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Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: What is best for me?

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Livin' my best life

What’s best life for me?

In this series, we’ve seen what best life looks like for a variety of people.  It is evident, at this point,  that best life looks differently to others based on who they are and what is important to them.

For some, best life means the ability to “give back” to the world.  For others it’s about being authentic and true to their beliefs.  And to many, it is simply a whimsical phrase similar to that used by the meerkat, Timon in Lion King: “Hakuna Matata” or “no worries”.

We’ve examined the views of others in hopes that it will assist us as we attempt to formulate what best life looks like for each of us.  Now it’s time to begin forming our own definition.

What are we looking for?

I think we can all agree that best life is purely subjective.  Because of that, it is difficult and would be presumptuous for me to define best life for individuals.  Instead, I’d like to offer a way to begin to capture the essence of best life.

The essence of best life could be summarized using two perspectives: (1) what are people’s basic needs, and (2) what are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get?  In answering these questions, we might begin to decide what our best life might look like.

What do we need?

What are people’s basic needs?  Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is used to study how humans are motivated by defining their basic needs.  Maslow used the terms “physiological”, “safety”, “belonging and love”, “social needs” or “esteem”, and “self-actualization” to describe the pattern through which human motivations generally move.

Perhaps best life includes those things that address people’s needs.  Best life for a homeless person would be found in the physiological category.  Food security, clean water, and shelter would be as good as it gets.  For the person experiencing isolation due to any number of factors, being accepted and belonging is the best life they could imagine.

What do we want?

What are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get?  The Huffington Post asked that question and the answer resulted in ten items.  The key question this survey probed was this: “If you could say in one word what you want more of in life, what would that be?”

  1. Happiness
  2. Money
  3. Freedom
  4. Peace
  5. Joy
  6. Balance
  7. Fulfillment
  8. Confidence
  9. Stability
  10. Passion

In review of this list, it is surprising to note that of the ten items, there is only one that is tangible.  The remaining nine are intangible.  Something intangible can’t be touched physically, but most of the time it is understandable or even felt in the heart.  In accounting, an intangible asset is something that provides long-term benefit.

It is important to know that this survey was completed prior to the COVID pandemic.  However,  I’m sure the answers are still very relevant today.  Please note what people see as the “biggest challenge” to getting what they want.  Perhaps these “unmet needs” could be added to the list that may represent best life.

Basic needs or intangible wants?  Which most accurately represents “best life”?  Especially for me.  To this point, our examination has considered the world’s view of best life.  It’s now time to consider what God has to say.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: You asked for it!

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Livin' My Best Life: You asked for it!

From basics to best

As we discussed last week, best life is something that seems to have the attention of many people.  Each generation has made it its pursuit as they moved forward in time.

In the 19th century, our desire was for the basics—food, shelter, and security.  In the 20th century that desire morphed into a good job, a reasonable mortgage (so we could still travel), and a healthy 401K.  Now we have our eyes on electric cars that drive themselves and tickets into space.  Sorry, but we all can’t be Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos.  I guess their “best life” means more than being a billionaire.

Messaging, media, and marketing

The 21st century has introduced for our consideration, a variety of views as to what best life is.  The range of differences in its description demonstrate the subjective nature of this topic.

Cultural messaging, media, and marketing are successfully redefining what best life looks like.  Our expanded technology has now positioned companies (we don’t even know) to “popup’ advertisement as to what they think will appeal to our “unique definition” of best life.

The difference in best life views can depend on any number of factors.  Many authors and musicians have used the best life mantra to help us develop a definition that best fits our life and circumstance.  Even WikiHow got into the act.  Author, Guy Reichard, offers a four-part blueprint for designing our best life.

Last week we offered the belief that, for the believer, best life is dependent on our reality, our identity, and our purpose.  We now share, for your consideration, some other “views” on best life.

Oprah’s best life

“Live your best life.” These four simple words, made famous by Oprah Winfrey, give a single instruction to follow for happiness and success. While the quote is priceless in its meaning and simplicity, it leaves much to our individual imagination as to what that includes.

While there are more descriptions contained in her book, Live Your Best Life, Oprah offers some clarity to her best life description.

I learned when you use the energy of why you were born in service to something that is bigger than yourself, then goodness and greatness come to you.  Because that’s where the real power lies.  When you can use your personality to serve others rather than yourself. 

Best life views

Since the initial citing of the phrase in Oprah’s book in 2005, there have been many other “opinions” added to the contemporary tapestry of American life.   The Urban Dictionary[1], most popular definition for best life was this.

A stupid phrase that is used, commonly on Instagram, to give the false reality that you can wake up and choose which “life” you want to live. Perhaps you want to be a lazy dog, or a human facing the challenge of whether to have avocado on toast or a green smoothie for breakfast. Either way, it’s got to be the best (breakfast) life you could possibly be living.

Comedian Lil Duval earned his first No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart with his debut solo single “Smile (Living My Best Life)”.  The feel-good track features Ball Greezy and Snoop Dogg.  Sorry but I really can’t include the exact wording from the song.  You might ask your children or grandchildren.  When asked to give his definition of best life, DuVal shared these thoughts.

Just living in your means. Living with whatever you have at that point. Being happy with it — and when you’re happy where you are, you can grow even more. You’re not chasing somebody else’s perception.

 Developing our own view

I close with input from a fellow blogger (which I usually don’t do).  But I feel their description might be helpful in developing our own view.  They write to a “20 somethings” audience which, in my mind, is an important generation for our future.  They open referencing Oprah’s original casting of the best life phrase.

Her (Oprah) personal brand and mantra is centered around self-growth, reaching new heights, and finding meaning. These are all ideas that we, as a society, constantly try to work towards, and I think these are concepts that can truly help us elevate and live more fulfilling versions of our lives. 

Thus, I think the most beneficial and realistic explanation of what “living your best life” means is as follows:  One that encompasses reaching new levels of self-awareness and self-growth, that ultimately leads to taking actions that help you to discover and hone into your interests, talents, and passions.  Living your best life is truly subjective, so an explanation such as this one allows for the unique life experiences that everyone has.

I invite you to spend some time this week thinking about your personal definition of best life.  Without one, we are subject to the influence of others who may not understand God’s will and purpose for our life.  Choose one (or all) of the following readings to help you begin formulating what your best life looks like.  Listen for God’s Spirit as He speaks to your spirit.

  • Psalms 34
  • Ecclesiastes 11-12
  • Matthew 6

[1] Urban Dictionary is a crowdsourced online dictionary for slang words and phrases, operating under the motto “Define Your World.” The website was founded in 1999 by Aaron Peckham. Originally, Urban Dictionary was intended as a dictionary of slang or cultural words and phrases not typically found in standard dictionaries, but it is now used to define any word, event, or phrase.

Spiritual Maturity

Clarion Word Classics: The Way of the Heart

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The Intent of the Clarion Word Classics:

The word “clarion” comes from the Latin word claru or ‘clear’.  Our intent with this quarterly series is to make “loud and clear” what is ours in Christ and as children of God (Romans 8:17).

We will share faith writings from key theologians who will strengthen and enrich our spiritual lives and faith walk.  This includes such sage theologians and writers such as J.I. Packer, Oswald Chambers, and C.S. Lewis.

We will also introduce contemporary writers who express spiritual answers to the challenges of 21st century living.  These include such authors as Priscilla Shirer, Alistair Begg, and Bruce L. Fields.

Clarion Word Classics is intended to make us “think and feel”.  It is about how we live our lives and community in “coram Deo”[1].

This Quarter’s Clarion:

The Way of the Heart: Desert Spirituality and Contemporary Ministry By  Henri J.M. Nouwen.

Area of focus:  Spirituality.  Specifically, contemplative[2] living. I think this book, though short in length (94 pages) is best understood in small bite sizes.  This will allow you to take a “Selah” moment and reflect on what Nouwen is saying and how it relates to our world, our church, and of course, each of us.

Relevancy: Though published in 1981, the current environment in our nation and world continue to cause major fear and concern as to our well-being.  These are shaped by global crises, technological change, social dynamics, and economic uncertainty.  All contribute to a noticeable rise in various mental health issues which continue to get worse.

How does Nouwen’s address our 21st century milieu (setting, environment, situation)?  There is a general feeling by believers (and nonbelievers) that “something is missing” in their current walk of faith.  Something that can’t be satisfied with one more Bible study, workshop, or conference.  We want a more intimate relationship with God.  We want more of Him!

What do I like about the book?

  • Its brevity.
  • Though the book was written to ministers and those in pastoral service, every person, in reading this, will find that it also applies to them as they pursue a closer walk with Jesus. That’s where the Holy Spirit does His best work.
  • This modern classic (oxymoron) interweaves the solitude, silence, and prayer of the fourth-and fifth-century Egyptian Desert Fathers and Mothers with our contemporary search for an authentic spirituality.

Nothing new under the sun.

Many of the teachings of contemporary spirituality writers[3] have been able to put the principles shared in this book into practices that can be incorporated into our daily life, i.e., the PAUSE principle, use of solitude and silence, meditation techniques, and short prayers.

The key intent of solitude, silence, and prayer is intimacy with God.  The mistaken view we currently have of each of these spiritual disciplines has led to our missing the true value of the discipline—namely, to be with God and in His presence.  To hear as God speaks to us.  To embrace these disciplines as “time for transformation”.  To eliminate the things (and people) that interfere with our relationship with God.  To become kingdom people—ready to serve humanity.   Below are a few observations that will whet our appetite for learning more.

Are you ready?

I have chosen to share excerpts from the PROLOGUE of The Way of the Heart to introduce Nouwen’s thoughts on contemplative living and its value to us navigating 21st century living.  I guarantee you will love his writing and the spiritual insights he offers.

[1] Coram Deo is a Latin phrase translated, “in the presence of God.” It has its origin in Christian theology and summarizes the idea of Christian living: in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God.  Life is to be lived coram Deo.

[2] “expressing or involving prolonged thought”

[3] John Eldredge, Resilient; Restoring Your Weary Soul in the Turbulent Times; John Piper, A Hunger for God

Eastertide

Never Forget Redemption!

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Another Easter.

Is this our response on the Monday after Easter?  Many of us participated in several Lenten season activities that concluded with the celebration of Resurrection Sunday.   Now it’s time to put away the bunny baskets and hide the remainder of the candied eggs from our children (and ourselves).  But there is one thing we don’t want to put away until next year.  Recognition of God’s redemption.

For we believers, Resurrection Sunday is much more than the culmination of the 40-day Lenten season.  It’s more than a Sunday on the calendar in the spring.  Resurrection Sunday is celebrated in memory of the extraordinary price Jesus paid for not only our freedom (from sin, from death, from destruction) but also the greatest gift any person can ever receive (and Christ can only give)—eternal life.  Eternal life begins on earth and culminates when we return home to be with Jesus (John 17:3).

For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16, Amplified)

Just as the birth of Christ was orchestrated by God, so it was with His crucifixion and glorious resurrection (Genesis 3:15). Our understanding of God’s redemptive plan is critical knowledge that must be DAILY applied, integrated, and assimilated into our hearts, our minds, and our spirit (John 17:17-26).

The Best Plan

God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) fashioned a plan whereby “He Himself” would become human and finally resolve the problem of sin (1 Peter 2:24). But why did this plan require Jesus Christ to take on flesh and blood?

Therefore, since [these His] children share in flesh and blood [the physical nature of mankind], He Himself in a similar manner also shared in the same [physical nature, but without sin], so that through [experiencing] death He might make powerless (ineffective, impotent) him who had the power of death—that is, the devil. (Hebrews 2:14, Amplified)

Only Christ could satisfy the “righteous requirements” of the law (Romans 8:4).   The Mosaic Law demanded that blood be shed, in the form of an animal sacrifice for the “forgiveness of sin” (Hebrews 9:22). This process of sacrifice was repeated continuously, generation after generation, until Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:23-28).

Christ would be able to share in our humanity. He would be able to understand our weaknesses and temptations. As a partaker of flesh and blood, He “might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people” (Hebrew 2:17).

Christ’s defeat of Satan would free believers from sin’s power (Romans 6:6-7).  It is in the destruction of Satan’s power that we are now able to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4).  We can live victoriously in and for Christ.

 Our Part in the Plan.

God’s salvation does not require us to lay down our physical life for Him but God does ask us to die, spiritually, to the control which our flesh, the world and Satan exert upon us.

The Apostles gave us hints as to the best way to live in the remembrance of redemption.  These are great scripture to use during your time of devotion and meditation.

Paul stated:  I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. (Galatians 2:20, Amplified)

Peter reaffirmed this thought in his letter to God’s scattered elect: Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh [and died for us], arm yourselves [like warriors] with the same purpose [being willing to suffer for doing what is right and pleasing God], because whoever has suffered in the flesh [being like-minded with Christ] is done with [intentional] sin [having stopped pleasing the world],  so that he can no longer spend the rest of his natural life living for human appetites and desires, but [lives] for the will and purpose of God. (1 Peter 4: 1-2).

How can we continue remembrance of God’s plan of redemption in 2025?  We can include in our daily devotions activities that recognize and acknowledge God’s gift of redemption.  Scripture memorization, meditation, and journaling are great starters.   Being intentional in our efforts will ensure we never forget what Jesus Christ has done and continues to do for us! (2 Corinthians 1:9-10)

Lenten Season

Obedience: Our Journey to the Cross

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Obedience and the Journey to the Cross

Obedience and the Journey

Obedience is defined as discerning what God wants and choosing to seek that outcome.  Our response of obedience flows from a heart that hears God’s voice and feels God’s love.  It is a matter of choosing and turning to Him versus the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, or the pride of life (1 John 2:16).

The hallmark of obedience is modeled by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ especially as He journeyed to the Cross.  Jesus demonstrated for us “perfected” obedience by His humility, His faithfulness, and His submission to God’s will.

Obedience is both the outcome of our faith walk and the means by which spiritual maturity is accomplished.  We “perfect” (bring to fruition) our obedience through the Holy Spirit and practicing spiritual disciplines that conform us to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).  We daily accept the “obedience challenge” by exercising our freedom in Christ rather than being disobedient slaves to sin.

The most difficult part of our obedience journey is our willingness to “let go.”  Letting go requires releasing those things that cause us to be independent of God and operate outside His will. Letting go demands that we pray often, wait expectantly, and trust unequivocally.

When we “let go and let God”, the results are always more than we can accomplish in our own power (1 Corinthians 2:9).  Much of the difficulty in “letting go,” lie in our inability to “let go of our ego.”

What’s with the ego?

Ego, in this case, is not an exaggerated sense of self-importance but the use of “fleshly” knowledge and “human” effort to accomplish God’s purpose. This is often the case when we endeavor to live righteous and holy lives in our own power.  Some of us attempt to do this by “works”:  we visit the sick, feed the hungry, and do all the things we think will please the Lord.

Some of us become “masters of spiritual disciplines”:  we read our Bible every day, fast and pray, and tithe.  Regardless of our approach, we “miss the mark” using fleshly methods to create spiritual outcomes.  In Philippians 3:4-5, the Apostle Paul, confesses his attempt to live holy by operating out of his flesh.

 Even though I, too, have reason for confidence in the flesh. If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. 

Interestingly the pronoun “I”, in the passage above, in Greek means “ego.”  Paul’s failure was not due to lack of works or poor self-discipline; nor was it the result of a poor attitude or “stinking thinking.”   Paul attempted to do the work and will of God in his own strength.  What was the best solution for Paul’s dilemma?   He declared his faith and dependence on Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:7-9). Paul “let go his ego” and chose to obediently follow God.

Meditation during Holy Week

As we approach Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, let us consider our journey through the lens of obedience.  To help us, we will set aside time with the Lord to meditate on Philippians 3:8 (NRSV).

I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ. 

When we meditate, we invite the Holy Spirit to join us.  There can be no meditation without His presence.   We are not daydreaming but focusing our thoughts on God’s Word.  Below are three (3) simple methods of meditation you can try.[1]

Meditation method #1:   Emphasize different words in the text.

Meditation method #2:   Rewrite the text in your own words.

Meditation method #3:   Formulate a principle from the text.  What does it teach?

Don’t rush this exercise.  Spend time re-reading and focusing on each word.  Give attention to the verse, each phrase, and words included in this scripture.  Remember, all Scripture is the inspired word from God (2 Timothy 3:16).  Take time to hear not only what God is saying to Paul but also, what God is saying to you.

Journal what you learn from your meditation—about God, the Gospel, your ego, and yourself.  Ask the Holy Spirit to show how you can practice obedience as you daily journey to the Cross.

[1] Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, Donald S. Whitley.

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 2

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Seeing with Spiritual Eyes, Part 2

Looking beyond what we can see

The ability to see has been associated with many things in the biblical record.  It has been linked to wisdom (Job 42:5), to salvation (Ephesians 1:18), and to discernment (John 7:24). This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it helps to expand our understanding of spiritual sight. Spiritual sight help us to “look beyond what we can see”.

To see or not to see

The prophet Jeremiah was a heartbroken prophet with a heartbreaking message. He labored for more than 40 years proclaiming a message of doom to the stiff-necked people of Judah.

Hear this now, O foolish people, Without understanding, Who have eyes and see not, And who have ears and hear not: (Jeremiah 5:21-29)

Despite Jeremiah’s many warnings, they did not see that their behavior was headed for a collision with the judgment of God. Judah continued to worship idols, disobey God’s covenant, and practice social injustice. Their lack of vision and refusal to surrender to God’s will resulted in exile to Babylon for 70 years. Judah’s loyalty had become divided and had blinded her to the things of God.

How would we evaluate our current world and the choices being made?  Who has eyes and sees not and ears yet hears not?

Barriers to seeing spiritually

The “usual suspects” stand as barriers to using our spiritual sight. They are our flesh, the world, and Satan.

Our flesh is the natural or “unredeemed” part of us that take us away from the purpose of God. Our flesh sees with natural eyes and refuses to obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. Paul the Apostle notes that it is impossible for the natural man to see with spiritual eyes (1 Corinthians. 2:13-16).

The world is that which is contrary to the things of God. It includes the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16).  We are told by the Apostle John, that those who love the world do not love God (1 John 2:15). Divided loyalty ultimately leads to disobedience (Titus 1:16).

Satan does what Satan always does:  he discourages, he deceives, and he destroys. Of all the barriers, Satan is the greatest challenge. Why? Because most people don’t believe he exists. He remains the unseen “puppeteer behind the curtain”. But be assured he is very real. Look for him where there is conflict, confusion, and chaos (James 3:16). However, to see him, we will need our spiritual sight.

Our flesh, the world, and Satan keep us from viewing the world as it really exists.  In addition, the postmodern, 21st century worldview has created a “distorted” picture of what we see.  This is especially true with identifying sin.

Our “spiritual sensibilities” are slowly being dulled.  The ultimate goal, of course, is complete spiritual blindness.

How do we gain spiritual sight?

First and foremost, we need to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus shared with His Disciples the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding them in all truth (John 16:13-14).  Each day it is important that we invite the Holy Spirit to join us through reading scripture, meditation, and prayer.  As we do, we train our spirit man to “listen for the Spirit’s voice” as He communicates with us.

Secondarily, we can practice the presence of the Holy Spirit.  Practicing the Holy Spirit’s presence acknowledges the fact that God, in all His fullness, is always with us (Psalm 139:7-12).  Because of that, we should not limit this practice to our devotion and prayer time only but also include it in our “normal rhythm of life“.

Finally, we must be intentional in our pursuit of the knowledge of God and our growth in Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Seeing with spiritual sight is not a natural attribute for believers. Therefore, it must be developed.

Give all diligence

The Apostle Peter describes this process as “giving all diligence to add to our faith” (2 Peter 1:5-8). Diligence translated means earnestness in accomplishing, promoting, or striving after anything. Peter describes the results for believers who lack that diligence: “They are short-sighted, even to blindness…” (2 Peter 1:9)

Let us make a commitment today to develop our spiritual sight. While it’s been said that “the eyes are the windows of the soul”, it is more important to believe that spiritual sight will “keep your soul.”  (Matthew 6:22-24).

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 1

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Seeing with Spiritual Eyes Part 1

An invitation

When I begin my daily devotions, I open with Psalm 119:18:  Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law. My favorite teacher, Alistar Begg, often begins his bible study sessions with this prayer, “Make the book come alive to me.”

Our intent is the same though our approach may differ. We invite the Holy Spirit to join us as our Teacher, as we seek God’s instruction for our life.   Doing this, we are better able to navigate in this post-modern world where there are no absolutes nor acceptable standards of rightness.

As we examine our current society, it appears what is right or wrong is left to the judgment of the individual. In the absence of a common standard of right and wrong, anything goes.

The Heart wants what the Heart wants

People reject a standard for truth because of their greater desire to do “that which seems right in their own eyes”. But what is right?

A recent Barna Research study, The End of Absolutes: America’s New Moral Code, found no agreement on the definition of morality today.

What is it based on? Where does it come from? How can someone know what to do when making moral decisions? According to a majority of American adults (57%), knowing what is right or wrong is a matter of personal experience. This view is much more prevalent among younger generations than among older adults. Three-quarters of Millennials (74%) agree strongly or somewhat with the statement, “Whatever is right for your life or works best for you is the only truth you can know,” compared to only 38 percent of Elders. And Millennials (31%) are three times more likely than Elders (10%) and twice as likely as Boomers (16%) and Gen-Xers (16%) to strongly agree with the statement.  

People want “what they want” including freedom to choose what fits their preference and lifestyle, even if it means disobedience to God.  [1]

The need to see spiritually

What then are we to do? It is critical that we as followers of Jesus Christ, develop an “eye” for what is truth versus what is error (1 John 4:1).  We began this discussion in our series on spiritual discernment.  However, during these end times, we must be even more intentional, vigil, and alert by honing our “spiritual sight”.  (1 Pet. 1:13).

This 21st century challenge is similar to what the Disciples and the early Church faced. They encountered a society that was “hostile” to the things of God and where men “leaned to their own understanding” (Prov. 3:5).

The Disciples had to develop a “new view” of the world. Jesus taught them that view in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). It was the “Kingdom view”. Believers would have to “see” things differently than the rest of the world.  They would learn to develop their spiritual sight.

Through the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Disciples ultimately proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ. They participated in ushering in the Kingdom of God.  We have that same opportunity today.

Time to Practice

I invite you to “a deeper perspective” of God’s Word by using your spiritual sight. Following are (3) scriptures to read and meditate on this week. Feel free to use different translations and paraphrases. Get your journal out as you read and invite the Holy Spirit to join you.

Jeremiah 5:21-29

Matthew 6:22-23

1 Corinthians 2:13-16

Answer these questions for each scripture you read:

  1. How does this scripture relate to my personal walk with God?
  2. How does it influence my view of 21st century society?
  3. What “new” insight did the Holy Spirit reveal to me in this scripture?

[1] Spiritual Discernment:  Light for Darkened Eyes

Spiritual Maturity

Jesus: The One for the 21st Century

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Jesus: The One for the 21st Century

Is Jesus the One for the 21st century?

Yes, He is! I say that not based on my feelings or opinion but on what God has said about Who He is and how He operates in this fallen world.  I continue to use the phrase, “fallen world” to direct our attention to the condition that has led us to the pain and suffering we are experiencing in the world.  And that condition is sin.

It is easy to wonder why God isn’t more active in resolving the difficulties we face in our world.  Know this!  God cares and engages in every aspect of our lives (Matt. 10:29-31).  However, man’s “free will” allows him to choose those things that, many times, are outside God’s will and not in the best interest of others (which includes the world).

We often look to God to “zap the bad” and make it disappear.  Unfortunately, that isn’t how it works in a fallen world.  That’s why it is valuable to draw near to God (James 4:8) so that we can better understand His ways and His works.   When we do that, we can begin to understand why Jesus is the One for today.

What are our options?

So what have been our “options” to address the challenges of 21st century living?  We’ve tried to legislate, to mandate, and to regulate, just to name a few.  New beliefs, creeds, and convictions, offer no long-term solution to the various world crises we face.  No person, political platform, nor social movement has moved us closer to “the good life”, harmony or peace.  These are not the right solutions for our sin problem.

Why not choose Jesus?  Choose Him not for solving all the problems we experience during difficult time.  Nor for miracles Jesus can perform to address our human needs.  But choose Jesus because He is the One.  He is the One God has ordained to address the issue of sin and to give us life—life now and life in eternity.

Jesus knew.

Jesus knew He was the One.  As He arrived in Nazareth, He entered the synagogue on the sabbath day and stood up to read (Luke 4:16-21).  He read from the Old Testament book of Isaiah that prophesied of the abundant life that would be available to those who would believe and follow the promised Messiah (Isa. 61:1-2).

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me to  preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives and  recovery of sight to the blind,  To set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.

Jesus concluded His reading with a statement meant to remove any doubt as to who He was (Luke 4:21). “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”  Jesus was the promised Messiah. Jesus was the One.

Recognizing The One

Are we poor in spirit?  Disappointed, distraught, and discouraged? Are we brokenhearted, blinded, and held captive by the world’s promise of a better life?

In our humanity, we are continually looking for someone or something to manage the challenges we face.  In God’s economy, believers understand that Jesus is The One.

  • Who better to guide us and to help us through the challenges that lie ahead than The One who is omniscient! The all-knowing One who can see today, tomorrow and into eternity.
  • Who better to protect us than the one who is omnipotent? All powerful. Not like the impotent idols we think will secure our life: wealth, status, or relationships.  All these and more, we foolishly depend on to make us feel safe and secure.
  • Who better to provide for both our spiritual and physical needs than the One who is omnipresent—”everywhere present”. Where can we go that Jesus is not with us? (Ps. 139:7-10)

Jesus is the great I Am.  Bread of life (John 6:35).  Light (John 8:12).  The Door (John 10:9).  The Good Shepherd (John 10:11, 14).  Resurrection and Life (John 11:25).  The Way, Truth, and Life (John 14:6). The Vine (John 15:1, 5).

Jesus is the One!  He is the One we need right now for the challenges we are facing.  Jesus is the Only One.

Victorious Living

Living the Beatitude Life: A Heart to See God

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A Heart to See God

Intentional teaching

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”  As a little girl, Matthew 5:8 was one of the first memory verses I was taught.  I can’t explain the reason for the choice of this verse.  Perhaps my mother felt it would help tame my mischievous spirit.  She was very intentional when it came to her children.  Little did I realize that my mother’s guidance would lead to a fuller vision of God and His Kingdom.

Jesus was also intentional in His teachings.  The Beatitudes, both in unity and individually, radically flew in the face of how the world defined happiness, satisfaction, and success: poor in spirit, mourners, meek, merciful, hungry and thirsty.

Jesus’ purposefulness is seen in His presentation of each of the beatitudes, especially with the placement of this sixth beatitude, “Blessed are the pure in heart.”  Today’s beatitude is no exception to this teaching pattern.  It redefines purity and the resulting blessedness of “seeing God.”

Jesus knows what’s needed.

Jesus has to this point shared with His Disciples key behaviors of those who enjoy the “happiness and satisfaction” of living by kingdom rules.

In reading this beatitude today, one might comment on its simplicity in meaning and presentation.  However, in the context of the 1st century, Jesus’ statement was revolutionary.  Jesus presented it to a nation literally obsessed with purification laws and procedures (Leviticus 11-15).

Imagine the shock of hearing Jesus.  “No one, not even Moses, has ever seen Jehovah God!”    “Purity of heart and nothing else?”   This alone was sufficient reason for the scribes and the Pharisees (who benefited from the current religious system) to desire Jesus’ death.

The heart’s role in purity.

The heart is key in sustaining a faithful walk with God.  Its condition (pure or unpure) affects our thoughts, behaviors, and actions.   In the Old Testament, the Lord described the heart, the seat of man’s affection, as “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9).  David understood the importance of purity of heart as he pleaded with God to create a clean heart and renew a right spirit within him (Psalms 51:10).

Who are the “pure in heart”?

  • Those who mourn the impurity of their hearts to the extent that they do what is needed to cleanse and purify it (Matthew 4:17; 1 John 1:9).  When standing in the presence of Holy God, we understand our personal depravity and the need for forgiveness (Romans 3:23).
  • Those who accept God’s lordship in their lives. They place Jesus as the center of their life.  The pure in heart “see” God spiritually.  They operate in His presence, under His authority, and to His honor and glory (Coram Deo).

“Seeing God” in this beatitude allows us to recognize and acknowledge God’s sovereign acts of mercy and grace in this fallen world we live in (Matthew 5:45).  We are able to see “His Hand” both physically (Acts 17:28) and spiritually (Romans 6:6-9).

Our 21st century challenge

Seeing God is a challenge for people living in the 21st century.  Nonbelievers are blinded by Satan who keeps them from seeing the possibilities that Christ offers (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 4:4).    Beatitude living is at enmity with a world that neither recognizes nor accepts the authority of God, the lordship of Christ, or the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Unfortunately, we believers aren’t always the best witnesses for Beatitude living.  Satan convinces many of us that purity of the heart is impossible.  Again, a trick by Satan to frustrate and discourage our efforts to live holy. We fail to understand that it is the work of the Holy Spirit who will always lead us to purity.  God is not seeking perfection but progress:  a sincere effort to grow and love others.

As children of God, we have everything we need to live pure and holy lives (2 Peter 1:3; 1 John 3:2-3).  Our pursuit of purity can become “second nature”.    How?   By spending more time with God:  reading His Word, meditating, and prayer.  The more we do this, the more we will see God.

“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.” (Amplified)

 

Advent/Christmas

New Year. New Beginnings?

 

New Year. New Beginnings?

The New Year

The new year has arrived with festive gatherings and events.  Some of us have, as is our habit, made “traditional” New Year’s resolutions (which will be quickly abandoned in 30 days or less).

It is my prayer as we prepare for 2025 with new beginnings, that we also evaluate our spiritual growth and progress.  Are we growing closer to God or are we subtly drifting away?

In 2024, where did we spend our time and our resources?  Did we invest in things eternal (Matthew 6: 19-20) or put our hope in things that reflect the values of this world: power, influence, and material wealth?

As we move into this new year, let us remember that we are new creatures in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Let’s let go of those “old things”.  Let’s rediscover and embrace our identity in Christ.

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”

Christ’s work of redemption presents us with the opportunity to experience a new beginning with God. No longer separated by sin, we can now be reconciled with God and enjoy peace with our fellowman (Romans 5:1). To experience this new beginning, we must first possess a clear understanding of our new identity in Christ (1 John 5:4).

Identity is the condition of being a specific person or thing. Our personal identity is the result of the people, places, and things we connect or associate with. This is also true of our spiritual identity. What is feeding our identity in the 21st century?

While personal identity looks at outward influences, spiritual identity, however, looks at two things: (1) the Person of Jesus Christ and (2) the Place of the Cross.

“Old things have passed away.”

Jesus Christ took on our physical identity (in his fleshly body) so that we can become partakers of his spiritual identity (Hebrew 12:14-15). This divine incarnation resulted in the perfect sacrifice required to satisfy the penalty for sin.  In exchange, we have eternal life and are now children of God (Romans 8:16).

In the shadow of the Cross, we leave our old nature and become crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20). We die to sin and its hold upon our life (Romans 6:11). It is in His resurrection, that we received new life for our new beginning.

 “Behold, all things have become new.”

Let’s flip the switch in 2025 and consider what God has invested in us.  Our responsibility is to daily live out the new identity Christ has provided. Once we fully grasp that, we are positioned to receive “all the fullness of God” (John 1:16).

Our hope and assurance rests fully on the completed work of Jesus Christ.  HE IS our New Beginning (Colossians 1:18).