QT 4/30/2024 1 Tim 4:6-8, Meeting with God regularly is life-changing

1 Timothy 4:6–8 (ESV) — 6 If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

 

NOTE: "Train yourself for godliness" is why the spiritual disciplines are so important. We need to renew our mind, and that is done reading the word of God. The word of God is living and active. It can break things down. It can cut away to the root issue. It can burn away the dross. It can light the way. It can reveal sin. But you must accompany reading the word with application, otherwise you will only be a hearer, not a doer, and you will deceive yourselves.

 

The most life changing habit that a person can do is a DAILY quiet time. A quiet time is where you start the day with a short prayer, a short reading of a passage from scripture (not someone else's devotional), and then writing down your thoughts -- allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you through your pen (or keyboard if you type your thoughts like me), and then you pray based on what God has shown you from his word. At that point, if you want to read a related devotional, that's fine, but don't let someone else's spirituality substitute for God changing you spiritually.

 

PONDER:

1. Do you have a regular, daily quiet time?
2. Are you short changing your life by letting other things crowd out God?

 

PRAYER: Father, I don't know how to say it any stronger. We need time in your word to truly meet with you and know you. Jesus told Martha that Mary had chosen what was far better, as Mary sat at Jesus' feet listening to his word. Make us into Mary's and protect us from the things that keep us from meeting with you.

QT 4/29/2024 1 Tim 4:1-5, Loving God genuinely

1 Timothy 4:1–5 (ESV) — 1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, 3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

 

NOTE: A lot could be said about this passage, but it is clearly false teaching that encouraged legalism that Paul is denouncing. The thing about legalism is that it puts the emphasis on the individual, not on the Holy Spirit. Thanksgiving puts the emphasis on God, and not the individual. But we must not swing the pendulum too hard in the other direction either as Lea notes below:

 

Paul’s comments about eating call for three observations. First, Paul normally regarded what a person eats as an indifferent matter so long as the practice does not cause spiritual harm to another believer (1 Cor 8:8–9). Second, partial asceticism may be a helpful experience for some, but it should not be enforced as a means of salvation (Col 2:20–23). Third, Paul was resisting a theologically based asceticism. He would not necessarily oppose an asceticism whose goal was to give physical strength to the body.

[Lea, T. D., & Griffin, H. P. (1992). 1, 2 Timothy, Titus (Vol. 34, p. 130). Broadman & Holman Publishers.]

 

But someone might reply that isn't spiritual discipline a form of legalism? There is a difference between legalism and discipline. I've put some thoughts together over the years.

 

1. Legalism loves laws, and discipline loves God.
2. The object of legalism amounts to the “dos and don'ts”, while the object of discipline is God and God alone.
3. Legalism says, “I will do this thing in order to gain merit before God.” Discipline says, “I love God, I love the Lord Jesus Christ and I will discipline myself to please them.” (where the idea of pleasing recognizes that in no way can we increase the love of God toward us)
4. Legalism is man-centered; discipline is God-centered.

 

PONDER:

1. I need to be very careful in my teaching. Am I suggesting legalism in any of the applications I suggest?
2. Am I confusing my spiritual disciplines with legalism? I don't think so, because I truly enjoy my spiritual disciplines.

 

PRAYER: Father, I pray that as a church we would seek you with all of our heart. I pray we would turn from legalism if it has developed anywhere, and turn to you in love. I pray we would be serious (disciplined) in our walk, and genuinely loving in our relationships with other.

QT 4/26/2024 1 Tim 3:14-16, The mystery of godliness

1 Timothy 3:14–16 (ESV) — 14 I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, 15 if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:

He was manifested in the flesh,

vindicated by the Spirit,

seen by angels,

proclaimed among the nations,

believed on in the world,

taken up in glory.

 

NOTE: What is the mystery of godliness? It really is that Jesus gave us his righteousness.

 

2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV) — For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

 

God became flesh, and proved he was both God and man. He brought a message of hope in the world. A small group of disciples believed. And he proved all his claims by rising from the dead. He is the firstfruit of many more who will be resurrected onto life. In and of ourselves, it would be impossible, but the mystery of godliness is that God made it possible.

 

PONDER:

1. Have you experienced the new life, the new creation?
2. Have you been born again?

 

PRAYER: Lord, I pray the questions would echo in the hearts and minds of those who don't know you. I pray for an awakening that would bring many to Christ before the great and terrible day of the Lord.

QT 4/25/2024 1 Tim 3:11-13, Roles were created for our fulfillment

1 Timothy 3:11–13 (ESV) — 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

 

NOTE: Technically, the verse does not say "their wives" and is more easily translated "women." In understanding this and the previous verses, verses 8-10 would apply to all deacons (regardless of sex), then special requirements for the woman (verse 11), then special requirements for the man (verse 12), and finally a promise to all deacons (verse 13). Why do I think verse 12 applies only to men, because I believe the primary responsibility of the man is be the spiritual head of the home. The woman is able to do the job, but it is the role God assigned to man. God gave him that role and he is responsible. Failure reflects on the man, not on the woman (although most failed marriages do show failures distributed to both, still this is something a man should take responsibility to heal). As men and women serve the body in the role as Deacons and Deaconess, there is a special confidence they receive in our faith, because they see God using their lives for the good of others.

 

Our culture does not like the idea of "roles," and so our problem is with God, not the church. God says that we find our fulfillment and happiness in following how he created us. Satan has particularly attacked us in this area, and we are blind to the pain our "freedom" has brought us.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I believe God or do I believe the culture?
2. Do I seek my happiness in the world's view of how life should be lived?
3. Do I know any difference?

 

PRAYER: Father, the enemy has deceived this culture in so many way: sexual identity, gender, marriage, roles, sexual desires, creation,  made in the image of God, existence of sin and guilt, absolute truth, morals importance of work, existence of a hidden world of demons, heaven, hell, and the list goes on. And the secret is that everything we are told is untrue is actually true. Open our eyes to your truth and to real life.

QT 4/24/2024 1 Tim 3:8-10, Deacon, a high calling

1 Timothy 3:8–10 (ESV) — 8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.

 

NOTE: The list for deacons is shorter than the list for elders. In Acts, we see the first usage of deacons as they were appointed by the apostles to care for the widows and free up the apostles for prayer and the word of God. There is no restriction on maturity (i.e., recent convert), so it is possible for men of good character, but young in the Lord to serve as deacons. But they are to be tested, probably because there is no restriction on maturity. What would be the test? I think that would require "time," but not as much time as required to be an elder. In general, both positions represent the church body both to other members and to the world as a whole. The church suffers greatly when men are chosen to serve as deacons and elders, and do not meet the biblical requirements.

 

Many people, that I and others have shared the gospel to, have commented on a bad church experience, sometimes involving deacons or elders. The positions are a serious thing and can impact others far more than what we might expect. Consequently, it is even more important to maintain a connection with the head, Jesus, and listen to the word so that the enemy does not deceive us.

 

PONDER:

1. As a church leader, do I realize the impact I have on others?
2. Do I regularly meet with God and apply his word to my life?
3. Am I becoming more like Jesus?

 

PRAYER: Father, I pray that you would protect me from the devil's schemes. I do not want to bring disgrace to the body of Christ. I want to be a positive example and story to those seeking truth.

QT 4/23/2024 1 Tim 3:1-7, Leaders are gentle

1 Timothy 3:1–7 (ESV) — 1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.

 

NOTE: The Greek word for overseer is episkope, and refers to an overseer or church leader; one who "watches over." I think of the term as referring to the elders, pastors, or spiritual leaders of the church, as opposed to the deacons, who minister through serving. There are differences as well with the deacon requirements. I will focus on two of the requirements, "not violent but gentle" and "not quarrelsome." I know some church leaders who always have an opinion of every action. Their language is stern. They are quick to criticize. And they always have a reason why they are right. Those men are not, or should not be elders (church leaders). It is a different person, a man who has been humbled by God, who has learned gentleness, humility, and kindness -- those who are able to teach and share the other characteristics in the above list, those are the ones we want as church leaders. Even though this list is for elders, I think it is a list that every man should aspire to in some degree.

 

PONDER:

1. In that list, what is the area where I am the weakest?
2. What am I doing to grow and change to be more like Jesus?

 

PRAYER: Father, I am certainly not young any more, but I can still allow myself to get puffed-up. Forgive me. Help me to see myself as others see me. Give me grace to change.

QT 4/22/2024 1 Tim 2:11-15, Trusting God for joy in your marriage

1 Timothy 2:11–15 (ESV) — 11 Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. 15 Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control.

 

NOTE: I know this is not a popular verse, nor is the teaching for a man to be the spiritual head of the home. Men shudder to lead their home spiritually, and so I understand the woman's response. But, I don't believe we need to apologize for this verse. A man needs to take the lead spiritually. A man needs to love his wife as Christ loved the church, sacrificially giving himself for her. Until men live as God intended men to live, women will struggle with verses like this and I don't blame them, I blame men. I even blame Adam for not stepping in when the serpent deceived Eve. From the text (NIV84), we read,

 

Genesis 3:6 (NIV84) — 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.

 

This is the start of the problem, in the preceding conversation in Genesis, not once did Adam intervene and take leadership. The NIV84 says that he "was with her." He failed as a leader. Eve failed as well. They listened to Satan instead of listening to God. I cannot explain Paul's command to Timothy, and why it is better for this type of relationship/role to work, but I believe by faith that our greatest opportunity for joy is by trusting God's word.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I believe in God's plan for successful marriage relationships, or do I accept the world's plan for successful marriage relationships? Which works better?
2. Do I believe in a pick and choose philosophy to scripture, denying the authority of some parts of Scripture? And who chooses what is right and wrong?

 

PRAYER: Father, I know this passage makes many angry. It is opposed to the current worldview. I really don't think the current worldview on women has made women happier or healthier. I don't think our marriages are better. We need to trust you. Men need to assume their responsibility for leading in love and servanthood. Father, help us to see and believe that your plan works best.

QT 4/19/2024 1 Tim 2:8-10, Praying before acting out

1 Timothy 2:8–10 (ESV) — 8 I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; 9 likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, 10 but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.

 

NOTE: Very clearly, verse 8 speaks to me. Instead of getting upset and preparing to argue my case, I need to go first to God in prayer. We are all so quick to get angry when something does not go right, and especially when we are in the "right." Why is prayer our second choice? Why do we always try to fix it ourselves? Why do we let ourselves get emotional, by that I mean, get angry? Why, or why? I wish I could remember to go to God first when information hits me that is disturbing. I need to place a reminder, like another dot on my watch, that means "go to God first."

 

PONDER:

1. When something goes wrong, what is my first reaction?
2. How often do I pray before acting when things go wrong?

 

PRAYER: Father, forgive me for my impatience. Forgive me for letting "things" steal my joy. I want to remember to pray first.

QT 4/18/2024 1 Tim 2:1-7, We have a job to share our faith while peace reigns

1 Timothy 2:1–7 (ESV) — 1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

 

NOTE: I don't have space to write all my thoughts about this passage. I think it is interesting the reasons for praying for all people, referring to kings and others who are in high positions. Paul says that one reason is that we may lead peaceful and quiet lives, godly and dignified in every way. I guess I see our faith as a catalyst to change, spiritual change. Normally, I don't see our faith as leading to political peace. Although I think there is an underlying reason for political peace -- the reason is that we can be a witness. Otherwise, political intrigues and injustices seem to catapult all people (believers and non-believers) into ugly and nosy lives, worldly and lacking restraint in many different ways. The unfortunate fact is that peace breeds a laissez-faire attitude. When life is good, we (as believers) don't really seek God any more, nor do we seem to care that others need the savior either. Plus, when life is peaceful, non-believers don't see the need either. I suppose one reason to pray for our leaders is that there is enough peace in order for us to share our faith. The county could get to a day when sharing "religious" faith is considered hate speech. The final purpose of God in praying for our leaders is that God desires all men to come to the knowledge of the truth. Peace that allows the gospel to be spoken is the best environment.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I recognize that part of the reason I am here on earth is to share my faith?
2. Am I taking advantage of the peace and the opportunity to share?
3. The years before judgment are getting shorter, there may be 9, 20, or 100 years or more, but the days are getting shorter -- am I serious in my responsibility?

 

PRAYER: Father, help me to see the opportunities. I pray others might see Jesus in me. I pray for boldness.

QT 4/17/2024 1 Tim 1:18–20, Be careful with your teaching

1 Timothy 1:18–20 (ESV) — 18 This charge I entrust to you, Timothy, my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, 19 holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, 20 among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.

 

NOTE: From the context, it would appear that Hymenaeus and Alexander were genuine believers. What did they do? They rejected the faith (in some way) and their conscience, and consequently shipwrecked their faith. It could be they justified sexual sin or taught some new doctrine that was incompatible with the gospel. Whatever happened, there were excluded from the church, and left to the world's realm for a time. I say "time" because they were to learn not to blaspheme, and it is possible they might learn the lesson and return to the body.

 

One conclusion is that, on the surface, a true believer can appear to go off the rails, even blaspheming the faith. One cannot lose their salvation, but one may have to undergo a severe time of discipline, up to and in some cases including physical death.

 

Timothy was charged to wage a good warfare in combatting false teachings that may have arisen as a result. For the believer, our warfare is conducted with the shield of faith, the sword of the Spirit (the word of God), and the power of prayer. We don't need to get emotional. We don't need to get caught up in rage and fury, but we do need to engage people, in gentleness and respect.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I keep a check on my teaching?
2. Do I listen to criticism?
3. Do I make sure my observations, interpretations, and applications are CLEARLY supported by the text?

 

PRAYER: Father, protect me from the enemies lies, attacks, and attempts to disrupt my teaching. I want to be right in my teaching. I don't want to mislead the sheep.

QT 4/16/2024 1 Tim 1:15-17, We are blind to our sinfulness

1 Timothy 1:15–17 (ESV) —15 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. 16 But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. 17 To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

NOTE: Paul calls himself the foremost (chief) sinner because he persecuted the church (vs 13). He argues that if someone who blaspheme Jesus and persecuted his body (the church) can be saved, then anyone can receive mercy and believe. Paul held the cloaks of those who stoned Stephen. Who knows if he actually participated in any stoning's himself, but he did send many to jail. He destroyed families and reputations. But he really wasn't the chief sinner; we are the chief sinners; I am the chief sinner. Because we all fall so short of God's standard, we are all chief sinners equally separated by an infinite gulf comparing our goodness and righteousness, to God's standard of righteousness.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I actually think I am a good person? I'm wrong
2. Do I think I don't need a savior because I am not that bad of a person? I'm wrong

 

PRAYER: Father, it seems I pray this same prayer over and over again -- open our eyes so that we may see our sin and our need for a savior. In your mercy, awaken the souls of men on a vast scale one more time -- if it be your will.

QT 4/15/2024 1 Tim 1:12-14, Thankful to serve the King

1 Timothy 1:12–14 (RSV) — 12 I thank him who has given me strength for this, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful by appointing me to his service, 13 though I formerly blasphemed and persecuted and insulted him; but I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, 14 and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

 

NOTE: Paul certainly understood his unworthiness, but it extends farther than just our actions. We fall so far short of God's standard of righteousness, that we are all blasphemers, persecutors, and sinners. None of us are worthy. Paul says as much in Romans when he quotes an OT verse, "there is no one who does good, not even one." But for those of us who know the Lord and get to serve the Lord, we are incredibly blessed by God's grace. The past and future has been washed clean. We are fully accepted as sons and daughters of the King. And we get to minister in his name. All that I am and all that I have seen accomplished are a testament to God's grace and mercy. I am who I am because of the Lord Jesus Christ. And I am thankful, so very thankful.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I recognize my sinfulness, especially when compared to God's standard?
2. Do I fully appreciate all that has been done for me? (That is probably impossible to do.)

 

PRAYER: Father, thank you. Thank you for your work in my life. Thank you for my salvation. Thank you for being able to serve you these years. Thank you for the impact. Thank you!

QT 4/12/2024 1 Tim 1:8-11, Watching what you teach

1 Timothy 1:8–11 (ESV) — 8 Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, 9 understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, 10 the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, 11 in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted.

 

NOTE: For the believer, the law has been nailed to the cross. Paul writes to the Ephesians and says,

 

Ephesians 2:14–15 (ESV) — 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, …

 

The writer of Hebrews says,

 

Hebrews 8:13 (ESV) — 13 In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.

 

The first covenant is based upon the law, not on grace. So many asked, what then is the purpose of the law? Well, it has not disappeared but at Paul says to Timothy, it's value is not to the believer, but to the unbeliever. The law is there to make very clear what is sin, and to show that no man can be righteous in God's eyes through the law.

 

These concepts are the things that certain teachers were misconstruing at Ephesus. They were trying to make a link between the OT, ancestry, and pleasing God, with a new doctrine (probably much more human-based or religious). Paul was very clear that he wanted Timothy to remain in Ephesus and make sure that teaching does not take hold.

 

PONDER:

1. How often do I review my assumptions about certain doctrines?
2. Do I teach according to the word or according to what I want to be true?

 

PRAYER: Father, help me to see where I have gone astray. Teach me from your word. Open my eyes to your truth.

 

QT 4/11/2024 1 Tim 1:3-7, Testing our teachers

1 Timothy 1:3–7 (RSV) — 3 As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, 4 nor to occupy themselves with myths and endless genealogies which promote speculations rather than the divine training that is in faith; 5 whereas the aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith. 6 Certain persons by swerving from these have wandered away into vain discussion, 7 desiring to be teachers of the law, without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make assertions.

 

NOTE: I'm not sure the right word to characterize this passage, but I have certainly seen it. We (students) come upon an insight that is new and interesting, and we think we have found some secret understanding that opens up new avenues into the meaning of a passage. I'm not saying these don't exist. For myself, I have found understanding Jewish law, tradition, and context to be very helpful. Our western myopic view centers around our self, culture, and wants. The passage cautions against deviating too far from orthodox interpretations, particularly when the passage lacks clarity. Speculating on the issues at the time do open up new avenues of understanding, but if it is not clear, then it has to be treated as only a speculation.

 

The other thing that stands out here is that Paul considers this very important. Paul instructs Timothy to stay in Ephesus and address these problematic teachers. Paul is also harsh, "certain persons … swerving … wandered away … vain discussion … without understandings … things about which they make assertions." Wow, that is harsh language toward these individuals who desire to be teachers. I wonder at times if we make it too easy to be a teacher in our church. We don't really test our teachers, and given Paul's harsh words and concern, maybe we should.

 

Lastly, "the aim of our charge is love …." Our reason for taking such a hard stand on teachers is for the good of the body. If we love the sheep, we will want to make sure the sheep are properly taught. We are not trying to embarrass or hurt the wayward teacher. Again, love is the overriding characteristic -- we want them to be better teachers for the good of the body.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I let speculation drive any of my conclusions?
2. Do I clearly characterize a thought as speculative when I have used that approach?
3. Am I concerned with teaching that does not support orthodox doctrine?

 

PRAYER: Father, help me to be a student of your word, and a faithful teacher of your truth. Protect me from myself and the culture. I want to teach your word accurately.

QT 4/10/2024 1 Tim 1:1-2, Being a true disciple

1 Timothy 1:1–2 (RSV) —

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope,

2 To Timothy, my true child in the faith:

Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

NOTE: Paul calls Timothy his true child in the faith. There are a couple of reasons for why Paul used "my true child," and both could be true. One, Paul led Timothy to faith in Jesus Christ, becoming his spiritual parent. Two, Timothy showed a very deep and sincere commitment to the faith, unlike some who seemed to hold back in giving Jesus lordship over their whole self. Both ideas are supported in scripture. In Paul's letter to Philippi, the latter reason is clearly seen.

 

Philippians 2:19–22 (RSV) — 19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may be cheered by news of you. 20 I have no one like him, who will be genuinely anxious for your welfare. 21 They all look after their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But Timothy’s worth you know, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel.

 

But if there are true children, then are those who are not "true," in the sense that they look after their own interests and don't show a genuine concern for the lost or for the church. Timothy was a true disciple and disciple-maker.

 

PONDER:

1. Have I given over everything to Jesus' lordship?
2. Are there things of mine (my own interests) that I try to hide from the Lord (a foolish endeavor)?

 

PRAYER: Father, thank you for my new life in Christ. Thank you for a spirit to serve you. In and of myself, I am weak. But in you, I have hope and life.

QT 4/9/2024 Ps 100:1-5, The difference between creation and family

Psalm 100:1–5 (RSV) —

1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the lands!

2 Serve the Lord with gladness!

Come into his presence with singing!

3 Know that the Lord is God!

It is he that made us, and we are his;

we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,

and his courts with praise!

Give thanks to him, bless his name!

5 For the Lord is good;

his steadfast love endures forever,

and his faithfulness to all generations.

NOTE: Verse 3b states, “it is he that made us, and we are his … .” We were not born to God; we are not His children. We are made; we are His creation. When you create something, it is the person who crafted the object who owns it and decides its fate. The creation does not have a say. We have no argument with God if we dislike what He has allowed to happen in our lives.

Now, there is another special clarification. For those who place their faith in Jesus, they experience a second birth. The first birth is physical, from our parents, while the second birth is spiritual, to God. For those who are born again, God adopts us into His family and allows us to call Him “Abba” or “Daddy.” In this case, we are God’s children, but only in this unique circumstance.

Lastly, all humans are made in the image of God. This sets us apart from the rest of God’s creation. We are still owned by God, but being in His image does not automatically make us His children; only rebirth through faith in Jesus can bring us into God’s family.

PONDER:

1. Are you a member of God’s family, or are you merely part of creation?
2. Have you experienced rebirth?

PRAYER: Father, I thank You for my rebirth and the transformation You brought about in my life through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit when I believed. I am a new creation now, and the difference is remarkable. Help me live out this transformed life for others to see as I serve in the homeless shelter today.

QT 4/8/2024 Ps 96:4-9, Real truth is nearby for those who seek it

Psalm 96:4–9 (RSV) —

4 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;

he is to be feared above all gods.

5 For all the gods of the peoples are idols;

but the Lord made the heavens.

6 Honor and majesty are before him;

strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,

ascribe to the Lord glory and strength!

8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;

bring an offering, and come into his courts!

9 Worship the Lord in holy array;

tremble before him, all the earth!

 

NOTE: A rude awakening is coming upon the earth. The planet did not come about by random forces. Life did not come about by random mutations. Science cannot explain consciousness and self-awareness. A machine will never be self-aware. The claims of those who disagree with the above are based on half-truths. The real agenda is to deny God, deny his authority, deny his rulership, deny his commands, and to deny what is due him -- glory and strength, holiness and fear. Judgment is stored up because of God's great patience. He wants people to repent before it is too late. This world is falling apart at the seams. Man does not do a good job at being god. We rebelled in the garden and have experienced the pains of that choice. Pain is that clarion call that is not right and we need to repent of our rebellion and to turn to God in tears. Jesus died to remove our sins and make us whole. Eternal life is but a breath away and eternity in hell is even closer. Choose today, tomorrow is no guarantee.

 

PONDER:

1. Does life really work?
2. Is life really improving? Why are so many committing suicide or dying from drug overdoses? Why are so many marriages failing? Why are so many children direction-less?

 

PRAYER: Father, you are the only hope in a world of lies that the deceiver has recreated out of the ashes of Eden. I pray that as believers we would stand up and share our story. I pray we would live according to the Holy Spirit within us. I pray we would love as Jesus loved and serve as he served. We need to make more of an impact in this dying world.

QT 4/5/2024 Ps 92:6-9, The danger of blindness

Psalm 92:6–9 (RSV) —

6 The dull man cannot know,

the stupid cannot understand this:

7 that, though the wicked sprout like grass

and all evildoers flourish,

they are doomed to destruction for ever,

8 but thou, O Lord, art on high for ever.

9 For, lo, thy enemies, O Lord,

for, lo, thy enemies shall perish;

all evildoers shall be scattered.

 

NOTE: Many people today mock the idea of God and scoff at the Bible. My work, before I retired, was as a scientist. I have still not heard one argument, against God or the bible, that stands scrutiny. There is an intentional blindness when it comes to spiritual things. The bible tells us that the evil one (Satan) has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the truth. That is not God's fault but rather a consequence of the rebellion against God's rule that started in the garden of Eden. These are not myths and science has not proved anything in contradiction.

 

For completeness sake, I am an old earther, the word "day" in Genesis is the Hebrew word, yowm, can also be translated as "age" or time period. It does not have to mean 24 hours. The phrase "and there was evening and there was morning" is a Jewish idiom meaning a beginning and an end. Also, I believe God created life; we did not evolve. Why? Because mathematically, there is not enough time in the universe for random genetic mutation to bring about even the simplest cell, the probabilities are too great. If evolution was the means, it had to be guided, also called  theistic evolution (which really is no different from creation and intelligent design).

 

My point is that most humans are blinded by an intense hatred toward God. It is the central point of the story in the garden -- we wanted to be our own gods, choosing good and evil for ourselves. It is not too late to repent and to turn to Jesus. It is not too late for your eyes to be open.

 

Revelation 3:17–18 (RSV) — 17 For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing; not knowing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 Therefore I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, that you may be rich, and white garments to clothe you and to keep the shame of your nakedness from being seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, that you may see.

 

PONDER:

1. How is life working when we try to be our own god? Have we figured it out yet?
2. Do you hate God or love Him? If you love Him, you will obey his commandments.

John 14:23–24 (RSV) — 23 Jesus answered him, “If a man loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 He who does not love me does not keep my words; and the word which you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.

 

PRAYER: Father, open our eyes to see truth. Open our eyes so that we can experience healing and peace, the peace that only you can give. May we turn from our sin and our way of living, and turn to you.

QT 4/4/2024 Ps 91:1-6, Casting fear

Psalm 91:1–6 (RSV) —

1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High,

who abides in the shadow of the Almighty,

2 will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress;

my God, in whom I trust.”

3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler

and from the deadly pestilence;

4 he will cover you with his pinions,

and under his wings you will find refuge;

his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.

5 You will not fear the terror of the night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness,

nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.

 

NOTE: This passage beautifully addresses the struggle with fear and the importance of trusting in God. It acknowledges that life, even for believers, can feel insecure. However, there are two key aspects to combating fear:

 

1. Believing That God Cares: It’s not enough to merely say that God is our refuge and fortress. True security comes from knowing that God genuinely cares for us. This goes beyond attending church or acting piously; it’s about having a conversational relationship with God, sharing our needs, and casting our anxieties upon Him.
2. Knowing the Savior: The more we truly know Jesus, the more fear dissipates. Life doesn’t have to be painful; there is immense joy for those who humbly submit to God’s lordship over their lives.

Ponder:

1. Honesty and Confronting Fears: Are we hiding behind a mask of stoicism? Honesty demands that we face our fears head-on.
2. Authentic Prayer: God desires our honesty, not our pretense. Open up to Him in genuine prayer.

Prayer: “Father, there are days when fears creep in. I recognize the need to surrender them to You. My days are blessed, my life is blessed, yet sometimes I fear the unknown. I give these burdens to You; they are too heavy for me to carry alone.”

 

[Note: Microsoft Copilot edited my writing.]

QT 4/3/2024 Ps 86:14, Evil men are attacking the faith

Psalm 86:14 (ESV) —

14 O God, insolent men have risen up against me;

a band of ruthless men seeks my life,

and they do not set you before them.

 

NOTE: At the moment, this verse does NOT describe my life. But, it does describe my faith and my country. I realize that my true citizenship is in another country, a heavenly country, but for now, my visible country is led by insolent and ruthless men who seek to destroy all visages of faith. They mock you God and scorn you. They speak lies since they have no moral basis. They believe they are gods, powerful men with money and the ability to do whatever they want to anyone they want. There are no laws, but their own law twisted with their own lies. They believe they are above all others, the elite.

 

But they are not elite, but lowly worms because they do not understand the value of persons. They do not recognize that all are made in the image of God. They do not realize that they are insects before you God. They do not realize the terrible anguish they face in Hell for their sins. They promote sexual sins thereby entrapping others in Satan's control. They will face a terrible judgment in the days ahead.

 

In these days, we need to remember that God is still in ultimate control. Pain is the megaphone to the world that we need to repent of the rebellion that started in the garden and return to God's lordship over our life.

 

Isaiah 40:15 (ESV) — 15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket,

and are accounted as the dust on the scales;

behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.

 

All I can say is what John said after seeing the future,

 

Revelation 22:17,20 (RSV) — 17 The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let him who hears say, “Come.” And let him who is thirsty come, let him who desires take the water of life without price.

. . .

20 He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

 

PONDER:

1. Have I fallen for the arguments (lies) of secular humanism that places man as god over his life?
2. Have I ever repented of my rebellion from God, asked for forgiveness, and invited Jesus into my heart?

 

PRAYER: Father, things seem to grow worse every day. I know things have been worse, but there is such a perversity in the culture. There is a blindness too. We are the church of the apostasy. We know the truths but we don't live them out in our lives. Have mercy on us. May we open the door that you are knocking on and let you into our lives.

QT 4/2/2024 Ps 90:1-17, The third half

Psalm 90:9–17 (ESV) —

9 For all our days pass away under your wrath;

we bring our years to an end like a sigh.

10 The years of our life are seventy,

or even by reason of strength eighty;

yet their span is but toil and trouble;

they are soon gone, and we fly away.

11 Who considers the power of your anger,

and your wrath according to the fear of you?

12 So teach us to number our days

that we may get a heart of wisdom.

13 Return, O Lord! How long?

Have pity on your servants!

14 Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,

that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

15 Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,

and for as many years as we have seen evil.

16 Let your work be shown to your servants,

and your glorious power to their children.

17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,

and establish the work of our hands upon us;

yes, establish the work of our hands!

 

NOTE: Have I ever used the phrase, this is one of my most favorite verses? It seems like there are so many in the psalms. In verse 12, the Psalmist asks God to "teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." In Spurgeon's commentary, The Treasury of David, he writes,

 

Men are led by reflections upon the brevity of time to give their earnest attention to eternal things; they become humble as they look into the grave which is so soon to be their bed, their passions cool in the presence of mortality, and they yield themselves up to the dictates of unerring wisdom; but this is only the case when the Lord himself is the teacher; he alone can teach to real and lasting profit.

 

A recent author used the phrase the third half of life to describe retirement. The second half is that point where we realized that our lives must count for more than money but must have value and purpose, a sort of mid-life crisis. It reoccurs when we realize that we now have the time (and sometimes money) to do things we never could before. For some, they spend it upon themselves (vacations, hobbies, and leisure), but for some, it is the opportunity to be a missionary, an author of wisdom, a volunteer, and other jobs of service.

 

These days are important and are useful for the kingdom's sake.

 

PONDER:

1. Am I doing anything different in retirement to serve my savior?
2. Am I spending on myself, or am I spending on others?

 

PRAYER: Father, do give me a heart of wisdom to number my days and to use them for the kingdom's sake. Thank you for what I am starting to see.