The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Mark 14:26-52

The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Mark 14:38b

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 14:26-52 - vv32-42.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv32-42: (1) God in the text: Jesus prays (vv32, 35, 36, 39) and he encourages Peter to pray (v38); He is greatly distressed, troubled and sorrowful (vv33, 34) "even to death" and He fell on the ground as a result of his emotions that brought Him to a point of obvious significant turmoil; He admonishes the disciples for falling asleep and not watching as He instructed them - alluding to how we are to be alert and not fall into temptation (v38); (2) people in the text: disciples fail to heed Jesus' instructions to watch and pray; (vv37, 40, 41); (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: We should obey Jesus' words to watch and pray v38 as "[t]he spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Excerpts from the commentary's second (of three) division: 

• The title of the second division (vv32-42) per the commentary is "The King Would Agonize over His Passion Alone." 
• "This is the third and final time Mark records our Lord praying alone (cf. 1:35; 6:46). Each occasion was a time of significant importance, but none more than this one."  
• "In spite of the exceptional trauma of the moment and the certain future that lay ahead, He trusted in God as His loving Father and in His will. What’s more, the “cup” that He prayed might be removed was not the physical pain He would endure endure on the cross. Indeed many Christian martyrs have gone to their death with thanksgiving and joy with no evidence whatsoever that they wished to avoid the hour of their martyrdom. No, the cup that so distressed and troubled Him was the spiritual suffering He would endure as He would bear the sins of the world and drink to the last drop the fierce wrath of God as our substitute."  
• "Gethsemane was “hell” for Jesus, but [we should be] so thankful He went through it. You see, if there is no Gethsemane, there is no Calvary. It there is no Calvary, there can be no empty tomb. And if there is no empty tomb, there is only hell for us."

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that suffered in ways that are unimaginable to me, including dying on the cross...for me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such a gift - the greatest gift of all time.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Mark 14:26-52

Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Mark 14:38

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 14:26-52, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus knows how we all sin yet He still loves us and upon confession forgives us.  He knows about how the disciples will fall away (v27) - not in the same way that Judas fell away because Judas had apparently yet to fully surrender to Jesus - yet still loves them.  Jesus feels anguish about what is about to happen to Him and He prays the same prayer at least twice that He follow God's will...knowing that the Father's will is for Him to die on the cross.  Jesus prays alone (vv34-36, 39). He instructs Peter, James and John to "watch" (v34, 38) so that they not enter into temptation.  He willingly submits to His arrest....all to follow His Father's will and to fulfill scriptures (v49).  
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: We all sin and betray God with our sin...both sins of commission and omission. We all have periods where we let our guard down and allow temptation to enter our hearts.     
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should pray as Jesus did to follow the Father's will for our lives - both to understand God's will and to follow it.  We should watch and be alert as Peter shares (1 Peter 5:8) lest Satan capture more of our heart and attention.  "[T]o stand against the schemes of the devil," we should put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20). We should see Jesus in all scripture and how Jesus fulfills all of the law (Matthew 5:17). 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Jesus, thank You for Your Word and how You reveal Yourself to me and how You started and continue a work in me to make me more like You.  You most importantly save me and pour out mercies every day that never cease.  Thank You.  I am not deserving as I continue to have sins both of commission and omission.  Please reveal my sin to me so that I can confess and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family,  my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.  

And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.

Mark 13:1-23

And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains. Mark 13:5-8

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 13:1-23, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: God cares for us - He does not want us to trust in things of this world - such as a wonderful temple (vv1-2).  He seeks for as many as possible to be saved - despite how all of us are broken and sinful.  He seeks for us to avoid falling prey to false prophets (v5).  God will pronounce judgement and He wants us to know in advance what will happen - see vv7-8, 19, 23.  He seeks for us to bear witness before others - v9 - and to proclaim the gospel to all nations v10.  When we are persecuted in His name, He will guide us in what to say - v11.  He will save those who endure - v13.    
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Many are manipulative and deceptive - seeking glory for themselves - wrongfully and sinfully.  Even family and loved ones will betray us - see v12.  
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid putting to much trust in the world and in other people - above God.  God will save those who endure.  Trust in Him above all to help You during times of trouble - He will guide You, hold You, protect You and give You words to say.  Take comfort in knowing what will happen now and during end times - be prepared, stay close and abide in Him.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and who protects, guides, and saves!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk.

Mark 12:13-17

And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. Mark 12:13

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Mark 12:13-17.  Excerpts from the commentary's introduction and the first (of four) division (v13):

• The title of this chapter of the commentary covering this text is "Should Christians Obey the Government?" and the main idea for the entirety of the text (vv13-17) is "[f]ollowers of Jesus should obey the government and the Lord according to what each is due." 
• "This text appears in the midst of a series of controversies between Jesus and the religious leaders in Jerusalem. Mark 11:20–12:37 is one long day. There are five confrontations altogether: (1) The question of His authority by the Sanhedrin (11:27-33); (2) The question of paying taxes by the Pharisees and Herodians (12:13-17); (3) The question of the resurrection by the Sadducees (12:18-27); (4) The question of the greatest command by the scribes (12:28-34); (5) The question of whose Son is the Christ by Jesus Himself (12:35-37)."
• "Within the context of this dispute with those who will be the authors of His death, Jesus provides the answer. He also provides some practical and basic wisdom when we are confronted by those devoted to our destruction."  
• The title of the first division per the commentary is "The Trap: Be Careful When Approached 
   by Strange Bedfellows." 
• "The Pharisees were the conservatives, the right-wingers of that day. The Herodians were the liberals, the left-wingers, advocates of big government. The Pharisees hated Jesus because He was messing with their religious agenda. The Herodians opposed Him because He was threatening their political advantage. Amazingly, Jesus brought them together! They both wanted to destroy Him." 

Broadly, we are encouraged to be alert and to guard against those who seek to destroy us.  1 Peter 5:8 is instructive here as we must understand that Satan is real and until he is ultimately destroyed at the end of the age (Revelation), we will continue this daily battle.  In the context of the text today, we must be on guard against those who seek to persecute us based on who we are and what we proclaim as believers.  While in the USA it is less likely we will be persecuted than in other places (see Voice of the Martyrs) where believers often face life-threatening circumstances for their faith, here in the USA we will face scorn and perhaps less threatening persecution.  We should abide in Him and remain steadfast in our faith and pray that we can be bold in the face of such persecution - reacting as Peter did as he and John faced down a dangerous confrontation with the Jewish elders.  Peter shared in Acts 4:20 "we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard."

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God You are an amazing God that has already defeated sin and death and You saved me, saving a place in Heaven for me, and You continue to do a work in me.  Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of my salvation, nor any of the blessings You pour out daily for me.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.

Mark 6:1-5

And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching. Mark 6:5-6

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Mark 6:1-5, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary - which offers three divisions for this text. Excerpts from the commentary's third (of three) division (vv5-6): 

• The commentary's title for the second division is "When You Consider Jesus, Are You Guilty of Unbelief?"
• Noting that Jesus could have performed more miracles in His hometown, the commentary shares how these works reinforce faith of those who are healed, yet "[m]orally and spiritually He was constrained not to reveal His power in such an environment of rejection and unbelief."  We are referred to Hebrews 11:6 where the text shares how God works for those who belief and have faith in Him.     
• "Only twice in the Bible is Jesus said to be amazed. In Luke 7:9 He saw the faith of a Roman centurion who believed He could heal from a distance with just a word. And in Mark 6:6 He was amazed by the unbelief of those of His own hometown."  Those in Jesus' hometown seemed shocked that a man from their town, of such humble beginnings, could do what Jesus was doing - they should have known from scripture (Isaiah 55:8) how God's ways and thoughts are not our own.  Unfortunately, scripture describes how Israel as a nation failed to see Jesus was the One promised from Old Testament prophecies.    
• We are challenged to see and accept Jesus for who He really is and by the Gospel and what it offers. "Are we “scandalized” by the simplicity of His gospel? Are we offended by the unfairness of its message that says a child molester or even a serial rapist and murderer on death row can be made right with God by childlike faith in Jesus Christ? Or do we allow the biblical evidence to slay our biases and reshape our preconceived notions of who Jesus must be for us to accept Him and trust Him? Or again, have we become so familiar with Him, having been raised in church all our lives, that His words no longer convict, His miracles no longer astonish, and His death on the cross no longer strikes the chord of “Amazing Grace”?"

We should be wise to how there is a battle for our souls and Satan seeks to drag as many as possible into the lake of fire or eternal condemnation.  Consequently, we should not be lulled into comfort with the world but instead "be sober-minded and watchful" (1 Peter 5:8) for how Satan works. Believers should daily remind ourselves of how Jesus reached into the pit and saved us - loving and saving us while we were still an enemy and hostile to Him (Romans 5:8-10), how we are undeserving of such salvation, and how His mercies never come to an end are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).  God does amazing things every moment of every day and we should be "watchful" of how He works.  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are an awesome God who loves me, saved me, and whose mercies never cease and are new every morning.  You never cease to amaze.  I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.

Mark 3:1-6

The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. Mark 3:6

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on a commentary-assisted review of Mark 3:6, which is the text for the third (of three) division per the commentary.  Excerpts from the commentary for the third division:

• "The Herodians show up here for the first time. They do not appear to be a distinct group or political party like the Pharisees and Sadducees. Instead they appear to be wealthy and influential supporters of the Herods and their dynastic rule. There are only three passing references to this group in the New Testament (see Mark 12:13; Matthew 22:16), and they appear each time in a surprising alliance with the Pharisees."
• The commentary shares a subtitle "The Enemy We Fear Most We Will Seek to Destroy."

For believers, we know that Satan is real, and that he exists to distract people from the saving power and eternal hope of Jesus.  1 Peter 5:8-9 is a vivid warning of Satan as a roaring lion seeking to devour.  The Prince of this Age - Satan - seeks to drag others into Hell where he will be for eternity after the end of times - see Revelation 20:10.  That is why Jude 22-23 seeks for us to "have mercy on those who doubt, saving them by snatching them from the fire."  We know that Jesus has already won the victory over sin and death so we can have peace - resting in our salvation. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, what an amazing God You are that You loved me while still an enemy and hostile to You and You saved me!  Thank You Jesus!  You defeated sin and death so that I could have life - now as a new creation and for eternity!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.  

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.

Jude

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. Jude 17-19

I proceed with my study of Jude using the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for this book.  Today, my study consists of a review of Jude 17-23, with a focus on a commentary-assisted review of the first division per the commentary - vv17-19. Per the commentary:

Main idea for vv17-23: "Since there will always be false teachings, Christians should diligently watch for false teachers and seek to rescue all from their destructive message, even as they eagerly await the return of Christ."

Division and subdivisions for vv17-19:

• Remember the Words of Our Lord
• The presence of false teachers is certain
• The portrait of false teachers is clear
• They are scoffers, sensual, schismatic, and Spiritless

We are of course not surprised how the gospel is warped by many of our contemporaries, even within the church and this will continue until Jesus comes again.  Vv17-19 start with Jude urging us to remember the words of Jesus and His apostles.  We must also remember how false teachers are just as much a certainty as the gospel itself in terms of how it saves and it is Truth. On top of Jude's warning, the commentary points us to Matthew 7:15-23, 24:11,14, Acts 20:29-30, 1 Timothy 4:1-3, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, 2 Peter 2:1-3,12-22, and 1 John 2:18-23, 4:1-3.  We should be able to spot these false teachers as they focused on self vs God - the commentary shares how they: "laugh at, sneer at, and make light of God’s holiness and moral perfection. They joke about God’s righteous character and have no reverence for his purity....[and how they] [m]ock God’s law and moral precepts, these men walk according to their own ungodly lust....[and they] pursue anything that pleases their selfish desires. They live on the earthly plane, not the heavenly. They are not spiritual but carnal. For them lust is lord. Passion is their sovereign dictator." The commentary also shares how false teachers can be identified by how they cause divisions in the church and how they remain lost and Spiritless, as we are referred to Romans 8:9 and Titus 1:16.  See also my post yesterday. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who provides Truth so that I can know You, follow You, be sanctified by You, and ultimately saved by You.  Thank for these blessings and so much more!  Of course I am undeserving.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.

Jude

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. Jude 17-19

I proceed with my study of Jude using the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for this book.  Today, my study consists of a review of Jude 17-23, with a focus on an unassisted review of the first division per the commentary - vv17-19.  In light of the false teachers he warns us about in vv1-16, Jude then moves to remind believers that he is not alone in his warning of these sinful influences in our churches and in the world. Specifically, the warning offered by Peter in 2 Peter 3:3 provides near the same as that by Jude.  The world is full of sin and the church is no exception - we must be on guard for false teachers.  To guard against false teachers, we must have a hunger and thirst for righteousness (see Matthew 5:6), saturate ourselves in the Word as Paul does (see link here from Chuck Swindoll devotions), then rigorously examine the Word, including via commentary resources (see here for post on scoffers and how they are depicted throughout scripture), pastors, and our brothers and sisters in Christ in our church who sharpen us and provide Biblical insights and teaching.  We must do as the Bereans did in Acts 17 where they "received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so" (v11). 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who has provided many resources for me to understand Truth.  You provide the Word of God itself, the Holy Spirit, and many other resources such as commentaries, pastors, my church, my brothers and sisters in Christ...and so much more.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Help me serve You, my church, my family, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 6

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10

I resume my study of Ephesians via my participation in a Discipleship (D) Group that is part of my church. For this morning, I move on to Ephesians 6, looking at my initial observations of this chapter. Here we have commands for children and parents (v1-4), and for bondservants and masters (v5-9), as well as an exhortation to be strong and to "put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil" (v10-11) because believers "do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" (v12). The "whole armor of God" includes the Word, the Holy Spirit, faith, and our salvation. We are also encouraged to pray "at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication" (v18), and "to keep alert with all perseverance" (v18).  I look forward to further unpacking this chapter in the next several days.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an incredible God who loves me and who defeated sin and death for me - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of the sacrifice You made for my salvation. My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

  

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.

 Chapter 39: Pages 556-571

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13

This morning, I continued John Piper's book Providence (purchased from Amazon Kindle Store) with Part 3 "The Nature and Extent of Providence", moving to Section 8 "Providence Over Christian Living" - moving to chapter thirty-nine "God's Command-and-Warning Strategy".

Here, Piper's focus is to explore how God "see to it that his people are conformed to Christ and make it safely from conversion to glory?"  His answer is that God does this "by commanding us to engage all that we are in the wholehearted pursuit of holiness." Piper refers to how God does this as God's "command and warning strategy." We must first hold fast our faith (1 Corinthians 15:1-2, Hebrews 3:6, 12-14). We are to be "earnest, rather than cavalier, about our perseverance" (Hebrews 6:11-12). We are warned about "drifting" (Luke 8:14) and the remedy is to earnest and vigilant (Mark 13:37).  

Piper tell us that "the strategy of God's providence to make us holy is not to make us passive."  He uses 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and Matthew 5:29 to warns us about running aimlessly and to make war on lust and sin. 

We are not only to have a strong defense against sin but also a strong offense - and Piper writes this this is love. He uses 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 and 1 Corinthians 16:14 as key scriptural examples of how love is the "essence of holiness and the sum of obedience."

Piper wraps it up by stating that "God bring us to glory by commanding us to engage all that we are in the wholehearted pursuit of obedience, holiness, and love.  And he warns us that if we don't obey, we don't know God (1 John 2:4); and if we don't pursue holiness, we will not see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14); and if we don't love, we abide in death (1 John 3:14)."  This pursuit is described as "striving" and Piper wants us to see that if we are don't feel like we "agonize, struggle, fight, wrestle....we may not be living the Christian life."

Comment and discuss this post here.

My Prayer: Heavenly Father - You are a great God and worthy of my praise and sacrifice - You are a good, good Father - thank You for saving me and adopting me into Your family...and for providing for strong defenses and equipping me to pursue obedience, holiness and love.  I am not deserving of all that You have done and will do for me.  I continue to sin...worry, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

“Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”

Revelation 14-19:5

 “Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.” Revelation 16:15

Day 364 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with Revelation as I reach the final days of my chronological study of the Bible. This morning's reading focuses primarily on God's wrath of those who refused to repent of their sins to follow Him.  These people allowed themselves to be carried away by their temptations, desires and their sins with no regard to the everlasting consequences, which John now describes in detail as God's wrath is poured out.

This morning's reading includes a description of Satan as a thief who pounces on those who are not prepared or ready.  We must all be ready and submit to God.

See also John 10:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:2, and 2 Peter 3:10.

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who has sealed me for eternity and saved a place for me in Heaven.  I am not deserving of such a gift.  I worry, and I have other sins.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”

Matthew 24-25, Mark 13, Luke 21

 “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36

Day 314 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning focusing once more on the Tuesday before the crucifixion and Jesus' prophecy of the temple's destruction in 70 A.D., of the end times and how we are to be watchful and ready. 

Jesus' warning to us to be ready is core to the reading this morning.  As part of this warning, we are to live lives as God commands us and to be on guard against actions and lives that are not glorifying to God.  DesiringGod.com helps me see how Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) warns against pride.

The words "be ready", "keep watch", "be on guard", and "be alert" appear no less than six times in the NIV version of this morning's ready. 

Pride for me is certainly a sin for me to be on guard for in my life.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and You have transformed my heart and life - it has not be easy, but I am grateful for all the blessings and grace You have poured out on my life.  Thank You Jesus - I know this is more work to do and the race is not over. My sin continues and refinement and transformation continues.  Please forgive me and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.

1 Kings 11 

As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been. 1 Kings 11:4

Day 146 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with a study of Solomon's life; only now we see how Solomon's glory fades as he falls prey to worldly influences (vs Heavenly or Godly ones).  My commentary* describes how Solomon ignores "the history of earlier Israelites", and that "Solomon’s fall stands as a powerful reminder of how easy it is to turn from adoration to idolatry."

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) . Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

We must develop a daily, lifelong, personal relationship with Jesus through the spiritual disciplines of Bible study, prayer, meditation, etc.

daily bread, Daily prayer, daily time with God in study and prayer

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:10-18

We must also be wary of the influences around us and surround ourselves with Godly influences.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:8-11

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has strengthened and protected me from great harm - thank You Jesus!  I am blessed beyond what I deserve!  I know I continue to sin.  Thank You for Your incredible mercy and compassion.  I need it today and every day.  Please forgive me for my worry and other sins.  Please help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me.

Psalm 122, 124, 133, 134, 135, 136, and 138 

You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. Psalm 138:7

Day 122 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues my focus on 112 of David's psalms which my study has not already covered or will not cover through other daily devotions as part of a broader study within their historical context. This study of these 112 psalms groups the psalms into five major topical areas, and I continue today with the group: "Psalms of Joy and Praise".

Today's psalms focus on praise for Jerusalem, and the house of the Lord, for escape from enemies, for the joy of brothers living harmoniously, a call for temple servants to praise God, for the many things for which temple servants can give praise, a special poem of thanksgiving for all things, and praise for a faithful God.  A few days ago I posted on praise, and how it is a critical aspect of our relationship with God.  This morning my focus is on how we must recognize the daily battle we face against Satan and sin, and how God is our only weapon against this battle.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-17

We must no doubt praise God for how he has protected us, continues to protect us, but most importantly we must put on the "armor of God" daily so that He can protect us.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me, who has protected me and continues to protect me.  You also arm me with Your armor, the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, helmet and salvation, sword of the Spirit, and word of God - I am not deserving of how You love and protect me.  I sin...daily.  I am grateful for Your love, compassion, mercy, and protection but I need it daily!  Please forgive me for me sin and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me arm myself with what You provide to protect myself in this daily battle with sin and satan.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith.

1 Timothy 6

Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. v20-21

In his final charge of this first letter to Timothy, Paul once again returns to the theme of false teachings and teachers. The world would like us to pursue all kinds of ideas but Christ is the source of all wisdom and knowledge and anyone or anything that denies this as such and denies Christ as their Lord and Savior is destined for eternal damnation.  Similarly, those who follow the "godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge" are also destined for destruction.  

We must "be alert and of sober mind" as Satan and his minions can easily lead us astray.  Key is what earthly influences we place around us.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who protects me from harm.  Thank You Jesus for placing Godly influences in my life and for my brothers and sisters in Christ.  I know also that You will never leave or forsake me.  I am grateful.  Yet I know I am undeserving.  I sin...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

[Satan] will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing.

2 Thessalonians 2

[Satan] will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. v9-10

Paul seeks to point the Thessalonians to Jesus, as they have been led astray by false teachers claiming that Christ has already returned (rapture).  This is what Satan does - he leads people astray!  Believers must be sober and alert!

Non-believers must repent and believe for the remainder of v10-12 contains a stark warning for those who do not believe.

They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness. v10-12

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are a great God because You came to save me and others who believe!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  I often put myself first above God and above others.  Forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.