-10
7)  Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
8)  This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.
9)  A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.
10)  I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

In the context of this passage Paul is rightly concerned because people had crept into the Galatian church and led them astray with false teaching. Quite rightly he warned against such people. We do need to be on our guard as any little bit of false teaching is sufficient to lead us away from God. Just like the effect yeast has on a lump of dough. Equally, one person in the church ignoring the word of God has the potential to bring the whole thing crashing down. So pray for one another, and be on your guard.

However, from the point of view of the individual, why think that God is okay with your actions when you are not reading his word and praying. We did indeed start well, yet many of us seem to be in a marathon and have slowed to a walk in the middle of the race! We need to be on guard personally. Do not let anything into your life that will distract you from following God’s word and doing his will. It may seem a small thing, like a particular book, TV series, group of friends, or similar. Yet, as soon as that thing takes more of your time, resources and focus than God, you have been leavened as badly as the Galatian church.

Lord, create in me a pure heart. renew a right spirit in me. Purge me from all sin, and set me on the straight path. Lord I want to follow you, yet I so often get distracted by the smallest things. Keep me strong I pray, and when I stray, let me see the problem and deal with it swiftly.

Complete in Christ - Beware of Enticing Words

Being complete in Christ is only possible by the power of his Word. First up, beware of enticing words. Listen to part 1 now.

Issue 13 - Day 7

Galatians 4

Galatians 4:8-9
8)  Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
9)  But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

How can you tell the difference between a Christian and a non-christian? This is not  joke. In today’s christianity you can tell a Christian by the fact they go to church on Sunday, and sadly that is often the only defining factor. When you compare yourself to your friends and neighbours is your activity on a Sunday morning the only difference? If so, then you have a some serious issues to think through.

When I was at university my friends said I was great because they could connect with me. I wasn’t like other christians they knew. I wasn’t any different from them and so they could relate to me, they said. Unfortunately this was true, I was no different, and I was also no good as a witness, and all those friends continued in their lives without God because I was no different from them. Whatever you do, don’t let your friends end up in Hell because you didn’t want to be seen to be different. I will always regret that time, and the friends I will never see again as a result.

Paul issues the same challenge. Before you knew Christ, fair enough, you lived for yourself, following the desires of the World. Now you are a follower of Christ, so live as one! You don’t need to be bound by the issues of this World, you should instead live a different life, a life dedicated to God and following his will.

Issue 13 - Day 6

Galatians 3

Galatians 3:1-3
1)  O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
2)  This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
3)  Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

There are two mistakes that Christians make all the time. The first is to say that we are saved by faith and need not obey the truth, the law or Word of God. Paul’s words to you this morning are, “You idiot! who put a spell on you?” Of course we are to obey the word of God. Abraham received the promise, of which we have become a part. Moses brought the law, which did not replace the promise, but to show the way to that promise. It is by the law that sin is revealed. Then Jesus came, not to replace the law, but to fulfil the law. All scripture is applicable to us in one way or another.

The second mistake we make is to believe we need to work to keep our salvation. Yes we need to do the will of God, but this is so we can please him, having already become saved. Nothing in our power enabled us to become saved, and nothing in our power can maintain our salvation. Both are given and maintained by the power of God in us.

What then are we to do? Firstly we are to use the law to reveal sin, both in us and in those who don’t know Christ, so that people would come to Christ, and our witness be not marred. Secondly we are to do the will of God because we have been made free to serve him, and it is our purpose to please him.

Issue 13 - Day 5

Galatians 2

Galatians 2:17-19
17)  But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.
18)  For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.
19)  For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

What is the end result of trying to attain, and maintain salvation by your own efforts? Quite simple it is failure. It is impossible to attain and maintain the level of perfection that God requires. If we try our hardest and fail all the time, but the fact that Christians sin does not make God a God of sin. No it is us who have messed up.

To many times we continue to do the things we did before meeting the Lord. The reality is that having by the law of God seen that we are sinners, we are to become dead to that life. God has created in us a new life, a spiritual, perfect life. We are saved, not so that we can escape the punishment for sin, but that we may live for Christ. If you read any stories of the defeat of evil dictators, whether fact or fiction, the results are always the same. Good triumphs over evil, yet the people of that town/city/country/empire somehow continue to live their lives unchanged. Even the machinery of government does not really change, just the people at the top. We live our lives in the same way. Even though Christ is now the head we try to live the same old lives and not change the way we operate. All wrong, everything needs to change and God becomes the ruler of every part of our lives.

Ask God to reveal to you what needs to change in your life. Turn away from your old habits and learn to walk in his ways. Make the pursuit of God, and his attitudes your prime goal in life, he will reward you with treasure in Heaven.

Issue 13 - Day 4

Galatians 1

Galatians 1:6-8
6)  I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
7)  Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
8)  But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

What was the gospel that you first heard? It was the gospel of Christ unto salvation. If it were not then you would not have come to salvation. Indeed, if you are reading this thinking yourself saved and you do not know the gospel of Christ unto salvation, that Christ came, while we were yet sinners, died and rose again so that we can be reconciled to God the father through Jesus his son, a free gift of Grace through faith in him, then hear that gospel now, for if you have not heard it, repented as a result, and turned to follow God then you are not saved.

The Galatians having heard the word of God and having been saved through faith now thought that works were the way to keep their salvation. Indeed many were teaching this salvation by works! It matters not what twisting of the gospel is being preached. Anyone preaching words that do not agree with the bible is to be accursed, that is thrown out, ignored and ostracised. Paul is clear, even if an angel appear, it is no angel if he speaks other than scripture teaches.

What then should we do? As Paul also taught Timothy, study the word of God, learn his ways and walk in them. Then continue in the way you know you should go. Do not listen to anyone whose words go against scripture, and pray always that God will guide you and light the way.

Issue 13 - Day 3

2 Timothy 4

2 Timothy 4:3-5
3)  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4)  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5)  But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

From the perspective we have been seeing this week on Timothy, in the last days people will be a problem! This time the problem is that people do not like to be challenged. It is far easier to find, and listen to a preacher who is full of great stories. Recently I heard a good preacher whose message was encouraging, and it was great to hear how God had been blessing him. Unfortunately there was no challenge in anything he said.

Any time you hear a sermon, listen carefully to the words of the preacher. Take notes of what scriptures he refers to, and what blessings, promises, warnings and challenges he brings from the word of God. Afterwards go and read those scriptures for yourself and check that he wasn’t taking them out of context, and that they do actually say what he said. Everyone has off days, and not everything that is preached applies directly to us, but if he is never challenging anyone, and if you do not feel uncomfortable because as a result of listening you have to change, then you have found someone to scratch your itching ears, instead of a source of sound doctrine!

Finally, do not rely on preachers to reach the lost. Any sermon, no matter how challenging, will be delivered within the walls of a church. Lost people don’t usually go to church, if they did they would probably not be lost. You are the only one speaking to your friend so share the gospel with them.

Issue 13 - Day 2

2 Timothy 3

2 Timothy 3:12-15
12)  Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
13)  But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
14)  But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
15)  And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

When you look at the list of what to expect in the last days it sounds very like these days. To pick our a few, people will be selfish, disobedient to their parents, sexually deviant, lovers of pleasure. All these things you can read about in the news. Then comes a damning statement of the church, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof”. Now that cuts close to the bone.

We are happy to continue in the things we have learned. We are happy to study the word of God, or at least to read it on occasion. However, it is all too easy to live lives that match up to scripture in every way except the experience of God’s power. The “power” experience we label as that dodgy stuff in wacky pentecostal churches. Fear of craziness like the “Toronto blessing” creeps in. However these are not the power Paul is speaking of. Experiences on a Sunday morning may well be experiences of God, however his power is not limited in that way. Nowhere in the bible does it say, “experience the power of God with an amazing feeling of his presence on Sunday morning”. People did encounter him and fall to their faces in awe, however in the context of Timothy the power of God is a daily living experience. The whole book is full of encouragement to walk in the power of God, to do his will, to see people saved, to teach sound doctrine and to stand strong against evil. that requires power indeed!

AEM Prayer Update - April 2012

April 2012

Please keep in mind for prayer the many Easter outreach activities, including the
distribution of the ‘Jehona’ newspaper in Albania and the service to be held in the
public theatre in Prishtina on the 8th of April. Easter is widely recognised in the
Balkans and provides useful opportunities for new contacts.

Please pray for:

Albania

•

For the efforts to begin a regular church witness in Ballsh where there have
been exciting developments recently. Shaun Thompson has been able to rent
a suitable building (complete with a small living area where visiting workers
can stay overnight) and an inaugural meeting has been held. A number of
churches from as far apart as Fier and Gjirokastër are working together on
the project. Memli and Liza are a Christian couple from Tirana. Sent by their
church to do personal evangelism and run social projects they hope to play a
key role in the new church.
For the many women who were newly contacted as a result of special
meetings held to mark Ladies’ Day in Albania. Shirley Townsend and Jennifer
Thompson report some very encouraging opportunities to share the gospel.
For the ‘shoe-box’ distribution currently underway in the Mallakastër district.
This is a major and demanding undertaking that is valuable for the access it
gives to schools. While Albanian state schools are strictly secular permission
is usually given to hand out literature and also to invite youngsters and their
parents to follow-up meetings

•
Kosova

For two law students who have begun attending the church in Prizren and
also for another brother who has joined them but has had to travel to Slovenia
for work. Pray too for the four or five youths who have shown an interest in
learning about the Bible. These are small but significant encouragements in
what has proved to be a hard town for gospel ministry.
For Ajtenë Sefedini who serves in the Christian bookshop in Prishtina. Her
work involves so much more than selling books and she has been privileged to
lead others to the Lord upon their venturing into the shop.

•
UK
For Steve Neal. We’ve previously mentioned Steve (but anonymously) as
planning to live and work in Albania for at least two years. Steve has been
a longstanding team member on summer camps and this has led him to seek
greater involvement in the mission’s work in southern Albania. Pray for him
as he prepares to settle in Gjirokastër in the autumn; for his financial support
and for the demanding learning process that will follow his arrival.

This Prayer Update has been sent by Paul Davies (blackdog.house@talktalk.net ). Please let me
know if you change your email address or if you don’t wish to continue receiving the ‘Updates’.
Albanian Evangelical Mission. Registered office: 29, Bridge St, Pen-y-bryn, Wrexham LL13 7HP

Paul Davies - Power for today

We are given the same power today as is described in scripture? Listen now.

Issue 13 - Day 1

2 Timothy 2

2 Timothy 2:4-7
4)  No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
5)  And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
6)  The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
7)  Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.

Life is all about deciding what is important to you. As Louis Giglio said, “Follow the trail of your time and money, and whatever you find at the end of the trail is what you worship.” The things that are truly important to you will be top of your todo list. If reading God’s word is top then that will be the first thing you do in the morning, and the last thing at night. If Facebook is top then I know when to find you posting!

Paul gives us three examples of priority choosers in this passage. None of them will work at all unless the priority given is the priority. A soldier who does not follow orders is not a soldier. An athlete taking drugs to win is not an athlete, and a farmer that does not harvest his crops is no farmer. What is it that you are doing in your life that misses the mark? A plumber whose work always leaks is no plumber. A computer consultant who can’t use a computer is just a consultant. A Christian who does not read and follow the words of God is no Christian.

The bible tells us, “by their fruit ye shall know them.” So, what fruit are you producing? You may be saved, and destined for heaven, but the word “Christian” means, one who is seen to be like Christ. If that is not you you then it is time to get serious about following God. read his word and do what it says. Seek first his kingdom, and to do his will.

Issue 12 - Day 7

2 Timothy 1

2 Timothy 1:7-9
7)  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
8)  Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
9)  Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

Are you afraid? Do you live in fear? There are a ridiculous number of named fears, from Linonophobia, the fear of string, to the fear of long words, which is Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia, and everything in between. I think the biggest fear people have is being seen to be afraid of something, that is Phobophobia. this is not how God intended us to live.

Power, love, and a sound mind. This is how we are intended to live. Some were clearly ashamed to be known as Christians, or to be associated with Paul in jail. We have reason to be proud of Christ. He is our saviour, and the ultimate Lord of all. We may think we came to him because of our needs, but he has his own purposes in saving us. His purpose was simple, as it says in Ephesians 1. His will is that we be brought together to him in Christ to worship him.

Perfect love, it says, casts out fear. That perfect love is found only in Christ. It is his love for us that drives out fear from our lives so we can worship him. Live in his ways, walk in him, and he will give you power, love and a sound mind.

Issue 12 - Day 6

Titus 3

Titus 3:2-4
2)  To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
3)  For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4)  But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

What is your attitude when someone is acting in an annoying manner towards you? How do you treat others when they treat you with disdain, or worse? These verses are conditional, as many commands and promises in the bible are, however they are conditional on the acts of Christ, not on the acts of your antagonist.

We have a neighbour with whom we have never got on. She has a habit of watering her garden, and soaking our washing at the same time. Our natural instinct is of course to soak her in return, maybe hurl a few choice words over the fence etc. However that is not what God wants, and it does not help the situation either. The response we are to show is one of forbearance, tolerance and love, not looking for a fight over it, and so on.

Paul teaches us that our response to the acts of others should be driven by Christ’s response to us, not the acts in question. The people of Israel, on behalf of all mankind, took Christ, and innocent man, had him beaten until he was no-longer recognisable, destroyed emotionally and physically, then led to a cross to die painfully. In all this he never opened his mouth, except to forgive. Nothing anyone does to us can come close, so how much more should we respond in love. Take Christ’s example and keep silent.

Issue 12 - Day 5

Titus 2

Titus 2:1-3
1)  But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
2)  That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.
3)  The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

No-one likes to think of themselves as old, however this applies even more in a spiritual sense. In the workplace we see old-timers as those with experience, and time on the job, regardless of their actual age. Spiritually we see people of all ages, and having followed Christ for short or long times becoming spiritually mature. Sadly some people remain spiritual babies all their lives. In other passages Paul encourages us to move on from milk and grow up spiritually. Our aim should be to become the aged men and women, spiritually speaking, and so better able to serve God and help others.

So what are we to be like? In what ways do we need to change? there are three areas we are to focus on. Our attitudes, our actions, and our teaching of others. Are you known to be sober, grave and temperate? Is it obvious to all that you live a life that is dedicated to God? Are you known for your patience, common sense, and reliability? These are the characteristics God is looking for in mature believers. What about your actions? Are you always looking to help others? Is your home an open example of hospitality, and your pocket known for its generosity? These things are as much of a witness as your attitude. And finally, are you a teacher of good doctrine? Teaching and witness go hand in hand. If you are serious about following God then one of his most important commands is to go and teach others to follow him also. Pray that God would build these things in your life, and find practical ways to put them into practice this week.

Issue 12 - Day 4

Titus 1

Titus 1:14-16
14)  Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
15)  Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
16)  They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Do you keep the word of God? Even just the ten commandments? One of these, “do not take the name of the Lord in vain” was broken by the people of Crete. I am becoming more well known in our area as the pastor of the church. If one of my daughters does something really bad at school then this will reflect badly on me, our family, and the church. She will have taken my name in vain. This is the meaning of the commandment.

Some people set more store by moral stories and the wisdom of man than in God. If you listen to their words, they talk the talk of a believer. You may have sat next to such a person on a Sunday morning, or even be one yourself. The real tell is what happens on Monday morning. How do you act towards your boss, your teacher, your parents or your friends? When there is opportunity to do something good, are you found missing? When asked to do something, do you do it straight away?

Stay away from such people, and do not listen to them. More importantly, let your actions match your words. If you say you are a christian, act like a christian. People have high expectations of christians, so don’t let them, or yourself down. We are called to be holy, to be set apart for, and by God. Demonstrate therefore, to those around you, that difference in your life. Let the power of God, and his ways fill you daily.

Issue 12 - Day 3

1 Timothy 6

1 Timothy 6:2-6
2)  And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3)  If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4)  He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5)  Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6)  But godliness with contentment is great gain.

It sounds like some in Paul’s day were working for believing bosses and taking advantage. Our bosses deserve our respect, especially when they are also our friends. In fact, going the other way, we should respect one another in the body. And this is key, because as believers together we are more aware of each others faults than usual. Pray for your brothers in Christ, rather than criticising.

In addition, how many teachers of the bible prefer to debate meanings of words and questions of obscure parts of scripture. This it seems is more important than hearing the simple truths of God’s word and putting it into practice. Don’t be confused by such, and don’t indulge in the same. Never get stuck in arguments over the bible. State what it says and apply it to your life. Any bit of scripture that you cannot apply to your life today is not for today. All scripture is applicable to our lives, but not always today.
So, be content with what God gives you, focus on doing what he says, and walk in his ways.

Issue 12 - Day 2

1 Timothy 5

1 Timothy 5:21-22
21)  I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.
22)  Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.

The background here is instruction on the care of widows, the expectation of the behaviour of widows, both young and old, honouring elders, particularly financially supporting those that teach the word, and the process for dealing with error in among the elders. It was a constant problem that the popular people were getting all the help, and others were left wanting.

How often do we show partiality? What is wrong for someone you dislike is fine for a friend. We give more leeway to the popular than to the unpopular. Our favourite teacher/employee/colleague/friend can get away with just about anything, yet there are those we land on like a ton of bricks.

In God’s eyes we are all equal, and his law sees no favourites. His heart is that all should hear his word and come to know him, yet we pick the nice guys to witness to. Thinking back to my school days, when playing football there were always those who were last to be picked (often including me), for quiz teams there were always those never asked to take part. There were those who never got the school prizes, never got to go to the parties and so on. Looking at where people are today (facebook has a lot to answer for) it is those same people who were unpopular at school who seem to now have top jobs, traveling the world, interacting with the glamorous and famous. We weren’t very good at judging people back at school obviously, yet we still do the same today. Ask God to let you see people with his eyes instead.

Issue 12 - Day 1

1 Timothy 4

1 Timothy 4:1-3
1)  Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
2)  Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
3)  Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

One of the greatest problems we face in the mish-mash of churches is how to spot false teaching. When every preacher is eloquent, and confidently declares the “truth of God”, it is often difficult to spot the worldly distortion they are layering on top. Often it is subconscious on their part, and based on what they were taught, or their upbringing. For this reason I constantly remind people to check what they hear, including what I say, against the word of God. It is better to understand one undistorted word of the bible, than to hear a thousand words of man’s wisdom.

There are two doctrines highlighted here that are strongly prevalent in today’s church as well as 2000 years ago. Some denominations do not let their leaders marry, on the basis that they believe Paul did not marry. How foolish, especially as Paul may well have married, it is just not recorded, in the same way as it is not recorded where Jesus went to school, yet I am sure he did. More to the point, Paul here specifically denounces such teaching! Secondly, he comes down heavily on the idea of abstaining from meats, a practice that is very popular during Lent, the forty days preceding Easter. Fasting is good, when done for the purpose of seeking God in prayer, but not otherwise. Let no-one deceive you into giving up any food as God has given it all to us.

Pray that God will give you discernment, check everything against his word.

Issue 11 - Day 7

1 Timothy 3

1 Timothy 3:8-12
8)  Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
9)  Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10)  And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
11)  Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
12)  Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

This passage is another of Paul’s classic building block structures. Do this, then do that, then you can go on to this next. At the top of the passage is the goal of leading a church. At the bottom is leading your family. From experience I can tell you that leading a church is exactly like leading a family, just with more people, and physically older “children”.

As believers we should be all about building families. That is not to exclude singles, but to put the God centred spin on things. If no other family, then it is the spiritual family you should be building. God is our father, and we are his children. However, this passage makes it clear that in every area of the church families are important. If you are a parent, pray for your children. If you are married, pray for your spouse. If you are a child (and we all are someones child), pray for your parents. Pray for one another, and that whole families would come to know the Lord.

We are all to be serious, sober and faithful. In control of ourselves, and exercising the authority God has given to us. Though a bishop should be apt to teach, all other qualities in this passage are about being responsible, so do it.

Issue 11 - Day 6

1 Timothy 2

1 Timothy 2:1-4
1)  I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2)  For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3)  For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4)  Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

When was the last time you prayed for the queen, or the prime minister? There was a study done a few years ago on the effects of prayer. They analysed the average lifespan of royalty, compared to other members of the aristocracy. The results were that royalty on average lived shorter lives, when surely, with all the people praying for them they would live longer! I can conclude differently. This means that people are not praying for the royal family, when the bible says we should.

The second observation is that we are not instructed to pray that the queen, or those in authority would be healthy, long-lived and so on, though that would be good. Instead we are to pray for them so that we may lead quiet and peaceable lives. Last year we saw the riots across London. In line with this passage we need to pray that the authorities will be able to deal with the social problems that triggered the riots, and for the police, and emergency services as they seek to stop the violence, and mass destruction of property. How many other places around the world do not have peace?

Our local community officer is Maria DeStefano. Pray for her, and her colleagues, for wisdom, for her protection, and that she can do her part in enabling us to lead quiet and peaceful lives.

Issue 11 - Day 5

1 Timothy 1

1 Timothy 1:6-9
6)  From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
7)  Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.
8)  But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
9)  Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

Have you ever sat in a sermon and afterward realised that, though a nice moral message there was no content, and no bible involved? I used to sit through exactly that in my school assemblies. The headmaster, a minister of the church of England, wanted to teach, even to teach the law, that is good conduct from the bible, yet he had no understanding of what it was all about.

Even today I have to control myself from vain jangling. Many times I am talking to friends at work and it would be easy to spout good words about whatever subject they are discussing, however how much more powerful, two words from the bible. Recently discussion turned to evolution, and I could have argued eloquently against it but stayed silent. In the end they asked my opinion, even saying, “what do you think as a minister”. My reply was short, “The bible tells us that by God were all things made (Colossians 1:16). All of man’s theories of evolution are theories, God supplies facts.” Effective, and no argument.

The law, the moral teaching of the bible, tells sinners when they are sinning. The rest of scripture tells Christians how to live. So challenge unbelievers with truth from the word of God, and live by the commandments God has given you.

Issue 11 - Day 4

Philippians 4

Philippians 4:16-19
16)  For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
17)  Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
18)  But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
19)  But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

The area of our lives that is usually last to submit to God is our wallets! When we give to God, and to his work it is pleasing to God, like a fragrant sacrifice in old times. When we fail to give we miss out on the blessings God has for us.

God always operates strange maths as well. Some years ago, when times were hard for us, we were not tithing. We would give what we could at the end of the month. Every month something would break expensively, and so there was rarely anything left by then. In fact we operated from an overdraft! One Sunday we were challenged about giving and decided to make sure we gave as soon as I got paid, before anything else came out. Things still broke, expenses still arose, yet somehow we always made it to the end of the month with extra to pay off our debts. God works strange maths. On the other side I have often seen people promise a certain amount to God, fail to give it, and see it taken from them be some disaster in their lives, precisely to the penny!

The Philippians did not give out of their excess, as it says they had need, but to see Paul blessed. Paul encouraged this so that they in turn would be blessed by God. The key here is not that Paul’s need would be supplied by God, but that those giving would have their needs met. God has no credit limit.

Issue 11 - Day 3

Philippians 3

Philippians 3:13-15
13)  Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14)  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15)  Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

As we come this year to celebrate the thirtieth olympiad here in London we are surrounded by athletic examples. Children are encouraged to take part in mini olympiads, papers, radio stations and TV are full of sport related films, adverts, features and challenges. Even our cereal boxes are taken over with olympic workouts to get in shape, and save the tokens for olympic bowls etc.
Paul was familiar with the original olympics and often used them as an example.

When you run a marathon, or any race, but particularly over long distance the only reason to look back is to check where your opponents are. In fact, you check before you need to know. Once you hit the final sprint you don’t look back, you just go for it. Anyone looking back at that point will trip and fall. It will slow you down. Spiritually it is the same. Sometimes looking back is an encouragement to continue, however when you are driving for the finish line, don’t look back. God has a plan for you, and prizes waiting in Heaven. We seem to do the spiritual equivalent of stopping off to do a quick bit of shopping halfway round the track!

The battle begins in your mind. Live with this mindset of pressing toward the goals God sets for you, and do not allow yourself to be distracted.