THINKING BIBLICALLY Friday November 30, 2018

THINKING BIBLICALLY Friday, November 30, 2018

John [ESV] 15:5  I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

  Everyone has a worldview! Again, what is a worldview? It is our composite personal beliefs by which we interpret and judge reality and act accordingly. Put another way, a person’s worldview shows in their purpose in life. For instance: If we believe the world (or their family) owes us a living we will act accordingly expecting largesse, reacting in resentment if not received. Or if believing living should always be fun, then so do we strive in planning and doing. I’m sure that when candid we know of these attitudes in ourselves and by observing (or loving) others.

  Drug addicts do not set out to be addicts. They have other than a Biblical worldview that influences and determines their lifestyle. I have been blessed in seeing some of them submissively acquire a life-changing Biblical worldview with sobriety opening healthy opportunities.

  I’ve been blessed in observing seriously angry men learn of and submit to a Biblical worldview and gain a reasonable demeanor.

  Ann had seen women walk away from a sordid lifestyle when they developed a Biblical worldview.

  In denial of our need for a life-altering Biblical worldview we may say “But we are not those people.” and temporarily fool ourselves. I pray that I/we do not do so for the façade will not stand before the Lord’s scrutiny. (Heb.9:27)

  Personally shouldn’t we confess with Paul that though “I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.” (ESV 1Cor.4:4-5)

EBB4

THINKING BIBLICALLY Thursday November 29, 2018

THINKING BIBLICALLY Thursday, November 29, 2018

John 13:14-17, 34-35  If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.

Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. … A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

  In reading THINK BIBLICALLY list of contributors and the preface acknowledging secretaries and others I am again reminded that I/we cannot acquire or maintain a Biblical Worldview alone. Being a lone wolf makes for a meager diet or starvation. Then there’s the matter dirty feet.

EBB4

THINKING BIBLICALLY Wednesday November 28, 2018

THINKING BIBLICALLY Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Romans [ESV] 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

  One of the books I’m presently reading is THINK BIBLICALLY, done by the Master’s College faculty with John MacArthur as the general editor.  Why am I reading yet more writings on the topic? Because though my worldview is Christ-centered and Bible-based I am not yet mature enough in this area and know that my Lord and Paul said seeking maturity is an ongoing lifetime endeavor! (Mt.5:48; Rom.12:1-2; 2Tim.2:15)

  At the center of Biblical worldview studies is Romans 12:2, without which the understanding submissive implementation of there is no such worldview held. Indeed it is quite possible to read and quote God’s Word and yet not attain or hold to a Biblical worldview. (2Tim.3:7) It is even possible to donate in many ways and yet not hold a Biblical worldview. (Hos.6:6; Mt.7:22-24; Epistle of 1^st John, Hebrews) This I know and the conviction motivates me.

  In the days ahead I’ll be sharing personal reminders from THINK BIBLICALLY, first of all upon me, and then with you.

To serve Him all our days,

EBB4

PS. One of my early Christian mentors warned me that too often we sacrifice our convictions on the altar of convenience.

WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW?

What is a Christian Worldview?

[Aired on Daily Thoughts Tuesday, November 27, 2018]

By S. Michael Houdmann, Got Questions Ministries

It drives me crazy how inconsistent many Christians are with their worldview. Many Christians claim to believe in God and to trust the Bible as being God’s Word, yet, as soon as the Christian worldview stands in the way of something they want to do, it gets thrown out the window, only to be recovered the next time it becomes convenient. This is the lukewarm faith Jesus spoke of in Revelation 3:16. I, too, would rather have people be hot or cold. If they are hot, I am ready to partner with them in declaring and living the truth. If they are cold, I am ready to attempt to reach them by speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). If they are lukewarm…(insert disgusting vomiting sound here).
  A worldview is, simply, how we view the world. Our worldview impacts every area of our lives, sometimes purposefully in that we intentionally base our decisions on it, and sometimes ignorantly in that it impacts us even when we are not consciously thinking about it. Our worldview is a core set of beliefs/values that determines how we view everything else in life. The core of a worldview is made up of the answers to the following questions: (1) Why are we here? (2) What is wrong with the world? (3) Can it be fixed? A Christian worldview would answer the questions: (1) God created us. (2) Sin. (3) Yes, through Jesus Christ.
  God created us for a purpose. God created us in His image so that He could have a meaningful relationship with us. God designed us so that we would be ideal stewards over His creation. This aspect of a Christian worldview impacts how we view and treat other people. Does human life have any value? Should human life be treated different than other forms of life? Why should I be loving, kind, and compassionate towards other people? We were created in order to have a relationship with God. Life has no true meaning of value without that relationship. Yet, so many treat God as an afterthought, something you talk about one day a week.
  Sin is what is wrong with the world. This world, as wonderful and amazing as it still is, is completely screwed up. It is not completely what God intended it to be. While it still contains beauty, and still provides what we need for life – it is a warped and faded image of what God created. We brought sin and evil into the world. We are responsible for all that is wrong in the world. We are completely messed up and infected with a deadly plague (Romans 3:10-23). We are the problem, not the solution. This aspect of a Christian worldview should humble us and keep us from pride and arrogance. The world does not revolve around us. If it did, it would be upside-down, spinning backwards, and shaped like a rotten potato with all those nasty-looking sprouts coming out of it.
  God is the solution. God became a human being (John 1:1,14), lived a perfect life, taught us the truth, and died to pay the penalty for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus’ resurrection proved that His mission was successful. Through Jesus Christ, our lives can be redeemed and restored. Through Jesus Christ, one day, the universe and everything in it will be restored to glory and perfection. Through faith in Jesus Christ, all of our sins can be forgiven and we can have our heavenly eternal destiny secured. Do you see the pattern? It is all about Jesus! We are the problem, Jesus is the solution. Jesus accomplished it all and offers it to us as a gift, if we will just receive it. How could such a tremendous sacrifice not completely shape our worldview? How could such an amazing gift not be the basis for how and why we live our lives?
  Whether it is your marriage, your job, your politics, your hobbies, your morals, or your desires, your worldview should be the foundation. Nothing in your life should be separated from the fact that you are a Christian, a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ. If the Christian worldview is true, it demands our all. We should be on fire for God. If the Christian worldview is false, it should be completely ignored. We should be as cold as the south pole. There is no room for remaining lukewarm. It is spewage

EVERYONE IN HIS PLACE

EVERYONE IN HIS PLACE

Judges 7:21 And they stood every man in his place round about the camp: and all the host ran, and cried, and fled.

  As a young boy, just reaching adulthood, D.H. helped his father farm and as he drove the tractor he wondered what he was supposed to do with his life. When he was older he answered God’s call to foreign missions in the agricultural field.

  Years later in Peru he led a man and his wife to Christ. They, with David’s help, led their entire village to Christ and a church was started.

  The couple’s daughter, who had immigrated to the United States, told David she had prayed for years for someone to come to her village and tell them about Christ. When she and David compared dates they discovered that her prayers had started during the time he was riding the tractor and wondering where his place in life was to be.

Leslie Nivens

# 7 of Ten Reasons Why I Believe The Bible Is The Word Of God by R. A. Torrey

# 7 of Ten Reasons Why I Believe The Bible Is The Word Of God by R. A. Torrey

There is more power in that little book to save men, and purify, gladden and beautify their lives, than in all other literature put together-more power to lift men up to God. A stream never rises higher than its source, and a book that has a power to lift men up to God that no other book has, must have come down from God in a way that no other book was.

I have in mind as I write a man who was the most complete victim of strong drink I ever knew; a man of marvelous intellectual gifts, but who had been stupefied and brutalized and demonized by the power of sin, and he was an infidel. At last the light of God shone into his darkened heart, and by the power of that book he has been transformed into one of the humblest, sweetest, noblest men I know to-day.

What other book would have done that? What other book has the power to elevate not only individuals but communities and nations that this book has?

PS. Possibly some of you will share life-change that DAILY THOUGHTS readers in need will be edified? “Anonymous” is OK signature. Please share the Lord’s story in your life and I’ll publish in the future.  Thank you.  EBB4

Compellingtruth.org on worldview

Compellingtruth.org on worldview

Friday, November 23, 2018

  The term "worldview" is used to describe a core set of values and principles through which the world is understood. A worldview is a compilation of an individual's perceptions of the world, essentially the way a person understands reality. A person's worldview is very important, as it impacts virtually every decision in life. A specifically Christian worldview, then, would be viewing the world through a Christian/biblical lens. A Christian worldview is one in which the Bible is formative.
  A worldview must come to grips with the three following questions: (1) Where did we come from and why are we here? (2) Why is there something terribly wrong with the world? (3) Can what is wrong with the world be fixed? Different worldviews answer these three core questions very differently. Let's contrast the Christian worldview with the naturalistic worldview on the three questions.
  A naturalistic worldview would answer the three questions as follows: (1) We are the result of purposeless acts of nature. (2) We are what is wrong with the world, as we do not respect nature. (3) The world can be saved through environmentalism, conservation, and us coming to terms with our true nature. Common philosophies that come from a naturalistic worldview are moral/cultural relativism, existentialism, nihilism, and utopianism.
  In contrast, a Christian worldview attempts to answer the three questions biblically: (1) God created humanity in His image so that we could have a meaningful relationship with Him and put us on the planet to rule over it (Genesis 1:27-29, 2:15). (2) We sinned against God, subjecting ourselves and the world to the curse of evil, decay, and death (Genesis 3; Romans 8:22). (3) God became a human being and sacrificed Himself to pay the penalty for sin and to one day restore creation to a perfect state (John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Revelation 21–22). A Christian worldview should result in an adherence to moral absolutes and to belief in miracles, the value of human life, and the possibility of forgiveness/redemption.
  A worldview is comprehensive in its impact. Our worldview affects everything we do, whether we recognize it or not. Our worldview affects how we spend money, how we treat our spouses and children, who we vote for, how we treat nature, what we choose to do with our time. A true and complete Christian worldview is not something that can exist only at church on Sundays. There is no separating a Christian worldview from everyday life. Jesus Himself is to be our worldview (John 14:6). Forming our worldview on His life and teachings is the only way to navigate through this world. That is what a Christian worldview is all about.

Read more: http://www.compellingtruth.org/Christian-worldview.html#ixzz2gfhTuniJ

DRUMSTICKS

THANKSGIVING IS NOT A DRUMSTICK

Thursday, November 22, 2018

   Psalm 18:49 Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name.

   1Thessalonians [GW] 5:16-22  Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this. Don't put out the Spirit's fire. Don't despise what God has revealed. Instead, test everything. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil.

  Today’s title is a silly one, for Christian or not understands that thanksgiving is not about what is in hand . . . it’s from what is in our heart. A thankful attitude producing considerate words and actions is more than at any other time evidenced during times of difficulty, diminishment, or loss. These events are experienced small, mild, moderate, or intense by one and all. Experiencing such events tests us presenting option to shrink or grow.

  For the followers of the John 1:1 Word, Lord Jesus Christ, Logos living and written is our guide; for we as His people and sheep of His pasture are to give thanks for ever: showing forth praise to all generations. (Ps.79:13) For thoughtful consideration I share my personal morning review.

  Using eSword concordance we find 35 OT verses and 36 NT verses containing “thanks”. Reviewing them prayerfully is an edifying exercise. For me the most provocative being 1Chronicles 16:41 showing that people were chosen to give thanks, and in the NT reminding me that it is this “thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.” (1Pet.2:19-20)

  Then, Jesus’ teaching: “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” (Mt.6:9-13)

  Jesus later declaring: "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.” (ESV Mt.11:25-26; Lk.10:21)

  And Paul penned an important reminder: “For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” (ESV Heb.13-16)

  And one of my all time favorites pertaining to our being God’s 2Corinthians 5:14-21 agents of reconciliation: “But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.” (2Cor.2:14)

  So, whether delicious drumstick in hand or drumbeat painfully aural, let us give thanks. (For our family gathering it will include both turkey but not this year my enjoyable baked ham glazed with my secret formula.)

EBB4

THE CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW

CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW?

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

My worldview is Bible-based and Christ-centered. EBB4

GotQuestions.org: "What is a Christian worldview?"

   A “worldview” refers to a comprehensive conception of the world from a specific standpoint. A “Christian worldview,” then, is a comprehensive conception of the world from a Christian standpoint. An individual’s worldview is his “big picture,” a harmony of all his beliefs about the world. It is his way of understanding reality. One’s worldview is the basis for making daily decisions and is therefore extremely important.
  An apple sitting on a table is seen by several people. A botanist looking at the apple classifies it. An artist sees a still-life and draws it. A grocer sees an asset and inventories it. A child sees lunch and eats it. How we look at any situation is influenced by how we look at the world at large. Every worldview, Christian and non-Christian, deals with at least these three questions:

1) Where did we come from? (and why are we here?)
2) What is wrong with the world?
3) How can we fix it?

  A prevalent worldview today is naturalism, which answers the three questions like this: 1) We are the product of random acts of nature with no real purpose. 2) We do not respect nature as we should. 3) We can save the world through ecology and conservation. A naturalistic worldview generates many related philosophies such as moral relativism, existentialism, pragmatism, and utopianism.
  A Christian worldview, on the other hand, answers the three questions biblically: 1) We are God’s creation, designed to govern the world and fellowship with Him (Genesis 1:27-28; 2:15). 2) We sinned against God and subjected the whole world to a curse (Genesis 3). 3) God Himself has redeemed the world through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ (Genesis 3:15; Luke 19:10), and will one day restore creation to its former perfect state (Isaiah 65:17-25). A Christian worldview leads us to believe in moral absolutes, miracles, human dignity, and the possibility of redemption.
  It is important to remember that a worldview is comprehensive. It affects every area of life, from money to morality, from politics to art. True Christianity is more than a set of ideas to use at church. Christianity as taught in the Bible is itself a worldview. The Bible never distinguishes between a “religious” and a “secular” life; the Christian life is the only life there is. Jesus proclaimed Himself “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6) and, in doing so, became our worldview.

Recommended Resource: Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview by William Lane Craig & J.P. Moreland.

NEW WORLDVIEWS MAKE FOR CHANGED WORLD

NEW WORLDVIEWS MAKE FOR CHANGED WORLD

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Colossians [NLT] 2: 6-10 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

“A worldview is the perspective through which you understand and approach life and the world.” – Intro to Worldviews, Kevin Bywater, from Summit Ministries Curriculum

  Did you know that before WWII there was baby, child, boy/girl, young man/young woman, man/woman . . . but no “teenager” common to the USA or general worldview? As with all cultural change it began with idea of a few, was adopted, supported, cultivated, and increasingly merchandised to the point of commercialization we now suffer . . . the standard USA and developed nations worldview of those between 12 and 20 years of age, later expanded to “preteens”.

  Masters and Johnson, post WWII pioneer researchers in and public revealers of human sexuality brought about large change in USA and developed nations worldview and consequent activity.

  Prior to WWII most people abstained from owing money so as to save quality of life. Then, gradually at first, then wholesale, borrowers and lenders changed their view on credit . . . and now it is USA and developed nations a standard practice on the part of individual citizen, even now to the point of “No credit? We’ll extend you credit!” and acquiring material goods that will wear out or tire of before the last payment is paid. (Credit also cultivates buying upscale beyond what cash-only restricts.)

  Combine the 3 aforementioned developed and presently common worldviews, teens not expected to be as responsible as “young men” “young women” once were, with knowledge of and access to sex in post-WWII ways, with credit cards . . . and we have major composite worldview change that has changed the world and continues to do so (all in some of us lifetime!).

  All of the above present day popular worldview is status quo until cataclysmic upheaval. (2Cor.4:4; 1Jn.5:19) Christians cannot change the whole world. (Mt.7:14; 2Cor.4:4) The followers of Christ can however individually change (Eph.2:2; Col.1:13; 2Tim.2:26; 1Jn.5:19); Said change including being active salt and light ambassadors demonstrating reconciliation between God and man. (Jn.8:12; 9:5; Mt.5:13-16; 2Cor.5:14-21) 

EBB4

HERE AM I

HERE AM I

1Samuel [MKJV] 3:4-10  And Jehovah called Samuel. And he answered, Here am I. And he ran to Eli, and said, Here am I. For you called me. And he said, I did not call. Go and lie down again. And he went to lie down. And Jehovah called again, Samuel! And Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, Here am I, for you called me. And he answered, I did not call, my son. Go back, lie down. And Samuel did not yet know Jehovah, and the Word of Jehovah had not yet been revealed to him. And Jehovah called Samuel again, the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, Here am I, for you called me. And Eli saw that Jehovah had called the child. And Eli said to Samuel, Go, lie down; and it shall be, if One calls you, you shall say, Speak, Jehovah, for Your servant hears. And Samuel went to lie down in his place. And Jehovah came and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel! Then Samuel answered, Speak, for Your servant hears.

  Five times Samuel heard the call and five times he was ready and willing, but did not know what he was supposed to do.

  Have you ever felt that way? I have. There are times when God’s call is clear and specific, but there are other times when all we can do is be prepared and answer “Here am I.”

Leslie Nivens

#^ OF WHY I BELIEVE THE BIBLE IS GOD'S WORD

# 6 of Ten Reasons Why I Believe The Bible Is The Word Of God by R. A. Torrey

SIXTH, on the ground of the character of those who accept and of those who reject the book.

Two things speak for the divinity of the Bible-the character of those who accept it, and, equally, the character of those who reject it. I do not mean by this that every man who professes to believe the book is better than every man that does not, but show me a man living an unselfish, devoted life, one who without reservation has surrendered himself to do the will of God, and I will show you a man who believes the Bible to be God's Word. On the other hand, show me a man who rejects the Divine authority of that book, and I will show you a man living a life of greed, or lust, or spiritual pride, or self will.

Suppose you have a book purporting to be by a certain author, and the people best acquainted with that author say it is his, and the people least acquainted with him say it is not; which will you believe? Now, the people best acquainted with God say the Bible is His book; those who are least acquainted with God say it is not. Which will you believe?

Furthermore, as men grow better they are more likely to accept the Bible, and as they grow worse they are more likely to reject it. We have all known men who were both sinful and unbelieving, who by forsaking their sin lost their unbelief. Did any of us ever know a man who was sinful and believing, who by forsaking his sin lost his faith? The nearer men live to God the more confident they are that the Bible is God's Word; the farther they get away from Him the more confident they are that it is not.

Where is the stronghold of the Bible? In the pure, unselfish, happy home. Where is the stronghold of infidelity? The gambling hell, the drinking saloon and the brothel. If a man should walk into a saloon and lay a Bible down upon the bar, and order a drink, we should think there was a strange incongruity in his actions, but if he should lay any infidel writing upon the bar, and order a drink, we would not feel that there was any incongruity.

UNIQUE WE ARE

UNIQUE WE ARE

Friday, November 16, 2018

   Job [MKJV] 10:8-11 Your hands have made me and shaped me, together all around; yet You destroy me. Remember, I beseech You, that You have formed me as the clay; and will You bring me into the dust again? Have You not poured me out like milk, and curdled me like cheese? You have clothed me with skin and flesh, and have fenced me with bones and sinews.

   Psalm 139:14 I will praise You; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are marvelous and my soul knows it very well.

  Is there anyone that never ever wanted to be like someone else? Could be but I’ve never met them, have you?

  I beneficially remember my immature era of wanting to be like someone else in ways that alternated between looks, personality, physique, prowess in some ability or another etc. Then I entertained the defensive pride-based mindset of my uniqueness. Then came the best after trusting Jesus at age 27 and beginning a wondrous journey in studying His Word, the Bible. With accepting His Truth about me and all others came the rest that God wants each of us to enjoy and be empowered in grace as is His “only begotten son”.

  Indeed unique we individually are. Reject God’s Truth about this and then we will be just like many other troubled souls.

EBB4

NOBLE UNBELIEVERS

NOBLE UNBELIEVERS

Thursday, November 15, 2018

  “Trust, but verify.” flowed from the witty mind and lips of President Ronald Reagan, right? Though it has been much touted and believed so by conservatives, liberals, and even a few independents after a reporter quoted him in 1986 and other media clamored in repeating, wrong!

  It is a proverb with starting point in Russia, maybe. Does anyone remember them claiming they invented baseball?

  God’s Word commends the practice of healthy skepticism among unbelievers and believers. (Acts17:10-13; 2Tim.2:15-16) With it, unbelievers may decide to trust. Without it believers may deservedly receive the reprimand of Nicodemus, shame, or worse. (Jn.3:10)

  How many things have you heard and accepted without verifying? How many times was it an apple until you discovered otherwise by God’s Word?

EBB4

PS. President Reagan said the adage to Mikhail Gorbachev,” the eighth and last leader of the Soviet Union, having been General Secretary of the governing Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1985 until 1991. He was the country's head of state from 1988 until 1991, serving as Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1988 to 1989, Chairman of the Supreme Soviet from 1989 to 1990, and President of the Soviet Union from 1990 to 1991.” (Source: Wikipedia)

 

WISDOM: A PRIORITY?

WISDOM: A PRIORITY?

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

   Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the person who does not follow the advice of wicked people, take the path of sinners, or join the company of mockers. Rather, he delights in the teachings of the LORD and reflects on his teachings day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams- a tree that produces fruit in season and whose leaves do not wither. He succeeds in everything he does.

   Proverbs 1:7; 2:2  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. Stubborn fools despise wisdom and discipline. … pay close attention to wisdom, and let your mind reach for understanding,

  “What is God’s will for my life?” is not an unusual question for purposeful serious minded followers of Christ seeking true Romans 12:1-3 reasonable worship pleasing God. However, usually the intent is along the lines of should I be a truck driver or missionary or some such comparison; indeed important to know but a lesser category, but lesser than what?

  Godly wisdom involving an understanding heart with the ability to properly discern and judge is a priority. God established this truth in His record of Solomon. (1Kin.3:5-12) Solomon declared it in his writings. The psalmist wrote “Teach us to number each of our days so that we may grow in wisdom.” (Ps.90:12)

  And about the truck driver/missionary question . . . whatever the answer we are to with knowledge and wisdom proclaim His truth in all ways to the very end of our days. (Ps.71:18; 1Tim.4:2) For some this may be as an OTR coast to coast 18 wheel missionary.

EBB4

Suggested beneficial meditation: Using concordance look up “wisdom” in Proverbs and be blessed by prayerfully reading the 53 verses in context.

THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON

THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

   Psalm [MKJV] 1:1-3 Blessed is the man who has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, and has not stood in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is only in the Law of Jehovah; and in His Law he meditates day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivulets of water that brings forth its fruit in its seasons, and its leaf shall not wither, and all which he does shall be blessed.

   1Kings 3:5-12 In Gibeon Jehovah appeared to Solomon in a dream by night. And God said, Ask what I shall give you! And Solomon said, You have shown to Your servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before You in truth and in righteousness and in uprightness of heart with You. And You have kept this great kindness for him, that You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is today. And now, O Jehovah my God, You have made Your servant king instead of David my father. And I am a little child; I do not know to go out or come in! And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a numerous people who cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. And give to Your servant an understanding heart, to judge Your people, to discern between good and bad. For who is able to judge this, Your great people? And the word was good in the eyes of Jehovah, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said to him, Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself long life, and have not asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to judge justly, behold, I have done according to your words. Lo, I have given you a wise and an understanding heart, so that there was none like you before you, and after you none shall arise like you.

  What do we think of when we think of wisdom? How to live sensibly is the answer I typically get when asking. Sometimes stated as “smarts”. Examine Solomon’s life and note that God’s provision of an understanding heart is required to gain wisdom; essential to initially and continually gaining wisdom we must not just read and study God’s works, we must delight in them. Hence at age 27 my chosen personally reminding life verses, Psalm 32:8-9.

EBB4

Suggested beneficial meditation: Using a KJV concordance look up “delight” in Psalms and be blessed by prayerfully considering the 15 verses in context.

A WISE AND WILLING HEART

A WISE AND WILLING HEART

Exodus 35:5 Take ye from among you an offering unto the LORD: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the LORD; gold, and silver, and brass, …

  The psalmist said to serve the Lord with “gladness”. [Ps.100:2] Paul said “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord.” [Col.3:23]

  Good advise! But, we must be willing, we must always be ready. To be ready we must be prepared and to be prepared we must study God’s Word and learn His will --- then we will have a wise heart; ready and willing to serve Him.

Leslie Nivens

#5 of TEN REASONS I BELIEVE the BIBLE is the WORD of GOD

# 5 of Ten Reasons Why I Believe The Bible Is The Word Of God by R. A. Torrey

FIFTH, on the ground of the history of the book, its victory over attack.

This book has always been hated. No sooner was it given to the world than it met the hatred of men, and they tried to stamp it out. Celsus tried it by the brilliancy of his genius, Porphyry by the depth of his philosophy; but they failed, Lucian directed against it the shafts of his ridicule, Diocletian the power of the Roman empire; but they failed. Edicts backed by all the power of the empire were issued that every Bible should be burned, and that everyone who had a Bible should be put to death. For eighteen centuries every engine of destruction that human science, philosophy, wit, reasoning or brutality could bring to bear against a book has been brought to bear against that book to stamp it out of the world, but it has a mightier hold on the world to-day than ever before.

If that were man's book it would have been annihilated and forgotten hundreds of years ago, but because there is in it "the hiding of God's power," though at times all the great men of the world have been against it, and only an obscure remnant for it, still it has fulfilled wonderfully the words of Christ, though not in the sense of the original prophecy, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my word shall not pass away."[Jesus speaking: Mk.13:31; Lk.21:33]

WHEREVER WHENEVER

WHEREVER WHENEVER

Friday, November 09, 2018

   Mark [GW] 16:15 Then Jesus said to them, "So wherever you go in the world, tell everyone the Good News.

   Acts 1:7-8 Jesus told them, "You don't need to know about times or periods that the Father has determined by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes to you. Then you will be my witnesses to testify about me in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

  Leslie Nivens is 90 years of age but vibrantly young at heart. A widow of 28 years. A nurse that in her lifetime served in various fields, including where the guns of war were heard and the effect on persons and properties was seen. Leslie lives in a Super 8 Motel in Carthage, Missouri. I met her there at breakfast. Correction: By habitually obedient Mark 16:15 intent she met me there. Sharing a bit of her testimony she then gifted me with 2 books she has written. Why Whine? and From My Heart, Daily Devotions, both telling of her life walking with our Lord.

  Arriving home in Nebraska several thousand miles later I emailed Leslie requesting permission to air her writings as DAILY THOUGHTS (DTs). As expected, Leslie agreed.

  Look forward to being edified by Leslie’s insightful words honoring and glorifying the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

EBB4

ADDITION OR SUBTRACTION?

ADDITION OR SUBTRACTION?

Thursday, November 08, 2018

   Psalm GW 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Good sense is shown by everyone who follows God's guiding principles. His praise continues forever.

   Luke 19:10-13 [Jesus said] For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to [later] return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

  1John 4:13-18 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

  One day I received the question “Did Jesus name the anti-Christ?” accompanied by information ostensibly identifying the present president of the USA as that person.

  For centuries people and groups have supposedly figured out who the anti-Christ is or will be, and deciding and stating exactly when Jesus is returning. (Was any USA president not purported as being the anti-Christ by one or more contemporary prophets?),

  And to what end? Did all those past calculations honor and glorify the kingdom of God? (Mt.6:33-34)

  Would such precisely knowing add one iota to my or your Christian being? (Mt.6:27) Would such information increase faith (Lk.17:5-10) or exemplify 2Timothy 2:15 education, edification, attribution, or approval?

  Or, could such efforts subtract from Christian function through distraction from existing known Biblical exhortation toward personal responsibility? Would seeing our president as being the anti-Christ contribute to a renewed beginners fear (Pr.9:10) contrary to God’s instruction (1Cor.13) and provision for banishing anxiety (1Pet.5:7-8; 1Jn.4:18).

  Doesn’t our King equip us? Hasn’t He instructed simply “Occupy until I come.”?

  Dear brothers and sisters, pursue such questions His return, the rapture, if you will, I condemn you not, but I do urge you to be aware that the important question is not knowing who the anti-Christ is or will be. The important question is what adds to or subtracts from our Christian function?

 EBB4

PS. For further study type “day” and “hour” into your concordance search and read in the Gospels what Jesus says about His return.

CORRECTIVE APPLICATION

CORRECTIVE APPLICATION

Wednesday, November 07, 2018

   Romans [ESV] 12:1-3 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

   2Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

  Scriptural correction personally accepted results in our beneficial redirection that pleases God as an act of worship.

  Scriptural correction of others should only be presented to others when the aforementioned personal application is practiced (Lk.6:39-42), always doing so respectfully with gentleness sans judgmentalism. (1Cor.4:14-21)

  Being an Acts 17:10-11 studious Berean will sharpen our eyes and ears to recognizing false teachings that misguide others. Recently while traveling I heard an eloquent well delivered sermon that included non-Scriptural teaching. The preacher stated that our ideas will often be in conflict with God’s ideas. God does not have or get ideas. The Bible is not a book of concepts. God’s Word is absolute truth! (Ps.19:7-14; Jn.17:17)

  I wonder how many of that congregation is adversely effected by that pastor’s idea that God has ideas?

EBB4

UNTHWARTED

UNTHWARTED

Tuesday, November 06, 2018

   Joshua [ESV] 24:15  And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

   Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said: "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.

   Psalm 1:1-6 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

   Psalm 103:1 … O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!

   2Peter 3:8-9 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. [Mt.18:14]

  Lord God Almighty, the Sovereign Master has a master plan. His master plan has not, will not be altered by anything we or Satan as individual or group do. This includes action or non-action, rebellion or disregard. Our blessed compliance is a matter of choice; a theme throughout Scripture. Queen Esther is an example of opportunity to serve or not. (Est.4:14) Have you not neglected or rejected opportunity and later discovered the blessing you didn’t give or receive? Or even sadly discovered your missed opportunity was a “coulda, woulda, shoulda” event?  I have.

EBB4

SOVEREIGN REDIRECTION

SOVEREIGN REDIRECTION

Monday, November 05, 2018

Job [ESV] 42:1-2  Then Job answered the LORD and said: "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.

  God the Father, Holy Spirit, and Son are All-wise. This is forever true and was so during Jesus brief time physically upon this earth. Being a fact about the Trinity our ideas and questions will often be redirected by the Father, His indwelling Holy Spirit, or, as recorded, by the Father’s “only begotten Son”, Lord Jesus Christ.

  In John chapter 3 Nicodemus credited Jesus in a limited way as he inquired about our Lord’s identity. Jesus redirected the conversation to all men’s need to trust in Him as Savior . . . and in doing so also answered Nicodemus’s identity question, additionally making the point that though a wise teacher, Nicodemus lacked critical knowledge and wisdom.

  In Mark chapter 10 is recorded the incident of the ruler that asked Jesus the direct question “… what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Here again Jesus redirected the conversation to laying up treasures in heaven, and offered him a followship apprenticeship while explaining that wealth is a major hindrance for many rich people.

  Now, have you personally ever prayerfully asked God a question with the result being His All-wise redirection? If so please contribute your story for Daily Thoughts publication so as to honor and glorify God and edify me and others.

To serve Him all our days,

EBB4

THOUGH NOT A HEBREW

THOUGH NOT A HEBREW

Friday, November 02, 2018

   Romans 12:1-2  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

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

  More than once I’ve heard some variation of the following, “I’m not a Hebrew so that book is not written to me. Either way it’s confusing anyhow!”

  All of God’s Word is edifying and applicable to one and all whatever we think we are.

  Hebrews is very much about Jesus as High Priest. (2:17; 3;1; 4:14-15; 5:1, 5, 10; 6:20; 7:1, 26; 8:1, 3; 9:7, 11, 25; 10:21; 13:11) The book tells much about God’s provision and as is themed throughout Scripture that we are responsible to personally acquire knowledge of and exercise any and all wisdom gained. God does not spoon or force feed. Even manna and quail as the result of grumbling must be gathered and eaten fresh.

  One of my wise mentors once again encouraged me to use Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance to find all of the “rest” verses in Hebrews. Doing so and reading in immediate context and then the entire book and then considering in the truth of the greater text (All Scripture) was enlightening.

  Knowing that godliness includes not being a spoon feeder  but as Paul did with Timothy, equip and urge to responsibly study, here I provide from KJV the “rest” verses. Prayerfully … In your personal Bible read them, read them in immediate context, read them in the context of Hebrews, consider the message in light of all Scripture (making use of topical and chain reference if your Bible has these helps). Go beyond intellect and quietly allow God’s Holy Spirit to speak to you. (2Tim.3:7)

  Hebrews 3:11, 18  So I [God] sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) … And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?

  4:1  Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.

  4:3-5  For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.

  4:8-11  For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

  Finally, as a mentor said, “A hammock will never come to us. We must go to it and it does take our effort to get there and rest thereupon”

EBB4

OVERRULING GOD

OVERRULING GOD

Thursday, November 01, 2018

Philemon 1:3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. [“Lord Jesus Christ” is 85 times in 82 verses in Scripture (KJV).]

  The word I used yesterday, “prohibition”, is confusing to some so today I’m using “overruling”.

  Is it possible for us to overrule God’s sovereign will? Exercising the free will He endowed us with, yes we can. We do. Adam and Eve did so. We’ve been doing so ever since.

  Understanding why the Father gave us free will may only begin to be understood as a parent; a matter of love it is.

  Only one person never ever overruled God the Father’s will. Lord Jesus Christ. Though Lord Jesus Christ, man who hungered and thirsted in all ways as we do, He by no means or on any account did so. Jesus explained “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.” (ESV Jn. 5:30) From the Epistle to the Hebrews we learn “Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (ESV Heb.4:11-16)

  Knowing the truth about our inclination to overrule God and accepting it unto maturation will please God as an act of reasonable service in worshipping Him. (Rom.12:1-30

EBB4

From Strong’s for the diggers:

“Lord” G2962 κύριος; kurios; koo'-ree-os From κῦρος kuros (supremacy); supreme in authority, that is, (as noun) controller; by implication Mr. (as a respectful title): - God, Lord, master, Sir.