7.2 MILES

7.2 MILES

Friday, August 31, 2018

   Psalm [GW] 40:1-5 For the choir director; a psalm by David. I waited patiently for the LORD. He turned to me and heard my cry for help. He pulled me out of a horrible pit, out of the mud and clay. He set my feet on a rock and made my steps secure. He placed a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see this and worship. They will trust the LORD. Blessed is the person who places his confidence in the LORD and does not rely on arrogant people or those who follow lies. You have done many miraculous things, O LORD my God. You have made many wonderful plans for us. No one compares to you! I will tell others about your miracles, which are more than I can count.

   John 8:31-32 So Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, "If you live by what I say, you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

  The trekking began as soon as we detrailered our semi-recumbents. 7.2 miles (10 year old grandson is A Measurer.) of delightful travel ending at Doozies to dine. And the real journey blessedly continued as ever does.

  The man, John, chatted with us a bit after introductions as we stood at the order counter. As I attempted paying hr said to the cashier, “This is on me because I see good people here.” equaling blessing #1 of that moment. Blessing #2 was my awareness of Jesus’ freedom from guilt, one of Biblical maturations that I thoroughly enjoy as before knowing Him I would have felt guilty.

  How great is God’s love that changes our lives!

EBB4

HAVING SEEN PARIS

HAVING SEEN PARIS

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Ephesians MKJV 2:1-7 And He has made you alive, who were once dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience; 3 among whom we also had our way of life in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the thoughts, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love with which He loved us 5 (even when we were dead in sins) has made us alive together with Christ (by grace you are saved), 6 and has raised us up together and made us sit together in the heavenlies in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

  I awoke with 90+ year old song replaying in my head.

  I don’t pretend to having the firsthand historical experience, but living in multigenerational home I spent considerable time with someone that was there: Uncle James Robert McGee, Mom’s older brother, was a decorated thrice wounded WWI doughboy that fought as an infantryman with Appalachian hometown unit with the AEF (American Expeditionary Forces).

  Uncle Jim, especially when having a few drinks, talked and sang of his experiences in and out of the trenches. He told of walking railroad track with a lifelong friend on a beautiful day as Spring broke all around them. Suddenly his boyhood friend didn’t reply. Without sound of rifle above the singing of the birds he lie dead from stray or sniper’s round.

  The songs most embedded in my mind are Red Wing, a story of a grieving young Indian maiden (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Wing_(song); Lily Marlene ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lili_Marlene), his refrain version including “Underneath the lamppost, by the barricade”; and the this mornings wakening Tin Pan Alley song "How Ya Gonna Keep 'Em Down On the Farm After They've Seen Paree?"

  Historical fact is that many didn’t stay on the farm after WWI, the core reason not being exposure to French cuisine. As told to me by Uncle Jim, and reading historical non-fiction and fiction, it had much to do with tasting freethinking individualistic existentialism apart from common American family values. Industrial mechanization helped facilitate to-city migration led by doughboys returned from the European fray. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_United_States_(1918%E2%80%931945).

  After the about exercise in review, I pondered “But what is the real lesson here?”

  The main thought mine is that exposure to immoral philosophy surrounds us and we alone, before God, are responsible for our life.

  WWI is long since past, but its Frankish affections are still very much with us and still developing on planet earth’s spiritual battlefield. Having paramount complete combat zone intelligence, the Word of God, we know the Enemy. (Eph.2:1-7) And we certainly are aware of our fondness for the Enemy’s mess.

  In this comprehension, let us agreeably be captured by Sovereign God Almighty and not partake of sin, keeping ourselves loyal and pure. (1Tim.5:22)  EBB4

WITNESSING A SPIDER

WITNESSING A SPIDER

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Proverbs [GW] 4:23-24  Guard your heart more than anything else, because the source of your life flows from it. Remove dishonesty from your mouth. Put deceptive speech far away from your lips.

  Honesty is one of the Bible’s themes. God warns us to not lie, bear false witness, gossip, fabricate, circulate bogus tales  et al. Scripture explains the reasons why we should do so; the exercise of truthfulness pleases God and we live healthier lives.

  I thought about this as I read the OWH during morning pills and cereal. There on the front page was news of the recent killer spider stories being hoax and that USA big increase in STDs since 2013 is a fact. (Syphilis up 76%, gonorrhea up 67%, Chlamydia up 1.7M from 1.4M.)

  In one of my employee classes on ethics they posed the question as to what were we quickest to “forward” or “share” and that we can tell much about ourselves by the answer. God speaks to our hearts in many places outside of church! Even while writing or reading a page such as this one?

EBB4

APPROVAL: PROPERLY HELD DOCTRINE

APPROVAL: PROPERLY HELD DOCTRINE

Friday, April 11, 2014

John 3:1-21

  Jesus responded to Nicodemus “Are you the teacher of Israel and do not know these things? Truly, truly, I say to you, We speak what we know and testify what we have seen. And you do not receive our witness. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how shall you believe if I tell you heavenly things?”

  Were he alive today, Nicodemus name would have had many letters behind it, for he was a very learned man, an important prominent religious and political leader, and an imminent teacher of others. His lettered credentials were not however enough to meet the Lord’s approval.

  2Timothy 2:15 study unto living with God’s approval is not simply a matter of what may be commonly accepted and respected education through seminary, denomination, college, or university. It is an individual personal responsibility; a reliance that is “more noble” (Acts 17:11; Gr. higher in ranking), than unthinking dependence of formal and/or familial education.

  Nicodemus, though an erudite man, was publically personally challenged by Jesus the carpenter for relying on ingrained education in opposition to the Word. Reviewing John 3:1-21 I see:

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth it is impossible for man to properly understand life and death.

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth we cannot have the mind that Paul tells of. (1Cor.2:15-16; 2Tim.1:7)

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth there is no hope of proper thinking aligned with the mind of God.

·         Proper religion is not physical.

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth God’s man cannot properly participate in His kingdom now or forever. (Read Mt.7:23 in context.)

·         Though publically recognized for some mastery . . . get over it, get beyond it, depend on the Omniscient One!

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth we easily misunderstand decision making. (Muslims are Muslims because they are born in Muslim culture. Christians are Christian because they are born in a Christian culture. Americans are free. Et al)

·         Without John 3:3 spiritual rebirth we easily improperly relate our thinking to worldly criteria in opposition to thinking in and according to God’s Word.

·         Did you really personally study Scripture? If you had, you would have seen Me. (Much of what Jesus said during His ministry here is from the Old Testament.)

·         You need not continuing looking forward to the Messiah, I am Him . . . trust me, live now!

·         Until you are born again, just as with all men you remain dead in sin. Jn.3:18

·         When born again through trusting Me, you will never perish, with eternal life now and forever.

·         Men never have God’s redemption on their own standing; our charity, good works, morality.

·         Men reject light, redemption, because they prefer, love, darkness (Gr. Shadiness/obscurity).

·         If we are really interested in the truth, we are openly so. (Closet Christian or Rom.10:9-11?)

  But what of Nicodemus’ credentials after his visit with Jesus?

  Later he defended Jesus in a meeting with the other Sanhedrin discussing what to do about their Jesus problem. But he did so in careful timid “by night” manner, only bringing out point of Jewish law. (Jn.7:50-52) Then after the crucifixion Nicodemus left the shadows and made a very public statement as to where he stood with Jesus. (Jn.19:39)

  And what of us in this era of cracked pulpits, Hollywood, TV, literary, water cooler and barstool mythology? How do we converse? (2Tim.2:1-4; Tit.2:18)  EBB4

A STUDY OF APPROVAL

A STUDY OF APPROVAL

Thursday, April 10, 2014

2Timothy [KJV] 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

1Peter [GW] 2:2-11a Desire God's pure word as newborn babies desire milk. Then you will grow in your salvation. … you are chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, people who belong to God. You were chosen to tell about the excellent qualities of God, who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not God's people, but now you are. Once you were not shown mercy, but now you have been shown mercy. Dear friends, since you are foreigners and temporary residents in the world, …

  Just how much study of His Word is required for His approval? The requirement to study is the same for every follower of Christ. (Rom.12:1-3) In action it is not however exactly one model: Always same toolbox, Sola Scriptura, but according to spiritual and service gifts of individual workman diverse in hand.

  I begin by using hermeneutical principle of immediate context of 2Timothy 2:15.

·         In 2:2 we see we are to learn enough to be able to meaningfully with intelligence pass knowledge and wisdom on to others that will do the same.

·         In 2:14 we see we are to be learned enough to remind our fellows of what is truly profitable now and for eternity.

·         In 2:15 we see we are to be learned enough to make correct sense out of God’s Word.

·         In 2:16a we see we should be learned enough to quickly settle useless foolish discussions.

·         In 2:16b we see we should be learned enough to stop short those that do not contribute to godliness in living. Barnes comments “A man fond of contention in religious things is seldom one who has much love for the practical duties of piety, or any very deep sense of the distinction between right and wrong. You will not usually look for him in the place of prayer, nor can you expect his aid in the conversion of sinners, nor will you find that he has any very strict views of religious obligation.” I well remember a group arguing about how many angels would fit on the head of a pin!

  Again using another principle of hermeneutics, the larger text of Scripture:

·         In Ecclesiastes 12:13 we see we are to fear God and live by His Wisdom in service. Can we do so without studying what He tells us? No.

·         In Leviticus 10:11; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 11:9 we see we’re are to teach our children. Can we do so without knowing the subject matter? No.

·         In Matthew 4:4 Jesus tells us we cannot live comprehensive healthy lives without ingesting the Word.

·         In Matthew 11:29 we see we are to learn of and from Jesus. Can we do so without studying His record of His life? No.

·         In Mark 16:15 we see that only with studying the Word can we know what is needed to be said. (This was the great failure of the 1925 Scopes trial, the winners looking like a bunch of emotionally charged monkeys swinging far from holding forth with a Biblical discipline [apologetics] of defending their position through the systematic use of information and proofs as Answers In Genesis and others do currently.)

·         In 1Corinthians 13 we see we must learn the truth of love else we in adolescent manner think and act, and thereby represent ungodly love. (Especially note 13:11.)

·         In Ephesians 6:10-17 we see our protection involving the Word of God. Does He provide our armor and instruction for donning? Yes. Does He dress us? No.

·         In 2Timothy 3:16-17 we see that it is the Word that equips us to properly serve God and our fellows. Can we follow instructions that we don’t know? No. (Did you ever hear the story about the man that always read the manufacturer’s manual before assembling something?)

·         In 2Timothy 4:2 we see we are to develop capability of being resourceful in sharing God’s Word. Can this be done authentically without study? No.

·         In Titus 2:1-15 we see we are to teach others commendable living and be just such an example before them. Can we do so if don’t study what God says this should be? In part, yes. (Romans chapter 1 & 2; note 2:14-15.) Toward furtherance of completely, no.

·         In John 8:32 and James 1:25 we see that only by knowing the Word can we enjoy true liberty. (Note Ps.119)

  Whew! After all the effort searching, reading, pondering, writing, editing several times, I feel like a workman. However, is the work done? I think not for I’m sure I missed a few points that only further (Or is it “farther” in this case?) diligence may uncover. Does this mean 2Timothy 2:25 is a matter of continuing education? Yes, there’s no retirement plan . . . unless one considers the fact that in retirement we have more time to ….

EBB4

MATURATION REQUIRES REVIEW

MATURATION REQUIRES REVIEW

Sunday, August 26, 2018

Ecclesiastes [GW] 1:9-10 Whatever has happened before will happen again. Whatever has been done before will be done again. There is nothing new under the sun. Can you say that anything is new? It has already been here long before us.

  For me study and meditation includes reviewing Scripture, rereading books and articles, notes taken, and DTs I or others have contributed. Usually done privately, sometimes sharing as reruns. From this practice I profit. I pray you too will benefit from reruns.

EBB4

APPROVED BY THE MASTER

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

2Timothy [KJV] 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

  Several of you responded to the question of: Just how much study of His Word is required for His approval? As promised, here are the insightful commentaries received thus far.

“Do we need to know everything?  My answer to this is based on my recent work experience - buying and running a bicycle shop.  What did I know about bicycles?  I knew they had two wheels and that people can ride them.  That was the extent of my knowledge.  Now, after two years, I know a front derailleur from a rear one, I know three pivot points on a full suspension mountain bike and I can fit you for a good pair of bike shoes.  I have learned these things by studying and learning from others.  I will continue to study, but will never know everything.  My goal is to be able to teach others about bicycles, but right now I don't know enough.  If I tried to teach someone, I could give them bad information that could actually be dangerous.  Am I approved?  I know my employees appreciate that I'm trying to learn and that I don't overstep my knowledge and pretend to know things that I don't.  I believe God appreciates that we are trying to learn and that we understand we will never know it all.  Cheri” (NV)

“The supreme purpose of knowing the scriptures is to know Christ. We’ve all known people who know the letter of the word but who don’t know Christ or who live very unlike Him. By feeding and meditating on the word, we are better able to digest it and know Him more fully. We teach not only by our words, but by the example we set. Ed, we appreciate your example that puts power behind what you teach. “Knowing everything” is not possible this side of heaven, but by God’s grace, we can know Him. What a privilege!  Mary” (NE)

“If we had to know everything in order to gain our Lord's approval, none of us would be approved.  No one knows "everything" except the Lord.  How much qualifies us as approved is subjective, I think.  It's like knowing about computers.  If I know three things about a computer that the guy next to me doesn't know; to him, I appear a genius.  As far as being approved by the Lord, only the blood of Christ approves us, not what we know.
I miss Mom [Darlene] too.  She would have given a much better, entailed answer.  Penny” (NE)

  I will soon publish my thoughts on the question.  EBB4

USEFUL?

USEFUL?

Friday, August 24, 2018

   Matthew 4:4  But he [Jesus] answered and said, It is written [Deut.8:3], Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. [Lk.4:4]

   2Timothy 3:16-17  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

  There are truths that we may not like to hear. This includes the hard sayings of Jesus.

  Dad taught me that being and feeling useful is *healthy motivation. In my third decade I noted that Jesus had important words on the matter.

Matthew 21:18-21  Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered. And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

  It is a shame to not give forth the whole counsel of God.  This includes all of Jesus’ teachings, not just the nice ones. We should tell of the great risk of not being useful. We should grieve for those who have no desire to be useful serving God and mankind in His Way.

  I always liked being and feeling useful. After trusting Jesus as personal Redeemer the why and how of the practice changed and is still being altered. (The Lord’s people may be useful to our Lord until our last breath.)

EBB4

*He also taught me that being a people-pleaser in order to feel useful is unhealthy.

QUALIFICATION FOR BLESSEDNESS

QUALIFICATION FOR BLESSEDNESS

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Romans [MKJV] 12:1-3 I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be right-minded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.

  Trusting Jesus as Redeemer we are given power to be the sons and daughters of God. “But as many as received Him, He gave to them authority to become the children of God, to those who believe on His name, who were born, not of bloods, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but were born of God.” (Jn.1:12)

  Qualifying for blessedness beyond salvation deliverance is a separate area. This we know from reading about unforgiveness begetting unforgiveness (Mt.6:12-15; 18:35; Mk.11:25-26; Lk.6:37) and God resisting resisters (1Pet.5:5). To help understand this Pastor Paul challenged us to read Psalm 145. I’m certain he wants more than reading, but is praying and hoping for Romans 12:1-3 changes in thought, decidedness and resultant deeds.

Psalm 145:1 I will lift You up, my God, O King; and I will bless Your name forever and ever.

2 Every day I will bless You; and I will praise Your name forever and ever.

3  Great is Jehovah, and greatly to be praised; and there is no searching out His greatness.

4  One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.

5  I will speak of the glorious honor of Your majesty, and of Your wonderful works.

6  And men shall speak of the might of Your awesome works; and I will declare Your greatness.

7  They shall pour forth the memory of Your great goodness, and shall sing of Your righteousness.

8  Jehovah is gracious and full of pity; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

9  Jehovah is good to all; and His tender mercies are over all His works.

10  All Your works shall praise You, O Jehovah; and Your saints shall bless You.

11  They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom and talk of Your power,

12  to make known to the sons of men His mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of His kingdom.

13  Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your rule endures throughout all generations.

14  Jehovah upholds all who fall, and raises up all those bowed down.

15  The eyes of all wait on You; and You give them their food in due season.

16  You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.

17  Jehovah is righteous in all His ways and holy in all His works.

18  Jehovah is near all those who call on Him, all those who call on Him in truth [‘emeth].

19  He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry, and will save them.

20  Jehovah watches over all those who love Him; but all the wicked He will destroy.

21  My mouth shall speak the praise of Jehovah; and let all flesh bless His holy name forever and ever.

  This is a wonderful Psalm about God blessing His family. However, in verse 18 I noticed a requirement: Examining the word “truth” I discovered Hebrew ‘emeth means to be firm in living continually in stable reliability in testimony and judgments (decision making) according to divine instruction.

  Thinking on this truth about truth, my mind shifted to the fact that Jesus was constantly referring to and explaining the Old Testament. When He said know the truth and it will set you free (Jn.8:32), was he including Psalm 145? I say definitely.

  Deciding that blessedness is never to be the goal, but is outcome of pleasing God, I see I need to put more surrender into reliability and decision making according to God’s Truth.  EBB4

UNEQUIVOCAL FREEDOM

UNEQUIVOCAL FREEDOM

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

   Isaiah [MKJV] 26:1-4 In that day this song shall be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; He sets up salvation as our walls and banks. Open the gates, and the righteous nation shall enter in, keeping faithfulness. You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You; because he trusts in You.

Trust in Jehovah forever; for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.

   John 8:31-34 Then Jesus said to the Jews who believed on Him, If you continue in My Word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered Him, We are Abraham's seed and were never in bondage to anyone. How do you say, You will be made free? Jesus answered them, Truly, truly, I say to you, Whoever practices sin is the slave of sin.

   John 16:29-33 The disciples said to Him, Lo, now You speak plainly and speak no parable. Now we know that You know all things and do not need that anyone should ask You. By this we believe that You have come forth from God. Jesus answered them, Do you now believe? Behold, the hour comes, yea, has now come, that you will be scattered, each man to his own things, and you will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. I have spoken these things to you so that you might have peace in Me. In the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.

  Yesterday I shared my morning ponderance of God’s peace may be ours . . . if we are submissively agreeable with Him. This morning I awoke thinking of His freedom is inseparable from His peace. They are not two separate traits.

  In particular I think of contrary worry, anxiety as a practiced sin; sin being any way other that the Way. There is no half-Way, a stumbling struggling kinda-sorta living in freedom and peace. This is conclusion I’ve arrived at through prayerfully reading and studying the whole counsel of God, His Word. There is no fence to straddle as we see ourselves in the light of His Truth. I turn to James [3:11-18] and consider the wisdom therein: “Does a fountain send forth at the same hole the sweet and the bitter? Can the fig tree, my brothers, bear olive berries; or a vine, figs? So no fountain can yield both salt water and fresh. Who is wise and knowing among you? Let him show his works by his good conduct with meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and strife in your hearts, do not glory and lie against the truth. This is not the wisdom coming down from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife are, there is confusion and every foul deed. But the wisdom that is from above is first truly pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”

  The availability of God’s peace and freedom does not automatically make them ours. As with all else He offers they must be accepted, embraced, and implemented.

EBB4

CANNOT GO HOME

CANNOT GO HOME

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

  The person was bemoaning life, saying “If only we could go back to Eden!”

  Two reasons we cannot.

1.       Even if it was agreed upon where it is, because of Adam’s lack of obedience we cannot.

2.       What with our many times greater than Adam’s knowledge of good and evil, hah!

  As followers of Christ we do however have His peace available for the taking.

   Psalm 34:14 Turn away from evil, and do good. Seek peace, and pursue it!

   Psalm 119:165 There is lasting peace for those who love your teachings. Nothing can make those people stumble.

   Proverbs 3:1-5 My son, do not forget my teachings, and keep my commands in mind, because they will bring you long life, good years, and peace. Do not let mercy and truth leave you. Fasten them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and much success in the sight of God and humanity. Trust the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.

   Proverbs 3:17-18 Wisdom's ways are pleasant ways, and all its paths lead to peace. Wisdom is a tree of life for those who take firm hold of it. Those who cling to it are blessed.

   Isaiah 26:3  With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you.

   John 14:27  "I'm leaving you peace. I'm giving you my peace. I don't give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don't be troubled or cowardly.

   Philippians 4:4-9  Always be joyful in the Lord! I'll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable. Practice what you've learned and received from me, what you heard and saw me do. Then the God who gives this peace will be with you.

   Colossians 3:12 -17 As holy people whom God has chosen and loved, be sympathetic, kind, humble, gentle, and patient. Put up with each other, and forgive each other if anyone has a complaint. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Above all, be loving.This ties everything together perfectly. Also, let Christ's peace control you. God has called you into this peace by bringing you into one body. Be thankful. Let Christ's word with all its wisdom and richness live in you. Use psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to teach and instruct yourselves about God's kindness. Sing to God in your hearts. Everything you say or do should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

  Returning to Eden is impossible. Living in personal peace in this chaotic world is not. It is however conditional, depending on our accepting in compliance or rejecting His peace in favor of this world’s peace (Jn.14:27). No different than in Eden, it is our choice.

EBB4

CYMBALIC SELFISHNESS

CYMBALIC SELFISHNESS

Sunday, August 19, 2018

1Corinthians [NLT] 13:1-1  If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.

   Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

   Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless.

   When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.

   Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.

  4:12am I awoke again pondering patience. This bout in light of God’s Truth spelled out in 1Corinthians 13, in particular that patient charitable love is contrary to ego-centric impatience; plus the fact that we may have deep emotional affection for a person(s) and yet not exercise patient charitable love for them.

To serve Him all our days in all ways,

EBB4

PATIENCE STORIES

PATIENCE STORIES

Friday, August 17, 2018

  A week ago I invited all of you to share your stories on patience. Here are the responses.

EBB4

P.: The only philosophy I have concerning patience is…never ask God to teach you patience or give you patience.  No doubt he will do so by making you practice the art of waiting.  

M.: Love it! Ed.  An old Mary & Wendy song about patience titled "Instant Breakfast", came to mind...  Last line of song reads: "Give me the patience...I want it NOW!!!” God bless!!!

C.: Dear Wise One, I think the better translation is “Longsuffering” not patience!! Once again your words have been a blessing to me.  I will try to be brief. 

   My husband and I had a thriving construction business, he was a scratch golfer, worked out regularly, our children were grown, and we had purchased a house on a golf course in Arizona.  Our “Plan” was to work a few more years to pay for the Arizona house, and then winter there.

   However, on June 6^th 2014 he went in for a minor surgery.  The doctor made a mistake that caused disabling injuries to his leg.  Since that day, we have had 7 surgeries,  and are waiting on the 8^th.  Because of this:

-He became unable to work, we lost the business

-He was not able to golf, so his 25 year golf membership was cancelled

-I found employment after the business closed for income and insurance, but eventually had to quit work to care for him

-He continues to suffer from chronic pain, he had been unable to sleep, cannot tolerate a bed,  and has been in a recliner for 4 years.  I sleep on the couch next to him for emotional support and to care for him. 

-We used to be very involved with our 7 grandchildren, but  we have been unable to participate in their activities, or take them out socially.  Too painful for my husband.

   So, Longsuffering.   YES.  Faith tester.  YES.  Lots of tears.  YES. 

   My thoughts are that you cannot practice or experience patience without the following:

-Faith in God.  Believing that God is in control and loves us. 

-Prayer

-Daily bible study – reading his word or devotions to keep us connected to God

-A church family – They have been my rock and support

-Listening to Christian music  i.e.  KLOVE / KGBI

  Although I don’t understand, I know God’s word is true, and have learned that I have no choice but to patiently wait.  As you pointed out, many in the Bible waited years for Gods plan to be complete.  It is his timing, not ours.  Putting our lives in his hands, and knowing his timing is perfect, gives me the strength to be patient.  Blessings    

Heather: Being PATIENT & WAITING is only one side of the challenge I see.  The other is recognizing which situations/moments are these TRIALS/TRIBULATIONS/VISIONS and which are simply situations/moments that WE ARE BETTER SERVED STEPPING AWAY from.  

Prayer... Reflection... Past Experiences... Seeking Counsel...

DK: My husband used to have the most terrible road rage!  I used to dread car trips with him and suffered terrible nightmares of him killing us in a car accident before each road trip. Now, that he has cancer and the road rage is completely gone!!!  God has cleansed him of this terrible sin!  Praise the Lord!

  However, God is still working on my husband’s unforgiving heart.  He loves to hold grudges against his family...mainly with his sister.  He is so mean to her.  He doesn’t like when I send her beautiful birthday cards and money.  He flew into a tantrum when he saw the beautiful card I made for her and he refused to sign it!  Oye vey!

  Last time we visited my husband’s sister, he made her cry.  He told her she going to get cancer for being fat and smoking.  Recently, she had a blood test that indicates a possible cancer.  Her circulation to her organs is failing and her hip is dying.  She has to use a walker to get around.  She got scared and cut down on smoking... plus, she lost a lot of weight.  She was “obese” according to her doctor on the disability paperwork.  Now, she is going to some kind of therapy to help her with her addictions and it’s working!  Praise the Lord!

   I hope my husband’s cancer goes into remission and we can get up North to visit everyone.  I would love to see my husband hug his sister.  I have never seen him do that.  He just bad mouthed her every chance he got, and he said she ruined his childhood.  This relationship needs to heal as God is love, and if you can’t forgive and love people, Jesus won’t let you into His Kingdom!  Please pray that this relationship heals.  Thank you!

  When my husband takes Holy Communion he is asking God for help.  He is terribly afraid of death and of going to hell/purgatory.  (His family and his godfather are Catholic so they talk about purgatory.).  He told me the Book of Revelations states you cannot enter Heaven unless you’re an overcomer.  So, God is working on him removing all his addictive sins that he never could get rid of on his own.  Thank you Jesus!

Love In Christ,

S: Other than you the person I think of who has shown the most growth in demonstrating patience is R.B., a recovering drug addict and felon.  After M. was incarcerated she patiently stood by him while he was in prison. She no longer uses drugs, attends recovery meetings daily and has a good job.  Every time I talk with her I am amazed at how much she has grown spiritually.  She is patiently waiting for M. and will be a very positive influence on him when he gets there.

Anonymous; Two persons confessed to impatience when they hear longtime Christians use non-Christian terms such as “Karma” “The universe has been good to me today.” “I check my horoscope every morning.” “I hope the force is with me today.” “Good luck!”

ILLUSTRATING THE EXPENSE OF IMPATIENCE: THE PARABLE OF THE SHOES

ILLUSTRATING THE EXPENSE OF IMPATIENCE: THE PARABLE OF SHOES

Thursday, August 16, 2018

   James [GW] 1:14 Everyone is tempted by his own desires as they lure him away and trap him.

   1John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

  Gertrude and Norman attended the same high school as Sabrina. But they were drastically different in culture and were deemed so by Sabrina’s “My people.” Sabrina and her people were the epitome of fun and fashion. They cruelly labeled Gertrude the Geek and Norman the Nerd.

  Though close intellectual pal with Gertrude, Norman longed for Sabrina. He dreamed of someday marrying her and being happy ever after. This was not what happened. Sabrina married the captain of their school football team.

  Norman and Gertrude graduated with high honors, and after completing college soon decided “Hey, why not continue our closeness in marriage.” It wasn’t long before their home included 3 cerebral analytical children. All went well, organized, high bracket earnings, mortgage soon paid off et al. Nice.

  Sabrina and Jack never got over high school. Party and vacation were two top words in their vocabulary, which of course included “worrisome debt”.

  Norman saw Sabrina at the supermarket one day staring at a head of lettuce and his old sappy teen feelings for her surged. Though he didn’t acknowledge his presence, Norman developed the habit of driving by her house on the way to and from his business. His constant brain refrain being “I wish I was in Jack’s shoes!”

  Though warned about the effect of his affection for booze, Jack ceased not. Though only 35, he died.

  Reading Jack’s obituary Norman formulated a plan. First he espied Sabrina’s routines. Then he timed happenchance encounters while meanwhile eroding his marriage. Then there was that first cup of coffee carefully followed by using his wealth to wine, dine, clad, and transport Sabrina. Then he informed weary Gertrude that he was having an affair and didn’t love her any more. He quickly had his lawyer, a groupie lower classman from high school, draw up a lucrative divorce agreement that Gertrude readily agreed to.

  Sabrina soon thereafter agreed to marry Norman. He spent freely setting up a palatial lifestyle, even giving away his large collection of books and literature.

  After a few months Norman began driving by the cemetery morning and evening, repeating “I wish I was in Jack’s shoes!”

EBB4, James 4:1-10

THE EXPENSE OF IMPATIENCE

THE EXPENSE OF IMPATIENCE

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

   Psalm [GW] 40 I waited patiently for the LORD. He turned to me and heard my cry for help. He pulled me out of a horrible pit, out of the mud and clay. He set my feet on a rock and made my steps secure. He placed a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see this and worship. They will trust the LORD. Blessed is the person who places his confidence in the LORD …

  I keep thinking it’s time to start pondering another topic, and discover it is not . . . this itself revealing impatience on my part. I recall disciplinarians saying “We’re done when I say we’re done!” and so it is with God’s Holy Spirit.

  I awoke this morning again thinking about the expense of impatience. Not so much about the costs still invisible to us, but the ones we now know about, some of which are under the heading of our hearing “If you had just waited I planned on …..” Those regrettable grievous times we immaturely thought we couldn’t endure waiting! Those tribulations of our own making that we now learn from.

  Let us consider these things, apply, and thereby bless the Lord.

EBB4

ULTIMATE PATIENCE

ULTIMATE PATIENCE

Tuesday, August 14, 2018

   Exodus 34:5-7 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. [Num.14:18; Ps.86:15; 2Pet.3:8-9]

   2Corinthians 6:1-10 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. [Gal.5:22-26; Eph.4:1-6; Col.1:11; 3:12-17]

  How can we identify ultimate patience in two single related words? God. Godliness.

  God, in that He Himself declares, others affirm, and we enjoy.

  Godliness as we followers of Christ emulate and exemplify patience.

EBB4

EYEBALLING PATIENCE

EYEBALLING PATIENCE

Monday, August 13, 2018

Romans [GW] 5:1-5 Now that we have God's approval by faith, we have peace with God because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done. Through Christ we can approach God and stand in his favor. So we brag because of our confidence that we will receive glory from God. But that's not all. We also brag when we are suffering. We know that suffering creates endurance [KJV “patience”], endurance creates character, and character creates confidence. We're not ashamed to have this confidence, because God's love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. [Also note “steadfastness” in James 1:1-4]

  I’m still pondering patience.

  Patience very much often involves our tense contrariness in what we can’t see and our thereby becoming impatient and missing what is not yet in sight. A cure? A career improvement? Opportunity(s)? Accrued benefits? (Rom.5:1-5)

  Andre’e Sue Peterson says she sees “Waiting is the laboratory of the godly character. We have it all backward when we think our best times are our happy and successful times. It’s just the opposite. I have nothing against happiness and success, but nobody ever learned much by them.”

  My dear Pennsylvania Dutch Aunt Edith often stated “The hurrieder I go the behinder I get!”

  This is absolutely true in my history. I learned some through happiness and success. I learned much more through difficulties, sadness and failures.

  And you?

EBB4

PS. Don’t forget your opportunity to minister to others by sharing what you’ve learned about patience and/or your experiences getting there and/or living therein. I’ll publish your responses this Friday.

YOUR PATIENCE STORY?

YOUR PATIENCE STORY?

Friday, August 10, 2018

Galatians 5:22 [ASV] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness,

  Once again I’m presenting the opportunity for you to glorify God and blessedly edify others, this man included. Please do so by sending me your or another person’s before & after story of godly growth in patience. I will publish them next Friday August 17^th or thereafter.

To serve Him all our days,

EBB4

GALATIANS 5:22 PATIENCE AND YOU, ME, AND GOD

GALATIANS 5:22 PATIENCE AND YOU, ME, AND GOD

Thursday, August 9, 2018

(ASV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

(CEV)  God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful,

(ESV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

(GW)  But the spiritual nature produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

(ISV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

(KJV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

(LITV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith,

(MKJV)  But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith,

(Webster)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

(YLT)  And the fruit of the Spirit is: Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith,

  Have you ever followed an impatient driver with a fish symbol on their bumper? Or acted out intolerance while sitting forward of such a declarative sticker? Or, far from a roadbed ….

  John 3:3 born-again believers are indwelt with God’s Holy Spirit. (Rom.8:1-2, 9, 16; 1Cor.3:16; 6:19; 2Cor.1:22; Eph.1:13)

  It is important to note that Galatians 5:22 doesn’t say “fruits”. The list of desirable characteristics is not separate entities. They are “fruit”. A cluster indicating God’s indwelling Spirit unquenched. (Rom.8:5) The lack of any one or several of the interrelated qualities reveals that we are quenching God’s Spirit within us. (Rom.8:5; Gal.5:16-17; Eph.4:30; 1Thes.5:19)

  If and when we are impatient we are quenching God’s Spirit within us.

EBB4