Category: Thoughts

James 1

by B Stoermer, posted in Devotional, Thoughts, Video, Youtube

The book of James in known to many for its many well known verses. I also am fond of this book because it is straightforward and to the point, so that those that read its words are able to understand and apply its truths to their lives. It is written simply, yet deeply thought provoking for those that think through the direct applications that are implored to Christian living.

The first truth that we are hit with is joy in the midst of trials. That is not to say that you should be happy or excited that you have difficulties, but rather that you have joy. Joy is a fruit of the spirit. We cannot muster this on our own. It is given to us as we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. We can go through suffering, but endure as God is with us through the difficulties. We can rest assured that He is in Control. As the scripture continues, it implores each Christian to endure, knowing that our faith is tested, and then that we will gain endurance. That endurance will also have a result, as we mature in our Christian faith. Those that have not experienced suffering have not had to put their faith to the test. If everything is going well, we in our human nature can coast and become less reliant on God. I know from my experience that I have not been the most grateful when I did not have a need. We can become entitled. Our flesh can try to muster enough strength to go through the motions of life. When we go though difficulties we need to cling to God to endure- for lots of us without that peace, we can be overcome by feelings of anxiety. In times of need, when we do not rely on God- we can feel alone. Hopeless. But God. He is there for us always. We can grow to know Him and our outlook on life and our Faith in Him can grow. For He loves us, and wants to continually cultivate a relationship with Him.

As we continue to read through the first chapter of James, we are told to ask for wisdom. God is a God who will give us wisdom generously. However, if we ask without Faith, we should not expect to receive. We are called an unstable person. A person that is doubleminded. This makes perfect sense. Why should we expect to get wisdom from God if we’re doubting him?

We then read the next couple verses and are given a comparison between a poor and a rich person. The poor, or rather humble person, does not boast. The rich person is someone who should be seen as humiliated. There is an analogy of a flower that soon withers away; the rich person like this flower withers away. Life and its pleasure is but short.

Once again, we are told about enduring a trial, but this time we are called blessed. In the end, those that endure trials are recipients of the crown of life. That is a good reminder. Our human flesh does not like trials and difficulties. We need constant reminders and encouragement to persevere.

We then read about temptation and there is a clear truth that God does not tempt man. We cannot place this burden upon God, for He does not tempt man. How true that is. Our God is so great. He is only good to us. We are drawn away and enticed by our own evil desires. It becomes a cycle, as it says in the scripture. We have a desire that could be presented to us. We give in. We do not take the way of escape. We give in to sin. Ultimately, if we continue down that path, it can become a lifestyle choice. It could become who we are and what our life revolves around. Ultimately, that life leads to an abandonment from God and will lead us to death.

We are then reminded that everything that is good comes down from God. We are reminded to listen more and to speak less and not to grow angry. Our anger does not line up with God’s righteousness. It is out of place. We all need to listen more to people. It would benefit all our relationships. If we spoke less, and had less anger we would save ourselves and those that we encounter less hurt and heart ache.

In light of all that has been said, we are told to get rid of all the filthiness that we have and instead receive the Word of God that has the ability to save our souls, for it is to be implanted in us. When I think about that, it has to become a part of who we are and we must what it says. Everyone ultimately needs Jesus to save their soul. He will saves us from all our sin and wash us clean of all our filthinesss. Thank you Jesus for cleaning our filth and for continuing to sanctify us. We are not left as orphans. As Christians, we are left with the Holy Spirit to guide and emplower us as we read the Word of God and apply the truth of God’s Word to our lives.

For the next portion, we are told to be doers of the word and not just hearers. Otherwise, we are compared to someone who maybe is dirty, looking at themselves in the mirror and seeing nothing wrong and walking away. How true that is. If we read and don’t apply, it’s almost better if we didn’t read it at all. However, A doer of the word is the one who works and applies. That person is blessed.

Next, we are reminded of is religion. If we call ourselves religious people and yet we can’t control our tongue, what we say, we’re liars. In this case, we are the worst. We fall into the stereotype of what the world would call hypocrites—the religious people who tell others to live a certain way, and yet they can’t live it themselves. They speak and do not repress t God. The most pitied of people. We are then given an explanation of pure religion before God: to look after the orphans and the widows, those that would find themselves in need. For Jesus looked after the needy. If we look at our world today, if Christians only lived by these truths to look after orphans and widows, how different our world would be. We must live our these truths and be the hands and feet of God.

Lastly, we are told to keep ourselves unstained from the world. That is definitely a high calling. We are told to live in this world but not of this world. That is a daily battle. We can become easily influenced by the world around us—the media, including television and social media, what we read, what music we listen to, the company that we find ourselves with. The enemy is after us. He wants nothing more than for us to run away. However, we need to remain. We need to endure our trials. We need to take the way of escape when we are tempted. We need to seek God and His Word to help us know what to say, know when to speak, know when to let things go, and to know deception versus the truth.

What is your take on some of these scriptures? What thoughts come to mind?

Ephesians 4:29

by B Stoermer, posted in Bible, Thoughts

Ephesians 4:29

29 “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

This verse in scripture is rather straightforward, but its application is easier said than done. We are each challenged moment by moment to watch the words that come out of our mouths and determine whether or not what we are saying is corrupt. That is a sobering thought. For each of us can look back with regret and second guess many of the things that we have said to other individuals. In the heat of the moment we chose to overreact and say something hurtful or defamatory about someone-in many cases- a person that we deeply care about. We wanted them to hurt. We felt justified in what we said because they deserved it. Our emotions clouded our judgement and we did not realize the gravity of those words, how we conducted ourselves, and how that would impact the other person. In that moment, we blurred the lines of morality and gave in to the corruption of our minds.

Words have deep power. They have the ability to build up or to tear someone down. Hurtful words can destroy relationships, they can lead to wars, or they can have the opposite of mending relationships and leading to peace. However, once words are said they cannot simply be taken back. The person that we spoke with may not easily forget the hurtful words that we said. They may harbor resentment. The only thing that can mend these bonds is a heart of forgiveness. For many of us, this is only possible through the strength and power of God, for it it were up to us, we would hold a grudge until our deathbed. But God is bigger than all of that. He demands better of us. In verse 32 of Ephesians 4 it reads, ” And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” God calls each of us to forgives others as Christ has forgiven all of our faults. Once again another sobering thought. We all have been forgiven much, so we each should forgive just as much.

The second part of verse 29 tells us to not speak unless it is, “Good to the use of edifying.” Reading this, one can tend to think about the verse that James penned down, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. (James 1:19). In order for each of us to know whether or not our speech is good and edifying to another person we have to take a step back and be think about what we are going to say. For it is better to listen to someone else and not reply than it is to reply to someone in a rash manner and cause the other person to become offended. That can be disastrous.

The final words of verse 29 calls us to “minister grace unto the hearers.” As a Christ follower, we each should extend grace to others and not allow their words to drive us to retaliate and bark hurtful words back. Rather, we should give people the benefit of the doubt and prayfully speak to others as Christ would have us speak to them. For we do not always have to have a reply if someone says something. In many cases, there is far more wisdom in remaining silent. Speaking kindly and more purposeful is also a living testimony to others. Other individuals would expect a hash word in response to a hurtful jab, they would not expect kind words and a gentle response back. In order to do this we need the help of the Holy Spirit.

All that to say, we need to watch the words that proceed from our mouths for they consequences.

Slow to speak. Slow to anger.

by B Stoermer, posted in Bible, Thoughts, Uncategorized

The book of James is very practical for application in a Christian’s everyday life. In chapter 1, verses 19 and 20, James starts out by reminding the reader to “Understand this,” which notes that we must ponder and really consider the things that are discussed. It almost stands as a warning.

James then refers to those he write to as “Dear brothers and sisters.” Writing in such a fashion denotes that James cares deeply about the people who would read his letter. He wishes for them to take to heart the words that he shares. The words should be considered valuable.

As James continues he states, “You must be quick to listen, slow to speak.” This implies that listening is not a voluntary request. Each of us MUST listen. It is imperative. More specifically, we must be quick to listen. We should listen to others, but we should more importantly listen to God. He can speak to us through His Word, in prayer, or possibly through other people. The important things is that we must have ears to hear. We will not be able to listen if we are constantly speaking. As the saying goes, that is why God gave us two ears and one mouth. We should listen twice as much as we speak.

James continues his list by writing, “slow to get angry.” This can be a difficult task for you and I. There are situations and certain individuals that could cause us to explode. Yet, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, James reminds us to be slow to anger. If we are quick to listen to others, the anger should not fester within us because we are earnestly trying to understand what someone else is trying to say.

James continues in verse 20 by discussing “human anger [which] does not produce the righteousness God desires.” Human anger is self seeking. When we are in this state, we are not considering others, and we definitely are not thinking about God and how he would view the situation. We are not living the right way. Human anger can flare up when we are not in the Word of God. Our flesh takes on a sense of entitlement and we become blind to the feelings of others. I know we all have had a time when we grew angry and it overtook us, causing us to say something that we regret. We can look back and become baffled that we would ever say such a thing. Anger can cloud our judgment and it ultimately separates us from God. We are not producing the righteousness that God would desire. For this reason, James remind us to be quick to listen and slow to anger.

Galatians 6

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load. Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand! As many as desire to make a good showing in the flesh, these would compel you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For not even those who are circumcised keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6:1-18‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

The first call to action that Paul the apostle Paul asserts to readers of chapter 6 is to reach out to fellow Christians that may be struggling with a certain trespass or sin. Individuals that are spiritually mature should find it in themselves to reach out to these people to bring them back into the fold. The approach to this should always be in a manner that is gentle and not willing to create conflict. The person on the receiving end should be edified and encouraged through the Word of God to seek out the habits and conduct that is exemplified in the life of Christ. A conversation such as this should not focus on condemnation or belittling the person for their actions. This approach will never produce a willing participant. What person would want to to feel bad about themselves or find it necessary to defend their actions? Coming alongside this person with the heart of Christ should give this person a perspective that they should focus on the Lord and His ways because they are far superior to anything that they could produce themselves. This perspective is one that everyone should continually pursue.

If a person is not mature enough to reach out to others that may be struggling in a given area, they should ask themselves what is holding them back from helping others? Why can they not point others to Christ? Are they consumed with their own struggles or are they simply selfish and unwilling to help others? If it is the former, the text notes that this person shall reap what they sow. This alone does not produce confidence. Rather, pursue the things of God and be filled with the spirit, for this person shall have everlasting life. This is a vital perspective for the Christian life. If a follower of Christ does not see a need to forsake all and follow after Christ and all that He offers then this person is set up for failure. A person such as this has not surrendered their will to the directing of the Lord and they are bound to follow after their own desires, which will lead them down a path of destruction and despair. This is not what the Lord desires and it is not how the Christian life is meant to be lived.

Paul continues as he tries to uplift the people of Galatia, as well as future readers, not to be discouraged or disheartened, rather continue to do good unto others, and in particular, fellow Christians. As the body of Christ we each should be ready and willing to help each other. Simply, do not be selfish. This cannot be conjured up, for each person must pursue the Lord and allow Him to change their hearts.

The last point that Paul asserts in the text focuses on human effort and the sake of appearing a certain way towards others. During this time period, individuals could pressured to be circumcised due to the Jewish customs. They may have felt that this act would absolve them. However, this act does not save the soul of the person that it is performed on. If it is done out of obligation to tradition and the law of man then it is of no effect. Those that boast in the efforts of man and following the law are fooling themselves. They boast in themselves, but truly on the inside they are empty.

If a person does not follow the letter of the law completely, then they are an utter failure and boasting should not be permitted. However, the only thing that should be worth boasting about is Jesus and the power and love that He bestows upon us. It is because of His sacrifice for us on the cross that we can be redeemed and freed from the power and penalty of our sin. Nothing we can do ourselves is ever going to be good enough to take away the sin that we have committed. This should humble each of us and cause us to approach Jesus with reverence and the praise that He deserves. It should also cause us to surrender our opinions, our thoughts, and ultimately our lives to Him. The obstacles that stand in the way is our pride, our deceitful hearts, and our constant need to stay in control. This is all understandable, but it is not necessary.

Choose to seek Jesus with your whole heart and allow Him to change your desires. Ask the Lord to fill you with His spirit so you can turn from sin. Seek Him and study the Bible to continue to learn about Him. Look out for others that may be struggling along the way. We all have a choice and we all know the expectations. God opens out his hand to each of us and promises to be there with us and to empower us to hold the course. What are you waiting for?

Thankful Heart

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

When one takes the time consider all that they could and should be thankful for, it creates a perspective of humility that is paramount to successful living. The petty inconveniences do not seem as much of a problem. For there is always another individual that has it harder. Is that person complaining about their ill-wills? Complaining does not solve the issue, it simply creates an atmosphere of distrust, worry, and discontentment. Taking the time to get beyond these feelings and turning a new leaf towards positivity and a heart of thankfulness is rather refreshing as well. Life does not have to be as serious as we have constructed it as we try to micromanage and remain in control. For flexibility and a sense of spontaneity makes life more exciting. One can look back at a child’s imagination and the optimism about seeking adventure and the unknown. However, when one grows older they tend to crave routine and a sense of control. If this process is disturbed it can create a create resentment and ingratitude. Our younger selves would be aghast at the person each of has become.

Life should be approached with a thankful heart, remembering that one is a created being. May one see themselves in light of how God almighty sees them. Each human being is loved by the God of the universe. One should be thankful for the endless grace that is bestowed upon them and the constant reassurance that God provides. Knowing these truths should cultivate continual surrender all ones fears, problems, and all the other ills that would cause them to drift from the presence of God.

May Jesus fill each person afresh with the Holy Spirit and cause them to be a light to those around them. With this heart it would benefit one to pray for the world and that the influence of the evil one would be overcome with the Gospel and the love of God. Knowing that influence has power, each person should use their influence to let others know about the hope that is within them. This hope should cause each person to place their finances, career prospects, their families and even their own lives in the hands of Jesus, who will sustain them under His sovereign hands.

Lord Jesus, direct our steps and the way in which we each should go. May we grow in wisdom, discernment, and reverent love for Jesus. We pray that each person would remain devoted to Christ and reaching those that are lost in the world.

Jude

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

Jude is a very short book of the Bible. One can simply read it in a few short minutes, but the content of the letter is full of important truths.

The letter begins with a simple greeting, “‘Jude, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, To those who are called, sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.'” Jude 1:1-2 First of all, it is pleasant that Jude is called a bondservant of God. Each believer should view themselves in such a way. According to history, a bondservant during this time period was a person that chose to remain a slave. He then addresses that he is writing to those that are called and sanctified by God the father and preserved in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are each sanctified and preserved by God. God has forgiven each us of all our sins and sets us apart. He does not leave us alone, but continues to preserve us as we walk though life. Jude ends the greeting by wising the readers mercy, peace, and love, which is a beautiful sentiment.

As one continues to read the letter, they realize that Jude is cautioning and exhorting the reader to “…Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” Jude 1:3 In other words, Jude is telling believers that they need to continue to press on in their faith and be diligent to allowing the truths of God’s Word to cause them to grow in wisdom. To fight for the truth and ensure that it is sound. Watchful of others that utter it to see if it lines up with what God has said.

Jude then presents an issue that the church was facing: false teachers that were causing believers to be led astray.

“Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries.” Jude 1: 8

“These spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds with out water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots; raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.” Jude 1:12-13

“These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great words, flattering people to gain advantage. But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.” Jude 1:16-19

As one reads these words, they are confronted with the vile behavior that is present in an individual that is not full of the Spirit. These people are parading around as “so-called Christians”, and spouting off ideas and doctrine that is contrary to the Word of God and their life does not line up with the Word of God either. A Christians that is rooted and grounded in the Word of God and that is observant of the times in which we live should be able to see that there are many people that can fall into the title false teacher. Today’s Christianity has been watered down and plated as a buffet line, where people can pick and choose what is appealing to them in the Bible, while glossing over passages that are deemed too controversial or somehow outdated. This is not right. Individuals that teach or present Biblical truth should teach the full counsel of God. People need to be aware of who God is and who they are by comparison. We need to see our need for Jesus. That each day we need the help of the Spirit to walk along the path of life, which requires discipline and obedience. Moreover, the Word of God should not be catered to people because of the climate of society. The contents of the Bible are often offensive to those that are perishing. We cannot dumb down and take out passages. Rather, each passage needs to be brought to light. People need to hear the Gospel, for it is the only thing that will save them. For those that are Christians, they should desire to read each passage to grow closer to God. Many people today are carnal and starve themselves from reading the Word of God. If someone else read from the Bible or claimed that a certain passages was in the Bible, those that are not digging into it themselves are left ignorant and not privy to false teaching. This is a sad reality, but it does not have to be the case.

The last portion of Jude focuses on the believer and maintaining a Godly life:

“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keeping yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus unto eternal life. And on some have compassion making a distinction, but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh. Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” Jude 1:20-25

As a believer of Jesus, one must build up their faith. How does one build faith? By reading the Word of God. As we continue to read the Word of God, we can learn more about God and His love. We can obtain wisdom that will help us through this life. We will also cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus. We must also continually pray to God with the help of the Holy Spirit. Prayer is very important. It is our direct line and communication with God other than the Word of God. As we read the Bible and pray to God, we will develop love for God and understand more about His love. As we learn and are filled up with the Spirit, we can begin to share the love of God with others. Jude notes that this love should drive us to have compassion on others. There will come a time when each of us will encounter people that need that touch of God and as God uses us we can be an extension of His love through our compassion. We can also show the love of God as we reach out and caution other believers that are going down the wrong path by…“pulling them out of the fire…” Jude 1:23 There are many people that need redirecting and need a more mature believer to provide them with wisdom and point them to Gods Word as it relates to different situations that are going on in their lives that are not pleasing to the Lord.

Jude ends by offering glory to God for who He is to each of us. God will never cause us to stumble. He will direct us and if we stumble on our own accord, He is there to pick us up. He sees us as righteous, faultless before Him as He has forgiven us of our sins and placed righteousness into our hearts. Knowing these things God is worthy of worship. “To God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen” Jude 1:25

Colossians 4

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

As one reads chapter 4 of the book of Colossians, they can be struck with a few key subjects such as prayer, thankfulness, helping your fellow Christian, sharing the Gospel as well as remaining faithful to the call that God has placed upon your life. Starting in verse 2, the reader can learn about the importance of prayer.

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; Colossians 4:2

As one reads this verse in Colossians, they may consider what the words earnestly and vigilant mean.According to dictionary.com, earnestly can be defined as: with deep and sincere feeling; seriously. Considering this fact, one may read this verse and take the fact that prayer should be a practice that is taken seriously. An individual should not casually pray and not mean what they say. Pray in faith, believing that God will indeed answer. Moreover, prayer should be done with a sincere heart.

The word vigilant- according to dictionary.com- can be defined as: keenly watchful to detect danger; wary; ever awake and alert; sleeplessly watchful. A person that prays should pray in such a way that they are aware of the needs of themselves and those around them and direct those unto the Lord. This also means that prayer should be practiced continually, it should not be a tool that is only used on occasion.

The verse also indicates the word thanksgiving. This is not often practiced in prayer. People are not always keen to express their gratitude and thanks to God, who has blessed each person with countless blessings. A person with a thankful heart is more likely to approach God with a perspective of reverence rather than haphazardly making requests that are frivolous or outlandish. It could also be considered that a person that is thankful is less likely to complain, with is easy to do otherwise.

As the chapter continues, it reads in verses 3 and 4:

Meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Colossians 4:3-4

Reading these verses, one should notice that the writer asks for prayer regarding God opening a door to preach the Gospel. Paul, the writer of this epistle, had a great perspective towards God and His sovereignty. God is the one that will direct people to go out and peach and share Jesus with people. For He is the one that draws these people anyhow. If more Christians had this perspective the landscape of ministry would look quite differently than we see today. An honest assessment of the church of today could be made and it could be said that many Christians are not praying to God for His direction and whether or not He would like them to do this or that. Rather, these individuals go out in their own strength-although well-intentioned- and go about ministry. This type of approach will hinder the work of the Lord. May each person approach God as sovereign and in control. Knowing this, each person should pray to God for Him to open or close the doors in their lives.

As the chapter continues, Paul write in verses 4 and 6:

Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. Colossians 4:5-6

What does it mean to walk in wisdom? Well, one could say that in order to walk a person needs to consider and ask of the Lord what they should or should not do. As it relates to “those who are on the outside,” this is referring to people that are nonbelievers. Knowing that Christians will interact and speak to the non-believing world, each person needs to be careful about how they speak and “let your speech be with grace seasoned with salt.” In order for this to be accomplished each person needs to seek the Lord and ask to be filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit. For mere human reasoning and speech will not be enough. Divine intervention is paramount. A Christian never should go out on their own will and think that they can represent God. This will result in failure.

Verses 7 to 16 focus on Paul discussing several people that He worked alongside or that were sent to the people for support. The way in which he wrote about these people, Paul expressed an appreciation for His fellow Christians. Reading these verses, one can be reminded of the importance of the body of Christ. Each person plays a vital role for the furtherance of the Kingdom of God. Moreover, each person should have love and appreciation for each other, as we are all in the family of God. This means that each person should consider one another and build each other up. Everyone is on the same team.

As Paul closes the letter, he notes in verse 17:

And say to Archippus, ‘Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.’ Colossians 4:17

He speaks directly to Archippus and notes that he needs to focus on the ministry that God has given him. This can apply to each of us as well. Each Christian has been gifted with at least one spiritual gift. This gift should be used to glorify God and to expand the Kingdom of God. God has also placed each person in a sphere of influence and they need to ensure that they are asking the Lord how He would use them in each of these areas. If someone is not fulfilling what God has called them to then they are missing out on what God has for them.

Sacrifice

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

What is it that you would be wiling to give up in your life? Would you be willing to give up your time to a cause such as a charity or nonprofit organization? Perhaps you would be willing to give away money or other monetary items to benefit the less fortunate. These sacrifices could seem ordinary compared to the sacrifice that must be made in order to make real changes. What would you be willing to give up?

The Biblical narrative of Abraham and Isaac tells a unique story. It explores the premise that in order to show complete devotion to God, Abraham must sacrifice his son Isaac on an altar. Every detail of what happened that day are not penned down in the Bible, so it leaves the reader with lots of unanswered questions. What was going through the mind of Isaac as he and his father, Abraham, were trekking up the mountain? Was Abraham having any second thoughts to what the Lord told him to do?

The narrative is recorded in Genesis chapter 22:

Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” Then He said, “Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he split the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and we will come back to you.” So Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife, and the two of them went together. But Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” Then he said, “Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” And Abraham said, “My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.” So the two of them went together. Then they came to the place of which God had told him. And Abraham built an altar there and placed the wood in order; and he bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, upon the wood. And Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the Angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” So he said, “Here I am.” And He said, “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.” Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and there behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by its horns. So Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up for a burnt offering instead of his son. And Abraham called the name of the place, The- Lord -Will-Provide; as it is said to this day, “In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided.” and said: “By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord , because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son — blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” So Abraham returned to his young men, and they rose and went together to Beersheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beersheba. Then the Angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time out of heaven, Genesis 22:1-19 NKJV

The words of the narrative suggest that Abraham was not worried about his son Isaac. At the beginning of the story Abraham tells his servants to stay behind so him and Isaac can worship the Lord, but they would both be back. If Abraham was not certain of this, I am not sure that he would say such things to his servants. One could say that he was optimistic about the situation, or perhaps he did not want to create panic about something that he did not fully understand. These are possibilities, but it may very well be that Abraham believed that even though God told him to sacrifice his son, that in some way God would provide another way that would keep his son alive.

The story continues as Abraham and Isaac make their way up the mountain. “Then they came to the place of which God had told him. And Abraham built an altar there and placed the wood in order; and he bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, upon the wood. And Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the Angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, ‘Abraham, Abraham!’ So he said, ‘Here I am.’ And He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.'” The questions that may loom in the mind of the reader is what was Isaac thinking as his father tied him up and laid him on the alter? Isaac was old enough at this point in his life that he could have overpowered his father and fought back. Why did Isaac choose to allow his father to do this to him? When the knife was raised to him, was he overcome with fear that his father was going to kill him? Any reasonable person could read this account and question why Isaac did not fight back.

The entire situation seems that it would be anxiety provoking for both Abraham and Isaac, what was going to transpire? However, by the grace of God, an Angel cried out from heaven to stop Abraham from going forward with what he was doing. This was a test that the Lord placed upon Abraham and it proved that he feared the Lord, even above the love he had for his son. Do we each have that type of deep love for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Could we sacrifice our son or daughter, or anything so close to our hearts and prove that these things are nothing in comparison to Jesus? On a surface level, many Christians may boldly state that they could do such a thing, yet it is easier to say things when it is not a reality in your life.

Each day we are all tested by the various trials that can cause us to question God and His purpose through each of these challenges. However, after these events we often realize that God had a bigger plan. Abraham’s faith was tested by God and in the end God provided a different sacrifice. We too will have our faith tested, but unlike Abraham we are not always going to be saved or taken out of the situation. God will individually deal with each of us and He will gently move us along to draw us closer to Himself, and He does so with immeasurable love. We must remain obedient and willing to ride out the challenges of life and trust that God has a plan for each of us. May our faith grow as we go through these experiences.

Where do you find your hope?

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

With the beginning of a new year comes New Year’s Resolutions. Individuals pen down goals that they hope to achieve throughout the course of the year. These goals or resolutions can range from losing weight, saving money, quitting an addiction or vice, or simply being more intention with ones time. Speaking from experience, these goals are often intentional but the follow-thru is often abysmal. Individuals may choose to visit the local gym strictly throughout the month of January and watch their daily eating habits, but there often comes a time when the temptation comes to eat a delicious treat, or to sleep in and forget the gym. Habits are hard to foster. People are easily led astray by their desires to live comfortably and go back to their old habits.

As 2021 has started, one would presume that people would once again have a New Year’s Resolution. However, with the close of 2020 and the craziness of that year behind us, many individuals are not as optimistic about their future plans. The term “the new normal” is commonly used by the main-stream media platforms and major figures to suggest that the course society has taken is unalterable to the way things were before the global pandemic. While the case can be made about future concerns about ones health and the other challenges that society may face, it is not healthy to approach life with a pessimistic outlook on the future. Neither should fear cause one to avoid life.

2020 was a year of change for most individuals throughout the world. The wave of the pandemic, political challenges, racial unrest, as well as many other challenges that people faced during 2020 make it a year that will be long remembered. People affected by these events will not soon forget how it impacted their lives by losing loved ones, losing their livelihoods, or casting doubt on the institutions of government. People who have been impacted have a choice before them and how they will react to these events. On the one hand, they can sulk in their feelings and allow the pitfalls of life to get them down and they can relive the experiences over-and-over in their minds. The grief and fear can plague their minds, leaving them with no present hope. Conversely, they can realize that the events that transpired-although tragic and heart-wrenching-will not cause them to doubt the future and the course of their lives.

Finding the strength and courage to move past a difficult situation can seem like an overwhelming task. As a follower of Christ, one can look to the Lord Jesus Christ to find hope and strength to get through life’s difficulties. Reading the Word of God, the Bible, can provide a person with the promises of God.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. ‘ Proverbs 3:5-6

‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 4:6-7

‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. ‘ John 3:16

A person that is a follower of Christ can be assured that God is directing their path. They can walk in the hope that God will listen to them as they pray and that God will impart them with peace. Ultimately, one can be assured that if they have placed their faith in Christ that they will have everlasting life in heaven when they die.

This hope can transcend all of life’s struggles. This is not to say that life is going to be a cakewalk, but those that have placed their faith in Christ can be comforted with the fact that they are not walking through life alone. God is watching over them and is providing them with the strength to walk through the tribulations of life that may befall them.

As 2021 has started, and the uncertainty of the future is set before each person it is worth considering the future one will face in eternity. Life’s difficulties are only temporary, but the eternity is forever. Skeptics may see following Jesus Christ as intellectual suicide and those that choose to believe in such teachings as unsavory, ignorant, or insane. Those people are entitled to their opinion. However it can be said, if the teachings of Jesus Christ are in fact true is a skeptic willing to bet their eternity on it? A person that does not believe should read the Bible, pray to God, and speak to people that follow Him to see for themselves whether or not it is true.

As one can read in the Book of Romans:

‘for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, ‘ Romans 3:23

‘For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ Romans 6:23

‘For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”’ Romans 10:13

What does all of this mean? For one, each person needs to see their need for God. God is Holy, meaning that He is perfect and in contrast each human being is not, we each are dreadful sinners. Sin is what has separated each of us from God. We lie, cheat, lust, hate, covet, and a commit a whole of host of other evil things. No matter how good a person could try to be they could never live up to the perfect standard that God expects. This predicament would leave a person without hope. However, God graciously send His Son Jesus to earth to live a sinless life and then die on the cross for each of our sins.

‘and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, ‘ 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

If a person asks God to forgive them of their sins and they believe in their heart that Jesus died on the cross for those sins and rose again they may be saved.

‘For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”’ Romans 10:13

Ask Jesus to forgive you of each the wrongs that you have done. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and that you believe that He died and rose again in order to save you from the sins that you have committed. If a person sincerely prays to God regarding these truths, then they are a follower of Jesus. They can hold onto the hope that is entrusted to them according to the scriptures.

I would encourage this person to read the Bible, to pray (to talk to God), and to find a Bible teaching church where they can plug-in and surround themselves with other followers of Jesus.

Others may read this post and not believe what is written. This is fine too. God does not force himself on anyone, He is willing to hear people out. God loves each person, as they each are created in His image. I would encourage these people to research and read the Bible and come to the conclusion on their own.

Psalms 34

by B Stoermer, posted in Thoughts

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the Lord ; The humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together.” (Psalms 34:1-3) Reading the first three verses of Psalm 34 one is reminded of the importance of praising the Lord at all times. This seems impossible. When a person is going through life, there are plenty of situations that would arise that one would not think to praise the Lord in as life is full of challenges and times of tribulation. However, these circumstances cannot stand in the way of a person praising the Lord. The Lord is worthy of praise for who He is, not simply because things are going well in life. The Lord is sovereign, loving, and worthy of devotion. This is easier said than done. However, reading through these verses one can be reminded of the perspective of praise that should be sought to draw closer to the Lord. Moreover, the perspective of an individual that is humble and sees the Lord as worthy will have the desire to praise the Lord with a heart of gratitude.

As one continues to read the Psalm, they can notice the promises of the Lord to protect His people. A believer of Christ can run to the Lord and cry out when they are going through a difficult time in their life. “‘Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! Oh, fear the Lord , you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing’ (Psalms 34:8-10). These verses are filled with hope and give the reader such encouragement. A child of God can approach God as a good God. He offers blessings to those that put their trust in Him. These simple truths can serve as a reminder that the Lord is not willing to overlook the sufferings of His people. Rather, He is there for them during times of need and extends blessings upon them for continuing to place their trust in Him. Once again, this process is easier said than done. Human beings are so fickle. People are easily influenced by the circumstances around them. If things are not ideal, the instinct is to try and salvage the situation by ones own abilities. Yet, a Godly person should run to the Lord Jesus for help in times of trouble trusting that God will sustain them.

Further along in the Psalm it spells out that God will deliver His followers from troubles. “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all. He guards all his bones; Not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked, And those who hate the righteous shall be condemned. The Lord redeems the soul of His servants, And none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.” (Psalms 34:17-22) These verses can stir up a heart of gratefulness as the Lord is willing to hear each of us when we cry out for His help. He is willing to deliver us from our troubles if we turn to Him. Humanly speaking, we each have our limits when it comes to hearing someone out. We can become exhausted or overwhelmed because of overload. This is not the case with the Lord- He is patient. This is a part of the character of the Lord, it is who He is and it displays our our need for Him. When each of us is broken hearted we can be delivered if we are humble and willing to turn to the Lord to find solace and deliverance. For the Lord is worth trusting. Even though each person has flaws, they are not condemned for their faults. As the Psalm mentions, a person that trusts in the Lord shall not be condemned. Sin that is committed can be forgiven. Lives can be transformed if each person is willing to surrender their lives fully to the Lord. Life is difficult there are bumpy roads and difficulties that each person may face. However, a person that places their faith in the Lord shall not soon be disappointed. Be encouraged.