"People With Understanding..."

Scripture Passage

Proverbs 14:1-16:33

Scripture Focus

People with understanding control their anger;
       a hot temper shows great foolishness.
                                  (Proverbs 14:29 NLT)

Observation

One fellow—a professing believer—was explaining to the Lord why he’d failed (again) to control his temper. “Now, Lord,” he said, “you know my granddad was a hothead…and my dad was a hothead…and you can’t really expect me to do any better—I’m only doing what I learned from my father.”

The man said immediately he sensed the Lord say something like this: “I thought when you gave your heart to me, I became your Father.”

Ouch.

Hey—I’m a guy, and as guilty as any of letting my temper fly when I should have reeled it in. So I’m warned by this word from Proverbs (and I hate that—‘cause I’ll likely be put to the test on it now) about the foolishness of hotheadedness and the wisdom of self-control.

“People with understanding control their anger,” the proverb says.

I think that’s an interesting phrase, because sometimes the biggest challenge I face is holding on to my temper long enough to figure out what I’m really angry about. Perhaps if I’ll take the time to sort out and diffuse the emotion of any given circumstance, I’d be more likely to control…manage well…navigate better…every emotion, including anger.

“Lord, your word recognizes anger as a legitimate emotion—but challenges me, ‘In your anger do not sin’ (Eph 4:26 NIV). Grow me as a person of understand who controls—instead of being controlled by—his anger.”

"Check the Shoes!"

Scripture Passage

Proverbs 11:1-13:25

Scripture Focus

Better to be an ordinary person with a servant
         than to be self-important but have no food.
                                      (Proverbs 12:9 NLT)

Observation

When I was a kid, we watched an episode of The Waltons in which John Walton, the father of the bunch, was falsely accused by a wealthy widow of stealing antiques while working in her mansion. Turns out the widow’s son had taken the antiques to sell without his mother’s permission because—all appearances to the contrary—the family had fallen on hard times and needed a sudden influx of cash—something no one in the family wanted to admit.

I looked it up—the episode aired October 4, 1973. That means it’s been nearly 37 years since I saw that television show (I was *almost* a teenager by then) and yet I *still* remember both the story and the “clue” which eventually led to the revelation that everything was not as it seemed. It was the wealthy family’s disheveled shoes.

One of the Walton family members noticed the wealthy family members’ unkempt shoes and remembered that they’d once been advised that “shoes” told the story of a person’s real condition—that (I’m paraphrasing now) you could cover up a lot of poverty, but shoes were a place where cash-strapped people often cut corners, and thereby revealed their true financial condition.

I don’t suppose I know if the condition of one’s shoes is as true a test of financial integrity today as it might have been in depression-era America, but I do (clearly) think of that story still—and was reminded of it when I read Proverbs 12:9 this morning. Both the story and the proverb serve to remind me not to “put on”…not to pretend…not to act as if I’m someone or something I’m not.

That’s different than putting my best foot forward—I’m convinced I *should* do that. But I can put my best foot forward representing genuinely who I am, not falsely pretending to be someone I’m not.

So that’s what I want to do today. Not pretending to be more (or less) than who I am…rejoicing in the grace of God towards me…reflecting His generosity in how I engage and relate to others…all the while without phony appearances or false impressions. May the genuine You shine through the genuine me today, Lord!

"Wisdom Has Prepared A Great Banquet"

Scripture Passage

Proverbs 8:1-10:32

Scripture Focus

Instruct the wise,
     and they will be even wiser.
Teach the righteous,
     and they will learn even more
                   (Proverbs 9:9 NLT)

Observation

Pretty simple thought this morning: Some people just refuse to learn. To their own detriment, some refuse to be open to something other than what they are so sure is just so…to consider possibilities they’ve not considered before.

Why is that? My first thought is arrogance—but that’s a really strong, distasteful word. Still, we’ve all seen it, and probably all been there at some point in some way—so convinced and assured of “rightness” that we were absolutely unwilling to consider that there might be more information (or wisdom) available than we’d fully tapped into.

I heard a fellow speak the other day to the issue of problem solving. He suggested that when you’ve got a problem to solve, you don’t need to generate one idea for how to address it; you need to generate a hundred! After you’ve generated a hundred possibilities, you’re ready to sort through the possibilities and whittle it back down to two or three that might be usable. It’s the openness to—the genuine consideration of—multiple possibilities that ultimately leads to the right solution.

I understand the value of confidence in “what you think you know”. I understand how threatening it can feel to acknowledge the possibility that something might be different than what you’ve always thought or believed it to be. I also understand that Wisdom “has prepared a great banquet” (Proverbs 9:2 NLT). (I like that—I think I’ll write that again. “Wisdom has prepared a great banquet.”) In today’s Scripture focus—the wise and the righteous are not those who are convinced they know it all, but rather those who will sit down to the feast and be fed—those who are willing to be taught and to learn. That’s a table at which I want to sit!

"Drive Safely, My Friend"

Scripture Passage

Proverbs 5:1-7:27

Scripture Focus

Can a man scoop a flame into his lap
     and not have his clothes catch on fire?
Can he walk on hot coals
     and not blister his feet?
                         (Proverbs 6:27-28 NLT)

Observation

A wealthy businessman was interviewing for a new chauffer. He’d narrowed the field to three candidates, and then asked each one a challenging question regarding their driving skills. “At 70 mph, how close to the edge of a dangerous cliff could you confidently drive?”

The first assured his potential employer that he could easily drive within a foot of the edge. The second boasted that he’d only require six inches. The third? “My job is to deliver you safely and securely—I’d stay as far from that edge as possible!”

The third man got the job.

Proverbs 5-7 provides wise warnings on a number of subjects. Most predominantly, there are significant warnings on guarding the sanctity of the marriage relationship, but there are additional warnings about not being obligated on someone else’s debt (co-signing) and learning the discipline of diligent work (work ethic). All of these warnings, in my mind, get summarized in Proverbs 6:27-28

Can a man scoop a flame into his lap
     and not have his clothes catch on fire?
Can he walk on hot coals
     and not blister his feet?
                           (Proverbs 6:27-28 NLT)

The obvious answer to those questions is “no”. And what should be equally obvious is that you can’t play close to the edges in any of these areas of life without going over the edge—and that you’ll not go over the edge without significant negative consequences.

So what’ll it be? As close to the edge as possible? Pushing the limits at every opportunity? Or driving with the wisdom required assuring you reach your desired destination safely and securely? Drive wisely today, my friend. Drive wisely.

"Explore the Meaning"

Scripture Passage

Proverbs 1:1-4:27

Scripture Focus

Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
    Let those with understanding receive guidance
by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
    the words of the wise and their riddles.
                                                    (Proverbs 1:5-6 NLT)

Observation

In yesterday’s edition of “Zits”—one of my favorite comic strips—the teenage star of the strip, Jeremy Duncan (yep, that’s really his surname), is singing the praises of the latest cell phone. “Internet, text, mobile TV… With that thing in your hand,” he says to his dad, “you wouldn’t spend a second of your life disconnected!”

The next frame shows his father throwing the phone as far away from himself as humanly possible!

(See it here if you want a good laugh.)

I’m kinda there these days. This morning’s text confirms that. It’s got me imagining how different life must have sounded a hundred years ago…wondering how quiet life might have been in the days before radio, television, telephones, texting, and all the rest constantly demanding attention. It would have been easier—or so it seems in my imagination—to find a moment’s quiet “back then”.

And what’s that got to do with the ancient book of Proverbs? Well, only that these proverbs won’t be properly understood without time spent reflecting upon them. Proverbs 1:6 calls us to “explore the meaning” in these proverbs and riddles. That’s tough to do when the phone’s ringing, the radio’s playing, and—hey, it’s the “American Idol” season finale tonight…and then “24”…and then “Law and Order”—gotta catch the last episode of that, you know!

At some point in my life—indeed, more than just at “some point”…at many points in my life…regular, scheduled, prioritized blocks of time in my life…I’ve got to find time to think…to reflect…to ponder…to examine. Without those times where I back away and “observe myself,” really, my life starts to look like every other life around me. My life melds into this “gray blob” that is contemporary humanity muddling through its days in whatever lifeless form culture thrusts upon it.

I don’t want to be there. I don’t want my life to look like everyone else’s—‘cause I don’t think most people are making diligent, intelligent, informed, eternally-oriented decisions about their days. (Sorry if that sounds a bit critical. Still…) I don’t want to just “fill the days”—I want to “explore the meaning.”

----------------------

Addendum ('Cause I can't figure out how to post a link in "only" a comment):

Here's a link to an interesting article I ran across about spiritual retreats.  It's written for pastors/ministry leaders, but perhaps something anyone would find challenging and useful.

http://www.agts.edu/encounter/articles/2009summer/davis.htm

"Grateful for the Blessings of God"

Scripture Passage

1 Kings 4:1-34; Psalm 72; Psalm 127

Scripture Focus

It is useless for you to work so hard
     from early morning until late at night,
anxiously working for food to eat;
     for God gives rest to his loved ones.
                            (Psalms 127:2 NLT)

Observation

I joke about this passage from time to time—especially on those mornings when I want to sleep in—“for God gives rest to his loved ones.”

But like another Psalm of Ascent I highlighted recently, I think the basic attitude expressed by this psalm is one of grateful, trusting, humility. Solomon was—as we’ve seen repeatedly in the past few days—a remarkable “builder”…one of those kings whose reign was characterized by significant national expansion and momentous public (and private) building projects. But Solomon’s acknowledgement here is that ultimately—for however hard he worked or however much he tried—he couldn’t have accomplished any of the things he’d accomplished apart from God’s hand of blessing and direction.  I don't think Solomon has any intent here of diminishing the value of diligent labor, but simply acknowledges that—in any success—there are other factors…there is the divine factor of God's blessing…at work.

It’s like Solomon takes a look around his kingdom—and then around his table—at his life’s work and the life of his family…and simply has to say, “This is evidence not of my greatness, but of God’s greatness!”

It’s clear that Solomon lost sight of some of this late in his reign, but on whatever day he wrote this psalm, he got it right. In the journey that is my life, “every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17 NIV).

"Very Impressive! Very, Very Impressive!"

Scripture Passage

2 Chronicles 8:1-18; 1 Kings 9:15-10:13; 2 Chronicles 9:1-12; 1 Kings 10:14-29; 2 Chronicles 9:13-28; 2 Chronicles 1:14-17

Scripture Focus

When the queen of Sheba realized how very wise Solomon was, and when she saw the palace he had built, she was overwhelmed. She was also amazed at the food on his tables, the organization of his officials and their splendid clothing, the cupbearers, and the burnt offerings Solomon made at the Temple of the LORD. (1 Kings 10:4-5 NLT)

Observation

Solomon’s fame as a king of wealth and wisdom has spread so broadly that the Queen of Sheba decides to pay a visit. Sheba was a territory well known as a center of trade, especially in gold and spices. The truth is, this was likely a business visit to keep tabs on the competition as much as it may have been a social call to marvel at Solomon’s achievements.

Still, the Queen was impressed! “I had not heard the half of it!” she declared. “Your wisdom and prosperity are far beyond what I was told” (1 Kings 10:7 NLT). Solomon’s grandeur must have been astonishing!

For me, today, the wonder is not over Solomon’s affluence, but over what Jesus says about Solomon’s best day. Jesus says, on his best day, Solomon’s opulence didn’t hold a candle to the simple wonder of a lily of the field (Luke 12:27). And then He says…

“If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!” (Luke 12:28 NIV)

To whatever degree I marvel at the wealth and opulence of Solomon’s achievements—if I’m going to be a “Bible-believing Christian”—I’d better marvel at least that much and more at God’s gracious, generous, unending care for me! Now that is astonishing!

"Rest…Just As He Promised"

Scripture Passage

1 Kings 8:54-66; 2 Chronicles 7:1-10; 1 Kings 9:1-9; 2 Chronicles 7:11-22; 1 Kings 9:10-14

Scripture Focus

“Praise the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the wonderful promises he gave through his servant Moses.” (2 Chronicles 6:41-42 NLT)

Observation

Finally, the construction of the temple is complete, along with all the acts of dedication that mark the initiation of temple worship. Solomon wisely recognizes that this “high water mark” in the life of the people of Israel is really a culmination of many moments—the fulfillment of a promise God had made clear back when Israel experienced God’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt.

“Praise the Lord who has given rest to his people Israel.”

Can you imagine how rich “rest” must have sounded to Hebrew slaves? And the people of God had tasted rest in growing measure all along the way. Surely leaving Egypt behind was “rest” in itself…then actually entering the Promised Land…then the increasing stability of life in the land under King David…and now—now Jerusalem was fully established as the religious and political center of Israel, and Solomon’s temple fully established as the “dwelling place” of Israel’s God—Jehovah.

“Praise the Lord who has given rest to his people Israel.”

So it is with us—or at least ought to be, I think. The New Testament book of Hebrews speaks of the rest that is ours in Christ, and exhorts us to “make every effort to enter that rest” (Hebrews 4:11 NIV). But like Israel, our experience might best be understood as a journey—a work in progress—with growing levels of ability to appropriate the blessings that are ours in Christ. The question I’m asking myself lately is this: “Where is the evidence of that growth? In what ways does my life reflect progress—growth in Christ?” Oh, how I want to see that today’s blessings are not just random events, but evidence of a rich history of progressively appropriating all of God’s promises!

"Arise and Enter Your Resting Place!"

Scripture Passage

1 Kings 8:1-11; 2 Chronicles 5:1-14; 1 Kings 8:12-21; 2 Chronicles 6:1-11; 1 Kings 8:22-53; 2 Chronicles 6:12-42

Scripture Focus

“And now arise, O LORD God, and enter your resting place,
     along with the Ark, the symbol of your power.
May your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation;
     may your loyal servants rejoice in your goodness.
O LORD God, do not reject the king you have anointed.
     Remember your unfailing love for your servant David.”
                                              (2 Chronicles 6:41-42 NLT)

Observation

It’s a beautiful, majestic, awe-inspiring scene. The priests—prepared for service—have carried the Ark of the Covenant (the sacred chest containing a copy of Israel’s covenant with God) into the glorious new temple that Solomon has built. Trained musicians playing cymbals, lyres and harps are joined by 120 trumpeters (think about that—120!) who together perform (perhaps) Psalm 118—a psalm dominated by this theme:

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good!
     His faithful love endures forever.
                                 (Psalm 118:1 NLT)

And as the glory of the Lord fills the temple built to honor Him, Solomon begins to pray. He celebrates the greatness of God. He petitions God for grace and help in the days to come. And he concludes with an invitation for God to make this temple His home!

Several years back, a chorus based on this passage was popular among believers—

“Oh, the glory of your Presence
     We your people give you reverence.
So arise to your rest and be blessed by our praise
     As we glory in Your embrace
As your Presence now fills this place!”

I still like the chorus. I like the invitation. In the same way that Solomon invited the presence of God to fill the temple he’d build of stone and cedar…so should we—consistently and fervently—invite God’s presence to “find a resting place” in us…a place that He calls “home.”

“And now arise, O Lord God, and enter your resting place!”
                                                  (2 Chronicles 6:41 NLT)

Find your resting place, today, in me, O Lord!

"Big Kingdom…Little Foxes"

Scripture Passage

1 Kings 7:1-51; 2 Chronicles 3:15-4:22

Scripture Focus

He also built similar living quarters for Pharaoh’s daughter, whom he had married. (1 Kings 7:8 NLT)

Observation

Again today, the remarkable architectural expansion of Solomon’s kingdom is highlighted. “The Palace of the Forest of Lebanon”—150 feet long, 75 feet wide, 45 feet high. “The Hall of Pillars”—slightly smaller at 75 feet long and 45 feet wide. “The Hall of Justice”—paneled in cedar from floor to ceiling (Debbie thinks that sounds like a great closet!)…all of these buildings with exteriors of cut stone layered with cedar beams—and all surrounded by courtyard walls built to match! The same was true for Solomon’s living quarters. Again, remarkable is the word that consistently comes to my mind.

But there’s a crack in the kingdom’s foundation. Actually, it was first mentioned in the reading from a couple of days ago—1 Kings 3:1. But it gets repeated today (and, again, pretty much repeated “in passing”). It’s the mention of “Pharaoh’s daughter, whom [Solomon] had married.”

What we specifically know from 1 Kings 3:1 is that this marriage was the result of a political alliance that Solomon had made with the King of Egypt. And I understand full well that such was the practice of the day—that political alliances were often sealed with a marriage. Still, that wasn’t God’s plan for Solomon. Indeed, it was a violation of God’s covenant with Israel—the terms of which Solomon was supposed to write out in his own hand and re-read at least once a year.

Eventually, what started as a small compromise for the sake of political expediency became a noose around Solomon’s spiritual neck. About this wife (and others Solomon added) the Bible eventually says “Solomon held fast to them in love…and [they] turned his heart after other gods” (1 Kings 11:2,4 NIV).

It is, indeed, the “little foxes” (Song of Songs 2:15 NIV) that ruin the vineyards, isn’t it?

"Inexpressively Remarkable!"

Scripture Passage

1 Kings 3:16-28; 1 Kings 5:1-18; 2 Chronicles 2:1-18; 1 Kings 6:1-13; 2 Chronicles 3:1-14; 1 Kings 6:14-38

Scripture Focus

But who can really build him a worthy home? Not even the highest heavens can contain him! So who am I to consider building a Temple for him, except as a place to burn sacrifices to him?
(2 Chronicles 2:6 NLT)

Observation

Solomon’s Temple (as it’s commonly known) was a remarkable and beautiful piece of architecture. If you’ve never seen a detailed illustration of it, you can find one example by clicking here. Incredible craftsmanship, opulent detailing, remarkable beauty!

I think, sometimes, we superimpose our notions of “church building” over the Biblical description of the temple Solomon built, and imagine it as a building where people gathered for worship. Certainly the “address” was a place where people gathered for worship, but access to the building itself was restricted to priests on duty, and the heart of the building—the Holy of Holies—was completely off limits to everyone except the High Priest, and then accessible to him only one day a year.

There’s something I like about that—something about a building so “small” that everyone knows it’s only “representative”…only symbolic…only illustrative of the majestic God in whose honor it stands. Oh, that our notion of God would be bigger—so much inexpressively bigger—than the buildings we build in order that we might gather for worship! Oh, that we would know as Solomon knew—

Not even the highest heavens can contain him! (2 Chronicles 2:6 NLT)

—and yet, wonder of wonders, He’s chosen to take up residence in me. It’s inexpressively remarkable!

"Every Leader's Request"

Scripture Passage

Psalm 83; 1 Chronicles 29:23-25; 2 Chronicles 1:1; 1 Kings 2:13-3:4;

2 Chronicles 1:2-6; 1 Kings 3:5-15; 2 Chronicles 1:7-13

Scripture Focus

     “Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?”
     The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom.
                                                               (1 Kings 3:9-10 NLT)

Observation

It’s completely familiar—a story I remember hearing as a boy in Sunday School class. God appears to Solomon in a dream and offers him whatever he might ask for. Wow! Can you understand how a story like that sparks the imagination of a preschool boy?

The beauty of the story, of course, is that Solomon asks for wisdom, which God grants—along with all the things most of us would be inclined to ask for instead of wisdom!

What I didn’t fully appreciate as a youngster was the incredible inadequacy Solomon must have felt taking the reins of Israel’s kingdom. What I never imagined as a boy was how complicated life would grow for me as an adult. (It’s only as an adult that I’ve begun to comprehend that maybe my dad *didn’t* always know exactly the right thing to do—in fact, I’m still not completely convinced he didn’t!)

And so my request echoes Solomon’s prayer—“Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern [lead] your people well and know the difference between right and wrong.”

May God be pleased to answer that prayer.

"A Spiritual S.O.S.!"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 79-82

Scripture Focus

Help us, O God of our salvation!
     Help us for the glory of your name.
Save us and forgive our sins
     for the honor of your name.
                   (Psalm 79:9 NLT)

Observation

These are the psalms of desperate people—Psalms 79-82. These are the words of people who are feeling the oppression that results when their nation has neglected God and now suffers as a result.

The application that immediately jumps to mind is perhaps—but only perhaps—too simple. It’s easiest to say this is America’s spot as well…that these are words we ought to memorize, because they’ll be all too necessary before we know it.

The truth is, I don’t know that I have the depth and breadth of perspective to pinpoint where America sits on the spectrum of nations that have forgotten their God. Though obviously we’ve moved far from our roots, I am also confident that there are many in our nation who love God and long for this nation to reflect His character. In that regard, a passionate, Godly remnant seems to tug at God’s heart and delay any judgment for a long time. For ten righteous people, God would’ve spared even wicked Sodom.

Still, there is no doubt our nation—and our world—faces challenges that demand more than human wisdom or skill to address. We need God’s help. Whether you conclude that the downfall of our nation is both imminent and unavoidable, or perhaps hold out hope for a return to Biblical righteousness, either way…either way…

Help us, O God of our salvation!
     Help us for the glory of your name.
Save us and forgive our sins
     for the honor of your name.
                             (Psalm 79:9 NLT)

"How Long Will This Break Last?"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 75-78

Scripture Focus

Is his unfailing love gone forever?
     Have his promises permanently failed?
                                  (Psalm 77:8 NLT)

Observation

Ever been there—when you wondered if maybe God had gone on some kind of extended break or something? If maybe He’d just decided you weren’t worth messing with or had even forgotten you completely?

The psalmist Asaph seems to be there in Psalm 77. But then he does a really smart thing. He chooses to remember.

But then I recall all you have done, O LORD;
     I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago.
They are constantly in my thoughts.
     I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.
                                         (Psalm 77:11-12 NLT)

Myself—I like how intentional this seems. At the risk of making too much of it, Asaph didn’t write “I recalled…I remembered”, but rather he writes in the present tense—“I recall…I remember”—like it’s something he’s doing intentionally and purposefully…like he’s *choosing* to rehearse in his mind the mighty saving acts of God on his behalf.

Or (as someone said it recently) he’s choosing to be an author of his story rather than a victim of his circumstances.

Me, too, Jesus—me, too! Help me—when circumstances make me wonder whether your promises have “permanently failed”—to recall all you have done…to remember your wonderful deeds of long ago, and to know that your ways are holy…that there is no god as mighty as you!

"Unfair!"

Scripture Passage

Psalm 50; Psalms 73-74

Scripture Focus

So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper.
     But what a difficult task it is!
Then I went into your sanctuary, O God,
     and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.
                                        (Psalm 73:16-17 NLT)

Observation

Psalm 73 is another one of my favorites. Has been since college, when—as a broke, frustrated, but hungry-for-God college student in the middle of wondering how life could be so unfair—I first read how this psalm addresses the issue of why wicked people seem to prosper while righteous people often continue to struggle.

The answer comes in the presence of God.

So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper.
     But what a difficult task it is!
Then I went into your sanctuary, O God,
     and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.
                                        (Psalm 73:16-17 NLT)

Oh, it’s not a long discourse on the problem of evil. There’s no rebuke about hidden sin that blocks God’s blessings or an absence of faith that hinders answers to prayer. There’s a simple declaration that the picture isn’t finished yet—that the final act has not yet played out.

In the presence of God the psalmist is reminded of “the destiny of the wicked”—and of his own, I’m sure. The psalmist is reminded that the whole story isn’t told until the final curtain closes, and—in that day…on that stage—God will set everything right.

For all we sometimes think we’d trade for what others seem to have, Psalm 73 reminds me that this life is not the whole story…this day cannot shape my full perspective. I must remember, and rehearse as often as necessary, the truth that God will set things right, honor His Word, and bless those eternally who belong to Him!

"In Praise of a Higher Kingdom"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 144-145; Psalms 88-89

Scripture Focus

All of your works will thank you, Lord,
     and your faithful followers will praise you.
They will speak of the glory of your kingdom;
     they will give examples of your power.
They will tell about your mighty deeds
     and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.
     You rule throughout all generations.
                                       (Psalm 145:9-13 NLT)

Observation

Here’s the thing: David is the highly successful leader of a rapidly expanding enterprise. He’s king over Israel during the greatest expansion of power, wealth, and influence the nation has ever yet known. And yet, in this psalm, his praise is directed towards an even greater kingdom—God’s kingdom!

They will speak of the glory of your kingdom;
     they will give examples of your power.
They will tell about your mighty deeds
     and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
                                        (emphasis added)

There are days I’m utterly frustrated with what I think I’ve accomplished in my life to this point, and days I’m way too pleased with myself. Today, especially, I want to follow David’s example and know that the only really important thing in either case is that my life serves the everlasting kingdom of my everlasting King.

"Contentment"

Scripture Passage

Psalm 131; Psalm 133; Psalms 138-141; Psalm 143

Scripture Focus

LORD, my heart is not proud;
    my eyes are not haughty.
I don’t concern myself with matters too great
    or too awesome for me to grasp.
Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself,
    like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk.
    Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me.

O Israel, put your hope in the LORD—
    now and always.
                               (Psalm 131 NLT)

Observation

There are things I enjoy about each of the psalms in today’s reading, but the truth is, I laughed out loud for joy when I saw Psalm 131. It’s one of my favorites, and has been since reading Eugene Peterson’s classic book A Long Obedience in the Same Direction years ago. (Wish I could find my copy. Did I loan it to you?)

Psalm 131 is one of the “psalms of ascent”—a particular selection of songs of worship that would have been sung by God’s people as they made the journey towards Jerusalem for festival worship. And this one might express the greatest worship of all because it expresses satisfaction with God even when God hasn’t supplied answers to every question.

I think I’m a fairly inquisitive guy. I enjoy discussions of theology and philosophy. I love to learn—to discover something I didn’t know before or be challenged to think along lines I’d not considered before. But (more than some, I’m confident), I’m also pretty satisfied with what I don’t know—or, at least, satisfied with God in spite of what I don’t know.

I do believe, for all the value of inquisitive minds questioning anything and everything, that there are some things we’re not qualified to understand…some mysteries that are not ours to unravel. And so, even given what I don’t understand…“like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk”…I put my hope in the Lord—now and always.

"Wake the Dawn!"

Scripture Passage

Psalm 103; Psalms 108-110; Psalm 122; Psalm 124

Scripture Focus

My heart is confident in you, O God;
     no wonder I can sing your praises with all my heart!
Wake up, lyre and harp!
     I will wake the dawn with my song.
                              (Psalm 108:1-2 NLT)

Observation

I’ve always enjoyed singing. I don’t mean “public performance” or even “public ministry”—but simply singing as an expression of praise from my heart. In fact, I’ve used “unprompted singing” as something of a “personal heart monitor”. If those unguarded moments when I catch myself singing have diminished or disappeared altogether, there’s probably something “wrong” with my heart—something needing attention. Indeed, why people don’t catch themselves singing more is something that puzzles me.

So I really like the imagery of Psalm 108:2—“I will wake the dawn with my song.” I’ve heard of waking the dead, but never waking the dawn. What a wonderful thought—to be up ahead of the sunrise, singing praises to God at the top of your lungs, waking the whole world up in the process!

I know some people won’t understand that. In mock (I think) frustration, my wife has told a number of people, “He *sings* in the morning!” (like that’s a bad thing!). But given the goodness of God…given the confidence we rightly have in Him (v 1)…why shouldn’t we sing? Shouldn’t there be moments when we bust out in song with enough zeal and gusto that somebody notices?

So go ahead—bust loose. Wake the dawn!

"Passion for Your House"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 68-70; Psalm 86; Psalm 101

Scripture Focus

Passion for your house has consumed me,
     and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.
                                                             (Psalm 69:9 NLT)

Observation

Sometimes the whole of a story can be captured in a single line from the story. “Mama always said, 'Life is like a box of chocolates'” produces immediate recollections of “Forrest Gump”. “I’ll be back” (especially in an exaggerated Austrian accent) prompts images of Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator. All the pathos of Star Wars is captured in Darth Vader’s words to Luke—“I am your father.” A single quote can capture and represent everything about the context from which it is taken. I thought about that as I read Psalm 69 today.

In John, chapter 2, Jesus clears the temple of livestock dealers and moneychangers.

[15] …he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. [16] To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father’s house into a market!” (John 2:15-16 NIV)

The next verse says…

His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” (John 2:17 NIV)

Why is it that Jesus’ actions in John 2 would remind the disciples of this psalm? Certainly the connection between “the Temple” in John 2 and “your house” in Psalm 69 is obvious—but was there more? Was it the whole of Psalm 69 that came to mind when the disciples observed Jesus’ actions? Did they see more than just a rabbi passionate for God’s House? Did they, instead, see a man who saw the abuse of God’s Temple…the use of the House of God for oppressive profiteering…as a microcosm of the battle He was fighting—as evil men insulting who God was, defaming and disgracing the Name of the Lord. Did Jesus see, at this unique moment early in His ministry (this is, I believe, *not* the same as the clearing of the Temple during the Passion Week) how colossal was the task ahead of Him? I wonder if the disciples saw a man desperate in the fight for truth.

I wonder, then, how clearly I see things…how desperate I am for You and what matters to You.  Has passion for your House—and all your House represents—consumed me?

"Hands Off, Mr. Fixit!"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 61-62; Psalms 64-67

Scripture Focus

I wait quietly before God,
     for my victory comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation,
     my fortress where I will never be shaken.
                                     (Psalm 62:1 NLT)

Observation

Psalm 62:1 seems to capture the theme of many of the psalms we’ve been reading recently—waiting in trust. Perhaps You, O Lord, are trying to tell me something? Or perhaps followers of Jehovah in ancient Israel faced the same challenges this follower of Jesus faces in postmodern America!

I do know that patience is no particular strength of mine—and that I’m not alone in that characteristic. I am a guy—if there’s something broken, I want to fix it…quickly…so I can get back to more important things (like watchin’ NASCAR). Though originally from Missouri, I don’t want somebody to “show me” how to do something—I generally just want to do it. Leave me alone and I’ll figure it out.

Those characteristics do not set me up well to succeed at the challenge the psalmist presents—waiting quietly before God…trusting completely in Him.

So today, Lord, help me with that—I'm no good at it! Help me to let go of that which I’d rather fix myself. Help me settle down…simmer down…and quiet down before You. Because I do affirm what the psalmist has declared—“You alone are my rock and my salvation!”

"Two-Faced Trouble"

Scripture Passage

Psalm 39-41; Psalm 53; Psalm 55; Psalm 58

Scripture Focus

His words are as smooth as butter,
    but in his heart is war.
His words are as soothing as lotion,
    but underneath are daggers!
                           (Psalm 55:21 NLT)

Observation

Have you ever dealt with somebody you just knew you couldn’t trust? I’m thinking especially of someone who said all the right things and did all the right things (at least, in your presence), but—deep down—you knew everything *wasn’t* on the up and up, and you really couldn’t trust that person as they were presenting themselves to you.

Psalm 55 obviously grows from a time in David’s life when he experienced that kind of relationship—and, in fact, had suffered betrayal at the hands of someone he’d trusted (when he shouldn’t have).

The psalm is a cry for God’s help (“Confuse them, Lord, and frustrate their plans” v. 9) and a declaration of expectation of God’s deliverance (“…you, O God, will send the wicked down to the pit of destruction” v. 23). But as I read it today, I’m thinking more about relationship—about transparency and integrity in relationship—in terms of both who I need to be, and what I want from others.

I don’t like not knowing where I stand with people. I don’t like wondering if what I’m seeing is what I’m really getting. I hate the possibility that…

His words are as smooth as butter,
     but in his heart is war.
His words are as soothing as lotion,
     but underneath are daggers!
                               (Psalm 55:21 NLT)

I don’t want that from others, Lord—so don’t let me ever be guilty of the same! Let genuine authenticity mark every conversation—each word an honest representation of who I am and where I stand. And may I reap, then, what I sow—receiving the same integrity in relationship from others.

"Waiting...In Stillness"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 27-32

Upper Lake, Glendalough, Ireland

Scripture Focus

Be still in the presence of the LORD,
     and wait patiently for him to act.
Don’t worry about evil people who prosper
     or fret about their wicked schemes.
                               (Psalm 37:7 NLT)

Observation

Psalm 37 is an acrostic psalm—each stanza beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. That probably makes it “unfair” to simply pull one verse out for comment and mediation, but, hey, that’s the assignment I’ve given myself, right? So I’m considering verse 7.

The challenge of verse 7, as I understand it, is to not always *have* to act, but rather to let God fight my battles for me. I think I used to be better at that than I am these days. Perhaps I’m growing impatient as I grow older. Perhaps the stakes seem higher than they used to. The thing is—no matter how I might change or how my circumstances might change—the counsel of God’s Word remains constant. “Be still…wait…don’t worry…don’t fret.”

Waiting in stillness is tougher than ever. My life is filled with noise, and when there isn’t any supplied, I’ll often make my own. But how often does God call me to stilled waiting? More often than I’ve obeyed, I’m sure.

All this calls to mind another psalm—a personal favorite from the psalms of ascent—Psalm 131…

My heart is not proud, O LORD,
     my eyes are not haughty;
     I do not concern myself with great matters
     or things too wonderful for me.

But I have stilled and quieted my soul;
     like a weaned child with its mother,
     like a weaned child is my soul within me.

O Israel, put your hope in the LORD
     both now and forevermore.
                           (Psalm 131 NIV)

Lord, help me to be still, wait patiently, and put my hope in You!

"He Will Hide Me"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 27-32

Scripture Focus

The one thing I ask of the LORD—
     the thing I seek most—
is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
     delighting in the LORD’s perfections
and meditating in his Temple.
     For he will conceal me there when troubles come;
he will hide me in his sanctuary.
     He will place me out of reach on a high rock.
Then I will hold my head high
     above my enemies who surround me.
At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,
     singing and praising the LORD with music.
                                            (Psalm 27:4-6 NLT)

Observation

(Okay—just to warn you, today’s thoughts, though absolutely genuine, seem uncharacteristically syrupy sweet to the author.)

-----------------------------------------------

It must be “old hymn week” in the Duncan noggin’.

(For the uninitiated, “noggin’” is Ozarkian for “head” or “mind”, i.e., “You can git those foolish notions outta yer noggin’ right now, boy!”)

I wasn’t five verses into today’s reading—this wonderful psalm of David where he affirms his trust in God’s covering, and asks of God one thing—that he never be disconnected from the Lord’s Presence…that he never be unable to be in the House of the Lord—…not five verses in before I was remembering the lyrics to Ralph Carmichael’s song “A Quiet Place”…

There is a quiet place

Far from the rapid pace

Where God can soothe my troubled mind.

There’s much more to that song—but it’s about gardens and mountains and such, and I’m just not that into nature…

The point is, this psalm opens with expressions about all kinds of legitimate concerns—evil people intent on devouring, enemies determined to attack—and David finds that place where he knows he has nothing to fear (“Why should I be afraid? Why should I tremble”) when he crawls into the safety of the presence of the Lord.

It’s there he finds protection. It’s there he finds covering. It’s there he finds renewed confidence and strengthened hope.

Oh, how we need that very same thing. Oh, how we need repeated, consistent immersion in the presence of the Lord. If memory serves, Robert Webber said it like this: “True worship really sets the world in order.” Oh, how we need those times when we immerse ourselves in God’s presence and reframe our days from an eternal perspective.

(Conveniently, this is a Sunday morning post.  I hope you're headed to the House of the Lord, today.)

Then I will hold my head high
     above my enemies who surround me.
At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,
     singing and praising the LORD with music.
                                                (Psalm 27:6 NLT)

Addendum:

Speaking of syrupy-sweet…want to hear a rendition of Ralph Carmichael’s syrupy-sweet song performed by syrupy-sweet Bill Pearce on a syrupy-sweet trombone complete will syrupy-sweet full orchestral accompaniment?

Click "play" below...

A Quiet Place – Bill Pearce

MP3 search on MP3hunting

"Shepherd Care"

Scripture Passage

Psalms 22-26

Scripture Focus

I will not be afraid,
     for you are close beside me.
                   (Psalm 23:4 NLT)

Observation

I’m sure it is the most familiar psalm in Scripture—it may be the most familiar passage in Scripture—the 23rd Psalm. In this beloved psalm, David—who has been both shepherd and king—celebrates the care and expresses the heart of our Shepherd-King, Jesus Christ.

My favorite words (among these favorite words) are found in the middle of verse 4—and most familiar from the King James Version:

I will fear no evil,
     For Thou art with me.
             (Psalm 23:4 KJV)

This reality—Jesus’ abiding presence—is the one constant that overcomes all life’s inconsistencies and unknowns. He is with me every moment of every day. He will never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5). Even on that day when I “pass through the valley of the shadow of death,” He will be with me still. He has blazed the trail of faith I am walking now, and He completed it with absolute success.

For reasons I don’t completely understand, all this brings to mind these familiar lyrics:

Why should I feel discouraged,
     Why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely
     And long for Heav'n and home,
When Jesus is my portion?
     My constant Friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow,
     And I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow,
     And I know He watches me!

So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6 NIV). Thank you, Lord, for your abiding presence!