Supporting the Weak

 

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

—Romans 15:1

Once we begin to follow the Lord Jesus Christ, we will find ourselves proceeding along a pathway that He lays out before us. That pathway will take us through a process of ever-increasing Christian Spiritual Formation, where we will become more and more like Jesus. Bible scholars call this process “sanctification.” It literally means: “to become holy.” Because Jesus, the Son of God, is holy, He wants us to be like Him. So, by His grace and by the enabling of the Holy Spirit, we are in the process of becoming holy, and thus, more like He is.

This includes the way we treat other people. Not every person has the same gifts, abilities, talents, and determination we do. Some people struggle with things that come quite easy to us. Some people need help, just to get through the day. We may be quite self-sufficient. But others may need lots more help than we ever do. In our process of becoming more and more like Jesus, we must determine to support those who are weaker than we are. That’s the thrust of these words from the Apostle Paul, as found in Romans 15:1:

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

Let’s determine this day to put others first, to put them ahead of ourselves. Let’s determine to support the weak and help those in need. Why should we do that? Because that’s exactly what Jesus would do.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, November 20, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Growing More and More

 

We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing.

—2 Thessalonians 1:3

In small group Bible studies and within larger church gatherings, we often talk a great deal about spiritual growth. We commend to one another a daily period of Bible reading and prayer as a valuable spiritual discipline for every believer. We assert that spending time listening to God through His written Word and talking to Him in prayer will result in a steady movement forward of Christian Spiritual Formation and both personal and corporate spiritual growth. That assertion is absolutely true.

The whole idea of walking along the pathway of life with Jesus means that, as we devote ourselves to Him and welcome the direction we receive from the Holy Sprit, we will more and more become like our Savior, Lord, and King. We will think like Him. We will speak like Him. We will act like Him. We will recognize the things He recognizes. We will applaud the things He applauds. We will gently and tenderly condemn the things that He condemns.

Spiritual growth that lasts is always a careful, steady, forward motion. A field of verdant grass, when viewed each day, does not appear to grow. Yet that same field, when looked at with some time between viewings, startles us with how much taller and fuller the grass has become. Similarly, in our lives as believers, our faith-walk will display an almost-too-hard-to-see daily growth. But, when viewed over time, people will observe that we are becoming more and more like the One who has saved us by the shedding of His precious blood to cover our sins. The Apostle Paul characterized such growth this way, as recorded in 2 Thessalonians 1:3:

We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing.

Paul acknowledges that when he looks at the lives of these new believers, he sees definite spiritual growth. And, Paul thanks God for this growth that he has observed. For to see such growth in our fellow believers truly produces joy.

This new day, let’s remember to spend time in God’s written Word and also in prayer. Let’s encourage each other that we might grow together in our faith. And, let’s remain grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who helps us in promoting our careful, steady, forward spiritual growth.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, November 19, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Keeping Those We Love in Our Prayers

 

“I [Paul] thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you [Timothy] in my prayers.”

—2 Timothy 1:3

Prayer is a fundamental, cohesive, and powerful component of our relationship with God. Almost anything we intend to do for the Kingdom of God must begin with sincere, earnest, and fervent prayer.

In our relationships with the people in our lives whom we love, nothing is as important as our taking time to pray for these dear ones. We show the sincerity and depth of our love for them when we purposefully pray for these special people in our lives.

The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the young man he called his “son in the faith.” Timothy was someone very special to Paul. Notice what Paul declares, as found in 2 Timothy 1:3:

I [Paul] thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you [Timothy] in my prayers.

This is a prayer that we all can pray each day for those who matter greatly in our lives. We can pray for our spouses, our children, our extended family members, our close friends, our fellow believers in our churches, and anyone else whom God graciously brings to our minds. Prayer represents the most powerful force we have at our disposal. It truly is a fundamental, cohesive, and powerful component of our relationship with God.

This day, let’s commit ourselves to become people of prayer. Let’s begin, right now, by praying for someone for whom we feel moved by God to pray. And, let’s not stop there. Let’s keep on praying for each one God brings to our minds.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, November 16, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

More Than Conquerors

 

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

—Romans 8:14

When the world around us seems in chaos, where do we go? When our fondest wishes, hopes, and dreams disappear in a puff of smoke, what do we do next? When those we counted on the most seem to have vanished, to whom do we turn?

From time to time, these kinds of questions seem to plague those who follow Christ. Nothing I could possibly write would have more impact than these words from the Apostle Paul found in Romans 8:

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:

“For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

In the midst of the chaos and confusion that sometimes envelopes our lives, may God, through His Holy Spirit, give us hearts filled with His love, joy, and peace this very day. May we come to understand and fully accept that in and through the Lord Jesus Christ we are, indeed, more than conquerors. No matter what may assail us in our lives, God will always give us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, November 15, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Marching In Triumphal Procession

 

“Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.”

—2 Corinthians 2:14

As a small boy, I would eagerly look forward to the Memorial Day Parade in my hometown—except for the clowns. I didn’t like the clowns. They seemed quite scary to me: their painted faces, their random quick movements, their bobbing and weaving in and out of the crowd gathered to watch the parade. Scary! Really Scary!

In contrast with the clowns, I did very much like the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who marched through the street. My dad, a former Marine, always pointed out to me how the Marines looked the best in their crisp uniforms, straight lines, and precisely marching steps. He also opined that, quite understandably, the sailors didn’t march very well because they were used to walking on the ever-rolling deck of a ship.

I also very much enjoyed seeing the fire apparatus, especially the aerial ladder truck. And, I enjoyed the marching bands, even when the thudding drums caused my chest to compress with the concussive force of their rhythmic beating.

Whether we realize it or not, we Christians are “parade people.” We are part of a great triumphal procession that rivals any Memorial Day, or any other celebratory parade. Notice what the Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 2:14:

Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.

Today, as we “march” out into the world, let’s spread the sweet fragrance of Christ everywhere we go. Let’s allow our humble, careful, and loving witness to God’s love and grace become a perfume that draws a needy world irresistibly into His grace. And, let’s march onward triumphantly.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Wednesday, November 14, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

The Thirst-quenching Holy Spirit

 

“For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.”

—Isaiah 44:3

When you’re thirsty, really thirsty, nothing quenches that thirst quite like a drink of cool, clear spring water. As a small boy growing up in the inland valleys of central northwestern Pennsylvania, we were blessed to have a number of natural springs available to us. One of those springs existed on the outskirts of the City of Bradford, Pennsylvania, coming off a hill that led onto a road named “Interstate Parkway.”

In the summertime of the 1950s, my dad would take several clear gallon glass jugs, load them into the trunk of our car, and with me in the shotgun seat, drive out to that spring and fill those bottles with the clearest, coldest, most refreshing water that I had ever tasted. The bottled water that we have in such abundance today was nearly unheard of in those days. So, it was a real treat to be able to open the refrigerator and fill a glass or cup from one of those gallon jugs of natural spring water.

The Holy Spirit is like that refreshing spring water. He comes into our lives when we acknowledge that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Thereafter, the Spirit provides us with a constant flow of fresh, clear, cool spiritual water that revives our spirits and lifts our souls.

The Prophet Isaiah had lived long enough on the edge of the desert to know how important a spring of living water was to a land that was parched by the heat of the sun. That’s why Isaiah, speaking the words of God, recorded this statement found in Isaiah 44:3:

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.

God refreshes the spirits of His dearly loved children by pouring the Holy Spirit into their lives. That’s the lesson for today. We need to recognize how fortunate we are to have such a refreshment made available to us by the God who loves us with His everlasting love.

The late Donald Doig shares this appropriate musical reminder that I hope you will enjoy:

 

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, November 13, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

The Voice of Thunder

 

“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.”

—Job 37:5

Some people and most pets do not like thunder and lightning. I am one who delights in an electrical storm. As a small boy, I used to sit on the open front porch of our modest home in Bradford, Pennsylvania. The porch faced in a southeasterly direction. As a summer thunderstorm moved over the inland hills, blown by a southeasterly wind, I can remember “feeling” the storm in the air before I heard the first peal of thunder, or saw the first flash of lightning. The air would begin to feel very heavy and moist. A sweet scent would permeate the air. I later learned that scent came from ozone produced by the distant electrical activity of the storm.

Within minutes of that sense that a storm was coming, I would see a lightning flash. I would count to myself:

“… one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three …”

BOOM! A clap of thunder would echo across the inland valley. Then, another flash would light the horizon. Another peal of thunder would follow. The storm was moving closer.

Next, I would hear the soft pitter-patter, as the first few drops of rain would start to fall. The pace of the falling raindrops would slowly increase. The odor of ozone in the air would be replaced by a fresh dew-like smell of cleansing water. The frequency of the falling raindrops would quicken even more. Suddenly, the heavens would open and the storm would unleash its fury. I loved it! I loved every minute of it! I loved the cool, moist breeze that would wash over me on that front porch. I loved the flashes of lightning and staccato peals of thunder. Each storm possessed immense energy. I felt mesmerized by that display of power.

The Patriarch Job’s “friend” Elihu was very familiar with the storms that would move across the desert. He understood the power of such a storm. He welcomed the cleansing of the dust and grit that the storm would bring. No wonder that Elihu likened the movement of God to the power of a storm. Notice what Elihu said, as recorded in Job 37:5:

God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.

Just as the power of a storm captures the imagination of weather scientists and small boys, so does the movement of God capture the imagination in the lives of His followers. God’s power is unfathomable. His grace is overwhelming. His love is without measure. His peace is all pervasive.

As we begin a new day, let’s recognize the enormous power of our Holy God. He is the Lord of our lives. He is our Father. In and through His Son, Jesus, He is our Redeemer. He is our everything. And, how blessed we are that we belong to Him and that His power is ours.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, November 12, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Magnificent Memories

 

“The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.”

—Proverbs 10:7

Do you have some favorite memories? Maybe you remember some critically important incident in your life. Perhaps you remember a vacation your family took when you were a child. You might remember the birth of a child. You could also remember the death of a loved one. You might think about the time your boss complimented you in front of your peers. You might remember the very day and hour when you recognized the gift God had given you in salvation through His Son, Jesus.

Memories play an important role in our lives. I’ve found, as I have reached old age, that certain memories tend to flood back into my mind at the most unusual and unexpected times.

My parents have both gone home to be with the Lord more than forty years ago. Even so, at the most unpredictable times, I will suddenly be overwhelmed with a strong sense of grief and loss. Tears will flood my eyes. I will feel a deep sadness and longing in the core of my being. I will feel once again the way I felt when I learned that each of my parents had gone home to heaven.

Long ago, I recognized that when we lose someone we love dearly, the pain of loss never really goes away. In fact, that pain is not supposed to go away. We may adjust, so that the pain is not as sharp nor as fresh. But, from time to time, the pain of loss will reassert itself in a surprising way.

This is also true for memories of unusually pleasant experiences. Certain events in our lives that brought us great joy, or excitement, or a strong sense of well-being will also rise to the surface and re-assert those feelings once again.

Yes, memories do play a very important role in our lives. King Solomon recognized this when he wrote these words found in Proverbs 10:7:

The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.

Solomon liked to make comparisons. Here he balances against each other the memories held by those God has made righteous and the names of the wicked.

If you think about that, certainly the names of individuals whom we have learned were evil have continued to be held in great disdain. The name “Adolf Hitler” evokes a visceral reaction from anyone who has studied the atrocities he ordered during World War II. The absolute and utter horror of the extermination of over six million Jews will be long remembered by generations to come. It’s more than a little sad that today some use the name, “Adolf Hitler,” as a description for anyone whose political philosophy or policies they don’t like. Hitler needs to remain the name of one specific person only—the man who brought about such unspeakable horror that the world must never, ever forget what terrible things he did. Such foolish use of this terrible name says far more about the people who use the name in this way than it does about the people being labeled with this despicable name.

Let’s remember this day those times in our lives when we had a strong sense of Christ’s Presence. Let’s recall those instances when God seemed very close and extended His mercy, grace, and love in some very special way. In fact, if we look daily for His hand, we will see Him at work in our lives. These memories will become precious to us. And, they will mean all the more as we grow older.

Memories play an important role in our lives. Let’s go about making some new and valuable memories this very day.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, November 9, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Waiting

 

“… we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ …”

—Titus 2:11-14

What do you do when you have to wait somewhere for something to happen? Over the last twenty-six years, I’ve spent a great deal of time in the Waiting Rooms of doctor’s offices. A chronic infection in my right foot following a partial amputation in 1998—and culminating in November of 2017 with the amputation below the knee of my right leg and foot—has resulted in frequent visits to a longish list of medical specialists. Each one has a Waiting Room. As efficient as these dedicated professionals tend to be, there is still usually some waiting time for my turn in the Examining Room.

I usually pass the time by sitting quietly, with my eyes closed, thinking about the day and, if the Waiting Room is quiet enough, praying for people that God has laid on my heart. Sometimes, I allow my mind to drift back into the history of my life and I re-live certain events that have significance for me. Other times, I think about how I intend to spend the rest of the day, what tasks need to be completed, what new opportunities I might consider, even what I might write as a blog post for the next day.

I notice that other people read, play games on their smart phones, or watch videos—especially now that smart phones offer such a wide range of entertainment possibilities. Others carry on conversations, often at too loud a volume, either on their cell phones or with companions. Still others fidget nervously in anticipation of their visit with the doctor.

As Christians, we are all ultimately waiting for the return of our Lord. Many Christians may well believe that they will go to be with Him long before He returns to earth. Some may have decided that His return is just around the corner and think about what it will be like when He comes back. All of us recognize that the return of Jesus will be the second most significant event in all of history—the first being the span of His birth, life, suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension.

The Apostle Paul, in writing to his friend Titus, whom Paul had sent to minister on the Island of Crete, aptly describes this period of waiting in which all Christians exist, as recorded in Titus 2:11-14:

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Notice the phrase:

“… we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ …”

That’s where we are right now. We are waiting for Christ’s return. But, while we are waiting, we still have much to do as Christ’s ambassadors to a troubled and needy world.

Let’s launch into this new day with a sense of genuine anticipation that today might well be the day that our Lord returns. But, let’s also move forward in our quest to share with those we meet what God has done in our lives through the power of His beloved Son. Waiting does not need to be a time of tedious boredom. Rather, it can be a time of great usefulness—usefulness to us personally and usefulness to the Kingdom of God here on earth.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, November 8, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Dealing with the Trials of Life

 

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial…”

—James 1:12

Trials will always eventually come into our lives. We live in a fallen and sin-cursed world. Evil surrounds us. Satan desires to destroy us. Our human bodies are frail and subject to all manner of disease. Relationships are tentative and insecure. So, we should not be at all surprised when difficulty tracks us down.

As believers in the life-transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ, we must constantly consider how we will face trials, what we will do, and what we will say. God intends to give us the strength we need, through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Addressing both men and women—for in the Koine Greek text, the noun “man” and pronoun “he” frequently mean humans of both male and female gender—the Apostle James writes these words found in James 1:12:

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

I don’t know what trials you may face in your life today. If you are not yet facing trials, they likely will find you before you live out the length of your life. I do know what God can and will do to sustain all of us when trials overtake us.

Let’s cling to God this day and every day. Let’s allow Him to bear our burdens, defeat the enemy, and gives us victory over our trials. We can put our full trust in Him. He will never fail us.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Wednesday, November 7, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Our Active Faith

 

“Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord.”

—Acts 15:35

Not every Christian is called by God to actually preach. But, every Christian is called by God to proclaim—in a tender, gentle, and loving way—the truth of God’s gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus. There really is no point to trying to be a passive Christian.‬

Christianity is an active faith. Because we Christians recognize the great gift that God has given us through release from the power that sin has over us and through the cleansing of our sins by the blood of Jesus, we must become active in sharing everything that God has done in us, and for us, and through us. As the Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 2:20:‬

‪I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.‬

Paul recognized that, through Christ, the hold that sin had formerly had over him had been nailed to the cross. The new life that Christ provided for Paul—and provides for us—promotes an active response. That is why Dr. Luke records the following in Acts 15:35:‬

‪Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord.‬

‬

The very least that Paul and Barnabas could do when confronted by “so great salvation” (Hebrews 2:3) was to actively proclaim the magnificent truth of the gospel by means of teaching and preaching. While we may not be called, nor equipped, to preach, or even teach, we have been equipped by the indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit to lovingly share what God has done for us through Christ.‬

Therefore, as we begin another new day, let’s remain aware of those opportunities that God may bring our way to share a word of encouragement and love in the name of Jesus. We do well when we actively participate in God’s work in this world. We are, after all, a vital part of God’s Kingdom here on earth. It’s high time we took advantage of the privilege that is ours to represent our Great King to a troubled and needy world.‬

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, November 6, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Redistributing Wealth?

 

“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.”

—Deuteronomy 8:18

A major thrust of the social and political philosophy pushing at least half of the leaders in the United States today can be summed up in the term “income redistribution.” This is actually a philosophical principle of Marxist Communism that says those who have earned higher incomes should be forced by the government, through various means, to give an equalizing portion of their income to those who have not earned as much. This “income redistribution” purports to “level the playing field” of society and to create a more seemingly equal financial turf across the wide spectrum of the populace.

Of course, the concept of government-forced “income redistribution” is anti-Constitutional, anti-democratic, anti-Scriptural, and immoral. Scripture makes it plain that some individuals will always end up with more wealth than others. In some cases, this greater wealth may come about through nefarious means. But, more often than not, the greater wealth comes about from an abundant blessing of God, through the clever application of the talents and abilities that God has given a particular individual, through hard work, or through an inheritance that has come from a family history, over which the individual receiving the inheritance has no control. Scripture indicates that such wealthier individuals have a greater responsibility to society than those who have not fared as well, but such an obligation must be given voluntarily and not be forced by government intervention.

The Bible teaches God’s people to be particularly generous in their care of the poor and needy, the widows and orphans, and anyone who genuinely needs a helping hand. But, such generosity stems from the recognition of how graciously and lovingly God has dealt with us in our own individual lives. It decidedly is not a “generosity” forced upon us by any government mandate. And, therein lies the rub with the philosophy of roughly half of our fellow citizens—the Marxist Communistic-based concept of compulsory redistribution of wealth.

Government-mandated “income redistribution” is actually a way of vesting ever more power and control in those who run the government. This quest for “income redistribution” is not really rooted in a desire to help those in need. Rather, it is a way of taking the power of money away from those who have gained wealth and re-vesting that power in the few who control the government’s programs for redistributing that wealth.

One of the reasons why Marxist Communism—and its false sister, Socialism—has utterly failed wherever it has been instituted is that the power does not ever truly vest with the common people, the Proletariat. Instead, every Marxist Communistic system ever manifested on earth has vested power only with a very select few individuals who are a part of, or at a slightly higher level than, the Bourgeoisie.

Now, in a fully Marxist Communist country, this may well be an entirely different Bourgeoisie than the Bourgeoisie found in a fully Capitalistic society, but it is still a “middle to upper echelon” controlling group of people who exercise authority over all others in society through the implementation and control of the means of production, through their relatively higher level of education and greater cohesion, and through their heightened influence on the dictates of government.

Contrary to what many left-leaning Christians may opine, Christianity is neither Marxist Communistic, nor Socialistic, nor Capitalistic. No, Christianity is an amalgam of all economic philosophies, which recognizes that the condition of humankind results from the will and purpose of God and from His gracious and kind dealings with those humans who belong to Him, no matter what social or economic status they may have within a particular society. Notice these words from Deuteronomy 8:18:

But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.

God gives the talent and ability to produce wealth. Humans can choose to apply or ignore this God-given talent and ability. But, the source of wealth begins with God. And in fact, the source of wealth ultimately always belongs to God. He may grant it to some individuals for a season on this earth. But, wealth is always His for all eternity.

As we begin a new day, we need to very carefully examine our personal positions with regard to economics and government:

• Do these personal positions square with Scripture?
  
  
• Do these personal positions honor the role that God plays in our lives?
  
  
• Do these personal positions recognize certain immutable truths, such as the fact that in any society there will always be both rich and poor?
  
  
• Do these personal positions encourage God-inspired generosity toward those in need? Or …
  
  
• Do these personal positions with regard to economics and government constantly create friction with our faith?
  
  

As a part of our walk with God, we need to make certain that nothing comes between us and Him. And that includes our economic and political beliefs.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, November 5, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

We Should Have No Shame

 

“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.”

—Romans 1:16

Do you ever sense the Holy Spirit nudging you to speak a word of God’s love and grace to someone, and yet you hesitated to do so? Don’t feel too ashamed about that. It happens to most of us. We realize that, in our world today, any mention of God, or His Son, Jesus, or the wonderful plan He has for people’s lives is often met with scorn and derision, even anger.

God understands the circumstances that surround our lives. But, He also will not stop prompting us to speak words of comfort, or caring, or love in His behalf. And, the more often we respond and speak such words, in a gentle way, to someone whom the Holy Spirit prompts us to address, the more comfortable we will become in serving our Lord in this way.

By the time he wrote the following words, as recorded in Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul had become quite bold in his witness:

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.

As this new day opens up before us, let’s be sure to listen with our spiritual ears for the nudging of the Holy Spirit. We will sense that nudging deep within our innermost being. When we do sense that nudge, let’s allow the Holy Spirit to speak through us. In the most gentle and tender way possible, let’s share words of God’s mercy, grace, and love with whomever has crossed our pathway at that moment. When we do this, we bring great joy to the God who loves us with His everlasting love.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, November 2, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Jesus Completes Us

 

“In Christ, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.”

—Colossians 2:9-10

“Until I met Jesus,” new believers are often heard to say, “there was something missing in my life. There was a hole in my being that nothing could fill. Now, I feel as if I am complete.” I have shared in a previous blog post the words of a hymn that Clara T. Williams wrote in 1875. Entitled “Satisfied,” this hymn expresses the thoughts of so many new believers in the life-transforming power of the living Lord Jesus Christ, that I will share it again here:

All my life long I had panted
For a draught from some cool spring,
That I hoped would quench the burning
Of the thirst I felt within.

Refrain: Hallelujah! I have found Him
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings,
Through His blood I now am saved.

Feeding on the husks around me,
Till my strength was almost gone,
Longed my soul for something better,
Only still to hunger on.

Refrain: Hallelujah! I have found Him
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings,
Through His blood I now am saved.

Poor I was, and sought for riches,
Something that would satisfy,
But the dust I gathered round me
Only mocked my soul’s sad cry.

Refrain: Hallelujah! I have found Him
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings,
Through His blood I now am saved.

Well of water, ever springing,
Bread of life so rich and free,
Untold wealth that never faileth,
My Redeemer is to me.

Refrain: Hallelujah! I have found Him
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings,
Through His blood I now am saved.

This song, and the thoughts of new believers, parallel the message that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Christians gathered at the church in Colosse, as recorded in Colossians 2:9-10:

In Christ, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.

In the Authorized Version of Scripture—also known as the King James Version—the phrase that the New International Version translates “and you have been given fullness in Christ” is translated “And ye are complete in Him.” Certainly, being complete in Jesus does, indeed, indicate that we have received from Him the fullness of life.

Without Him, there is no doubt but that we can feel a definite emptiness. With Him, Jesus replaces that emptiness with a fullness of joy, a fullness of peace, a fullness of delight, a fullness of grace, a fullness of mercy, and a fullness of love.

As we awaken to a new day, let’s rejoice that, in Christ, God has made us complete in Him. We are no longer needy, hungry, empty, confused souls, with a huge hole in our hearts. We are filled to overflowing with all of God’s precious mercy, grace, and love. And, that surely is a reason to celebrate.

^{______________________}

The late Donald Doig sings Clara T. Williams’ beautiful words, with the haunting melody written by Ralph E. Hudson and arranged by Ronn Huff, that I hope you will enjoy:

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, November 1, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Time to Clean Up

 

“Get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.”

—James 1:21

After years and years of observing the moral decline in our nation, I still find times when I am shocked by the language, visual images, crude jokes, suggestive attire, disrespectful behavior, and generally immoral attitude that has taken over the lives of more and more people in our land. As Christians, God intends for us to take a stand against evil, not to be drawn into the midst of it and relish the depravity around us. That’s why the Apostle James wrote these words found in James 1:21:

Get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

Since he wrote these words in the first century A.D., imagine what the Apostle James would think of our world today? He would probably faint dead away at the sound of the words people speak aloud, the suggestiveness of our clothing, the coarseness of our behavior, and the lasciviousness our choices for entertainment. I can hardly imagine how shocked the Apostle James would feel.

But, we can, and should, feel shocked and dismayed, as well. In response, we should purposefully do our part to stand against evil. How many Christian women watch “The Bachelor” or similar programs? How many Christian men leer at the attire of most women who appear on their television screens? How many Christians have fallen prey to pornography, or gambling, or excessive use of alcoholic beverages, or to the use of mind-altering drugs, or telling dirty jokes, or … ? And it goes on and on and on.

I know, I know, this is not at all a popular topic. It is quite possible that what I have just written will offend many of you reading this blog post. But, you see, I know my own heart. I know how enticing some of the sins that permeate our present age can become. Nevertheless, the call from the Apostle James seems quite clear to me. And, if you’re honest, doesn’t it speak to you, as well?

As we begin another day, while we bask in God’s love for us, let’s not forget the responsibilities we have as His ambassadors to a truly troubled world. When we choose our entertainment, or our clothing, or any other behavior, let’s think more carefully about what would honor Him the most. If we do that, we will surely be much better off.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Wednesday, October 31, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Obedience Has Its Reward

 

“If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.”

—John 15:10

Compared to children of today, my childhood was severely disadvantaged. Why? Because today, children often receive rewards for any slight indication of obedient behavior. In my childhood, growing up in the 1950s, I was expected to always obey without any reward. The obedience was its own reward. Can you imagine that?

If you are anywhere near my own age, you are laughing right now. You grew up the same way I did. We were not bribed to be obedient. We were simply expected to always behave. If anything, we were warned of dire consequences should we fail to be obedient. But, even in God’s economy, obedience to His will and His written Word have some startlingly real benefits. Note these words of Jesus, as recorded in John 15:10:

“If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.”

Obedience celebrates our place wherein we remain solidly connected to the vine of God’s love and grace. Not that we can do anything—in and of ourselves—to earn God’s love. Quite to the contrary—God gives us His love freely. But, for our own benefit, for our own nourishment, for our own health, we need to remain obediently connected to the vine of God’s divine provision. That’s what John 15 is all about.

As we begin this new day, let’s take time to click on this link and read through John 15. As we read the words of Jesus, let’s rejoice that in our obedience, as led by the Holy Spirit, we choose to remain connected to the nourishing vine of God’s love and grace.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Guard the Name of Jesus

 

“God exalted him [Jesus] to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

—Philippians 2:9-11

How often do you hear the name of Jesus during your daily activities? How often is His name used as a curse word, or a word of exclamation, or a word of surprise? We live in an ever-coarsening culture. In my daily work at an insurance company for nearly 30 years, I heard the name of Jesus dozens of times each day. Never once was His name spoken in love, with affection, with honor, or with praise. It was always—always—spoken as a curse word.

And, do you know what is the saddest part of such a constant exposure to an improper use of the name of our Lord has on one’s life? To my absolute horror, in a moment of surprise, or of unanticipated pain, I would utter His name in a dishonoring way myself! How terrible that is! Having heard my Savior’s name used improperly so often, I am agonized to confess that the improper use of His name occasionally found its way into my own vocabulary. That reality is shameful, absolutely shameful!

That’s one of the dangers of living in an ever-coarsening world. Oh that the Holy Spirit would guard our ears and our minds to deafen us to such a besmirching of the greatest of all names, the name of Jesus. Instead, we should embrace the words of the Apostle Paul, as recorded in Philippians 2:9-11:

God exalted him [Jesus] to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

May this new day be a day wherein we determine to do everything in our power to make the name of our Savior precious, magnificent, and one we will not dishonor. May we guard our tongues, our hearts, and our minds. May the name of Jesus become so important to us that we would never use His name in an improper way. Let us fervently pray:

Cleanse our minds, hearts, and mouths, O Lord. Let our lips only speak words of truth and praise. Help us in our weakness and forgive our foolish ways. For the sake of your Son, Jesus, our Savior, Lord, and King. Amen.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, October 29, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Bread of Life from Heaven

 

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

—Matthew 4:4

A familiar hymn, written by an anonymous author in 1661 and often sung during Holy Communion, includes these lyrics:

O Bread of Life from heaven,
To saints and angels given;
O manna from above!
The souls that hunger, feed Thou,
The hearts that seek Thee, lead Thou,
With Thy sweet, tender love.

O fount of grace redeeming,
O river ever streaming
From Jesus’ holy side!
Come Thou, Thyself bestowing
On thirsting souls, and flowing
Till all are satisfied.

We love You, Jesus, tender,
In all Your hidden splendor
Within these means of grace.
Oh, let the veil be riven,
And our clear eye in Heaven
Behold Your glory face to face.

The longing expressed in this hymn parallels the very words Jesus spoke, as recorded in Matthew 4:4:

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

God’s Word—both the Living Word, Jesus, and the written Word, the Bible—offers sustenance for our needy and hungry souls. As we begin another day, let’s take time to feed on both of God’s Words today. We can spend time reading the Bible and, thus, devour the written Word. We can spend time in prayer and thus feed on the Living Word, as our Savior hears our conversation with Him and acts graciously on our behalf. How blessed we are to be so loved by God.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, October 26, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

With God, Nothing Is Too Hard

 

“Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”

—Jeremiah 32:17

Have you ever started a task and, after a great deal of effort, finally had to admit that the task has become just too hard for you to accomplish? I confess that in my younger days that rarely happened. I have a rather stubborn streak. No matter how difficult something became, I could usually push my way through until I either accomplished the task, or irreparably broke some part or object involved in the task.

That is definitely no longer the case. I am an old man now. Actually, I have been an “old man” physically since I suffered a decline in my health in 1998. There are many, many tasks, which I used to accomplish with ease, that I simply can no longer do.

A bit more than eight years ago, my wife and I found ourselves in the process of getting ready to move from our house in Harborcreek Township, Pennsylvania, to a much smaller Garden Home at a highly respected Senior Living Community on the other side of the county. Frankly, we made the correct decision at just the right time in our lives.

Certainly the people who run this facility seem extraordinarily kind, gracious, and helpful. Even after the intervening years, I write about this move with somewhat of a heavy heart because I had to discard nearly 90 percent of my cherished personal possessions. They simply wouldn’t fit in the new place. In reality, they represented only “things” and did not have genuine lasting importance. Nevertheless, I lament having to get rid of them.

For example, on one particular weekend—with the help of one of my brothers-in-law and nephew, along with two friends from my church—we carted over 1,000 pounds of electronic gear to a special recycling facility. This included 17 computers. Yes, that’s right—17 computers. I also had two ancient televisions, numerous radios, some cassette duplicating equipment, all kinds of test equipment, and other electronic gadgets and gizmos accumulated over a lifetime. I even had an 8-track tape cartridge deck. Remember them? They were all the rage in the late 1960s and early 1970s. My point is that without the help of others, I am no longer able to do many things. Fortunately, God has provided people who are so very gracious, kind, and willing to help me.

Sometimes, even in our spiritual lives, we may get to the place where we say, “I just can’t do this.” Fortunately, we don’t have to do it by ourselves. God has given us the all-powerful Holy Spirit to help us. As the Prophet Jeremiah declared in Jeremiah 32:17:

Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.

As we begin another day, let’s remember that nothing is too hard for God. He is able to do more than we dare even ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). That should encourage each of us.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, October 25, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Completed By God

 

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

—Philippians 1:

If you’ve ever had a house built, or renovated one, you know that a most frustrating part of such a process occurs when the contractor proves unreliable. I have dear friends who have been trying to get their house renovated for nearly four years. By now, they have employed their fourth or fifth contractor. Along the way, each contractor has seriously dropped the ball.

In such a circumstance, it seems appropriate to wonder why a contractor who began the work can’t see it through all the way to the completion of the project. That’s a reasonable question. And, the answer speaks to the unreliability of some people, their failure to properly plan the allocation of their time, their inability to price a job so that the income from it will exceed their expenses by an appropriate amount, and their lack of interest in the professional responsibility to maintain their own reputation.

Fortunately, in our walk with God, through His Son, Jesus, we have the One who not only began the relationship with us, but will see that relationship all the way through to the ultimate joy of uniting us with Himself for all eternity. As the Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 1:6:

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

As we look forward to another new day, let’s relax into the arms of our Lord and Savior, knowing that He will complete the work He has begun in us. By the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, God will direct our pathway, prompt us to lay aside besetting sins, open up opportunities for us to serve Him, and shield us from the enemy’s attacks. What more could we possibly ask?

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Wednesday, October 24, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

How To Be Content

 

“… I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

—Philippians 4:11

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of chaos and noticed one individual sitting apart from everyone else with a peaceful look, even a slight smile, on his or her face? That person has found contentment.

I used to quickly acknowledge that I have never felt truly content. I am a driven person. In fact, I have felt “driven” as long as I can remember. I believe my decided lack of contentment—along with an overwhelming amount of God’s grace and blessing—have joined to drive me to succeed in many of my endeavors over the years of my life.

But, as an old man now in my dotage, I am looking back over my life and shaking my head from side to side. I am wondering—with all the frenetic activity that has marked my life, all the drive, all the lack of contentment—if I have actually accomplished anything of lasting value. You might call it the introspective musings of an old man. And, likely, you would be right.

But these days, I long to be in the position that describes the Apostle Paul, when he wrote these words found in the last half of Philippians 4:11:

… I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I have yet to fully experience what the Apostle Paul describes. Though, when I think carefully about it, I do believe I am closer to learning that lesson now than I have ever been before in my life.

As we begin another day, let’s examine whether we have learned how to be content—no matter the circumstances in which we find ourselves. If the answer is “no,” then we likely need to ask God to show us the pathway to contentment. If the answer is “yes,” then we need to praise God for the valuable lesson He has taught us. In either case, examining ourselves for the presence of genuine contentment offers us a most worthy exercise.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, October 23, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Why We Worship

 

“I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.”

—Psalm 138:2

For those of us who believe in the life-transforming power of God through His Son, Jesus, worship is a very natural part of our devotion to God. While some may suggest that the word “worship” covers almost anything that a believer does with God in mind, I have always preferred to think of worship as a very focused time, specifically set aside, to spend time telling God how much we appreciate Him simply for Who He is.

I do not believe that worship should focus on what God has done for us, or on sharing with God our requests of Him. Instead, worship at its best should solely focus on all of the attributes of God that He has revealed to us in His written Word. And, worship should also focus on the way He has applied His attributes to our personal lives and our corporate life. In effect, we are telling God: “Please let me list for you these reasons why I love you…”

While I don’t really want to present my view about the nature of worship as too dogmatic, I do take note that, throughout the Psalms, the various writers often do exactly what I’m suggesting. They tend to focus on the qualities or attributes of God that bring them delight in their personal lives. For example, note what King David writes in Psalm 138:2:

I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.

Here King David acknowledges that God’s qualities, or attributes, of love and faithfulness inspire David to bow down and worship God. David also acknowledges that a unique quality of God is that He, God, has exalted His name and His written Word above all things.

As we start another new day, let’s take a few moments to simply express to God what we love about Him. I know that He delights in the praise of His people. So, God will enjoy hearing what we have to say, just as we inwardly enjoy it when someone shares with us what they love about us.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, October 22, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

A Shield from God

 

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.”

—Psalm 18:30

When a solider comes under enemy fire, he or she wants to take cover under the best possible shield. That protection allows the soldier to regroup, take stock, check his or her ammunition, and prepare to mount yet another offensive against the enemy. So it is in the life of a Christian. We all too often come under attack of the enemy. Satan desires to destroy us. He wants to shake our faith. He wants to disillusion us. He wants to mar our walk with God.

But, when we come under this attack, God offers us the best possible protection. The New International Version of the Bible describes it this way in 2 Samual 22:1:

David sang to the Lord the words of this song, when the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.

David sings quite a lot. In fact, every Psalm that David wrote is truly a song. Notice what David sang in Psalm 18:30:

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.

Today, if we feel the enemy is attacking us, we can take refuge in the protection that God offers us. He will gladly shield us from the most vicious arrows of Satan’s attack. His love will enfold us. He will soothe and dress any wounds we may have received. And, rejoice in His loving arms. He is our God and we belong to Him.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, October 19, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}

 

Something On Which We Can Depend

 

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”

—Matthew 24:35

Among the many things that we search for in our lives is something that we can count on—something on which we can depend—no matter what. We look for things that have a certain permanence or staying power. Maybe that “something” is a friendship that has stood the test of time. Perhaps it is some knowledge that we have acquired over the course of our lives on which we base our reputation. Perhaps, as a mom or dad, we look at the success of our children as validation for our worth and value. Their success in life has the kind of permanence that we look for when we want something with staying power.

As believers in the life-transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ, we also have an eternal staying power available to us in God’s precious written Word, the Bible. Jesus declares this in His own words, as recorded in Matthew 24:35:

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

There is no better reason to study God’s written Word than this statement of Jesus. Because His written Word has staying power, God wants us to read, study, and meditate on what He says to us through His Word. He has given us His Holy Spirit to aid us in our understanding of Scripture. So, we do not have to find our way through the Bible alone, as if we were trudging along a road on a dark, moonless night.

Let’s begin this new day by honoring God’s provision. Let’s determine to read, study, and meditate on God’s written Word. And, as the Holy Spirit enables us, let’s share what we learn when He nudges us to do so. We never know how God’s Truth from His written Word might bring His glorious light into the heart of someone we encounter along the pathway of life.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, October 18, 2018

_{Copyright © 2024 by Dean K. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.}

_{More info at www.DeanKWilson.com}