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Walking home there was a man weed-wacking his lawn -- it wasn't that interesting. But the woman walking toward me was fascinated. She must have glanced his way at least a half-dozen times in 20 feet. And that's when I realized where I could see every stubborn weed, she couldn't see anything. There was a fence, and she was effectively blind. The world around us is like that. It can't see what see -- what we see is spiritually discerned. We know sin has consequences, that rebellion against God is destructive to the rebel. They don't. They can't unless God brings them around and the fence is no longer obstructing their view.  I'm not going to lie...the sermon was dragging and while the pastor was talking about the Bible as the Word of God, two small, green sneakers peaked up at me and then flopped over the pew chairs in front of me. And of course, I started thinking. The son was technically obeying his father's command to stay in the seat with his head dangling and his feet propped up in the chair. But he was clearly disobeying the father's intent. And while we struggled to explain this concept to children -- we are not children. Yet -- like King Saul (1 Samuel 15) -- how often do we do this to God. And for what purpose? We aren't fooling God, are we trying to fool ourselves?  "He's a nice guy." In other words, this man is considerate enough to be considered "nice". His character doesn't define the word nice -- he is described by the word. "God is good." In other words, God's actions, words, and thoughts toward us are kind and loving. But unlike "nice" people, who may not always be gentle or gracious, God's character is the ultimate measure of the word. God is not described by adjectives, but if accurately used, God defines the adjective. When God is said to be good -- or love or patient or just -- He is always good because God reflects the true meaning of the word, not vice versa. Because of this if we want to know what goodness is, we don't define the word and then measure God to see if He meets the criteria, we look to God to understand the criteria and define the word.  If I want to remember everything that should be on my to do list...it will all come flooding back if I start praying. And it begs the question: 3. Am I worshiping an idol instead of God? What do I desire to do instead of engaging in conversation with God? Is it the business of life? Am I seeking entertainment as more enjoyable than the presence of God? Perhaps pursuing a worldly ideal above God? What needs to be put aside to provide focus and energy for prayer? The chores. The computer. The need for a perfect house, career, or life. Consider: Putting whatever it is, in a physical or a metaphorical box, leaving it behind, and purposefully, humbly enter the presence of God. Start with confession: God, I have been worshiping BLANK instead of You...  |
The AuthorCome with me as we grow in fellowship with each other and our Savior to whom belongs the Amazing Escape from sin and death and the Amazing Journey into glorious life. Archives
January 2026
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