Saturday, December 31, 2022

Lord's Day Devotion - Trust, Adore, Praise


The lines from the hymn, How Good is the God We Adore, came to mind this morning.  I suppose it should have been thought of yesterday, the last day of the year 2022, and sung as the year tipped us into 2023.  Neverthe less, it's still good an valid this Lord's Day morn, I believe.

We can still review how faithful and unchangeable this Friend is.  We can still be thankful for all He has done for us throughout the past year and all the years of our lives thus far.

This year, we may have fears of what's to come but as we trust Him in ever-increasing measure, we will see just how good He is.  As the hymn confidently sings, we can "trust Him for all that's to come."

Let's praise the One Who died for us, thanking Him too, for the Comforter, His Holy Spirit, who guides us, not just for this day, but for all the days ahead until Jesus gives us the shout to go up to be with Him - forever.

All of this because God's love and power are great and limitless.  As brothers and sisters-in-Christ the world over gather together in Jesus' Name, around the table, simply set with a loaf of bread and a cup of wine, let us remember, not just all the ways He has helped us through 2022, but more importantly, what His death and resurrection has meant in our own souls and the souls of countless multitudes since the cross.

Hasn't He been faithful?  Hasn't He been unchangeable?  Isn't He good?  Have you felt His unmitigated love and power?  Have you known His Holy Spirit's guidance?  i think we can confirm and affirm all of the above.

Then praise Him, adore Him, trust him, reach for and partake of the broken bread, drink from the cup of wine, in rememberance of all He has done.  That is, all He has done for mankind first and foremost, then for you as an individual.  What a wonderful, faithful and unchangeable Friend who loves us at all times.

Sing afresh, "How good is the God we adore."

                                                     ~ERC  January 2023~




















Monday, December 26, 2022

Crowning the Year

 


The year 2022 marches swiftly to its close.  We can be glad and rejoice in the Lord for all He has done for us throughout the year.

As we moved from strength to strength we can give our faithful, loving heavenly Abba Father our praise.  All praise, honor, glory and blessing be unto Him in jesus' name.

Through all the ups and downs of our lives since January, we can count the blessings when and where we have spotted them.  Look for them, if from a perspective haze of tribulation.  It helps to have some joy in the heart even despite hardships and/or loss of loved ones.

For me, my husband got a new job, my son got engaged, we got to see other sons, finally after the covid era lockdowns were released and we had enough to eat with a roof over our heads.  We did not live in a war zone.  Huh, a biggie there.

My brother sent a video of many children in a certain place of great want.  Adults were passing out food.  The dear souls with hands eagerly outstretched received a plate of food.  It was gladly recieved with thanksgiving.

It warms the heart to know this lot of children and momma's, at least, were getting fed.

It is more blessed to give than recieve.  When we have plenty, we can look for those who have need, whether in these waning days of 2022 or throughout the year 2023, to come.

Thank-You, Father God, our Jehovah Jireh, for all You provide for us and for opportunities to provide for others in need.  May we each be sensitive to Your direction in helping others out from what You have given to us.

Thank-You for crowning our year with Your goodness and faithfulness. We look forward to drawing closer to You and strengthening our faith and relationship with You in the coming days until Jesus comes; come what may.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

                                  HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!

                                               ~ERC  December 2022~

Based on Psalm 65:11.

Sing, Praise the Lord, along with the Heritage Singers.



















Sunday, December 25, 2022

Book Review - The Parakeet Prankster - Megan Lucker - Publication Date: 25 December 2022

 


Pranks playfully played are always fun and when this one family, their uncle and some neighors get into the act, they need to watch out that they don't get caught!  It's good that certain prank rules are included so that the fun can stay fun.


What I didn't care for at all was the talk of vampires, were-bear and were-parakeet.  This turned me off  I'm afraid so I will only give this book 3 Stars.  Actually, I hovered between 2-3 stars but went with three because of the important 'rascal rules'.  Another positive feature of this children's book is the vocabulary page of definitions that lend an educational touch to the reading experience.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         December 2022

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.









Friday, December 23, 2022

Lord's Day Devotion - Patient Obedience


 Joseph's quietly patient obedience is exemplary.  Step-by-step, since he was, no doubt, in stunned shock by learning of Mary's pregnancy, he took upon himself to follow instructions and guidance from the LORD.  I think, he did so despite potential accusations of pre-marital activity, loss of reputation and ostracisation and even stoning to death.

Certainly, he didn't have much of a quiet life once he got his directions:  marry Mary; get off to Bethlehem before she delivered the child; no room in the inn; Jesus born in a stable; flee to Egypt; settle, finally, in Nazareth.  Nazareth, the despised town where hopefully, Jesus would be 'safe'.


Embarassment, humiliation, nomadic, disruption to the carpentry business and stigma of Mary's baby's parentage called into question were some of Joseph's woes.  Yet we see Joseph's humble, obedient and calm demeanor as he packs up and moves on.

What tumultuous thoughts ran through his mind though?  We can only imagine.  And fear...fear for Jesus' safety.  I like that despite the hardships, he protected Mary and Jesus by his selflessness and his quiet obedience.

In the end, baby and toddler Jesus was kept safe.  Their worst fears flaired up again by the 12 year old Jesus staying back to be in His Father's house in Jerusalem.  They had been unaware He had done that.  Talk about panic attack!!

Joseph and Mary then retraced their steps, frantic to find Jesus.  Find Him they did, quiet and safe and sound, amazing the religious leaders with His understanding and answers.  Jesus returns 'home' to Nazareth with Joseph and Mary.  We don't hear much more about Joseph after this.

However, he had been a key man in Jesus' story.  He may not have understood all the significance of what he was doing at the time but his demeanor showed he loved God from the heart and did not just give lip-service during his temple prayers.  Sincerity, integrity, and humble obedience characterized Joseph.  In this, he glorified God and protected Jesus.

On our long and winding roads of life, wouldn't you like the same to be said of you?  I would.  We believe in Jesus Christ, and have Holy Spirit power to live so.  This is because Jesus also carried out God, His Father's will in humble, selfless obedience.  His Father's will led Jesus to all sorts of confrontations, to endure insults, and as we all know, to the pain and agony of the cross.

On the old rugged cross where Jesus bled and died, He took the burden of our sins, redeeming and reconciling us back to God.  He closed that wide and deep, dark chasm of separation between God and mankind.  He went all out to protect us - to give us salvation should we, as individuals, accept this invitation to, "Come."   Jesus bridged that abysmal cleft out of love for us.  

Gratefully give Him thanks.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be upon each brother and sister-in-Christ this Lord's Day, as we remember Jesus in His death and resurrection.  Pass those symbols of broken bread and cup of wine one to another, remembering, for sure, Joseph's part but most importantly, Jesus' selfless sacrifice for us.

Praise the One who died for you and me, and the 'whosoever will.'  May we too, be characterized by humble obedience to God's will and ways.  Aim to follow the examples.  May we each be filled with wisdom and the grace of God as was with Jesus.

                                                ~ERC December 2022~

Based on Matthew 1:21; 2:19-21; Luke 2:39-40 (NIV).

Sing, The Old Rugged Cross, along with Alan Jackson.

Fun Fact credit goes to a friend and brother-in-Christ.



















































Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Significance of Engagement

 


In some cultures, the engagement between a couple is not just between the couple, easily made and easily broken in secret hush.  No, whole communities and even the tribal law, gets involved, witnessing the betrothal and the signing of an agreement contract.  This is taken very seriously and even seems to take precidence in importance over an actual marriage ceremony.  Certainly, the groom and bride-to-be, have each agreed and promised to be reserved only for each other.  This is a serious commitment that should be kept until marraige, and then throughout the lifelong marriage, until Jesus comes or death doth them part.

A third member of any engagement and forth-coming marriage of believers should be Jesus Christ.  He can help each of them as individuals, and then as a couple, to keep this commitment throughout all the ups and downs of the years ahead they are granted together.

May the love the man and woman pledging themselves to each toher, be lasting, like the description of love found in 1 Corinthians chapter 13.  May God be with them and may they go with God.

                                                  ~ERC  December 2022~

Read 1 Corinthians 13.

Sing, O Perfect Love, along with Singtune Te Deum.
























Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Morality - Social Issues Facing the Church - RESPECTABLE WORLDINESS


 'Worldliness' defined by a secular dictionary looks like this...

"the quality of being experienced and sophisticated."

The Dictionary of Oxford Languages explanation continues,

"...concerned with material values or ordinary life rather than a spiritual existence."

Turning up that definition's intensity we learn from compelling truth.org that worldliness is,

"nothing less than idolatry - exchanging the truth of God to a lie and worshipping and serving created things rather than the Creator."

Right off the bat, the brother or sister-in-Christ can gauge his or her self as to their standing on the worldliness scale according to the measurements of these definitions.  This is not to throw condemnation upon any of my God's fellow-family members in any way.  It's just that this study has shown me up in places I was unaware, you could say I became 'enlightened'.  Once we realize our blindspots then we can confess it to the Lord, receive His forgiveness and then with Holy Spirit's help, work on shedding our worldliness with repentant hearts.

This is where the adjective "respectable" plays its part cuz this is what is being honed in on.  This is what we may well be unaware of, as just saying, "worldliness" you may think, well I don't engage in sexual immorality, vulgar talk or actions and the like, so I must be o.k.  No, problems there; so we justify ourselves, dust off our hands and go our merry way.

STOP right there!  Know that respectable worldliness can be subtle and deceptive and we can obliviously deceive ourselves.  That's why each of us must listen up here.

Like the proverbial frog in a pot on the stove doesn't realize its goose is cooked until the water temperature gets too hot for it to hop out, so too, believers in Jesus Christ can become immune to society's philosophies when basking in them too long.  Even way back in Old Testament Isaiah's time, he wrote,

"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter" (Isaiah 5:20).

"Respectable worldliness" appears to be "going with the flow" because everyone else thinks like this and does this or that in this way.  Society of the times believes or claims to speak truth for everyone - this is what we do in our day and age and all else is old-fashioned bigotry and the like.  This 'truth' does not align to God's Word.  In fact, it is generally very much the opposite - as dark is from light.

This is mankind's methodology, NOT God's.  So why would some kinds of worldliness be harder to condemn?  I'd say it's because there is actually be some form of decent respectability in their practice.

As alluded to earlier, sexual immorality is obviously UNholy in God's way of living a good Christian lifestyle.  Yet, for example, when a believer in Jesus Christ wants to court and marry an unbeliever, that is also against God's will but many people don't think it matters.  The man may argue, "but she's so good and kind to everyone, helps the poor and needy.  You wait and see, she'll come round to my beliefs; after all, we are both doing good to help those less fortunate, together.  Furthermore, NO-one cares much about religious perspectives anymore."

Well, that's what he thinks and he is not alone in this thinking.  However, did you note who prefers these subtleties?  It's mankind's, NOT God's, preferance.  

Most of us are familiar with the verse,

"Don't be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, for what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? or what fellowship has light with darkness" (2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV)?

To rationalize your way to your own interests and desires is not God's way.  To think one can do "missionary dating" and your girl or guy will "come round," is putting the cart before the horse and ignoring God's interests in our life.  Do you think God will honor you?  Out of His grace and kindess, He may.  Nevertheless, don't put God to the test.

I write these things to those of us who belong to Jesus Christ through faith in Him and His salvation.  Let us desire to do His will for us as He did His Father's and drop the 'respectable worldliness' line and life.  Let us continue to walk circumspectly before God.

Moving on, take a look at other areas of danger in which we might be imbibing "respectable worldiness".  How about 'the working mother'?  Don't get your backs up, I do realize single Mom's have to feed and clothe their family.  I'm referring more to those couples who desire a double income in order to reach a higher standard of living and let their children be raised by others, even if left in the care of grandparents.  The rationality is "we want to give our children better things" or "the cost of living is so high, and we need to pay the bills".

The danger that lurks here is that our offspring will value money more than family, God and Jesus.  The children will be deprived of the benefit of a full-time mother or father's godly influence in the home.  A child may be 'farmed out' to those who may well be 'good' people but who do not know, serve or worship the Lord and do not live according to His precepts.  Thus, "respectable worldliness," which has value for this temportary world, is perpetuated.  The permanent values of living life with Christ and seeking God's and His will are put aside.

Other 'danger zone' areas lie in what we do with our free time; business practices; church attendance (yes!) and choice of career.  There could be more but we'll briefly sweep through these areas.

Certain hobbies, TV shows, hanging out for hours at a time even in 'good company'; enjoying ourselves in other pursuits but not spending time in God's Word, and thereby feeding our spirit and soul could well give us more appetite for these things rather than for the Lord and His will and ways causing one to be unaware of the worlds's/society's philosophies and standards to slowly creep in and be your angle from whence you live life, especially in decision making choices.

Sure enough, we are 'good' living and 'respectable' but our foundation has become skewed.  We no longer store up treasure in Heaven.

Many business practices are not always totally honest.  Take, for instance, there was once a friend who worked in a hotel.  The hotel was trying to sell some very beautiful, imported vases from Indonesia.  On a couple of them, they had put a sign, "Sold!"  In actual fact, the sellers just did that to make people think the vases were selling like hotcakes and to hurry customers up to buy.

These are hopeful gimmicks to turn a profit by deceiving potential customers.  They are not overtly 'wrong' per se but we come back to the dark vs light and these practices are not based on integrity and obedience to God's Word, like "defraud not..." (Leviticus 19:13).  We can flippantly say, "oh, every business man does this!  So, what?"  One could become a lukewarm Christian or even fully cast aside the principles and direct commands of God's Word.  Do check yourself out on this one.

Defraud not yourself by only being a "Sunday-go-to-meeting" Christian.  Church attendance does not make a committed Christian out of you.  It only perpetuates the "respectable worldliness" aspect with putting on a show but the rest of the week ones' behavior is otherwise.  One may well be in the right place but with the wrong motive; for instance, to build business networks.  Nothing wrong with that per se but, come on, does one not go to church to be part of the 'building each other up in faith, love and good works until each member comes to maturity in Christ," and to worship and praise the Lord collectively with other brothers and sisters-in-Christ?

Let us have right action and not just lip-service.  May our meeting together with other  believers be from a heart of love and gratitude for the Lord (Mark 7:6).

An illustration of an individual who is "respectable" but "worldly," may look like the following.  The person goes to church every Sunday, teaches Sunday school, helps out in soup kitchens, donates clothes and money to those in need, tries to be as honest as possible - a "good-living" person who doesn't slouch, rather earns his or her wage in legitamate ways; very respectable, right?  

However, some of the company they may associate with off work hours may be very worldly and take him or her to pubs or other dubious haunts thus vexing his or her soul.  Even in an 'innocent' cafe chatting up with good-living non-church friends there could be opinions on gambling, abortion, homosexuality and the like that are not based on God's views.  Like Lot of the Old Testament, who lived among the people of Sodom and Gomorrah.  He tormented his righteous soul to no end, yet because he used his eyes to see the lush plains that suited and supported his healthy livestock and so on, he chose that lifestyle for himself and his family.  Lot lived in the here and now - for the temporary, not the eternal nor for God's interests.  Consequences boiled over and down to his wife and daughters.

On the other hand, Abraham achieved a lesser goal by worldly standards perhaps, and not so important or prestigious a position as Lot's had been.  Abraham was God-conscious right into his inner being and his "good living" came from the heart and not just for show and lip-service.  Abraham became termed as,

"the father of all who have faith" (Galatians 3:6-9; Romans 3:27-4:25).

In more modern times, I knew of a brother-in-Christ who had been very good at his job and he was offered several promotions over his years of service to his company.  He refused them, wanting to stay among the general workforce folks in order to bring Christ to these people.  The 'workforce' was his chosen 'mission field'.  His aim was to store up treasure in Heaven even when it meant monetary and even prestigious positions sacrifice, here on earth.  He lived life for Christ seven days a week.

As believers in Jesus Christ, we should always consider God's view as laid out in the Scriptures.  On this note, did you realize the Scriptures do have things to say about "respectable worldliness"?

In 1 John 2:16 we learn that everything that is not of God is lust, pride and greed and therefore, not respectable to Him.  Again, in James 4:4, we learn that "friendship with the world" makes us "an enemy of God".  Is this how we wish to live?  Check yourself, again.

If we concentrate our lives and works on earthly things be reminded that all those things are destined for destruction, and shame.  The Bible even goes so far as to say earthly wisdom is demonic (see Philippians 3:19; and James 3:15)!  When a person does God's will in all sincerity, he or she will "live forever" (1 John 2:15-17).

A person's soul is more important than anything else, to God.  We need to be careful of how we, as Christians, live.  We do get caught up in "respectable" yet, worldly lifestyle.  It's not difficult to slide into if we are not alert, like that proverbial frog.

For example, living among others in a more affluent environment, even if ones own self is not up to that stratum.  Worldly values can subtly infiltrate our mindset, processing into beliefs and actions accordingly, as set by such society; materialism, a snare.

A Christian must always guard against, check, and reexamine his or her way of life in God's mirror of the Holy Bible.  This will enable us to correct and/or preclude going off the rails into "respectable worldliness".  We must not fool ourselves into believing we can have the best of both worlds.  We will end up serving one or the other.  We cannot serve two masters as one will eventually overpower the other.

Let's not put things, first, before God.  When we genuinely seek God and His Kingdom first, the abundance of possessions and wanting to fit in, in society will lose their importance and not be so much of an issue.  We still need to be on guard against greed and 'being in' though; thus the regular check-ups.

The abstract of a good name and to be esteemed, should be a better, more desirable focus in life, not the rat race to achieve fame and fortune, and acceptablility in society.  Live in the fear of God and acccording to His ways and so give Him the glory and honor He's due (Matthew 6:33; Luke 12:15; Proverbs 22:1).

Being satisfied with merely having ones' name on the church membership roll should not be.  We need to be more than just Sunday-go-to-meeting Christians.  We are brothers and sisters-in-Christ and we need each other; we are each part of the whole body of Christ.  We need to support and help each other along the way and through difficulties of life.  Additionally and of great value, is the daily living for the Lord as part of ones' spiritual 'DNA' and to help build one another up in our most holy faith towards maturity in Christ.  You could call it "pro-active, genuine Christ living" (Ephesians 4:16; Romans 12:3-8).

'Forward-thinking' believers long for their Home on high - to be with Christ, which is "far better".  The here and now is only temporary and pales in comparison to our eternal Heavenly Home.  Remind yourself that you are only a stranger and foreigner in this world.  Keeping this in mind will help guard against "respectable worldliness" and near-sightedness.

If we are not increasing in this chain of progress as seen in 2 Peter 1:5-9, we will become stagnant Christians and in all likelihood become ever increasingly worldly, albeit, mayhaps, 'respectable' Christians.  These are neither hot nor cold - lukewarm, it's called - which will cause God to vomit.

Progressively add to your faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverence, godliness, mutual affection and love.  "Possess," did you get that?!  "POSSESS" these qualities in ever increasing manner.  These are the possessions to strive for that will characterize authentic children of God.

We already had a look at Lot who was materialistic and consequently vexxed his soul because of such "respectable worldliness".  Other biblical examples are:  Uzzah, Gehazi, Martha, the Rich Fool and Demas.

Uzzah's 'irreverent act" got him killed.  He had followed a form of worship in religious duty without the right heart for following God's ways, instead he chose man's improvision.  He wanted to protect the ark of God but went about it wrongly.  "Respectable worldliness" resulted, as did his death (2 Samuel 6:1-11).

Although Gehazi worked for a prophet, he wanted to profit.  In his greed he made up a plausible 'holy'-sounding story but God knew and Elisha saw through the deceit.  Gehazi ended up punished with Naaman's leprosy that could be seen by one and all (2 Kings 5:20-27).

Martha was "distracted by much serving".  Hey, Jesus was in the house!  Martha didn't realize her focus was off.  She could have been sitting with Mary, enjoying Jesus' presence and words in relational felicity, connected to better things.

Sometimes we can get caught up in a ministry and lose our focus.  That's when we can get distraught and grumble about unfairness and so on.  Spend time with Jesus, reset your compass so as not to slip into a 'form' of godliness.  Let our walk from the heart be proof of true godliness and not the spoof of "respectable wordliness".  Spend time at the feet of Jesus (Luke 10:39-40).

The Rich Fool gathered only for himself, for the here and now, for his own comfort and indulgence.  He didn't think of his soul or things of God.  He was respectable in working for his food but he lived blithely, not thinking about God and what God required of him.  It was like he'd gained the world but lost his soul (Luke 12:15-21).

I know that believers, once saved, cannot be lost again.  However, the relationship with God is broken unless there is repentance.  We have moved away from God, not He from us.  Repentance is the key that brings us back because God forgives through Jesus.  Always keep this in mind (1 John 1:9).

I can hear and feel Paul's sadness over Demas who'd forsaken him.  In actual fact, Demas had forsaken the Lord as he loved the world better.  The temporary pleasures of this world lured him away.  Being with Paul and company had given Demas respectability by association but the truth came out in the pudding eventually and off Demas went to Thessalonica (2 Timothy 4:12).

It's a bit depressing to think of all these, but praise the Lord, there are prime examples of those who had been tempted by worldly lures, which were respectable enough but they had the faith in God to reject and refuse them.  It's something like Paul counting all his upbringing's priviledges for loss.  All his prestigious education and standing in Jewish top-notch Pharisaical society, exchanged for taking up his cross and following Jesus.  Paul's was a heavy cross indeed.

You gotta just love Moses too!  The riches and priviledges of being Pharoah's daughter's son:  living in royal palace, great education, not having to work, well fed, and so on.  He never forgot to whom he truly belonged - the Hebrews and most importantly, to God.  Moses forsook earthly riches in order to be rich towards God as his first heart-felt priority.  Yes, he went through some stuff to get to this place but his heart was sincere.  This is what matters in God's economy (Hebrews 11:24-27).

Dear Daniel was another such chap.  He did not succumb to the tempting food and drink, nor to the fear of man (i.e. the king's potential fury).  The food was not kosher and Daniel and his three friends feared God.  Thank God for their courage.  May each of us brothers and sisters-in-Christ find our strength and fortitude in our Lord and Master should we face similar circumstances as did Daniel and friends.  Let us be respectable to God, first and foremost before thinking about to mankind (Daniel 1:8-21).

Now we come to our day and age, to introspection of our own souls and life modus operandi.  Which areas of our lives fit into the pattern of worldliness that can be respectable enough - even honorable but is just that - characterized by worldliness?  It's a good question for each of us to reflect upon and take necessary action as needed to seek better things as did Mary, then sit and learn at Jesus' feet, having right action stemming from a right heart.

Let's see this from kind of a reverse angle.  One that dogged my footsteps from childhood up and perhaps has even infected and affected many others who grew up similarly in a very devout Christian family.  Let me expound...

We are told not to be a stumbling block to other believers, those who may not know or understand the Scriptures as well as you do or whose expectations of what a Christian should or should not do, which in turn could lead them astray and away from Christ.  Truly, we would not like for our freedom in Christ to give license to others to indulge or over indulge in activities, that in moderation are "harmless," like drinking A glass of wine.  Did you get that?  A glass, for instance, that could overflow to out-of-control in someone else.

It is good and right that we, as believers in Christ, practise caution when we restrict ourselves for the benefit of others.  We need to be careful that this doesn't become more outward performance to avoid criticism of ourselves or to garner praise upon us, that our actions aren't spurred on by the temporary.  We need to have sincerity of heart and be steered by the motivation of pleasing the Lord, making our behavior reflect "in Jesus' name" for people to give praise to God and not man.  Let it not just be lip-service from us because of fear of man, thus becoming ritualistic and legalistic in our bearing, producing a 'fake' Christian.

Here's an example about the harmless hanging up of washing on the clothesline on a Lord's Day.  Actually, not even clothing but a plastic bag that was washed in order to be reused.  Yeah, this is nitty-gritty; BUT...

Living in a small fishing village where everyone knows everyone else's business and yes, even 'degree' of Christianity' - or at least think they know.  Many of these citizens termed themselves Christians and believed work should not be done on a Sunday; that is, rules especially for those who are well-known to be 'religious' people of the Bible.  

That labeled my family.  My Dad was a preacher and teacher of God's Word.  Yup!  His family members were strictly warned NOT to hang anything out there on that clothesline on a Lord's Day.  We lived along the main drag in plain view of that clothesline.  Well, we lived in plain view, period!  Full-stop.  Passersby got full benefit of sight.

My siblings and I were still young and it was impressed upon our young minds NOT to be a stumbling block for anyone, especially the villagers.  We must not cause anyone of them to sin.

This was well-intentioned and good albeit not balanced since it generated legality, fear of man and outward respectability.  There was not action stemming from inner heart conviction, and doing these 'for Jesus' nor out of a relationship with God, our Heavenly Father.  These developed a sort of reverse avenue for arriving at respectable worldliness.

On the other hand, living in a country that operated in a bubble of mesmerizing affluence, which activated materialistic tendencies to blossom, proved equally detrimental to authentic Christian living.  One could fool oneself in such a situation, to believe he or she is "living by faith," and following God's ways.  However, that cancer of love for money and what it can bring one, can easily develop and lure the unsuspecting, subltly away from living by faith, thereby cooling ones love for Christ.

The Christian becomes more of an empty shell, living only for oneself while putting on and maintaining that "respectable worldly" front.  Sad footage indeed, and followers of Jesus Christ must guard against such trends evolving in their walk with Christ.

Don't get me wrong - God blesses many believers with greater wealth and it doesn't mean they fall into the trap of "respectable worldliness".  No, I know of some couples who use their wealth, unselfishly helping others.  God knows their hearts, and helps them to help others.  It's just imperative to be aware of what could transpire when one is not "on guard."

From this, perhaps you can see that "respectable worldliness" can be more dangerous and cause more harm than outright immoral and other ungoldly behavior.  It is subtle, a sham, deceitful and lulls one into complacency and believing one is 'ok'.  It may even be that an individual is not the Lord's, not saved.

One has gone through loops of memorizing Scripture, going to church, serving, help out at the soup kitchens and more, thinking, "I've done so much good - God will take me to heaven." Thus, a person becomes immune and/or blinded to what it truly means to belong to Christ.

Not all hope is lost though.  Hopefully, prayfully, there are brothers and sisters-in-Christ who are spiritual and realize what's going on.  Whether another is saved or unsaved but living that "respectable worldliness" existence, pray that faithful family members of God come to the rescue and direct their 'siblings' and others to a more godly life in Christ and grow their relationship with Him towards spiritual existence and maturity.

We must "walk by faith" otherwise it is "impossible to please God."  It is "by faith" (NOT works) we are saved through faith in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 11:16; Ephesians 2:8).

The sham of good works minus faith, can shame when discovered for what it is, and it will also keep a person unsaved.  The unsaved will not be with Christ at all and that is the terrible tragedy of "respectable worldliness."

Thankfully, there is remedy.  When we train ourselves to look at things through God's eyes, walking in His light, which we can learn from by reading the Holy Scriptures that can make us wise to God's heart and understanding and listening to Holy Spirit guidance, we can experience, and come to appreciate, greater fellowship as we involve our hearts to be attuned to His and not just display outward show (1 John 1:5-6).

When we follow the Lord with our hearts and examine ourselves daily to see if our actions truly come from the heart or from the deceit of outward appearance and performance, it will aid us in avoiding and overcoming "respectable worldliness."  It is good to keep in mind that God looks at the heart.  Keep telling yourself that (1 Samuel 16:7).

Another form of assistance to be true to God and ourselves as a believer, is to remember that God is Sovereign.  He is also omniscient and omnipotent and will help us to fear Him and walk in His ways as we ponder His attributes.  This can build relationship and fellowship with Him, forming the bond from within the inner sanctums of our hearts as He touches ours with His love and care (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Think "transformation" rather than "conformation" and compromise - be that living sacrifice for Christ (Romans 12:1-2).  We can seek transformation by asking the Lord to reveal to to us areas where we have conformed to the pattern of this world and the society of our times, in which one is immersed.  Be it at work, school, or our neighborhood, pinpoint by measuring up to the beliefs and philosophies of worldly standards, to God's heavenly ones.

Ask the Lord to examine your hearts and minds, right there, along with you.  Pause your reading here and now.  Bow your head and ask Him to show you what needs to be uprooted, that prohibits your transformation to be more like Christ, and becoming more genuine in practicing your fatih in Christ and service for Him.  Get real with Him.

May we each learn to live by faith and grace of the Son of God who love us and gave Himself for us.  Live to please Him in all godliness and honesty.

Our hearts are deceptive so we NEED His help and the help of the Holy Spirit indwelling us.  Don't ignore His nudgings.  We can even ask a trusted believer what they think about our Christian walk but humbly accept their assessment without anger, grudge or rancor.  Thus, greater transformation is enabled.

Coupled with transformation is being able to give up what stands in the way, even if it is good things.  The apostle Paul had lived an exemplary good-living respectable life.  He gave up that outward show and called it "loss for Christ" and even 'garbage" because it was religious ritual.

We often cling to earthly things because truly - it is good to live respectably and help others.  We feel they are of great benefit.  Again, they probably are, but they don't come from pleasing God, rather it was for pleasing ourselves.

When the clinging gets into the way, blocking our geniune Christian living and faith, holding our spiritual progress at bay and back, we need to consider the cost of not letting go.  Paul did.

Philippians 3:7-17 encourages us to give up that which does not count for heavenly gain.  When we do, "righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith" (vs9), will begin to characterize us more.  In so doing, our "respectable worldliness" will drop away and we will become more genuine jewels for Christ in our everyday living.

Along the lines of transformation, check out the associations of our friend groups even if they are Christian friends.  If they are not interested in similar transformation, they could be holding you back, impeding your ever-increasing transformation.

We may have to give certain friendships up.  Ask the Lord to reveal to you those who are calling upon the Lord out of a pure heart.  Look for those who desire to be transformed by righteousness, faith, love and peace in fellowship together with Christ.  We must act upon this too, otherwise we will continue to deceive ourselves and to live the "respectable worldliness" lifestyle.  Seek out those of like faith and purity of heart.  Follow Jesus (2 Timothy 2;22).

Let us give up those things that hinder our spiritual growth.  Move forward then, setting your sights on higher things.  One perfect goal is the sight of appearing with Christ in glory.  This is strong motivation.  Stopping and picturing this in our minds of what this amazing and marvelous event will be like.  Breathtaking.

Focusing on this brings firm impetus to live our Christ life in the right way from genuine love of Christ and relationship with God our Heavenly Father through Him.  Let us set our sights on this highest height, living only for Jesus with pure hearts and minds without pretense or ritual, serving and worshiping our Lord and Savior only.  May our hearts be full and overflowing; leaving worldly pleasures behind even if they are 'respectable' in man's view.

Let us have God's approval and dignity.  Let us enjoy and have joy in our God, our Savior and Creator.

What say you?

                                                   ~ERC December 2022~

Based on a Bible study guide by Rob harbison, Moral Issues Facing The Church;  Lesson 12 Respectable Worldliness.

Sing, We Joy in Our God and We sing of His Love.

























































 























Saturday, December 17, 2022

Lord's Day Devotion - Hope & Sacrifice


 Christmas is a time when many people celebrate Jesus' birthday.  There are lights and tinsel, gifts and songs, lots of food and making merry.  A rather joyful time of year for a majority of folks.  

Yet, another portion of people experience misery and depression even among the joy of others.  Perhaps they don't realize there is hope.

You see, Jesus was born to bring us hope.  The hope of sins forgiven, having everlasting life, and being in His presence forever, where there is peace, joy and hope eternal.  These we can even enjoy now on earth, through Jesus.

Christ sacrificed Himself to bring us redemption, reconciliation with God, and so much more.  He came from heaven, His Father's beautiful, perfect Home, to the earth that reeked of sin, to be made sin for us; our Perfect Sacrifical Lamb of God, bringing salvation through His selfless act.

He endured mocking, shame and pain upon that cross.  He endured that absolute separation from His Father.  This all part and parcel of His sacrifice.  Jesus was born for this mission; born to die, so that we - the 'whosoever' - might live and live with hope.

Is this enough for us though?  He sacrificed His everything for us.  Should we not live to sacrifice for Him?  Look at Romans 12:1-2.  Our bodies need to be "living sacrifices," "holy," and "pleasing to God."

If you are not sure how to worship the Lord, this here is how.  Those verses explain that to be living sacrifices it displays "true and proper worship."  Daily Christian living sacrifice is our modus operandi.

We were born again for this.  This is now our mission to worship, adore, obey, live holy lives, serve Him sacrifically and to bring others to Him, giving them HOPE, in Christ as well.  Hope, not necessarily that everthing is going to be ok in whatever situation they are in that makes them downhearted, but that their hope, faith and joy can be founded in Jesus Christ who gives freely of Himself.

Let us remember all this as we remember Jesus' sacrifice for us.  Partake of the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine, this Lord's Day, remembering Him and the hope His salvation has brought us, nestling in our hearts, energizing us to live holy, sacrificial lives out of reverence and thanksgiving for and to Him.  Pour out your hearts and lives until He comes.  Perhaps, today. 

 Let's continue to sing our praises of joy and thanksgiving louder than the angels' shouts of worship; singing as the days go by until then.  Incidently, go and celebrate Jesus' birth, for sure, if you like, but remember He was born to die.  We rejoice He is alive now and living in Heaven. 

 Waiting.

Watching.

Listening.

Giving hope despite our difficult situations.

                                                  ~ERC  December 2022~

Based on Romans 12:1-2 NIV.

Sing, Lord, I life Your Name on High, along with the Maranatha Singers.


















Monday, December 12, 2022

Traveling Home


 Some day soon and very soon, we will be walking those golden streets in our Heavenly Father's paradise.  Whether our life's journey on earth is ended and we go on before others, or we all travel 'Home' together when we hear that SHOUT from Jesus on the cloud, we look forward ever increasingly to go to be with Him and live in our Saviour's presence.

David was thinking on it.  He wrote,

"Surely the righteous will praise Your name, and the upright will live in Your presence" (Psalm 140:13 NIV YouVersion - phone).

Until then, thinking on it comforts and encourages us to live our daily Christian lives aright.  Meting out justice for the poor and upholding the cause of the needy is what our Lord values highly.  If we don't work in partnership with Him, He will find other ways to advance His own agenda but He still wishes us to yoke ourselves with Him.  David was pretty sure of it, he said,

"I know..." (Psalm 140:12)

that the LORD does these things.

We will be amiss if we are not "like Father, like sons and daughters of our most High Heavenly Father.  Let us work while it is yet day, while we have strength and life, before our chance is over and we 'go home'.  Even the dead-in-Christ can't do anything.  Let us have the righteousness and uprightness as becomes children of God as we have opportunity in the here and now.  Make it an urgent matter for yourselves.

Jesus is coming soon; perhaps today!

Work while it is yet 'day' in our lives.  When we 'travel Home' to that "bright and fair" place to be in our Saviour's presence, we will surely look up into His glad face and hear, "Well done!"

                                                     ~ERC  November 2022~

Based on Psalm 140:12-13 (NIV YouVersion - phone).

Sing, I Feel Like Traveling On, along with Loretta Lynn and Soon and Very Soon, along with 












Sunday, December 11, 2022

Book Review - King Takes Queen (Book 3 Ladies of Risk) - By Rachel Ann Smith - Publication Date: 13 December 2022


 An amusing tale unfolds in this romantic work of historical fiction.  There's strong woman power at the fore giving would-be suitors the run around, driving Anthony, especially, to distraction and conniption fits.  The game of chess features prominently adding to the artful dodging of cat and mouse fun and games; the hopeful prize and lure of matrimony goes to the male winner, in this time of lords and ladies.  One caution for some readers could be some seamy scenes along the way.  No doubt its more fun to read the previous books in this Ladies of Risk series but this can stand alone, quite well on its own.

                                             ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         December 2022

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimetnary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.









Saturday, December 10, 2022

Lord's Day Devotion - John the Baptizer's Mission

 


Every single summer of my childhood and into my teens, my parents would help out at The Gospel Tent.  Eventually, the running of this outreach endeavour was handed over to my Dad. There was no escaping it for my siblings and I any way you looked at it.

Part and parcel of that, we could not escape having to memorize Scripture verses, either.  As we were stepping out of childhood into the teen years, we were switched from single verses per day to whole or large sections of chapters and expected to get it all under our belts in two weeks' time.  These chapters were usually from the gospel of John, and of course, from the good ole King James Version.  Ha, ha!

What reminded me of this is when the preacher last Lord's Day was talking about John the Baptizer and read from John chapter 1.  Later, I reread and began from "In the beginning...."  The memories flooded back, and I could mostly recall many of the verses.

They were warm memories actually and like being greeted by an old friend.  Yes, of course I've read and reread this chapter numerous times since those days when we suffered through but the reviewing these past few days really sparked up, not just the friendliness of the words but to rejoice in our Lord and Savior to Whom John and John the Baptizer directed our atttention.

The preacher remarked, John the Baptizer was trying to get the people of his day to know about Jesus but the religious leaders had missed the point.  They wanted to know about John the Baptizer:  who he was and who had sent him.  John the Baptizer's mission was to teach who Jesus was and Who had sent Jesus, how to prepare for His coming and why it was needful.

"Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29 KJV).

Praise the Lord, by and by the first disciples got the point.  In due course, multitudes more since that day until the present, also got it.  These are the all,

"who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God...born of God" (John 1:12-13).

Does this not rejoice your hearts, brothers and sisters-in-Christ?!  I feel like singing, "Praise the Lord; Hallelujah!"  Join me...

With hearts, minds, and mouths full of praise and thanksgiving, let us partake of the Lord's Supper, the broken bread and the drinking of the cup of wine in rememberance of what Jesus our Savior has done for us.  Through Him we have become children of God because we have received Him and believed in His Name.  He made it possible.

Give thanks this Lord's Day for all the "fullness of His grace" we have received (v 16).  Let us continue, often, with our heartfelt praise, adoration, worship and service until He comes.

                                                  ~ERC  December 2022~

Based on the gospel of John 1.

Sing, All Our Praise and Worship, along with Pelita Creatives. (Note:  This song begins in English, switches to the Malaysian Language and then back to English to finish off.)









Thursday, December 8, 2022

A Great Wall

Imagine in your mind, if you've never been to China and visited the Great Wall of China.  What would it be like to experience it?  How strong and sturdy it looks.  Did you know that it is about 13-16 meters wide and about 21, 196 km long?  Yet, we know the story of the ancient gatekeepers that were easily bribed and allowed the enemy breach, to invade China.  We can take a huge spiritual lesson from this story for our individual selves and also for our churches.  Even in early times of Christianity, the believers had to be on guard.  Let's take a look.

 Paul's suffering came in varied forms.  It came from within and without of the assemblies of believers.  Some was outright persecution instigated by authorities and religious leaders, such as being stoned and left for dead, or as mentioned in this chapter (2 Corinthians 11), he had to escape through a window and down a city wall in a basket.  This preserved his lfe. 

Other suffering was to be "the great wall" against false teachers, who boasted and bragged and led other brothers and sisters away from the truth that Paul had originally planted among them.  This seemed to make Paul feel the suffering in even greater measure than the physical beatings he bore.

This is saying a lot, as Paul's sufferings were great and numerous as can be seen in this chapter (2 Corinthians 11).  However, he wanted to boast about his weaknesses and knew God would back him up (v. 31).  Paul would praise God for this.

It is a serious matter that spiritual leaders, or those who purport to be so, be meek and humble, speaking, discerning, interpreting and applying the divine word of God accurately.  It is equally important for the hearers to discern and distinquish truth from falsehoods.  One needs to guard against false teaching infiltrating via deceptive teachers.  Be like the Bereans who checked out whether what was being said was true or not, by daily searching the Scriptures (Acts 17:10-12).  These folks were termed, "more noble".

Paul was all out to instill the truth and to protect the truth of the gospel and teaching of Jesus Christ.  He was bent on doing good even if he suffered for it.

Here's an excellent "motto" to live by, 

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9 NIV).

Seems Paul practiced this.  As individual children of God, corporately as a body of believers, let us too, follow Paul's impeccable example and not give up even when we are weary.  Let us each stand for the truth of God's word even if and when we suffer for it; be a great wall against false teachers and their teaching.  Don't let them infiltrate.

Some may wonder just how we can achieve the 'great wall' status.  Here's just a couple of things I thought of:   know God's word thoroughly; obey God's Word; teach God's Word; stand for the truth and even suffer for the truth if need be.  Others may be able to add to this list.  May the Lord give us all of His abundant grace to be able to be His standard bearers and be a great wall for Him.

                                                    ~ERC  November 2022~

Based on 2 Corinthians 11 NIV.




















Wednesday, December 7, 2022

More Precious


 Have you ever been brow-beaten?  Shouted at?  Treated like dirt?  Does it make you feel like you are worthless?

There is good news for you.  God says,

"You are worth far more than rubies" (Proverbs 31:10).

You may ask yourself...

Can I actually think of myself like this, over and above all the negative stuff that weights me down and depresses?!

Some of the most expensive gemstones, are rubies; did you know that?  The International Gem Society (.org) records that some rubies are priced over $1,000,000 per carat.

God said you are worth "far more".  Just think on that!  You are so precious to Him - His "treasured possession" (Malachi 3:17 NIV).

Think on that, hold tight to that when you are ridiculed unfairly and nastily spoken to and put down.  It's a TOUGH call but be so comforted to know God loves you and thinks of you as worth MORE THAN RUBIES!  What really matters is what God thinks of you.

Let your thought about His thoughts about you, raise you up.  You are His child whom He treasures and remember that you are made in His own image!  That accounts for A LOT!

                                                       ~ERC  November 2022~

Based on Proverbs 3:10; Malachi 3:17 NIV.

Sing, When He Cometh, along with TheNCrew and More Precious Than Rubies by Ralph Henderson.










Monday, December 5, 2022

Book Review - Belle Haven - By Jaye Burke - Publication Date: 6 December 2022

 


It all kicked off at that summer home, Belle Haven, when the complacent dull life of the rich and privileged class lass went...BOOM!  Fireworks!  Venice was never the same again!  A whole range and tweaks of emotions and events evoked and evolved from that chance meeting with Etienne.  The book very ingenuiously embraces romance, enduring love, deceit, class disparity, a WWI setting, the Spanish Flu and so much more.  One of those "can't put it down" books of nostalgic proportions.  The author really knows how to spin a story and keep a secret; that is, keep the reader guessing, splashing and sprinkling surprizes and twists along the way when least expected.  Despite some deep sadnesses and heartaches this has been a very satisfying read for me and I absolutely loved the superb ending!  I believe most readers will too.

                                                ~Eunice C.,   Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           November 2022

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.











Book Review - Fortress of Snow - By Melanie Dickerson - Publication Date: 6 December 2022


 Indeed, this is a happily-ever-after spark of historical fiction, which is set in the late 1300's time frame.   Those years boasted a time of gallant, chivalrous Knights serving the king, some training others to become Knights too.  Knights always capture my attention and this story was a delight to read.  There were definite class distinctions in operation with castles, barons and such, all vying for the King's attention.  The story focuses on Mazy, however, a baron's daughter, who's a live wire and who was trained unusually, in more of a son's pursuits with bow and arrows and knife throwing - at which she was very good.  These skills came in handy too.  Ha, ha!

Mary's two brothers, one of whom was a Knight named Sir John, and his friend, another Knight, the most handsome and kindest of men, Sir Berenger of Dericott, all feature as we track them in this tale from the small village to the 'big' city of London.

The story has pizzazz, sadness, happiness, fear, fun, romance, mystery, excitement and more, which kept me reading and becoming annoyed if interrupted in the reading.  Another favorable feather for the author's cap is that she incorporated the Christian faith aspect.  All in all, a very satisfying read, so it was! 

 This Fortress of Snow is the fourth in the Dericott book series and is a stand alone tome, but it is likely good to read those that came before for even greater impact and pleasure.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         November 2022

Disclaimer: I recieved a complimentary review copy of Fortress of Snow sent by NetGalley and the publisher.  Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and as honest as possible.     

Read review on Goodreads.








Sunday, December 4, 2022

Book Review - We All Stir the Pot to end hunger - By Misty Lee Coolidge, Mrs. Worldwide 2022 - Publication Date: 15 November 2022

 


The author, Misty Lee Coolidge, has a passion for feeding the hungry in her own community before looking further afield.  She writes plainly about it in this book at a level children can understand and perhaps, be motivated to do their part in "stirring the pot" in helping others.  I'd say this is a very good message describing an outlet in which younger or older folks can accomplish good towards others.  Compassionate parents, guardians and children will surely appreciate the awareness this educational work of children's fiction can bring.  Very interesting illustrations complement the story line.  Two recipes top off the book with flair.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                          December 2022

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.












Friday, December 2, 2022

Book Review - Miracle Wheels - By Dr. Don Schoendorfer, PHD - Publication Date: 6 December 2022


 Emotion pulsed through me as I read along throughout most of this autobiography of a most extra-ordinarily, interesting man, who used his accumulation of lifetime experience, talent, knowledge, and faith to bring life-changing hope to those with disabilities in developing countries.  The book brought times of outright laughter, and then times of tears, of the sobbing sort, as this brother, powered by God and his desire to help these children and adults in places where they could not help themselves.  There were so many touching scenes of joy and 'miracle' transformations.  I especially loved the story of Lotus Blossom and her gift of mobility.  It was truly remarkable!  These wheelchairs were, and still are, Miracle Wheels indeed!  They were fashioned by Dr. Schoendorfer with compassion and his deep, heartfelt desire to help get people up off the ground, both literally and figuratively.  

I'd say this is a must read for one and all, and as one is reading, to think pro-actively of what oneself could do to help this cause with your own talents, and so forth, in your own particular niche of the world.  May each reader be so inspired. 

The author has a mission called Free Wheechair Mission and you can find the organization on line for further details.  Also in the addenda of the book, one can find some discussion questions to help focus thinking about the needs of the disabled; pictures of the author, his family and some of those who were transformed by their free miracle wheels.  Praise the Lord for such dedication and service.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         December 2022

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.