pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: trust


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Where Your Treasure Is…

Reading: Matthew 6:19-29

Matthew 6:22 – “The eye is the lamp of the body. Therefore, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light.”

Turning to our passage for today we must be aware of the context. Jesus has just spoken against showy religion, showy prayer, and showy fasting. In the middle of this critique of the behaviors of the religious leaders, Jesus teaches about “proper prayer.” This section contains what we know as “The Lord’s Prayer.” It is a humble prayer of surrender and trust. Praying (and living) these words counters the tendency to be showy with our faith. Instead of seeking to be noticed by others, Jesus tells us to give, pray, and fast in secret. It is then that God will notice and “will reward you “

In verse 19 Jesus tells us to “stop collecting treasures for your benefit on earth.” These treasures are partly the recognition from others that can drive us to practice “showy religion.” There treasures are also the stuff, titles, and power that we can also seek. Jesus warns that moths, rust, and thieves will ultimately take away our fine clothing, our fancy cars…, and our wealth. These treasures are only temporal.

Jesus next points toward the condition or focus of our heart. In verse 22 Jesus says, “The eye is the lamp of the body. Therefore, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light.” In Jesus’ day it was thought that the eye revealed the condition of the heart. The eyes revealed the light or the darkness that was in one’s heart. If our eyes see and pursue the things of this world, then these are truly the desires of our heart. If our eyes see other’s stuff and we worry about our status, our food and drink, our clothes… then we are seeking the ways of the world and not God’s ways.

Pointing to creation, Jesus notes how God cares for and provides for the birds and the lilies. This is a call for us to trust in God’s love for us, to seek this love above all else, to make this our treasure. When we do, we live into Jesus’ words: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” How true. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, our flesh desires to be noticed, recognized, looked up to. This is why we chase after the things of this world – treasures that feel like they satisfy but don’t last. Guide us by your Spirit, raise up the divine within us, lead our hearts to pursue your heart’s desires above all else. Amen.


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No Wind Chasing!

Reading: Ecclesiastes 6:1-9

Ecclesiastes 6:9 – “It’s better to enjoy what’s at hand than to have an insatiable appetite. This too is pointless, just chasing wind.”

The book of Ecclesiastes is addressed to prosperous people who think that material possessions will bring lasting satisfaction. The writer frequently reminds readers that “nothing under the sun” is permanent. Wisdom, wealth, power? Ha! Just a puff of wind.

Turning to chapter 6 today, the author addresses our “appetites” for the things of this world. Verse 1 begins with “I saw a tragedy…” Still working from the blessings-curses framework evident in Job yesterday, the author notes that God does indeed give some people “wealth, riches, and glory.” Such as these – “they lack nothing.” Yet, these folks do not enjoy the blessings. Instead, they pass away and others – “a stranger” – enjoys these worldly blessings.

Next, the Teacher writes of those with children, also considered a great blessing in this culture. Yes, someone can have 100 children and long life. But if they are not content with “life’s good things” – family and good health in this case – then “a stillborn child… is better off than they are.” The author argues that this child has more peace than one who lives 2,000 years but does not enjoy life’s good things.

In this life, whether rich or poor, the writer observes that “the appetite is never full.” All people are drawn to the things of this world. In verse 9 we read, “It’s better to enjoy what’s at hand than to have an insatiable appetite. This too is pointless, just chasing wind.” Be content. Enjoy life as it is. Don’t strive for more and more. As my friend Peggy once said, bloom where you are planted. And… don’t chase after the wind!

Prayer: Lord God, guide us to chase after you with all that we are. Lead us to trust in you for our provision, for our “daily bread.” Relying upon you alone, fill us with contentment and peace, with joy and happiness. Amen.


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Heed the Warning!

Reading: Luke 12:13-21

Luke 12:15 – “Watch out! Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. After all, one’s life isn’t determined by one’s possessions.”

In today’s text Jesus addresses money – a frequent topic in his teachings. In the story a presumably younger brother asks Jesus to tell his brother to give him what is due to him. Jesus declares that he’s not the judge or referee – or the relationship counselor. Good thing because we all want what we think should be rightfully ours. This often includes money or possessions but can also include our time, our talents and gifts, and even our prayers and worship.

Jesus then tells a story to illustrate the gravity of his warning. Often we have to figure out which person we are in the story – or who we hope to be. Today’s story, however, has just one character. A rich man has a bountiful harvest. We get a bonus at work or that commission on the big account comes through. The man’s barns are not big enough to take in the wonderful harvest, adding to what’s already stored up. While there is always more “room” in the bank, we’ll rent storage units for our new stuff. Finding himself at the crossroads between generosity and self-indulgence, the man decides to tear down his current barns to horde more stuff in bigger, newer barns. The man thinks he’s all set – there’s plenty in the bank. Oops – in the barns. He thinks that he can now “Eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.” Life is good!

Alas, Jesus says, the man will die that night. He horded and was not “rich toward God.” He was storing up treasures in earth, not in heaven. The truth of Jesus’ warning is realized: “Watch out! Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. After all, one’s life isn’t determined by one’s possessions.” May we hear the lesson and heed the warning.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the warning and good story to back it up. Really, God, we all struggle with some kind of greed. Yet we read the story and almost all of us ask the question, “How much is enough?” Even this question betrays our trust in you to provide all that we need. Lord, teach us to be content with what you provide and guard our hearts against the hunan desire to strive for more. Amen.


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The Lord Provides

Reading: Genesis 22:1-8

Genesis 22:8 – “The lamb for the entirely burned offering? God will see to it, my son. The two of them walked on together.”

As a young man Abram heard God’s call to leave his home and family, going to the place that God “will show you.” Once there, God again spoke, promising him very, very numerous descendants in the land God brought him to. After taking the making of an heir into their own hands, God again spoke, renaming and telling Abraham and Sarah that they would indeed have a son – at 99 and 90, respectively.

Isaac is soon born to this very aged couple. With great heartache the heir Abram and Sarai schemed is sent away into the wilderness. And then, about a dozen or so years later, God says to Abraham, “Take your son, your only son whom you love, Isaac… Offer him up as an entirely burned offering.” Say what?!

As we read in verse 3, Abraham is faithful to God. With wood, fire, knife, and Isaac in tow, Abraham sets out for the mountain that God “will show you.” Leaving the servants at the base of that mountain, Abraham says to them, “Stay here with the donkey. The boy and I will walk up there, worship, and then come back to you.” As God has done again and again in his life, Abraham expects God to provide again.

As Abraham and Isaac ascend the mountain, the boys asks, “But where is the lamb for the entirely burned offering?” The wood, the fire, the knife – they’re all here. Where is the lamb? Oh yes, Isaac, the lamb. Abraham says to his son, “God will see to it, my son. The two of them walked on together.” With great faith, Abraham trusts in his God, believing that the Lord will provide. Set up as a test, Abraham’s faith is stronger than this test. May it be so for you and for me when we have the choice to doubt or to trust in the Lord. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, you are the God that provides. You were there for Abraham. You will be there for Isaac. You were there for Isaiah when you said, “The LORD will guide you continually and provide for you, even in parched places. He will rescue your bones. You will be like a watered garden, like a spring of water that won’t run dry” (Isaiah 58:11.) You offer us the same promises when we walk forward in faith. Lead and guide us on our walk today, O God. Amen.


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God’s Very Nature

Reading: James 1:2-8

James 1:5 – “But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without second thought.”

James provides a short, one verse greeting. He then jumps right into the meat of his letter, starting in verse 2. James calls the various tests – things these early Christians are experiencing regularly – as “occasions for joy.” In the moment this is a head-scratcher. Yet we’ve all experienced, with 20/20 hindsight, what James speaks of in the next verses. Looking back on our trials and tests, we can see how our faith has grown, matured, been “made complete” because we endured and persevered in those moments or seasons.

But in the heat of battle, during the testing, it can be hard to see or even imagine the good God is working in us. James offers thoughts on these times too. In verse 5 he writes, “But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without second thought.” Don’t turn to self to try to figure it out. Don’t turn to substances to ease or blot out the difficult circumstance or situation. Turn to God, seek God’s answer to our “why?” questions. Don’t hesitate, James advises. God will give wisdom to those who ask in faith, “without doubting.”

In the trials and testing it can be easy to think thoughts like “Why me?” and “How long, God!?” At this point, yes, doubt can creep in. (Along with its cousins: fear, worry, stress, anger…) James addresses the dangers or outcomes of allowing doubt (or other negative emotions) to start gaining a foothold. We become like the surf, “tossed and turned” this way and that. In this “double-minded, unstable” place of faith, we will not receive what we need from God.

In the times of testing, trial, and even suffering, may we turn to God, clinging to our faith if necessary. May we do so because it is surely God’s nature to give wisdom, strength, comfort, direction… to you and to me without second thought. May it be so!

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your love, your care, your faithfulness. No matter how desperate we are, when we turn to you in faith, trusting in you alone, you give us just what we need. Thank you, thank you, Lord. Amen.


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Trusting in God

Reading: Psalm 140:1-8

Psalm 140:4 – “Protect me from the power of the wicked, Lord!”

Psalm 150 is a plea to God for protection. Evil and violent people are plotting against David, eager to see him fall. As the Psalm opens, David asks God to rescue him, to guard him. These evil people are scheming against and trying to pick fights with David. At times we cross paths with people like this. Maybe it is a grouchy neighbor or a power-hungry boss or an unethical coworker. When their people and their evil ways turn against us, we too look to God for rescue and protection.

The evil-doers tongues are sharp as snakes’ and there is poison on their lips. Their lies and gossip and other forms of malice are making life hard for David. Words have great power. At times we too experience this. People seeking to do harm or angling for personal gain will quickly and easily say what they think will best achieve their desired outcome. These words can be hard to dispel or counter. In verse 4 David cries out as we can cry out: “Protect me from the power of the wicked, Lord!”

In verse 6 David declares God to be his God. This reminder is likely more for David than God. He needs God to be his God, to listen, to be his “saving help.” David implore God to foil the plans of the wicked. There are moments when these are our prayers too. Another’s evil words have created conflict or tension or division. We feel helpless and need God’s power, strength, guidance. In these moments, may we cry out to God, trusting in the Lord our God. Our God is mighty to save.

Prayer: Lord God, people and life can be cruel at times. We can find ourselves in what feels like a battle. In those moments, guide us to trust in you and in your power rather than in our imagined power or perceived ability. When tempted to fight back or to retaliate, lead us to turn to and to trust in you alone. Amen.


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Contagious

Reading: 2nd Corinthians 7:5-7

2nd Corinthians 7:6 – “God comforts people who are discouraged, and he comforted us by Titus’ arrival.”

Photo credit: Uta Scholl

As Paul and his companions arrive in Macedonia there is no rest for the weary. There are problems – “external conflict… internal fears.” For Paul and his coworkers these trials and hardships could be barriers to ministry. But God has other plans. In verse 6 we read, “God comforts people who are discouraged, and he comforted us by Titus’ arrival.” At just the needed time, God sends Titus, bringing along the encouragement that he has received himself in Corinth. In turn, Titus encourages Paul and others there in Macedonia.

When one lives out their faith it often inspires others to live out their faith too. This isn’t just true for comfort. It also works this way with peace, joy, trust, generosity, assurance, grace, humility, mercy, contentment, forgiveness… The practices of our faith are contagious!

Titus also brings a personal message for Paul. The church in Corinth longs to see Paul. They want an opportunity to express their regret for what happened during his last visit. On that second visit Paul was deeply hurt. The church has dealt with this person but still wants to apologize and receive forgiveness face to face. This news brings Paul much happiness. To mend a relationship, to offer care and concern, to restore what was broken, these things bring us much joy and happiness too.

Where do we need to bring comfort through our words of reconciliation and grace? Where do we need to respond to the brokenness in our lives or in the world?

Prayer: Lord God, guide our lives, leading us to be people who live out a contagious faith. May the light and love of Christ in our hearts be cast wide in the world, bringing healing and wholeness to our relationships and to other’s lives. Amen.


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Suffering, Hope, and Patience

Reading: Romans 8:18-25

Romans 8:19 – “The whole creation waits breathless with anticipation for the revelation of God’s sons and daughters.”

Today’s passage is titled “Our Suffering and Our Hope” in my Bible. Verse 18 really sums this up nicely. Paul reminds his readers and us that our present suffering is “nothing” compared to the glory that will one day be revealed. While Paul is looking forward to heaven here, the glory of God is present in this world as well.

In verse 19 we read, “The whole creation waits breathless with anticipation for the revelation of God’s sons and daughters.” All of creation is subjected to decay and to the impact of sin. All of creation longs to be set free from these things. Paul describes this longing using the birthing process – the groans and labor pains of a mother are like those of creation. Most of us have been in the spot that Paul is connecting to hear, breathlessly waiting, anticipating that first cry, longing to experience the joy of new life. In Paul’s mind this new birth hinges on the revelation of God’s sons and daughters. Paul understood his role and the role of all believers as active participants in God’s work of redemption and restoration. Paul understands that all of creation is waiting for the church to be the church, actively working to bring wholeness and new life to all of creation.

Paul also speaks of a believer’s longing to one day be set free from this body and from this world. While we long for this we do so with hope and with patience. Our hope is set on Christ, the first of many to be set free. We wait with patience, trusting in God’s promise to one day make all things new. We wait with this sure hope. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, guide us to live our our faith day by day, seeking to partner with you in bringing healing, wholeness, and new life to all of creation. Lead us by the Spirit. While our eyes and hearts are set on the glory to come, also enable us to see the suffering and pain of this life. Seeing, move us to respond. Amen.


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With Us, For Us

Reading: Isaiah 40:26-31

Isaiah 40:28 – “Don’t you know? Haven’t you heard? The Lord is the everlasting God.”

Photo credit: Greg Rakozy

As we turn to Isaiah 40, much of Israel is dispersed across the vast Babylonian empire. In this disconnected state it was hard to hold onto hope. So Isaiah invites Israel to look up at the stars, to remember who created this vast array. The prophet invites them to remember who brings the stars out “one by one, summoning each by name.” Ah yes, it is God. This God of “great strength and mighty power?” Yes, God knows you by name. Yes, God will summon you out of exile.

So then, Isaiah ponders, why do you say that God doesn’t know your plight, that God ignores your exile? We too ask these questions. We think God is absent at times, that God is not powerful enough at other times. We can think that God ignores our great needs. We too need to look up at the sky in awe. We too need to hear, “Don’t you know? Haven’t you heard? The Lord is the everlasting God.”

Our everlasting God does not get tired or even know weariness. Our great God’s understanding is far, far beyond our understanding. So, yes, sometimes we don’t get what God is doing. But if we trust God, we find that God does give us power when we’re tired, that God does revive us when we’re exhausted. We will be tired and exhausted. These things happen. And the promises remain: God is present. God will renew our strength, enabling us to “run and not be tired” and to “walk and not be weary.” Our God is with us. Our God is for us. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, when we are tired, when we are weary,v when we feel defeated or all alone, call us to look up. Whether the stars at night or the vast blue sky, remind us that you are present in all of creation, that you are present within us. Fill us with hope, renew our strength. Thank you. Amen.


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Afflictions

Reading: Psalm 6:3-9

Psalm 6:3 – “How long will this last? Come back to me, Lord! Deliver me!”

Photo credit: Falaq Lazuardi

David cries out to God in Psalm 6 much as we cry out to God over the courses of our lives. In this Psalm, David is “completely terrified.” Perhaps you have felt this way. Or maybe you have felt utterly hopeless or totally defeated or absolutely alone or beyond grief. Maybe it is a chronic illness that has settled in, disrupting your life. In each case and many more we’ve all uttered words similar to David’s: “How long will this last? Come back to me, Lord! Deliver me!”

David must feel close to death. He lifts the idea that no one praises God from Sheol, a place between death and eternity. As the Psalm continues, David expresses his sorrow and pain. He feels worn out. Each night his bed is soaked with tears. His vision has become unclear – perhaps physically but more likely emotionally. The feeling of not being able to see or think straight has effected all of us during difficult times in life.

The affliction of David appears to be caused by others. David tells the “evil doers” to get away. There is a reason besides simply wanting relief or healing. David declares that God has heard his cries, that God has listened, that God accepts his prayer. The light and love of God has permeated David’s darkness. Of this, David is sure. He feels it in his heart. In our times of suffering and trial, may it be so for us as well.

Prayer: Lord God, sorrow, pain, suffering, grief – they are all part of this life. All will come upon us at times. Lead us to you in these moments and seasons – you are our rock and our hope. Guide us to trust in you alone – you are our strength and our redeemer. Amen.