Prior to Fed Ex, UPS and the United States Postal Services, important messages were delivered by a single individual. Some traveled by boat, others used horses and during the Industrial Revolution via train. However, in the Old Testament, messengers relied on less conventional methods, camels, donkeys or sandals by foot. Perhaps, this explains the comment below by a prophet upon receiving good news.
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns,” Isaiah 52:7.
The New Testament refers to feet in the context of spiritual armor. One of the pieces of Roman armor consisted of special shoes with cleats to dig into the ground. This enabled soldiers to stand their ground when attacked. The symbolism of these shoes suggests that when your footing is secure, your feet are ready to deliver the gospel of peace. As faith matures, individuals develop a spiritual hunger, eager to spread the good news about Jesus Christ.
And having strapped on your feet the gospel of peace in preparation [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news], Ephesians 6:15.
To a certain extent, the content of your daily conversations reveal your spiritual readiness. If you are like me, I experience many ebbs and flows, often hot and cold spiritually. As you open your mouth, what message are you delivering? Is it demoralizing, encouraging or lame? Are you positive, negative or somewhere in between? As Thanksgiving and Christmas approaches, strap on your spiritual shoes so that no one misses the reason for this upcoming season.
My first exposure to the true meaning in the Bible came through two college courses. Biblical and Classical Literature began by reading all 66 books of the Bible and ended with several classics like Beowulf. My second class, the Bible as Literature wasn’t as interesting. While examining the symbolism of the Bible with other ancient stories was educational, I don’t think my college professor went to seminary. These experiences taught me not to read too much into literature. Rather, take each piece in its original historical context. Perhaps, this may explain why Joshua urged readers of the Bible to meditate on God’s laws day and night so that important details are not missed or neglected.
“Blessed [anticipating God’s presence, spiritually mature] are the pure in heart [those with integrity, moral courage, and godly character], for they will see God,” Matthew 5:8.
In the first century, a spiritual leader entered the scene as a vivid story teller, using analogies called parables to captivate an audience. In the passage above, Jesus lists a series of beatitudes. According to Jesus, any individual who pursues these spiritual ambitions will be blessed by God. If anyone wants to develop a pure heart, three traits are necessary: godly character, integrity and moral courage. These values are a mindset, steps toward becoming spiritually mature. For those who stay the course, seeing God work in your life won’t be a concept that you read in a book. Rather, your eyes will be opened to the movement of the Holy Spirit altering, changing and transforming your life.
Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is, 1 John 3:2.
A disciple of Jesus makes an interesting connection in the passage above. As children, babies cling to their parents, relying on their mother’s milk for food and father’s leadership for direction. Jesus welcomed little children in his ministry, eager to bless, hold and interact with them. Yet, when children grow up, innocence is lost as negative adults begin to verbally squash a teenager’s dreams. John tells first century adults to live in anticipation of God’s promises in the Bible. Live by faith like children expecting to walk hand and hand with God in heaven. The key to making this a reality is developing a pure heart. As hearts become aligned with God’s will, you will see God move in America.
After watching the film Young Frankenstein, Steven Tyler was impressed by the part played by Mel Brooks. This character inspired the lyrics to Aerosmith’s hit song Walk This Way. Steven Tyler wrote the first draft of this song later than night in a hotel room. Walk This Way was originally the second single on the 1974 album Toys in the Attic. Twelve years later this song was revitalized by Run DMC on their album Raising Hell.
Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers). But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night, Psalm 1:1-2.
The Bible refers to a similar mantra. The Psalmist uses the analogy of walking, making choices along the way. The passage above details two different paths, like a to do and not to list. Anyone who does not walk with wicked counsel, stand with questionable individuals and avoids joining those who ridicule others will be rewarded. According to this author, the key to staying on the right path is meditating on God’s Word day and night.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path, Psalm 119:105.
Later on in this book, this concept is brought up again, using the illustration of a light. The Bible serves as a spiritual lamp, to illuminate right from wrong. Unfortunately there aren’t many believers left in college and public education to reinforce Judeo Christian values. Instead, liberal leaning voices are expanding gray areas between right and wrong. Thus, when leaders proclaim walk this way, some might quietly think, “are you sure about that?” If you want to find the treasure of gold at the end of the rainbow, walk toward the Bible to see what’s right.
The Masters of the Universe franchise debuted in 1982. This creation by Mattel includes toys, animation, film, comics, books, videogames and spin-offs. The most popular character in this series was He-Man, the most powerful man in the universe. Like Samson of the Bible, there was no hero who could match the superhuman strength of He-Man. Yet, in real life, there is someone who will come along that is bigger, faster or stronger than their predecessor. No matter how gifted you are, at some point you will have to call upon and rely on a higher power.
“The eye is the lamp of the body; so if your eye is clear [spiritually perceptive], your whole body will be full of light [benefiting from God’s precepts]. 23 But if your eye is bad [spiritually blind], your whole body will be full of darkness [devoid of God’s precepts]. So if the [very] light inside you [your inner self, your heart, your conscience] is darkness, how great and terrible is that darkness! – Matthew 6:22-23
There is another Master who is not a person, but many individuals benefit from the services it provides. The concept of a master credit card was conceived when several California banks joined together to form Interbank Master Charge. From 1966 to 1979, Mastercard was branded as the credit card to want and use. Today, Mastercard is merely a name from the past, bought out by Visa which has carried on its legacy in the credit industry. When I was a child, the only credit card my parents held was work related, for business expenses only. In modern times, adults have multiple credit cards, charging away until shocking bills arrive in the mail or online.
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord], Matthew 6:24.
Typically, when I hear a sermon about money, pastors quote 1 Timothy 6:10, the love of money is the root of all evil. However, the words of Jesus above refer to a heart issue. Do you trust God to provide daily bread for your needs in life? Or are your self reliant, putting all the onus on yourself to make enough money to live a decent life? While there are different levels of commitment on both sides, Jesus wants to know who are you going to serve. The Master of the Universe, (the giver of life) or the Mastercard that provides access to the finer things in life. Although the second choice is tempting, faith, prayer and the Word of God will lead you in the right direction. Two masters, but freewill enables you to make up your mind. Choose wisely.
Certain topics can create division, friction and tension if not communicated in a civil manner. Yet, when words are accompanied by a loving spirit, the gospel and politics can be persuasive. One of my friends ran for the House of Representatives in the state of Delaware. Up against a heavily democratic district, Bryan needed to introduce himself to complete strangers, express his political views and convince several hundred voters to switch parties. This task required a dedicated team of volunteers. Initially, I told my wife that I would commit to being part of the ground team, going house to house to drop off pamphlets to potential voters each weekend. Just as Christians experience lukewarm stages, at some point my heart wasn’t into surrendering my weekends. I guess you can say, I wasn’t dedicated to due do what was necessary for victory. While Bryan received one of the largest percentages of votes for a Republican, his campaign to represent the 5th district ended in defeat.
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many, Mark 10:45.
During the first century, an obscure carpenter from Nazareth, a shady town overrun by crime began a three year campaign. While lacking the finances to make a big political splash, Jesus turned to mainly blue collar individuals, fishermen from the Sea of Galilee. After John the Baptist’s death, Jesus began to travel from town to town, visiting local synagogues. Before long, crowds of people started following this motley crew as rumors of faith, healings and miracles spread. Oddly, anyone who experienced these supernatural events were told to keep quiet, unheard of in any type of political campaign. As followers increased, curious spectators began to see that Jesus was the real deal, a person who practiced what he preached. This fact only endeared the masses to this uneducated man. When Jesus began to be embraced like a rock star, jealousy spread among political and spiritual leaders. This threat resulted in false accusations, gossip and slander to squash Jesus’ popularity. Yet, after three years of serving, teaching and visiting strangers, Jesus became a man of the people, king of the Jews.
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace, 1 Peter 4:10.
The only way for the gospel and politics can work together is if genuine faith unites with statesmanship. Modern debates has turned to identity politics, putting one class, occupation or race against the other. If there is a disagreement, the non-conformist is immediately labeled as a bigot, homophobe or racist. If an opponent can convince potential voters that a candidate is extreme, embellishments, half truths and lies will continue to bombard citizens every election season. Some where along the way, good news has been watered down by endless smear ads. The word gospel comes from and old English phrase godspel, meaning good news or tidings. It’s hard to be positive in a negative environment, especially when shrewd politicians use raw emotions to stir up their base. Yet, why does the negative make national headlines daily while good stories are avoided, disregarded or go unnoticed? Perhaps, its time for modern politicians to follow the Jesus model. Serve one another, help the poor, feed the needy and extend a loving hand to the unwelcomed. If future leaders begin here, you won’t need a campaign advertisement to get you elected. Rather, the people who see the love of Jesus displayed by you will form loyal supporters to stand by your side through thick and thin. This is the possibility of the gospel and politics.
In the last decade, reality television shows have appealed to a desire to strike it rich. Shows like Gold Rush, the Mystery of Oak Island and Treasure Hunters detail the journey average citizens take to find hidden treasure. While some do uncover ancient coins, buried treasure and gold, many leave these show broke. Perhaps, its time for individuals to stop ignoring the obvious, the treasure within your own heart.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also, Luke 12:34.
According to one of the wisest people in the Old Testament, human hearts are a well spring to life, Proverbs 4:23. Depending upon which Bible commentary you prefer, each shares an unique perspective of what King Solomon truly means by this passage. Solomon could be warning individuals against developing a proud heart which doomed Lucifer in Ezekiel 28:17. Meanwhile, human nature is constantly pulling and tempting people to indulge their fleshly desires. Thus, if you want to protect your heart, guard it carefully.
But the goal of our instruction is love [which springs] from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith, 1 Timothy 1:5.
During the first century, Jesus revealed that the words you speak come out of the overflow of your heart. Anger, adoration, encouragement and envy will show itself by the tone and vocabulary that you choose daily. Unfortunately, if you are like me, there is a lot more bad than good that comes out of me. Thus, I am hesitant to reveal the treasure within. While being open and honest is important, when God is missing from your conversation its a sign of an empty treasure, void of Jesus. May the passage above give you hope, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to fill you with love so that any broken or wounded heart will be made whole.
The term assurance refers to a positive declaration intended to give confidence. In a biblical context, an assurance is a promise from God. Certain passages of the Bible serve as guarantees, a pledge and vow to fulfill the hope for eternal life. During a private meeting with his disciples, Jesus reveals his plans for the future. According to the verse below, Jesus left earth following his death to prepare a room in heaven for his followers. This message of assurance enables modern Christian to live by faith, not by sight.
In My Father’s house are many dwelling places. If it were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you, John 14:2.
Meanwhile, insurance is a practice or arrangement by which a company or government agency provides a guarantee of compensation for specified loss, damage, illness, or death in return for set payments. If you want to drive, you need auto insurance. Under Obama Care, the uninsured were fined, thereby forcing individuals to obtain health insurance even if they didn’t need or want it. Insurance companies have convinced many Americans to buy more policies than what they actually need.
These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God [which represents all that Jesus Christ is and does], so that you will know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have eternal life, 1 John 5:13.
In preparation for death, attorneys recommend creating a will so that you decide who will receive your remaining assets. Shrewd insurance agents will offer clients term life insurance, the cheapest yet most beneficial for dying spouses. However, from a spiritual perspective, the passage above is the only thing you need to know about eternal life. If you enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ before you die, you can know for certain that you will spend eternity in heaven. This is the only assurance that you need about the afterlife.
There are certain things that God calls people to do that are awkward, challenging and unappealing, Unless someone possesses a strong conviction or will to act, most individuals exercise freewill to decline this opportunity to serve God. In the passage below, an Old Testament prophet receives a clear message from the Lord. However, human nature compels Jonah to flee, heading in the opposite direction of Nineveh. This decision sets the stage for an unlikely comeback.
Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, 2 “Go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim [judgment] against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” 3 But Jonah ran away to Tarshish to escape from the presence of the Lord [and his duty as His prophet]. He went down to ]Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish [the most remote of the Phoenician trading cities]. So he paid the fare and went down into the ship to go with them to Tarshish away from the presence of the Lord, Jonah 1:1-3.
From time to time, I have met people whose lives have taken a similar path to Jonah. Initial stages play the role of a prodigal, indulging their sinful nature until hitting rock bottom. For those who come to their senses, confessions, repentance and reconciliation follows. While in college, I spent a day at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio with two co-workers. My friend Harry ran into an old youth pastor. Eddy and I stared at each other in shock, unaware of Harry’s former life. Prior to this encounter, Harry was in full blown prodigal mode, cursing like a sailor daily while living with his girlfriend. This God instance planted the seed for another unlikely comeback.
Then they said to him, “Now tell us! Who is to blame for this disaster? What is your occupation? Where do you come from? What is your country?” 9 So he said to them, “I am a Hebrew, and I [reverently] fear and worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” Then the men became extremely frightened and said to him, “How could you do this?” For the men knew that he was running from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them. 11 Then they said to him, “What should we do to you, so that the sea will become calm for us?”—for the sea was becoming more and more violent, Jonah 1:8-11.
Stories like this and the apostle Paul’s radical transformation in Acts 9 communicate a powerful message, anything is possible with God. The Psalmist uses the imagery of infinity, ” as far as the east is from the west,” to describe God’s endless supply of grace, love and mercy. To the human mind, this fact is hard to comprehend and grasp. Nonetheless, whether you are currently running away from God, stuck in a relentless storm or ready to give God another chance, its never too late for a comeback. May the testimony of Jonah give you hope that you too are a candidate for an unlikely spiritual comeback.
The concept of a stock market dates back nearly 500 years. The first stock exchange began in 1531 as Belgium brokers and money lenders met in the city of Antwerp to deal with business, government and debt issues. While the New York Stock Exchange is the most powerful and famous in the United States, the first began in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as the Philadelphia Stock Exchange. Today, there are cable networks devoted to following the rise and fall of modern markets. Green is good and red bad as a ticker scrolls across the screen revealing up to the second results of trading. Depending upon how a stock is trending, individuals scramble to buy or sell to maximize their investments.
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ, Romans 10:17.
Recently, I have begun to view my faith in terms of a stock market. If you could take the past year, placing your degree of faith on a flow chart, similar to the highs and lows of a stock, what would it look like? At your peak, what elevated or lifted you to this all time high. Meanwhile, when you reflect back upon your lowest lows, what caused you to experience, feel and end up in a rock bottom emotional state? Have you come to your senses like the prodigal son in Luke 15? Or has depression kept you paralyzed, enslaved by an addiction, bad habit or an undisciplined life? In the passage above, the apostle Paul gives some advice to the poor in faith. Investing time listening, reading and studying the Bible is a goldmine to those who want to become rich in faith.
“So it is for the one who continues to store up and hoard possessions for himself, and is not rich [in his relationship] toward God,” Luke 12:21.
Following the parable of the wealthy fool, Jesus reveals the reason why people hoard possessions on earth. When individuals focus on their own concerns and needs, hobbies can become obsessions. If there is no one to intervene, people end up on reality televisions shows like Hoarders or are visited by the crew from American Pickers. According to Jesus, the way to reverse this trend is by improving your relationship with God, Romans 10:9-10. Those who make investments in Bible Studies, mission trips or prayer groups will begin to see spiritual earnings rise. As individuals connect with God daily through church related activities and a personal quiet time, your faith will rise. Everyone will experience drops, falls and slides throughout life. However, if you develop a resolve like the persistent widow in Luke 18, you will become rich in faith.
Joyce Meyer blames human nature for the cause of worry in an article on this topic. Troubled and uneasy feelings haunt millions of Americans daily. Demons, the devil and powers of darkness prey on these raw emotions, causing many to worry beyond what is reasonable. When conditions are ripe, panic attacks come on suddenly, involving intense and often overwhelming fear. Panic attacks can happen to anyone, yet multiple occurrences can be a sign of a panic disorder. When you add anxiety to this condition, the anticipation of a stressful event or situation, the worry meter starts BEEPING intensely.
Jesus said to His disciples, “For this reason I tell you, do not worry about your life, as to what you will eat; or about your body, as to what you will wear,” Luke 12:22.
In the passage above, Jesus refers to three main sources of worry. Depending upon how you want to classify daily concerns, food, health and clothing are basic essentials. The poor may not know where their next meal will come from. Those in debt may have to choose the cost of health care over hearty meals. Teenagers may be forced to buy clothes at resale shops just to have money for other activities in high school. In terms of worry, the amount of money available to you will often dictate the degree to which you become stressed. Some concerns will be superficial, based upon social status. Meanwhile, those without a place to call home will not rest until shelter is found. No matter what your situation, an internal worry meter is tracking your emotions.
“So it is for the one who continues to store up and hoard possessions for himself, and is not rich [in his relationship] toward God,” Luke 12:21.
The worry meter tends to reflect your relationship with God. However, there is a catch, a glitch. The closer you get to God, the more the Holy Spirit reveals your imperfections. Thus, as some draw near to God, there is a hesitancy to get closer. To avoid conviction, you may chose to go in the opposite direction, taking a break from God for a while. Whatever your situation may be, Jesus wants his followers to become rooted in Christ, Philippians 2:6-7. As your relationship with God improves, your level of worry should decline. Trusting God and worry are reciprocal, polar opposites that work against one another. If you want to reduce your own worry meter, the Bible offers solutions. Solomon suggests to trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding, Proverbs 3:5-6. Meanwhile, Jesus urges people to seek God first and his righteous, Matthew 6:33-34, then all the things you are worrying about will be given unto you. May you put this advice into action so that the worry meter will quickly return to low levels.
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