pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: trust


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Walking with Confidence and Trust

Reading: Hebrews 10-11

Hebrews 10:39 – “We aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved.”

Chapter 10 begins with a review of Christ’s sacrifice that was “once for all.” The writer reminds us that the Law cannot make one perfect. That’s why the priests offer sacrifices again and again. But Jesus offered himself as one sacrifice for all time, then “sat down at God’s right hand.” Because of this, declares the writer, we can enter the holy of holies with confidence, drawing near to God with a certainty of heart that comes through our faith in Jesus Christ. In turn, we can hold onto our hope without wavering, “sparking love and good deeds” amongst one another as we meet together and encourage one another.

The author of Hebrews then invites them to remember how they stood their ground when suffering. He or she implores them not to throw away that confidence, but to endure. In 10:39 we read, “We aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved.” This is quite the “who we are” statement! Moving into chapter 11 we’re reminded that faith is the reality of what we hope for and the proof of what we cannot physically see.

The balance of chapter 11 is known as “the heroes of faith.” We’re reminded of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and Rahab and their acts of faith. In verses 32 and 33 we get another list followed by their acts of faith in rapid succession. Lastly we’re reminded of the nameless many who were taunted, whipped, imprisoned, killed, and otherwise suffered for their faith. May we too walk in faith with confidence and trust, awaiting the day when we’ll all be made perfect in eternity.

Prayer: Lord God, in being reminded of what Christ did for us and of what that means to our faith, we find hope. In remembering these named and unnamed exemplars of the faith we find strength and encouragement. Lead us to walk with you daily, drawing closer and closer to your love. Amen.


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The Lord’s Commendation

Reading: 2nd Corinthians 8-10

2nd Corinthians 9:8 – “You will have everything you need always and in everything to provide more than enough for every kind of good work.”

Today’s reading first focuses on giving generously and then shifts to a call to general obedience in chapter 10. Paul takes up a call to support the church in Jerusalem. A famine in Judea has brought poverty upon them. The church in Macedonia, Paul shares, has given very generously even though they have problems there too. He reminds them that they began the collection well and calls them to finish well. Paul tells them that he is sending Titus and another brother to help them complete this work. Paul invites the Corinthians to “show them the proof of your love,” setting for them an example.

Paul wants their gift to be a “real” gift – not forced. He reminds the church that those who sow seeds generously reap generous crops. Encouraging them to give what they decide in their hearts, Paul speaks of God’s power: “You will have everything you need always and in everything to provide more than enough for every kind of good work.” God will supply them all that they need in the future. There may come a time when they receive from the church in Jerusalem. But for now, as they support their brothers and sisters, those in Jerusalem will give thanks and will pray for the church in Corinth.

Paul addresses his authority as he calls for obedience in chapter 10. Some in Corinth feel that Paul’s letters are “powerful and severe” but that Paul is shy and weak when in person. Paul invites them to obedience, lest they feel his authority given by God when he visits. He reminds the church that it was he and his companions that first brought the gospel to Corinth. Paul closes with a reminder that it is the Lord’s commendation that matters. May this be the approval that we seek as well.

Prayer: Lord God, create in us generous and obedient hearts. Empower each of us to step forward in faith, trusting in your loving provision. Through the power of our love for you, may others experience your love for them. Amen.


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Trusting, Confessing

Reading: Romans 8:18-10:21

Romans 10:10 – “Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation.”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

As we continue in Romans 8 today we find great hope. First Paul reminds us that this present suffering is nothing compared to the coming glory. With hope we await being “set free” as we who have the Spirit become the “first crop.” Today these words remind me of the rapture imagery found in Revelation.

Paul then speaks of the Spirit’s role in our lives. The Spirit intercedes for us, praying for us, “consistent with God’s will.” Accordingly, God works all things – us included – towards the good. God is good. To work this process out, we are increasingly conformed to Christ’s image. In this process we become less and less like the world. Therefore nothing worldly – trouble, harassment, famine… death, rulers… – nothing can separate us from God’s love that we find in and through Jesus. Hallelujah!

The apostle shifts gears in chapter 9. Paul laments Israel’s rejection of Christ. He would give up his salvation to see Israel turn to Christ. Yet Paul also recognizes that this is God’s plan unfolding, not his. This is a good reminder to us. It is God who shows mercy and compassion to whom God chooses. This is why it is the Gentiles who came to faith that leads to righteousness. The Jews instead sought to “establish their own righteousness.” But keeping all of the Law proved impossible. The righteousness that leads to salvation comes only through faith. Paul summarizes in 10:10 – “Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation.” May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, faith, trust, hope, obedience, surrender – such simple concepts in many ways. In an ideal world, so easy. Yet our world is not easy or ideal. Many things can challenge or assault our faith – real things like death, harassment, famine… Lord, may your Spirit intercede for us always and may it walk with us, strengthening and encouraging us in our walk of faith. As ones who are conformed to your Son, and therefore to you, use us as love and mercy and compassion in your world. Amen.


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Grace Is Greater

Reading: Romans 3:21-5:21

Romans 5:10 – “If we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son while we were still enemies… how much more certain is it that we will be saved by his life?”

Photo credit: Kate Remmer

As we begin today’s reading, Paul declares that righteousness comes through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ, not through the Law. Under the Law, Paul correctly notes “all have fallen short of God’s glory.” But through the ransom paid by Christ, through grace we can be made righteous. Christ did for us what we could never do for ourselves.

Paul turns to Abraham as a model of righteousness. He has faith in God and he acted on that faith. Because of this, God credited Abraham as righteous. He was yet uncircumcised and there was no Law yet given. Through trust and faith Abraham also believed God’s promise that he would be the father of many nations. Abraham was “fully convinced” that God was able and that God would do what God had promised. This too was credited to Abraham as righteous. Paul then turns it personal, reminding us that we too are credited as righteous through our faith and trust in God through Jesus Christ.

Because of the righteousness that comes through faith we have peace with God. Peace comes through the reconciling work of Jesus on the cross. Paul reminds us that while we were weak, while we were still sinners – even while we were enemies of God – Christ died for us. Paul asks us, “If we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son while we were still enemies… how much more certain is it that we will be saved by his life?” Sin and death came into the world through Adam. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, grace and eternal life were offered to the world. In verse 20 Paul writes, “Where sin increased, grace multiplied even more.” God’s grace is always greater than our sin. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, faith, hope, trust – the foundations of our relationship with you. Sacrifice, love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, reconciliation – the foundations of who you are. Thank you God for always loving us beyond our sins. Thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ, Savior and Lord. Amen.


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Trust Always

Reading: Acts 21-23

Acts 21:13 – “I’m ready not only to be arrested but even to die in Jerusalem for the sake of the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Paul’s journey to Jerusalem (and eventually to Rome) begins in our reading for today. Working his way towards Jerusalem, Paul encounters a prophet, Agabus, in Caesarea. He prophesies that Paul will be bound and handed over to the Gentiles (the Romans.) In response, Paul declares, “I’m ready not only to be arrested but even to die in Jerusalem for the sake of the name of the Lord Jesus.” His resolve is set. In this, Paul reminds me of Jesus as he “set his face like flint” as he made the final trip to Jerusalem. His trust is in God. Paul is absolutely focused on his one mission: to witness to all about Jesus his Lord.

Arriving in Jerusalem, Paul gives a detailed report of God’s activity amongst the Gentiles. James and the elders warn him of the rumors about Paul rejecting Moses and the Law. While undergoing a purification ritual to demonstrate his devotion to Judaism, Paul is seized, accused, and drug out of the temple. The commotion draws the attention of a nearby Roman commander, who rescues Paul. Unable to ascertain the cause of the unrest, Paul is taken to military headquarters, where he asks to address the people.

Permission granted, Paul gives his history – born a Jew, taught as a Pharisee, harasser of the followers of Jesus. He tells of his Damascus Road experience and his conversion. As he tells of the Jews rejection and being sent to the Gentiles, the crowd erupts in anger. To learn the truth, the commander orders Paul “questioned under the whip.” It is then that Paul reveals he is a Roman citizen by birth. The commander orders an assembly of the Jewish leaders.

Paul wisely divides the Pharisees and Sadducees along theological lines. After being removed from this dangerous situation, Jesus tells Paul that he will ultimately testify in Rome. A treasonous plot is foiled and Paul is brought to Governor Felix. Learning that Paul is from Cilicia, he will hear Paul’s case. This trial will unfold tomorrow as the Jewish leaders arrive in Caesarea.

Prayer: Lord God, no matter the crowd, no matter the threat, no matter the audience, Paul trusts always in you. Filled with your presence and power, Paul always trusts into your plans and into your purposes for his life. Lord, fill us with that same power and presence, making us ever ready to trust in you with all that we are and with all that we have. May it be so – all for the glory of your kingdom! Amen.


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As Jesus First Loved

Reading: John 13 and 14

John 13:34 – “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you must love each other.”

As his time nears, Jesus demonstrates humble service, a form of love. During the meal, Jesus washes the disciples’ feet. This dirty job was normally done by a slave. Peter, recognizing the upside-down nature of what’s happening, protests Jesus washing his feet. Jesus persuades him and later explains that if the Lord and teacher washes feet, so too must they. This is a practical example of what Jesus says later in chapter 13: “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you must love each other.” Love will do anything for the other.

This commandment comes after it is revealed that Judas is the betrayer. Jesus then tells Judas to do it quickly. Judas exits into the night. Jesus tells the disciples that they cannot go where he is going right now. One day they will. Peter declares, “Lord… I’ll give up my life for you.” No, Jesus says, first you’ll deny me three times – “before the rooster crows.”

Jesus offers words of great assurance and comfort in chapter 14. Calling them to trust over fear, Jesus tells them there is a room in heaven prepared for them. One day he will take them to dwell with him there in eternity. Because Jesus lives on, they too will live on. Into their confusion Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus assures them that they know the way because they have seen the Father and have heard the Father’s words, both revealed in and through Jesus. Because of this, whatever they ask in his name, it will be given to them.

Jesus then promises them the Companion – the Holy Spirit. Jesus and God “will come… and make our home with them.” Dwelling in the heart of all believers, the Spirit will teach and remind us of the words, will, and way of Jesus. Through this, the Spirit will empower believers to live as Jesus first loved us. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, today we see that loving as you loved involves doing the lowly yet simple as well as the costly and sacrificial. Your love knows no bounds, no limits, no conditions. Through the indwelling power and presence of the Holy Spirit may we love as you have loved each day. Amen.


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Born from Above

Reading: John 2:13-3:36

John 3:5 – “I assure you, unless someone is born of water and the Spirit, it’s not possible to enter God’s kingdom.”

As chapter 2 winds down, Jesus goes to Jerusalem. He goes to the temple. It is just before Passover, so the temple would be busy, abuzz with activity. Stepping into this scene, Jesus makes a whip and drives out those selling animals and those converting Roman coins to temple coins. The religious leaders question Jesus’ authority and he responds with “Destroy this temple and in three days I’ll raise it up.” The religious leaders are deeply confused but the disciples will remember these words after Jesus was raised – and they believed.

As Jesus does “miraculous signs” many come to believe. But this is a superficial faith. This is the human nature that Jesus does not fully trust himself to. In chapter 3 Jesus encounters someone wrestling with his faith. Nicodemus comes at night and recognizes that Jesus is from God – because of the miracles. Jesus cuts to the chase, telling Nicodemus that he must be born anew. Clarifying, Jesus says, “I assure you, unless someone is born of water and the Spirit, it’s not possible to enter God’s kingdom.” All people are born of the flesh. To see, to receive, to believe, one must be born of the Holy Spirit too.

Continuing and deepening the conversation, Jesus tells Nicodemus that the Human One (Jesus) must be lifted up just as Moses lifted the snake to bring healing and life to the Israelites. The life Jesus will offer, however, is eternal life. And contrary to popular belief, the Messiah did not come to judge but to save. Judgment will fall on those who fear and reject Jesus’ light.

Our reading closes with Jesus baptizing in Judea. John recognizes this as the sign that he must decrease so that Jesus can increase. The one from above is at work. He speaks God’s truth and gives the Spirit generously. By the end of the Gospel, Nicodemus will receive and believe. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, you are indeed generous with your love and grace, with your mercy, and with your Spirit. Through receiving and believing we find the way to eternal life and to life abundant now. Use us today to share these blessings with others so that they too may receive and believe. Amen.


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We’ve Been Given Much

Reading: Luke 11:37-12

Luke 12:33 – “Make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out — a treasure in heaven that never runs out.”

Photo credit: Tyler Milligan

Today’s reading deals with authentic versus surface commitment to God. And it speaks into the worry and doubt and anxiety that is so common in our world today. These two topics relate to one another.

Our words from chapter 11 address the outward and superficial faith lived out by the Pharisees and legal experts. They tithe their herbs but neglect justice and love. They crave recognition and status. They place huge expectations on others but don’t help them and often get in the way of their faith development. These condemnations create deep resentment towards Jesus. But we must ask: Which would be addressed to the faith lived out by you and me?

Chapter 12 mostly focuses on trusting in God’s love and care instead of getting caught up in worry and fear or in the cares and concerns of the world. Jesus reminds us that God cares for and loves us much more than sparrows, ravens, and lilies. Each of these is provided for. How much more will God provide for us, God’s dearly loved children.

Jesus warns against greed, specifically against hoarding or storing up. These inwardly focused acts draw us away from compassion, empathy, and generosity. We are encouraged to release our “things,” to give to those in need. Doing so, we “make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out — a treasure in heaven that never runs out.” Nothing can take these eternal things away. Jesus sums up why it is so important to be selfless: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be too.”

Jesus also addresses our spiritual readiness. As servants of God we all have roles to play. We are to be diligent and faithful in how we use all of our resources – time, talents, gifts, wealth… “Much will be demanded from everyone who has been given much.” Friends, we have been abundantly and generously blessed by our God.

Prayer: Lord God, yes, you love us far beyond our understanding. And, yes, you care for us unlike any other. Yet worry and fear and earthly concerns can creep in. We can question you. In these moments, remind us of your truths and promises. Speak these into our hearts, Holy Spirit of God. Amen.


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Are we? Do we? Will we?

Reading: Luke 10-11:36

Luke 10:36 – “What do you think? Which one of these three was a neighbor to the man who encountered thieves?”

Jesus sends out the 72 because the harvest is big and the workers are few. They are to heal and cast out demons. They are to share their blessing with people of peace. They are to trust in God to provide. Because they bring the kingdom of God near to people’s lives, they can rejoice: their names are written in heaven. We can be like the 72. Are we?

Next Jesus speaks of those places that have rejected the kingdom of God. It will be better for Tyre and Sidon and for Nineveh – the first would’ve listened and Nineveh did change hearts and lives. Jonah stood as a sign for Nineveh and now one stands in Israel’s midst who is greater than Jonah. Christ stands in our midst yet today. Which city will we be like?

Jesus is then tested by a legal expert. He asks what he must do to gain eternal life. When asked what he thinks, the expert offers the two great commandments. Pushing the issue, he asks, “Who is my neighbor?” Well, a man going down to Jericho was attacked and left for dead. A priest and then a Levite see the man and pass him by. A Samaritan, moved by compassion, cares for the man – extravagantly. Jesus asks the expert, “What do you think? Which one of these three was a neighbor to the man who encountered thieves?” Yes, the one who showed mercy is the neighbor. The expert is told: “Go and do likewise.” We are told the same thing, again and again in the Gospels. Do we?

Choosing faith is the focus of the teaching about Martha and Mary. Being persistent is the focus of Jesus’ teachings about prayer. Jesus tells us, “Ask… receive. Seek… find. Knock… the door will be opened.” Our good, good father God wants to and will give the Holy Spirit to those of us who ask, seek, and knock. But will we?

Prayer: Lord God, we read today of the call to trust, to witness, to change our hearts and lives, to be a good neighbor, to be persistent, and to go to you expecting a good answer from a good, good God. We see the results of lives lived in these ways. Our question today, God, is if we choose this way of life. Today, Lord, encourage and empower us to “go and do likewise,” loving you and neighbor extravagantly with all of our being. Amen.


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“No” to Self!

Reading: Luke 8:40-9

Luke 9:23 – “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me.”

Today’s reading begins with two stories where faith results in healing. Jairus comes to Jesus seeking healing for his daughter and a woman discreetly comes to Jesus for healing. Both believe that Jesus can bring healing. In spite of circumstances stacked against them, both experience healing because they continued to believe.

Jesus sends out the 12 to heal and proclaim the good news. After a successful outing, Jesus encounters a large crowd. After a long day teaching and healing, the disciples suggest sending the crowd to find food and lodging. Jesus suggests the disciples feed the crowd. Their response: But we don’t have enough. Fish and loaves are not what is lacking. With five fish and two loaves, Jesus feeds the huge crowd. In the end all eat their fill and the disciples each hold a basket full of leftovers. Jesus has faith to spare!

There are two sections about following Jesus in today’s readings. After Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, Jesus explains that this means dying and being raised. He will be an unexpected kind of Messiah. Because of this, Jesus defines what it takes to follow this way: “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me.” At the end of today’s readings we see that many cannot meet these expectations. Followers must be willing to lose their lives to take on Christ’s.

Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up the mountain, where he is transfigured. They see Jesus in his divine glory. God’s words add to their understanding that he is truly the Son of God. They descend and Jesus heals a boy possessed by a demon. He then confronts the disciples lack of understanding about following him. They had been arguing about which one of them was the greatest. Jesus states, “Whoever is least among you is the greatest.” It’s all about elevating others above self. This requires a follower of Jesus to say “no” to self again and again and again…

Prayer: Lord God, while the world and our culture tells us that self is all that matters, you say the opposite. Everything, everyone, all else is to be placed before our own needs and wants. In that place, we are trusting in you alone for all that we truly need. Grant us the faith and the courage to make this choice every day. Amen.