Life is Terrifying; Or is it?

Sorrows, failures and uncertainties follow our earthly life.  It may stay for a time, a year, or all your days.  So yes- when we come to think of it, life can be terrifying.

Fear becomes our great enemy.  It may defeat us by default, without a fight.  But fear may also bring out that indomitable spirit in us.  As one preacher puts it, you would not need courage without fear.  Courage comes with fear.

But what is courage, really?  Is it an urge to do something dangerous or extreme? Or a prevailing moment of your invincible self?

Folks often depict courage as a grip in one's heart that convinces someone to act for a cause.  I think that goes the same in our Christian walk.  But what is the cause that grip our hearts? Psalm 60:12 says,

"With God, we will do valiantly,

it is He who will tread down our foes."

In this Psalm, David is resolved on the manner that he and the Israelites will fight.  They will not go to battle petrified, anxious or confused.  They will fight bravely as if they have already won.  David's courage is not a sudden feeling or an impulsive drive.  He meditated the cause of his courage.  It is not a mind conditioning of believing in himself, but it is from God whom he lay all his hope.

His courage is founded in a certain hope- his hope in his God, on who He is and what He can do.

We encounter difficult times, and God allows these things to happen for the purpose of His glory.  We may feel as though God is conspiring with our misfortunes (a revealing thought of a downcast soul).  Many may be puzzled, but it is really to our advantage that God is involved even in our troubles and sufferings.  Surely, He permits these things not to harm us.  He breaks us so we can see how weak our defenses are, if left on our own.  He makes us witness to the person we really are through our circumstances.  He strips our pride so we can truly learn how to depend on Him.  And when we finally figured it out, our hope in temporal existence fades, and a living hope irresistibly arise in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Courage is found where you put your hope into.

God is the cause of my and my salvation in this terrifying life.

And for that, I am not terrified at all.

Reading: Psalm 60

Psalm 37: "He will not Forsake His Saints"

"Commit your way to the Lord;

trust in Him and He will act."

Around us, we see people doing what please them and yet still flourish in their living. We see them enjoying a luxurious time while they carry out their evil schemes. And in a moment, a Christian might be vexed and tempted to do what they do. But the Lord reminds us in chapter 37 of Psalms not to fret and be envious of the abundance of the wicked-for they shall soon wither as a green plant dies away. He teaches us that all the things that they enjoy will not count but the things they did when they face His judgment.

And yes we may suffer while the wicked prosper, yet He doesn't leave us alone in our sufferings. As we commit our way to Him and trust Him, He promised to act. He will act. He will.  The word 'will' used here means 'it is bound to happen', an inevitable event to come'. When we feel exhausted of taking the threats of disobedience and we are being tempted to do just what 'everybody does', the Lord will act.  

The following verse says what God will act upon for His saints: "He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." (Psalm 37:6). He will not forsake us. He will supply our needs and our strength as we commit to Him.  A decision that is not shaky but sturdy to obey God no matter the odds. Commiting one's way is committing his or her works for the glory of God. Works is anything we do. We put it all on the line and trust Him. And we will see that His righteousness will be seen in us and that there will be vindication of the things we do for Christ. 

This sweet promise follows when we commit our way and trust in Him. Will you trust the Promise Keeper?

It DOES Matter How Much You Know

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." Proverbs 1:7

Knowledge and wisdom are closely tied together in terms of meaning. Knowledge is the acquired truth we know about the world, us as creations and God-our magnificent Creator. Wisdom is the application of the knowledge we have.

How then can we give less importance to the knowledge of the Scripture if it is where we get our wisdom in walking a life pleasing to the Lord? Through His Word, we know how boundless his love, grace and mercy upon us- that despite our sinfulness, He initiated the act of our redemption and saved us. 

How can we say that we know Him if we don't know His Word? What is the basis of our knowledge of Him if we just read the Scripture for the sake of reading it? God revealed Himself through His Word by the illumination of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. In a common sense, studying leads to a deeper knowledge of that something. And so is with God's Word. Studying the Scriptures means knowing the Author Himself deeper. 

Now, is it right to say that we should concern our knowledge of His Word on those that could only "apply" to our lives? If that would be the case, then the Bible is no more than a reference of "to do" and "not to do" list- not much of a difference to the use of those self help books that motivates you to push harder and get what you want. God has a purpose why Paul wrote these words in 2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." So how much of the Scripture is God-breathed and useful? ALL. How clearer could that be? Besides, if we consider ourselves Christians then our whole life should directly point to Jesus-every day in every aspect. I cannot think of any book in the Bible that is not related to my Christian life. Genesis to Revelation covered it all, and that's one of the wonders of the Scripture; too old yet always updated to empower one's faith. 

Of course, Jesus is not a figure to be studied and be an expert with; nor Theology a subject to master, something like a set of principles to be practiced for a better life. Without the quickening of the Spirit in our hearts, nothing can be changed. That is why it was said,

"these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God." 1 Corithians 2:10

And as He teaches us, His precepts are not just exercised outwardly-to avoid failure in life; but His ways must be written in our hearts, deeply penetrated within our souls thus to truthfully walk in His light- not through our own but by the working of His Spirit. We follow the Word not because it will give us success. We follow it for the sake of Christ. Because we love the Lord.

"For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome." 1 John 5:3

"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." 

Colossians 2:6-7

I quote Matthew Henry, "The soul prospers when we have clear knowledge of The truth as it is in Jesus." and "Knowledge and faith make a soul rich." The Lord had freely and graciously given us the wisdom through His Word. It is not hidden from us but for us. Without the understanding of His Word, how can we live our lives pleasing to Him? How can we know His will? How can we discern the truth from the lies? God had given us no other surer source than His Word. No other word but His Word alone. So where are you basing your beliefs, brethren? Stop chasing "new revelations" for all has already been revealed through the Holy Scriptures!

"Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar." Proverbs 30:5-6

While We May

"'Sir,' the man replied, 'leave it alone for one more year, and I'll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.'" Luke 13:8-9

Yesterday, there were news that a strong storm will be raging in KSA. The forecast could have said that our city would be affected because my Saudi neighbors were getting ready for it. Thankfully, today is another day here in Jubail City. Summer is almost over, and the bright morning sun brings light through my windows as usual. I can also hear the birds chirping outside. However admittedly, without the expected storm, I might be one of those who would less appreciate the beauty of this morning.

There are days when we spend a whole lot of time doing the things that we need to get "through" the day. The things that seemed so important IF tomorrow would still come. As Christians, we sometimes forget what we are really called to do-- "to bear fruit." We are called to live a holy life and to share the message of the cross to all men. This calling does not measure up to the abundance of our material possessions and successful careers, instead it is characterized through a continuous maturity in our spiritual walk and compassion to unsaved souls. "A true Christian will show, through words, actions, and doctrine, that he follows the Lord." (gotquestions.org)

God's grace is always sufficient for us. In every ordeal we encounter, His arm is never too short to help us, even to comfort us in all the days of our sorrow. But His grace could only last until He is pleased to give it to us. Let us make use of every moment to bring glory and honor to the One who created us and the reason of our existence. Praise be to Him whose patience endures the hardness of our hearts, and had given us mercies for many days of our lives, to turn away from our sins and have a new life with His Son, Jesus Christ.

Today may be another day, and tomorrow is certainly uncertain; but our eternity is secure in the hands of our Savior. And through His overflowing grace, may we always manifest the true gratitude of being able to see the light of every new day.

Mary and Her Treasure

"But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart." Luke 2:19

And it came to pass that Mary born the child Jesus in a manger. Shepherds came to see the baby for an angel of the Lord appeared to them saying, "For unto you is born this day... Christ the Lord.".  When they witnessed these things, they glorified and praised God, while Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. (ref. Luke 2:8-21)



I could only imagine what Mary had gone through. Since the angel appeared to her, she was put up to a lot of uncertain situations (in view of men).  She got pregnant before marriage, which could've led to stoning her to death. She labored on her way to Bethlehem with Joseph, wherein she also gave birth and laid her newly born baby in a manger; for there was nowhere else to stay.

But she didn't focus on all these hardships.  Mary definitely felt and experienced the pain and troubles, yet it hardly affected her faith.  She wasn't looking at the manger where she gave birth, but at the baby through whom the salvation of the Jews and Gentiles was promised!  What greater joy could there be?

Do we not see that in her time, the "good news" had not happened yet? She didn't understand how it will happen, but she believed it will. She pondered on the turn of events, not the insignificant ones, but the things that matter. The things that concerned about what the Lord promised to Israel. She thought about it deeply and many times.  

She didn't only ponder, but also "treasure" it in her heart.  "To treasure" means to keep or regard as precious or highly valuable.  If we define the word as a noun, a treasure is something being more than "important", but is of worth. And for Mary, the birth of Jesus worth her eternal life. And she kept remembering it like a treasure in stored- she kept it safe and guarded in her heart.

In our Christian walk, trials may come.  It may weaken or strengthen us. Temptations will always try to pull us down. Yet there is a promise to overlook these difficulties. And as Mary chose to magnify Christ during her tough times, so should we.

I've come to comprehend more of who Christ is in my life when I look to Mary's heart. Jesus is the treasure that is of immeasurable worth and significance. Without Him, I am nothing. There is nothing to look forward to, nothing to aim for. This life would just be a series of emptiness, living to die anyway. But because of God's faithfulness, He sent His Son to give us something of worth- because even our very life cannot be counted worthy. We are damned to eternal death because of our sin. But God sent His Son Jesus to save us from sin and death; thus to live a life of purpose and abandon the days of nothingness.

Today, I exalt God for the treasure He has given me. The treasure that will not rot or fade away. 

For He is eternal and will forever be my Lord and Savior.

Jesus, You are my treasure.

Reading: Luke 2

While His Grace Flows

Early the next morning they went up toward the high hill country. "We have sinned," they said. "We will go up to the place the LORD promised."

But Moses said, "Why are you disobeying the LORD's command? This will not succeed! Do not go up, because the LORD is not with you. You will be defeated by your enemies, for the Amalekites and Canaanites will face you there. Because you have turned away from the LORD, He will not be with you and you will fall by the sword." Numbers 14:40-43

The Israelites wanted to parade their pride as boldness; their stubbornness as persistence. Nobody can fool God. He knows every beat of our hearts and every motive behind our actions. Instead of submitting to the LORD's will, they poised as if they were going to please God in doing His command that was supposed to be done at the time it was given. Delayed obedience is not obedience at all.  Their distrust in His power hindered them on carrying out God's instruction -the reason why His anger burned against this generation and punished them not to inherit the promised land (except for Caleb and Joshua). When they knew through Moses the result of their neglect on God's command, they suddenly felt the need to go against the Canaanites and Amelakites; to pursue the promised land. What stubbornness! 

God knew well that this is not about pleasing Him but doing what their selfish desires call them to do. Why did the Israelites suddenly become obedient? Certainly not to win God's favor, for if that's the case, they could've fallen into their knees and ask for forgiveness. When the LORD declared their fate because of their disobedience, they resisted and became decisive.  They suddenly became courageous to do what God wants them to do. They began running after their inheritance.  How mistaken were their motives. Their drive to get their inheritance will not make them victorious, but only their trust in God.

We do not do God's commands the way we want it and when we want it. We do not obey God for the sake of a reward, but of who He is in our lives. We are His people, and He is our God. To please Him, this should be our want.  To bring Him glory and honor, this should be our motivation. May we be more than eager and delighted to do His will while His grace flows in us. A lot of people hear about the promise of Salvation, yet only a few take heed of it. Most of them, like the Israelites, run away from what was promised for the fear of losing their so called "lives" in their endeavor with Christ.

If only the Israelites trusted and obeyed the LORD, they could have won the battle against their enemies. They could have enjoyed a land flowing with milk and honey. However, they chose to fight on their own strength. They chose to do their own will, and from that, they lost God's grace to win the battle with the giants and inhabit the land. Many a man, at the end of his life, would find himself without inheritance; for the grace of God had already been lifted from him.

But today, the battle goes on and His grace is abounding. Are we going to run away and save ourselves? Jesus is the only one who can save us. And God has given Him to us in His grace and mercy. Let's put our trust in our Redeemer and obey His precepts, thus we can enjoy an everlasting life with Him!

God's grace only lasts until it is given to us. May we take every opportunity to grasp it, fulfilling His will in our lives.

Reading: Mark 11:12-14, Numbers 14

The Bronze Basin

The LORD said to Moses, "You shall also make a basin of bronze, with its stand of bronze, for washing. You shall put it between the tent of meeting and the altar, and you shall water in it, with which Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet. When they go into the tent of meeting, or when they come near the altar to minister, to burn a food offering to the LORD, they shall wash with water, so that they may not die."

Exodus 30:17-20 ESV

We know that it was said in the Scriptures that the Old Testament's practice of worshiping God was merely a shadow of what was to come. As I take a look at how God instructed Moses and the Israelites on their worship to Him, I see how holy is the God I serve. In human terms, we might see a complicated, overly detailed deity. But when the truth is revealed to us, we see the vast gap that divides God and man.

The bronze basin was one of the LORD's instructions to Moses to be built. It would stand between the tent of meeting and the altar. The priests must wash their hands and feet in this basin before going into the tent of meeting, when they come near the altar to minister, and to burn a food offering to the LORD. The LORD said to Moses that they must do this lest they die. What a strict order! Or was it just fitting?

As Christians, we are more free to worship Him in Spirit and truth. He had given us this command in His grace, the reason that we are more privileged than the ancient believers.  Because Jesus is our mediator to His light and glory. The sacrifice was made perfect through Him, thus we need not to offer lambs whenever we come near to God. 

Yet God has not changed. He is the same holy God that the Israelites worshiped in the wilderness. And there could be no more bronze basin to wash our hands and feet, but the blood of Jesus that washed away our sin, will keep us clean in our daily offenses.

Quoting Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 30:17-20:

"They must not only wash and be made clean, when first made priests, but must wash and be kept clean, whenever they went to minister. It teaches us daily to attend upon God, daily to renew our repentance for sin, and our looking to the blood of Christ for remission; for in many things we daily offend."

We do not approach the throne of God casually. For His glory shines and no one could withstand it. Let us then draw close to Him in confidence, through humbling down in His grace and mercy, made accessible through Christ.

"But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 

1 John 1:7-9 ESV

Readings: Exodus 29-30, Matthew 21:23-46