The Weight of Guilt

2 CORINTHIANS 7: 8-16

(September 4)

Parenting is hard. Being consistent in disciplining is even harder. But it is necessary if we want to raise up healthy children who know boundaries, respect authority, and act appropriately.

Many times, we hurt them or to make them feel guilty for their behavior in our efforts to change their actions. It is unavoidable. In fact, it is sometimes necessary for them to feel that negative emotion in order to realize their behavior was wrong and make a change.

Ultimately, that is what we parents are looking for ... changes in the negative behavior and lessons learned.

After Paul's painful visit to the Corinthians, he wrote them a harsh letter of discipline. He regretted that he had to write this letter, but he was happy to see that the Corinthians did respond to his Godly corrections with sorrow. It was this sorrow that caused them to change their behavior. They repented of their wrong actions in the hopes of vindicating themselves. The weight of guilt can be quite heavy.

They realized that justice needed to be served on the man who had publicly opposed Paul, and they were alarmed at the fact they had done nothing about it. For them to realize this need for change brought great joy to Paul's heart.

Another thing that brought him joy was how happy Titus was with the welcome he had received in Corinth. He was proud of the way they treated Titus, and glad that all the good he had spoken to Titus about the Corinthians was actually visible to Titus when he visited.

Paul wraps up this portion of scripture by saying how proud he is of them and how much confidence he now has in them. That, to me, is a fine example of the way we should parent our children. Yes, we will have to discipline them. Yes, they will be offended and hurt at times. But when we see them taking the discipline to heart and trying to change their behavior, we should always state our pride in them and show them we are confident that they can do it. If not, we leave them walking around with the weight of guilt upon their shoulders, and that, my friends, is no fun at all.

Simple Wisdom: Number Your Days

One Year Bible (Sep. 4)

Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18

Number Your Days

“Mama always said, ‘Dying was a part of life. I sure wish it wasn't.”

--Forrest Gump.

I have learned important lessons about Dying and Living from my own mother and my spiritual mother in the faith.

When I was just a young woman getting ready to get married I lived in the home of my Mentoring Mama. I have always called her, “Mama Martha”. Like King Solomon, she was the “Preacher”. She never preached long sermons with words. Her greatest sermons were preached throughout her life. She occasionally used words when necessary.

Her entire life was spent just “giving it all away”. She gave her time away, her homemade cookies and sweet tea, her hugs, her smiles, her “louder than life singing” and access to her home… She just “GAVE IT ALL AWAY”.

All she asked of me is, “Would I quit ringing the doorbell or knocking and just walk right in?” She and her husband, Chief, just let me move right on in and live with them because my parents had moved away. She never had new or fancy stuff. Her house decor and car never changed. “Steady Onward” was her way of life.

We were having a discussion about the meaning of life before my wedding and here is what she said,” Stuff is just Stuff.” No three points. No invitation hymn. Short, sweet, and to the point. She had lived it. I had that information to hide away in my heart for a very long time…

Then came the day that my father lived in assisted living in another city and my mom decided to sell the house to move down closer to him so she could go see him every day.

All of her “Stuff” lay outside lining the driveway. People would walk up and offer “ONE DOLLAR” for her treasures that were now like trash. It was not so much the MONETARY value of everything laying out there that bothered her. It was more the MEMORIES. Many a tablecloth that had covered the table for Christmas Day and Easter lay there no longer as treasures but as discarded bargains. Oh, that was a hard day for sure…

Then I heard Mama Martha’s words, “Stuff is Stuff”, and I comforted my sweet mama. Together, we would make more memories while there was time.

Then came the day that we stood at the tombstone of my father after we had laid him to rest there. I asked my brother why the words were off-center and only on the left side of the tombstone. He explained softly that the other side was for our mother’s name… someday! That thought had slipped past my conscious thought but then I had to swallow it through the lump in my throat.

So, I ask you, why in the world is Solomon dwelling on death in this passage?

Why is the man saying that it is better to go to funerals than parties?

As if that isn’t bad enough he says, “None of us can hold back our spirit from departing. None of us has the power to prevent the day of our death. There is no escaping that obligation, that dark battle. And in the face of death, wickedness will certainly not rescue the wicked.” (8:7)

He says, “Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us. A wise person thinks a lot about death, while a fool thinks only about having a good time.”(7:3-4)

Sorrow has a REFINING INFLUENCE ON US!

I can’t help but reflect on the words of Solomon’s father, David in Psalm 90:12, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

There is a song called, “Live Like You Were Dying” and there is a part of the chorus that I hear when Solomon encourages us to live in the joy and celebration of the moment. The words start out with “And I went skydiving”. Nope. No, Thank you!

But then I listened a little further, “ And I loved deeper. And I spoke sweeter. And I gave forgiveness I’d been denying. And he said, ‘Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying.” (Tim McGraw).

I have no desire to skydive, but I may take up a new sport like Pickleball soon.

I have a friend who actually has been living in this exact spot… dying. Yet, she lives more like she is living every single day than most people do in an entire lifetime! She has given all of life over to God and she knows that everything before that time of knowing HIM was “Vanity Vanity”... futile, empty, worthless, without meaning. She lives with each moment, day, and unknown in HIS loving hands.

That, my sweet friends, is the message of Solomon for us today… because “Stuff is just Stuff”. How we finish will depend on what course we take. When we live with our eyes focused on Heaven rather than “Stuff” we will find that is “Enough”.

What would it mean to you to live life now in light of Eternity?

Lord, teach us to number our days and prioritize our thoughts and actions.

Standing Strong

2 CORINTHIANS 6:14 - 7:7

(September 3)

"Leave it to Beaver" was a favorite show of mine when I was growing up. The Beav was just so adorable, and Wally was such a stickler for the rules. But there was one person who could get him to bend a little, to make a bad choice, or to compromise himself ... Eddie Haskell.

Eddie was a sly dude. He made himself seem so polite and mannerly in front of Mr. and Mrs. Cleaver (though I am sure they saw right through him), but when he was alone with Wally and Beaver, he was a different person. He seemed to be always trying to steer Wally in the wrong direction to do things that would force Wally to go against what he had been taught.

My son had an "Eddie Haskell" in his life. I remember how I would chuckle after he came into the house and put on his "polite show" for me. I thought to myself, "Young man, you are not fooling me!"

What Paul was trying to tell the Corinthians is that they should not be "mismatched with unbelievers." He felt that forming binding relationships with unbelievers would cause them to weaken in their commitment to Christ, and in their integrity.

While saying this, Paul still wanted the believers to be purposeful in being a good example to the unbelievers. He just urged them not to lock themselves into personal or business relationships that could cause them to compromise their faith or divide their loyalties.

In saying this, Paul also stated that if a Christian was married to an unbelieving spouse, they were to stay in that relationship and try to be the example that led their spouse to Christ.

Think about it for a moment. Are there people in your life who lead you away from Christ? People who tempt you to compromise your beliefs? I'm sure we have all met someone like this in our lives. There are "Eddie Haskell's" waiting around every corner, so we need to keep our guard up and stay true to who we are in Christ.

Simple Wisdom: Chasing the Wind

One Year Bible (Sep. 3)

Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12

SIMPLE WISDOM: Chasing the Wind

“Stupid is as stupid does”. --Forrest Gump

This quote was given when Forrest Gump was asked if he was stupid. His reply was a simple way of saying that a person should be judged by their actions and not just their appearance.

What makes us think that King Solomon is an expert that we should listen to concerning the theme of MEANING? Solomon often refers to meaninglessness in life as “Chasing the Wind”.

The point is that this futility leads you in no certain direction leaving a person in a place of pointless insignificance. What does life matter when all is said and done?

Solomon is undoubtedly writing this book at the end of his life and looking back on his legacy and he is certainly melancholy. In today’s reading, he even dares to say that...

“the dead are better off than the living. But most fortunate of all are those who are not yet born. For they have not seen all the evil that is done under the sun.” (4:2-3)

He goes on to say, “Then I observed that most people are motivated to success because they envy their neighbors. But this, too, is meaningless--like CHASING THE WIND.” (4: 4)

Let’s look back on Solomon’s privileged life. He was selected to take the throne by his father David and was the one allowed the privilege of building the palace and temple.

We see that God appeared and spoke to Solomon TWO TIMES.

The first time God came to Solomon, God promised that HE would grant Solomon’s request for wisdom. God not only granted him more wisdom than any living person, but he also granted him fame, power, and incredible wealth. (I Kings 3)

The second time God came to Solomon was after the dedication of the temple. God had answered Solomon’s request and would make the temple HIS permanent home to dwell with HIS people. He tells Solomon that he must serve HIM with integrity and sincerity, just as his father did.

“Do everything I commanded and obey my rules and regulations. Then I will allow your dynasty to rule over Israel permanently, just as I promised your father David. You will not fail to have a successor on the throne of Israel.” (I Kings 9:1-9)

Here is the rest of the story, BUT, if you or your sons ever turn away from me, fail to obey, refuse to follow, worship other gods… Then, I will remove Israel, abandon this temple, Israel will be mocked, ridiculed, and lay in ruins.”

What does Solomon know about “Foolishness”?

Well… a lot, actually!

God warned Solomon, and unfortunately, the wisest man in the world did NOT heed the warning!

“He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray. As Solomon grew old, his wives, turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD, his God, as the heart of David his father had been.” (I Kings 11:3-4)

As Forrest Gump put it, “Stupid is as Stupid does.”

Solomon proves to us that a man can have intellect, fame, and riches but when God is not at the center and that man has a divided heart ruin will surely come… and it did!

When Solomon talks about Vanity, and about how all is lost and someone else will take your place and you won’t even be remembered, can you glimpse at the utter destruction coming his way because of his sin?

David’s son, Solomon, was the last of the kings of the united kingdom, His sin was the reason for the division of the united kingdom. It would not be destroyed and placed in ruin during his life out of respect to his father, David. However, God was going to judge Solomon for his deeds.

This man “Brought the house down” by his foolishness and “CHASING OF THE WIND”.

Can we begin to relate to this kind of pain, to know that you are the reason for the destruction and captivity of an entire nation because you had sought after pleasure, idolatry, and many wives?

Perhaps you have heard the saying, “The more you have the more you want.” Solomon had wealth beyond wealth, and wives beyond wives, and yet his heart cried out for more… MORE always cries out for MORE! We crave what we seek. Sadly, Solomon was not truly seeking God with a whole heart and his wanting MORE led him to utter futility!

As I read this book, I often am struck by the depth of a broken heart. You see, he started WELL, but he did NOT finish well. “Finishing is better than starting”. (Job 7:8)

May we remember the example and words of King Solomon, Vanity is the result of “Chasing the Wind” rather than “Running after God.”

Tossed Aside

2 CORINTHIANS 6: 1-13

(September 2, 2022)

When my oldest was about three, he spotted this little boy doll in the store. "My Lil' Buddy" was his brand name and he was dressed in blue overalls and a striped shirt. (I know this sounds strangely familiar to a famous horror movie doll but let me assure you he was not.)

My son carried that little guy with him everywhere he went. He named his Marvin, and I have absolutely no idea why. But Marvin was an important part of our family who went on all our adventures with us.

When my son was about five, Marvin started taking a backseat to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Power Rangers, and Batman. Before too long, Marvin was at the bottom of the toy box, tossed aside for greater things.

I rescued Marvin from the bottom of the box after a couple of years. None of my other kids wanted anything to do with him because they were afraid of him. I cleaned him up and gently stored him away, hoping that someday I would have a grandson who would love him as much as my little boy had loved him for a short time.

Poor Marvin had been tossed aside, traded for something better. He was no longer needed, nor was he useful. This is exactly the way Paul is feeling. He and his workers had done everything they were supposed to do. They lived a righteous life that wouldn't cause anyone temptation. They demonstrated time and time again that they were true ministers of God.

These men went through many hardships and struggles. They were beaten, imprisoned, overworked, and starved. But time and time again they proved themselves to be pure, despite the hardships they faced.

So much of what they did was done because of their love for the people of Corinth. These people saw all that they went through. But still, they tossed them aside and refused to open their hearts to them.

Maybe it was because so many false teachers had taught so many different messages that they doubted if Paul's words were actually true. They heard his message, but they didn't let it penetrate into their hearts and change the way they did things.

How discouraging it must have been for Paul and his gang of merry men to go through so much and try so hard, only to be ignored. Instead of being tossed aside for Batman and Ninja Turtles, they were being tossed aside for the sins of the culture.

Will they ever get it? Will Paul ever get through to them on a deeper heart level? Stay tuned to find out. But in the meantime, I can let you know what happened to poor Marvin.

He is now a favorite play friend of my 4-year-old grandson. Yes, my wish came true!

Simple Wisdom: Contemplating Life

One Year Bible (Sep. 2)

Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22

SIMPLE WISDOM: Contemplating Life

“My mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”-- Forrest Gump

In 1981, at a bus stop in Savannah Georgia, a man named Forrest Gump contemplates about his life as he sits on a bench with various strangers. This classic movie touched hearts as it embraced the main character who had an IQ of 75 and yet who had become a war hero risking his life for others.

As a child, he had been fitted with leg braces to correct a curved spine, but as an adult, he used those legs to “run like the wind”. They propelled him through life, war, running across the nation, and winning as a ping pong champion.

His legs made him fast, but his heart made him “Stand strong”. Although he had low intelligence, he had a strong emotional intelligence. His mama had filled him with wisdom and love which he shared with all.

Forrest Gump reminded us that the most important things in life are felt, not thought by great intellects and that the greatest treasure was finding the sweetness in life (like the box of chocolates) and being the love in the lives of others…

Have you stopped to contemplate life recently?

The book of Ecclesiastes helps us to do exactly that, as it is filled with life contemplations. However, it is not contemplations by a simple man with a simple life.

It is the life reflections made by a man who “had it all, saw it all, and did it all”.

His name was Solomon and he asked God for wisdom and thus became the “wisest man” to ever live. Not only was he given much wisdom, but he was also given wealth, success, peace, and the honor of building the Temple of David, his father.

The word, “Ecclesiastes” means “Preacher/Teacher” which is what Solomon uses to refer to himself. This book was written late in his life as he is looking back for the answers and meaning of life. He writes so that we may avoid some of his mistakes and share in his learnings.

Solomon says, “Everything is meaningless, completely meaningless.” (1:2)

“History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. Sometimes people say, ‘Here is something new! But actually, it is old; nothing is ever truly new. We don’t remember what happened in the past, and in the future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now.” (1:9)

Solomon then goes on to tell us the things that he has tried in his life in order to fill his emptiness…wisdom, pleasure, building beautiful homes, planting vineyards, entertainment, and hard work… You name it and he tried it!

His response was “Vanity, Vanity”... This word means, futile, pointless, aimless, empty, hollow, absurd, inconsequential, insignificant, senseless, and without eternal meaning.

This is his summary of everything “Under the Sun”, which means life on earth.

Solomon says, “The greater my WISDOM, the greater my GRIEF. To increase KNOWLEDGE only increases SORROW.” (1:18)

Notice how he relates Wisdom with Knowledge and Grief.

He actually goes so far as to say, “So I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling… Everything is meaningless --like chasing the wind.” (2:17)

Why did Solomon write in such a skeptical and pessimistic way you may wonder?

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 is a powerful passage of scripture that we have probably all heard over and over… “For everything, there is a season, a time for eerie activity under heaven… A time to be born and a time to die….A time to plant, cry, laugh, embrace, search, love…

The difficulty for Solomon lies in the season that he finds himself in as he is writing this to us… he describes it as “A Great Tragedy” in Ecc. 2:21. “Some people work wisely with knowledge and skill, then must leave the fruit of their efforts to someone who hasn’t worked for it. This too, is meaningless, a great tragedy. So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety? Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief; even at night, their minds cannot rest. It is all meaningless.”

Do we truly get what King Solomon is telling us here? He had the greatest kingdom in the world and the most wisdom of any man and none of this could save him from death. The wise die just the same as the fool and the rich become poor. Everything we own will be passed on to someone that never worked for it.

One of my favorite quotes from Forrest Gump is, “I’m not a smart man, but I know what love is.”

The intellectually deficient character, Forrest Gump, certainly lacked an ounce of the knowledge of Solomon but he put his life into helping, caring, and loving others.

Simple Wisdom for contemplating life… What can you take with you into the next life?

Becoming New

2 CORINTHIANS 5: 11-21

(September 1)

"Out with the old and in with the new." A popular phrase that I am sure most of us have heard at one time or another. Maybe that is our thought as we go through our closet, rearranging and getting rid of things we no longer want or need.

Perhaps this is our thought process as we buy new furniture, or a new home, or new towels for the bathroom. Or when we replace dead plants in our flower bed with new ones.

If we are introspective, then maybe this applies to the condition of our heart. Out with the old "prideful" me and in with the "humble" me. Or out with the "workaholic" me and in with the "take it easier" me.

When we are doing an "out with the old, in with the new" in our hearts and minds, it changes us. We become a new person. Our thoughts change, our attitudes adjust, and our behaviors are not the same as they were.

That is what Paul is speaking of in today's scripture. He is expressing the changes that have been made in his heart, and the other teachers' hearts, because of the love of Christ. He is sharing with them the beauty of dying to your old self and receiving new life in Christ. He wants that for each of them as well.

In verse 17, he says, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun." The great thing about this is that when we accept the love of Christ into our hearts, we basically get a "do-over." We get to turn away from the darkness of our lives and live in the light of Christ.

We get to do this because of the reconciliation of Jesus. He died on the cross for us. This death on the cross and the blood that was shed offers us the opportunity to turn away from our ugliness and live a new, reconciled life with Jesus. God's grace, bought and paid for by Christ's sacrifice, floods over us and removes the stains of sin from our lives.

This is a gift that is freely given to us from God. He had given Paul and many others the task of preaching and teaching this, so that others would come to him in reconciliation.

How honored Paul was to be an ambassador for Christ! Letting God speak through you to share his message of love to those who are lost is one of the greatest things we can do. Helping others find their "new you" is a calling that every believer has received from God.

Do you remember what it was like when you became the "new you" that lives for Jesus? Do you remember the freedom that you found in knowing you were forgiven, and that you had a new purpose?

How have you taken that "new you" and used it to further the Kingdom of God? Starting today, what can you do differently, or with more intentionality, so that Jesus is glorified to others, especially those who are lost?

God has placed a calling on "new you." And I promise, it is way more satisfying than new clothes, new furniture, a new home, or new towels in the linen closet. (Even if they are the really soft and fluffy kind.)

Les Misery to Les Calvary

One Year Bible (Sep. 1)

Job 40:1-42:17

LES MISERY To LES CALVARY: Burdens Are Lifted

“Days are filled with sorrow and care. Hearts are lonely and drear. Burdens are lifted at Calvary Jesus is very near.”

(Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary, The Gaithers)

We began our journey in the book of Job with the dramatic play, “Les Misery”, but everything changed when we got to Job’s amazing prophetic words in Job 19: 25-27.

“But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body, I will see God! I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!”

Although God, himself, said to Satan, “Have you seen my servant, Job?”, Job had no idea how God felt about him.

Job was caught in a CATCH 22 stuck between the LAW and the coming of the Messiah. At this time there was no payment for the sins of mankind. There was only a temporary “rolling back of sins” until the day the Messiah would come.

Could this drama be re-cast with Billy Graham playing the part of Job? God forbid because Dr. Graham was saved by the gospel and no longer held under the grips of Satan’s power and death. That was the Good News that he preached all across the world …

You see, the book of Job is about far more than just one just man. We must once again look at the Old Testament through New Testament eyes…

What do you see when you put on the spectacles of GRACE?

Job was righteous, but Jesus was sinless.

Job was tried and convicted by his three friends under the law, while sinless Jesus had three trials and submitted to the law of condemnation so that he could bring grace to the guilty. Job cried out for an advocate and mediator to appeal his case before God, and Jesus took that role to appeal and mediate for all.

Job was condemned by the Law through the words of his three friends. Jesus was abandoned and denied by his closest three friends to fulfill the law and give the world grace.

There are so many amazing comparisons found in this book that points us to a coming day where Satan will no longer be able to bring accusations against the beloved saints of God because at CALVARY he was DEFEATED!

On a personal note, what has God been speaking to you in your WHIRLWINDS?

Have you ever been stuck in an extended phase of suffering?

I have experienced many of these cycles of testing and suffering, and they are beyond painful…

I remember speaking to God in a questioning manner like Job. It was in my mind and not verbal, but I had my struggles… My father was a pastor who would be the very first to bring help to every person he ministered to in such a humble, kind manner. I have no idea how many hospital calls, home visits, and funeral massages he brought. He would cry with people in their loss.

Then this amazing man got Parkinson’s Disease, and then had a stroke. He had caregivers at home for a very long time and then came the day that I was to be the person to drive him to his new Assisted Living facility to live… That day was beyond any pain I had ever experienced!

Very few that he ever ministered to over his lifetime of service ever came to see him. There were some that came and I praise God that they were true friends. There was no staring or glaring, or sermons. Just love. They were servants of the Gospel of GRACE!

My father was losing his ability to remember many words at times, and as I came for one of my weekend visits, (I live 3-4 hours away depending on traffic.) he asked me to sit down and explain some things to his hospice nurse. He wanted to tell her about his faith.

Before I could say a word, she said to me, “Oh, I know all about his faith… At night when he is in pain, he will sing hymns with his beautiful voice and he remembers every single word.” He was still preaching although he only had a “Pulpit of Pain” to stand behind…

When my father’s time was near, my brother spent his last night with him and I went to my mom’s house with the girls to sleep for a bit. I was awakened in the morning by a DREAM that was so real that it woke me up with a jolt.

I saw a young man and it was my dad. He was wearing his usual black dress pants and white dress shirt. I was calling out his name but he was running away from me. All I could see was the back of him… I asked the people around, “Where is he going in such a hurry?” They said, “He is preaching in Heaven this Sunday!”

I knew that I was to get up and head back over there. I went to his bedside and held his hand and told him about my dream. At that very moment, he squeezed my hand and he was gone! As his grip loosened on my hand and he took the hand of God, I could understand the words of Job,

“I had only heard about YOU before, but now I have seen YOU with my own eyes.” (42:5)

I thought of Billy Graham’s quote of DL Moody’s famous words… “Someday you will read or hear that Floyd Strater is dead. Don’t you believe a word of it. I shall be more alive than I am now. I will just have changed my address. I will have gone into the presence of God.”

The good news found in the book of Job is that suffering lasts for a season, but “BURDENS ARE LIFTED AT CALVARY…

So remember to “LOOK UP” in the midst of your whirlwinds.

The Balancing Act

2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 - 5:10

(August 31)

I have had a lot of rough days with this earthly body of mine. It has been scraped, burned, bleeding, fractured, and painful. It has also been heavier than it should be for many years of my adult life.

In my efforts to take better care of myself (and to be able to keep up with my active grandson without keeling over) I have adjusted the way I eat. The result ... 43 pounds down to date!

So, I am feeling a little better about this tent that God gave me for my time on earth. Yet my knees still ache sometimes. My ankles still pop when I walk, and I am really not happy with my hair right now.

The question is ... are we ever really satisfied with our earthly bodies? Is there ever a day when we look in the mirror, see past the signs of age, and say, "Yep, this is perfect?"

I don't think so. And I think there is a reason why we are never satisfied. I believe we won't be satisfied until we get our heavenly bodies ... the ones that don't involve popping ankles and groaning knees.

Paul's body is groaning, too. I can imagine all the walking around he did on his journeys must have been taxing on his legs and feet. But he is not letting this get him discouraged, because his body is dying daily, but his spirit is being renewed each day.

He is not putting his focus on the troubles of the day, which he knows are just for the moment. His sights are set on things than cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. (4:18)

What is the "forever" Paul speaks of? He is saying that while our earthly bodies and the troubles of this life will be gone someday. But what awaits all believers is our new home in heaven, and our new eternal body made for us by God himself.

Remember a few days ago we talked about the Greek culture that surrounded the Corinthian church. Greeks didn't believe that the body resurrected, only the spirit. Paul is telling them that this is not true.

The bible tells us that we will have a new body that will house our soul in our eternal home. And that home is where we belong, not this earth.

While here, it is a balancing act. We have to wrestle with these bodies and do the best we can to honor God. But all the while, we believe in faith the things that we cannot see ... God, heaven, our new bodies. But someday we will reach that eternal home where our bodies will be perfect, with no sickness or disease. There won't even be popping ankles or groaning knees, and for that I am thankful and excited!

Les Calvery: The Whirlwind

One Year Bible (Aug. 31)

Job 37:1-39:30

LES CALVARY: THE WHIRLWIND

“You throw me into the WHIRLWIND and destroy me in the storm.” Job 30:22

Have you ever been talking “Smack” about God and realized that although HE seems to be silent, He is really listening?

Check out Job’s interesting complaint about God, “You throw me into the WHIRLWIND……”

And how does God choose to show himself to Job???

“Then the LORD answered Job from…. A WHIRLWIND!!”

Job asked for it! Just sayin’...

While Job is still choking on his tongue, God Almighty starts off with some light chit-chat such as, “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Do you know where the gates of death are located? Where does light come from, and where does darkness go?”

God is just doing “small talk”. Right?

By the way, how many of God’s questions were you able to answer? Nada, Zilch, None!

Job is not winning in the game of Jeopardy. He seems to be in JEOPARDY…

His lips were no longer flapping with an abundance of words but from a healthy case of fear.

The Lord now shifts from talking about the heavens and the earth to talking about Job, “Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?” (40:2)

Then Job replied to the LORD, “I am nothing--how could I ever find the answers? I will cover my mouth with my hand. I have said too much already. I have nothing more to say.” (40:3-5)

Job is certainly “LOOKING UP” by now…

“I know that YOU can do ANYTHING, and no one can stop you., You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance? It is I-- and I was talking about things far too wonderful for me.”

(42: 2-3)

After God finishes speaking with Job, HE is now ready to “SCHOOL” the religious sidekicks… They had really been “dishing out” what they knew very little about…

“I am ANGRY with you (Eliphaz) and your two friends, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has…” (42:7).

God asks them to offer a burnt offering and tells that that “MY SERVANT JOB” will pray FOR you boys! That, my friends, was a big piece of southern hospitality called “HUMBLE PIE!”

So, what changed in this encounter for Job?

Listen to Job’s astounding words spoken to the God who he perceived as distant and disciplining, “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. I take back EVERYTHING I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.” (42:5-6)

Job sees, repents, and chooses to forgive his accusers. We are told that WHEN Job prayed for his friends, the LORD RESTORED and gave him TWICE as much as before.

When we suffer it is easy to become bitter. That is exactly what the enemy wants to do IN us and TO us. When Job lifted his eyes to see God and forgave his accusers he was RESTORED.

All of his brothers, sister, and former friends came and brought gifts to celebrate him.

The LORD blessed Job with animals and land. He also gave Job seven more sons and three more daughters. We are told that in all the land there were no lovelier daughters than Job’s.

Job lived 140 years after this time seeing four generations of his children and grandchildren.

The people of UZ and throughout the nation of Israel learned about the sovereignty of God and the schemes of Satan. Rumors of a Redeemer spread like… Well… a WHIRLWIND!

What about Job’s lovely wife, “The Just curse God and die” leading lady?

Not one peep of her is ever mentioned again in the Bible. Jewish writers have commented and said that she died and Job remarried. According to God’s promise, he was TWICE blessed!

The God of the WHIRLWIND certainly brought everything full circle in the case of Job!

“I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes.” (42:5)

Finding the Light

2 CORINTHIANS 4:1-12

(August 30)

Have you ever heard of the term "pulling the wool over their eyes?' What that means is that you are tricking someone, deceiving them, keeping the truth from them.

Many parents do this to their children at Christmastime. They tell them about this magical Santa that is watching their behavior from way up North. If they are good ... really, really good ... Santa will bring them something fabulous for Christmas.

Parents take their children to the mall and stand in the line for an hour so that their children can have a moment to sit on Santa's lap and tell him exactly what they are wanting for Christmas.

Then, a few years later, as the kiddos get a bit older, some bully on the playground tells them there is no such thing as "Santa". Their bubble is burst, their hearts are broken, and there is no turning back. The wool is no longer over their eyes.

Please don't get me wrong... I have NOTHING against the jolly old fat guy. In fact, he was my favorite for many years. Actually, I heard him on our roof when I was about nine years old, and nothing you say to me today or in the future will convince me that it wasn't him.

Suffice it to say, it was quite a letdown to be told there was no Santa. Are you kidding me? Where did all those fabulous presents come from if there is no Santa? Isn't it crazy just how far parents will go with this wool stretching? But it sure makes for beautiful memories.

Paul was struggling with some wool of his own. He had a clear message he was sending to the Corinthians, but there was evil that was pulling the wool over their eyes, keeping them from seeing the truth.

So many unbelievers "those who were perishing" (Verse 3), were allowing Satan to blind their minds to the light of the gospel. They were in total darkness with no light seeping in.

Paul, and his fellow teachers, were living a life of service by preaching that Jesus Christ is Lord. God gave them a light in their hearts to share this Good News, and they desperately wanted to share it with others.

While they were the holders and distributors of this light, it was not through their power, but through the power of God. Paul likens himself and the other teachers to "fragile clay jars" (Verse 7).

What did he mean by that? Many people in Corinth used clay jars to hold the wick for their lamps. They were cheap, costing only one or two copper coins. But they were also fragile.

Despite being fragile and cheap, they fulfilled their job of holding the candle wicks and bringing light into the room. Paul uses this imagery to illustrate the insignificance of himself when compared to the grandeur of the light he shared.

While he was just an ordinary, poor man, he preached an amazing gospel of light and power. This is just as God intended it to be so that all would understand the true source of the message was too powerful to be human, so it must be divine.

Paul speaks of the troubles that surround them. But we are not crushed. He tells of being perplexed. But not driven to despair. He talks of being hunted down. But never abandoned by God. He assures them they will get knocked down. But never destroyed.

So, when trouble comes, and you don't know what to do ... Jesus is there. When you fall down, he will help you back up. And when you are feeling lost in the darkness, with the wool pulled over your eyes, he will be there to show you the light. And then you will see the truth.

Les Calvary: Look Up

One Year Bible (Aug. 30)

Job 34:1-36:33

“Les Calvary’: LOOK UP!

Abraham Lincoln was once asked what his favorite hymn was…

“Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored. He has loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword. His truth is marching on…” (The Battle Hymn of the Republic)

These words were penned by Julia Ward Howe after visiting with the Union Troops in the thick of the Civil War. She was so inspired that she wrote this well-known hymn.

“Glory, glory Hallelujah…His truth is marching on.”

In the midst of suffering, the people were following LIncoln’s leadership and were “Looking Up”!

Throughout all of this suffering, war, and death, Lincoln never knew how esteemed he was in the hearts of people and to God. He died not really knowing but he was not focused on himself.

This is the exact spot that Job is in as we begin our reading today. He knows that he is on the threshold of death and all he can hear is condemnation. He is remembering God and trying to “Look Up”...He knows that his REDEEMER LIVES and that he will see God!

We have read the beginning of the book of Job and know how highly God thinks of Job. “Have you seen my servant, Job?”

God is very pleased with this man who is dear to his heart, but Job has no idea because he can not go near God in the midst of his suffering. He has no advocate or mediator to approach The Father for him.

In the first half of the book of Job, all of their eyes were “LOOKING AROUND” at all of the sorrow and “LOOKING BACK” at the Law.

No one was “LOOKING UP”... Then comes Job’s famous prophetic words in Job 19t, “I know that my Redeemer lives” the entire book is shifting. UPWARD.

Seemingly out of nowhere, we meet “Enlightening Eliju”.

He is not one of the three friends and is a younger man. He has been sitting there listening to all of this back and forth, back and forth… In fact, there have been THREE ROUNDS and finally, it is SILENT…but the silence isn’t golden.

Job won’t bend or break and his three friends won’t give him a break. Out of courtesy to age and wisdom, Eliju has politely waited his turn. Now, he has “Had it up to here”! In fact, the passage begins by telling us that he is good and mad. I get it; Don’t you?

These three ol’ boys have been getting on my nerves for quite a few chapters now. I am pretty sure that I would have been tempted to butt in…but Eliju waited and waited. And now, it is his turn at the “Podium of Pain”.

I am warning you. This guy is just “warming up”... He is going to give THREE LONG SPEECHES as a very long monologue. Perhaps in honor of the “THREE LONG WINDBAGS!

So, Who, Who, Who is Eli-WHO????

He kind of reminds me of a John the Baptist, interestingly enough.

Eliju’s name means “My God is HE”, and that is exactly what he does in this situation. He points all four men to the WHO… God!

He is angry when he begins his speech. He had listened the entire time to all THREE ROUNDS of speeches by the THREE AMIGOS and he had listened to all of Job’s defenses.

Eliju was weary of listening to Job defend himself instead of defending his perfect, just God!

His approach is different than the other three. He tries to convince Job that he must become humble and teachable and patient.

Enlightening Eliju sees that Job is sinning in the suffering, not by cursing God but by demanding his cause be answered by God. He has come to feel “Entitled” to answers for his suffering and is demanding a trial and that God answer him.

He is also not pleased with The Three Amigos who have turned to false accusations against Job rather than guiding his eyes back on God where they belong. They were not only miserable comforters but were also miserable representatives of God. None of them had been able to refute Job at all; they had only made things worse. The enemy of God has a way of using the weaknesses of those close to us to try and provoke us to sin in our weakest times.

Elihu highlights the greatness and power of God and how it is beyond our comprehension. We do not call HIM into question, HE calls us…Look at his interesting words in Job 32:19, “I am like a cask of wine without a vent, like a new wineskin ready to burst.”

In Mark 2:22 Jesus, himself, uses a metaphor saying that “no one puts new wine into old wineskins, otherwise the wine will burst…”

He was talking about the OT Law vs. the fulfillment of the law through GRACE. Whenever God is about to do a NEW THING, He invites them to LOOK UP!

“Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory of the coming of the Lord… His Truth is Marching on”!

Discovering a New Way

2 CORINTHIANS 3: 1-18

(August 29)

I have been writing several letters of recommendation lately. My daughter has been job hunting, and the places she applies would like to know more about her skills and experience. She is looking for a new job, a new way of life.

This is a much-used process to that establishes a person's identity and capabilities. It was also a popular way the New Testament churches validated the people who were sent on a mission, so that those in the places they were sent would find them credible.

In today's scripture, Paul is telling the Corinthians that he doesn't need a letter of recommendation, because THEY are his letter. Their conversion alone was proof that Paul was a minister of Christ. When they turned away from the sinfulness of their culture and chose a new way with Christ, they became his validation.

He talks about the old covenant, which was transcribed on stone tablets and brought down the mountain by Moses. But the new covenant is different. There are no stone tablets. This new way of receiving the covenant is having it written on the hearts of believers.

Because believers possessed this covenant, Paul believed that Christ equipped them with the resources to share Christ with the world, making each of them ministers in their own right. They would need no letter of recommendation either. Their life would be their validation, helping others find a new way to live their lives.

Verse 17 is one that is known by many: "For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." What did Paul mean by this?

When Jesus rose from the dead, he became a life-giving Spirit. He still has his earthly body, made better in heaven, but he also entered into a new spiritual existence when he was glorified. Because of this, he can live in heaven AND in our hearts ... all at the same time.

While this may sound like an episode of "Unsolved Mysteries", we who believe know it to be truth, and we know the mystery will be revealed to us one day.

By being able to live in our hearts, the Spirit we receive is even more glory-filled than what Moses experienced on the mountain that day. Yes, his face shone with bright glory. But even as he traipsed down the mountain, that shine had begun to fade. The Spirit within us is even more amplified as we begin to understand the truth about Christ and how absolutely wonderful God is. And we shine even brighter.

How much we shine for Christ when we discover this new way!

Les Calvary: Man of Destiny

One Year Bible (Aug. 29)

Job 31:1-33:33

Les Calvary: Man of Destiny

“The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.”

(Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address 1863)

A very humble, broken president stood on a battlefield that day amongst suffering all around him. It had been a bloody battle with brothers from the same family fighting against each other over the issue of slavery and freedom. Those fields were filled with the bloated bodies of brothers who were lying in decay under the hot sun. The scene was both pungent and tragic!

Abraham Lincoln stood to comfort and mourn the tragic loss experienced by soldiers, grieving families, and a divided nation. His eyes that day were fixed on the bravery and sacrifice of his beloved men… some from the South and some from the North. As you can see from his words, little did he know that his words would be remembered and go down as some of the most memorable words ever uttered by an American President.

We remember him not just for his words but because he was “a suffering savior”. He had stepped in to do “what was right in God’s eyes” and there was plenty of suffering and anguish in accomplishing what God had called him to do.

Honest Abe was no stranger to suffering. When little Abe was just nine years old his mother died. He had already lost a baby brother before losing his mother. Ten years later his sister, Sarah, died in childbirth leaving Abe on his own at nineteen years of age. As a young man, Abe fell in love with Ann Rutledge; she was the woman that Abe intended to marry. He was just starting out and had a “bright future” in front of him.

In 1832 he lost a job and was defeated for the state legislature. One year later he failed in business. Then the bottom fell out from under him again when he had to bury his sweetheart. He was alone and abandoned a third time and suffered a nervous breakdown in 1836.

He went on to fail at almost everything he set his hand to... speaker, congress, land officer, nomination for Vice President. He lost far more than he ever won!

After all of this, Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th President of the United States. During this time he stood against slavery and “freedom for all”. He lost one of his four sons (who was only 11 years old) while in the White House. With this devastating loss, he essentially lost his wife to a nervous breakdown. Only one of their four sons would survive past the age of 18.

What would prompt a man of suffering to run for the highest position in the land and sustain him when all seemed lost?

You see, as a young man living in New Salem, Illinois he would chop the wood and read the pages. He was known as a voracious reader and could regularly be seen reading by candlelight. He often poured over the pages of the Bible. I wonder if in later years he looked back on his life and could relate to the book of Job. He knew that book well.

Listen to the words of Job 23:10-14, “But he knows where I am going, and when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. For I have stayed on God’s paths, I have followed his ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. But once he has made his decision, who can change his mind? Whatever he wants to do, he does. So, he will do to me whatever he has planned. He controls My DESTINY.”

Do you remember when Job wondered if anyone would recall his words as a just man?

“Oh that my words were written! O that they were inscribed in a book! That with an iron stylus and lead They were engraved in the rock forever! (Job 19:23-24)

Can you relate to this longing?

Have you ever been stuck in the depths of suffering and wondered if anyone would remember you and if God would advocate for you?

More than anyone that I can think of in history, Abraham Lincoln suffered greatly while doing what was right. I wonder how many times he had read the book of Job by candlelight? He knew the sting of condemnation and accusations… He also knew death.

One week after the signing of the truce to the Civil War, Lincoln took his wife to a comedy at Ford’s Theatre. Before he could even celebrate the victory of Freedom he was assassinated.

Abraham Lincoln never knew the impact his life would have on the nation that he so humbly served. He tragically died before any respect at all was given to him. Yet, we as a nation will never forget his great sacrifice.

Abraham Lincoln did not follow the marching orders of the nation that he led. His orders came from a much higher source…

“My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side for God is always right.” (Abraham Lincoln)

The final section of the book of Job is all about “Looking Up” and that is exactly what this “suffering savior” of his people did. He had learned well the lessons that God was teaching Job about his supreme sovereignty. Like Job, Abraham Lincoln’s words, suffering, and writings will always be remembered…Both would be remembered as an amazing “MAN OF DESTINY”.

Aroma: Fragrant or Stinky, the Choice is Yours

2 CORINTHIANS 2: 12-17

(August 28)

There are some aromas we enjoy in life, others ... not so much. Some fill us with the feeling of "home", while others fill us with dread.

When I was a little girl, families still went by the 'golden rule' that you ate what you were served for dinner. Your home wasn't Burger King, and you didn't always get it your way. This included the dreaded SAUERKRAUT!!!!

I can remember getting off the bus, walking up to the front porch, and knowing INSTANTLY that dinner was not going to be a pleasant experience for me. WHY? Because I could smell the sauerkraut all the way out on the porch. (And the kitchen was in the back of the house.)

My dad loved the horrible stuff, so my mom fixed it often. And I had no choice but to eat it. But that smell ... YUCK!

I have the exact opposite reaction when I smell Oil of Olay face cream. Don't wear it around me, or you might find me getting really into your personal space trying to get a second whiff.

My sweet Granny wore that face cream every day. And the smell of it reminds me of her, of warmth, of home. It is one of the sweetest smells I know. So that is definitely an aroma I savor. There have been times when I have been walking outside somewhere and caught a scent of it. I just smile and think, "Granny must be walking with me today."

Another precious smell to me is the aroma of wintergreen tobacco. YUCK ... you might say. And I totally understand. But to me, it is the best because it reminds me of the many hours my dad spent on the swing on my front porch, giving me life lessons and telling me the stories of days gone by. I associate the aroma with the man.

Paul called himself and the apostles "the aroma of death to death" and "the aroma of life to life." Why did he use these phrases?

In a Roman triumphal procession, the Roman general would display his treasures and captives amidst a cloud of incense that was burned for the gods. If you were the victor in the situation, that was a sweet aroma for you. If you were a captive, it was the smell of death, because that was where you were headed.

When Christians share the gospel with others, it will be good news to some and something vile to others. As believers, we realize and understand that it is this gospel that gives us life. But the unbelievers find it to be a nasty smell, like death.

Paul also reminds believers that everyone will choose how they perceive that aroma. But we are to continue in our sincere efforts to share the gospel with as many as possible. We have the authority of Christ to do so, and God is watching.

God doesn't miss a thing. He is right there observing all that we do. Sometimes we may feel him nearby. Other times we may not. His aroma is not one of Oil of Olay face cream or wintergreen tobacco. It is far better than either of those things. It is the aroma of love.

Les Calvary: My Redeemer Lives Reprise

One Year Bible (Aug. 28)

Job 28:1-30:31

“Les Calvary”: My Redeemer Lives Reprise

The “Lost World Jewish Theatre” has just been purchased by new owners. The theatre will be refurbished and renamed. The new name is “The Majestic”.

When the theatre was “bought out” they were currently running the show, “Les Misery” about the life of Job. Their first undertaking as a new theatre under new management will be to run a “revised version” of this musical to make it more contemporary.

They want to keep the original content and broaden the understanding of their viewers by offering a modern version of the characters.

They have decided that the main character, Job, should be played by Billy Graham.

Can you imagine?

Their thinking is that Billy Graham is probably the man of our entire decade that God would look at and say, “Have you seen my servant, Billy?”

This humble servant never grew wealthy or proud in spite of serving kings, queens, and presidents. He lived his life faithfully all the days of his life. He never gave in to fancy cars, private jets, and all the glitz that is often a trap for others. He would carry the suitcase of famous people. He always stayed humble.

Yes, this was their man. The man to best reach our generation!

Next, they began to discuss how suffering applied to him. Dr. Graham was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease which slowed him down in the last decade of his life.

How unfair that a man who gave so much of his life to faithfully serve God in all kinds of adverse situations would be struck with such a debilitating disease. It doesn’t seem fair, does it?

The most well-known evangelist in the world had such a tragic disease that he might not even recognize words, people, or his own memories. How could this pass through God’s hands?

Next, they looked at his sermon series. What did he most often preach about? Every sermon contained the theme that, “ALL can come to Jesus who loves you and died for you. Repent and turn around to receive his GRACE”. He definitely fits the bill as a righteous man in God’s eyes, but how could this drama get off the road with so much GRACE and so little LAW?

The producers also considered Billy’s wife, Ruth. Would she be willing to tell her husband to “Curse God and Die”? They began looking through some of her words…

“Temptation and testing (or a trial) are two sides of the same coin. Satan uses an occasion or a person to tempt us to fall; God uses the same to try us and make us stronger.” (Ruth Graham)

The more they read about her words and life there was no doubt of the answer to this question. This woman of God was as filled with hope as her husband. She could not be easily bent or broken as she was usually kneeling in prayer.

The final test would be his friends. Could they find “Three Amigos” who would sit in this place of brokenness with him and offer words… lots of worthless words?

This shouldn’t be too difficult, they thought. Someone mentioned that Johnny Cash had been a close friend of Billy Graham’s. How difficult would it be for them to hire him and get him to turn against Rev. Graham in the play?

Hadn’t Johnny Cash landed in jail about seven times? Surely he would be willing to sit and stare at the Reverend for about seven days and then give him some condemnation.

The more they searched into his character they found that he had become a new man-- a changed man. He had sung in crusades and been a close friend of Rev. Graham for a very long time. In fact, it was rumored that his last words were, “I hear the train a-comin'.”

They began interviewing others about what they would say if they were in the play and they started singing songs like “I'd rather have Jesus”, “Just As I Am”, and “How Great Thou Art”.

The producers of this drama knew that their play was doomed. When Grace enters, Condemnation fails. When “Victory in Jesus” takes over the stage, no accusation can stand with an advocate and mediator like that. ‘Oh death where is your sting”... It lost its power when the enemy was dethroned and defeated. Grace could do what the law never could.

Billy Graham didn’t get picked for this production. He was ruled out by his very own words, which were taken from a quote by D.L Moody, “Someday you will read or hear that Billy Graham is dead. Don’t you believe a word of it. I shall be more alive than I am now. I will just have changed my address. I will have gone into the presence of God.”

I think the producers were onto something alright… However, because of “Les Calvary” there will be no more “Les Misery”. We now have an Advocate, Mediator, and Redeemer!

Job was onto a powerful new understanding of what God was up to... “But as for me, I know that My Redeemer lives…” (Job 19: 25)

When the Time is Right

2 CORINTHIANS 1:12 - 2:11

(August 27)

Timing is everything! As children, we plot, and we plan when to ask for something special. We wait until that perfect moment when Dad seems to be in a good mood, and Mom looks joyful... then we lay our cards on the table.

I was about eight when Little House on the Prairie first premiered. I couldn't wait for that Tuesday night! The previews were driving me into a fit of excitement. In my mind, Tuesday couldn't come soon enough.

There was just one problem... we only had one television in the house. Tuesday evenings, at the same time as Little House was scheduled, was another weekly show that my dad didn't miss. So, I had myself a dilemma. What to do? What to do?

I decided it would be awesome and amazing if I had my own television in my room. It made perfect sense. I could watch Little House on the Prairie and my dad could watch his program, and we would all be happy campers. (Life is so simple when you are 8.)

The problem was, the timing never seemed right to ask before Tuesday came along. Instead, I convinced my dad to let me watch my show. Things were going great until about an hour before it was scheduled to come on. Something happened and my little smarty mouth got busy. I ended up being sent to my room, thereby missing the premier of my show. MY LIFE WAS OVER!!!!

After a fit of crying, I re-evaluated my situation. I HAD TO HAVE my own tv. I had a week to get this right, or I would be in the same situation again. A couple of days later, the timing seemed to be just right, so I brought up the possibility. My parents listened, never answered me, and I went on my way, feeling unsuccessful.

And what to my wandering eyes should appear? A 13 inch, black and white television of my very own! Hallelujah!! Not only did I see every episode of Little House on the Prairie (more than once), but I also got my first introduction to Arthur Fonzarelli and the rest of the Happy Days gang, (Heeeyyyyy), and fell in love with Starsky and Hutch. What a happy girl I was! And it was all about the timing.

Looking back, I see that I was a little scared to ask. And maybe I never would've asked at all if I hadn't gotten in trouble and missed the premier. That little bit of "suffering" caused me to take action. And when I took action in the right timing, my goal was accomplished.

Paul is telling the believers that it was all about timing for him, too. He had previously told them he would visit again, but he changed his mind. Not because he didn't love them or want to see them, but because he knew he would be harsh with them because of what was going on in the church. He didn't want to bring harshness to them, only joy. So, he decided to postpone his trip until the timing was right, and he could bring joy to their lives.

This didn't mean he was lying when he said he would visit. He assures them he is a man of his word. He also states emphatically that God is true to his word also. His "YES" is yes and his "NO" is no. On that, you can be certain. Paul's word could still be trusted, and the Corinthians could trust him to represent God honestly and sincerely. They could trust him to visit when the time was right for what he hoped to accomplish.

Les Misery: My Redeemer Lives

One Year Bible (Aug. 27)

Job 23:1-27:23

My Redeemer Lives

We have now come to the middle of the book and it is almost intermission time.

This will be the shift in focus for the rest of our time spent in the book of Job.

The song that will be playing as you walk out for intermission is Handel’s Magnum Opus. Every Christmas we hear his magnificent piece played and our hearts soar!

Do you know the tune and words of this majestic piece?

“I know that my redeemer liveth…” (Taken from Job 19:25-26; I Corinthians 15:20)

Who knew that a man in utter despair and hopelessness would be given such amazing prophetic words that would be placed in a musical by Handel to remember the Messiah at the most magnificent time of year?

Throughout the first half of the book of Job, we see that “his friends” really aren’t listening to what his real needs are if he is to make it through this ordeal. What is Job asking for?

Repeatedly, Job restates his innocence and wants an audience with God to plead his case.

He feels like an innocent man sentenced to death row. He desires an ADVOCATE to please his case. (9:33)

Job also hears “The Three Amigos” talking and repeating the same things over and over, while God is silent. He is left in the dark and he knows that this has come “through God’s hand”. Yet, he doesn’t know this to be of God’s nature or character. He worships God and refuses to blame or curse God. He desires a MEDIATOR to bridge the huge gap between him, a human, and God who is so far above him. (16:19-21)

Lastly, Job needs a REDEEMER. He needs someone to take all of the mess and loss and redeem his life which has no value without God at the center of everything. Yet, he can’t find his way back to God in the midst of the ashes.

In the midst of complete ruin and desperation, Job is still speaking about God and who HE is, and he is offering praise… And then out of the ashes arise a song of praise!

These beautiful words that are beyond any Jewish understanding of time come flowing out of this shattered God-forsaken man, Job.

The words that philosophers, historians, teachers, and pastors have discussed over and over are found in Job 19: 25-27.

These verses are “the crescendo of faith to which Job attains.” (Gordis, The Book of Job, 204)

“But as for me, I know that my REDEEMER lives, and HE WILL STAND UPON THE EARTH at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body, I will see God! I will see him in my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought.” (Job 19:25-27)

Does Job know the REDEEMER will be the Messiah? Does he connect the REDEEMER with the KINSMAN REDEEMER in the OT?

In the OT the Kinsman Redeemer restores, avenges, and rescues their family member. They take them as their own and give them a home and a hope!

The phrase, “I will stand upon the earth” points to human vindication.

Jewish people state that they can not have peace and rest in their graves without things being made right. Job has faith that not only will he be vindicated, but that he will see God.

Listen to his words, “I am overwhelmed at the thought.”

He has HOPE beyond his suffering… for a life to come!

Who is his REDEEMER? He says, “I will see God.”

In spite, of all that Satan has thrown at Job, he is now filled with words that point the entire Jewish nation to a place beyond anywhere that they can comprehend.

Despite the “Sorry Comforters”, a joyous song has sprung up in the face of death in the ashes.

There can be no denying that this story is about so much more than meets the eye. Through the eyes of suffering Job’s eyes are pointing us to an ADVOCATE, MEDIATOR, and REDEEMER.

What did Job actually just say about a redeemer???? The audience is speechless and for at least a few minutes so are “The Three Amigos”...

The curtain is going down from the first half of the drama and the song is rising, “My Redeemer Lives and He will stand on earth at last.”

The Choice to Betray

2 CORINTHIANS 1:1-11

(August 26)

I have had a lot of experience with recovery homes. My former church was affiliated with a home for men, and I have worked alongside homes for women, trying to help these women overcome their strongholds. In fact, I am currently working alongside some women who are trying to get their lives back together after addiction and/or incarceration.

It is such a blessing to watch these women find Jesus and find their way through the issues that have haunted them. It is warming to the heart to see your efforts pay off and watch them walk further and further into a life of success with Christ.

But ... not everyone succeeds. There are always going to be the "failure stories" that walk alongside the "success stories." I have learned through crushed hope and countless heartbreaks, that not everyone will choose to change. And when you invest your time and heart, and no change happens, it is crushing to the spirit.

As Paul begins this 2nd letter to the Corinthians, which he wrote less than a year after 1 Corinthians, he is feeling crushed, dejected, and betrayed. These feelings aren't directed towards the entire church, but to a portion that had continued to go against everything he preached.

Keep in mind, at this time the Romans had made Corinth the capital city of Achaia. It was a flourishing trade center with thousands of merchants and sailors coming in and out. Its reputation grew as an immoral city, where pagan temples encouraged the worship of idols and the practice of sexual immorality. The Greek word "to Corinthianize" actually meant "to practice sexual immorality." That is how bad it had gotten, and that was the situation this church found itself in, with all the pressures and conflicts to go along with it.

Paul had written 1 Corinthians to deal with some divisions that were taking place in the church. Some did not heed his advice and the problems continued. So, he made a trip to see for himself what needed to be done.

This was a painful trip for Paul, as he feels rejected by those he has invested so much into. It is an emotional letter filled with every human emotion imaginable. But like any other good "movie" ... we can look towards a happier ending.

This is the most personal and intimate letter Paul ever wrote. He was seeking to vindicate himself and expose the false prophets who were disrupting the church. Throughout this letter you will see the theme of obedience to Christ through respect and submission to authority. Another, underlying theme will be selfless giving, both in Christian service and sharing personal possessions.

When Paul talks about "burdens", "afflictions", or "troubles", (which he does multiple times), he is describing the problems he experienced because of his devotion to the gospel. Many believers experienced these same troubles.

But they also benefitted from those troubles...

"But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead." (Verse 9).

"We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us." (Verse 10)

How beneficial those trials were because they caused them to draw closer to God, and to look to him for help, instead of themselves or others.

Paul wants them to see this as answered prayer, and as God revealing himself as our rescuer.

There are choices to be made. First, you have to choose to walk in the light or walk in the darkness. Then you must choose how you look at your troubles. Do you see them as burdens with no hope? Or do you see them as opportunities to let God work in your life in a way you never thought possible?

Do you choose to follow or to betray?

Les Misery: Sorry Comforters

One Year Bible (Aug. 26)

Job 20:1-22:30

Miserable Comforters

“Sorry Comforters” who aren’t SORRY at all! What an oxymoron!

These “Three Amigos” are pretty much morons (with and without the -oxy)!

Who looks at a man suffering excruciating pain and heaps on more coals?

Job begins his reply in the second onslaught of attacks by saying, “I have heard all this before. What miserable comforters you are! Won’t you ever stop blowing hot air? What makes you keep on talking? I could say the same things if you were in my place. I could spout off criticism and shake my head at you. But if it were me, I would encourage you. I would try to take away your grief. Instead, I suffer if I defend myself, and I suffer no less if I refuse to speak.” (16:1-6)

Why is this happening? Did you catch what Job just said here? He is stuck in a CATCH 22, and he is NOT the only one that is utterly stuck! How and why are they stuck in “Les Misery” besides the obvious suffering?

I would suggest that there is a grander scheme and a grander plan going on behind the scenes. While Satan is working his best to accomplish his plan, he OFTEN uses people that are close to us to attack us while we are down. OFTEN.

Now, I am not saying they are demon-possessed. The enemy doesn’t need to possess someone to use them for his benefit. He just needs them to NOT be focused on God so that he can use their weaknesses, open doors, pride, and sinful attitudes to “WORM HIS WAY IN”!

As we know Job has enough WORM Problems as it is!!

By the way, who is behind this entire PRIDE challenge, to begin with? The three self-righteous friends are just playing into the devil’s playground and plan.

Does this CATCH 22 sound familiar to you from any New Testament stories?

Jesus was never more angry than when he dealt with the Pharisees (because they weren’t FAIR-YOU-SEE!).

Here is what Jesus said to them, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces. You yourselves DO NOT ENTER, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” (Mt 23)

Can you recall the Pharisees' reaction to Jesus when he healed on the Sabbath?

They condemned him even though he was doing the Father’s work. Jesus was Lord of the Sabbath.

They knew the “letter of the law” but nothing about the “Lord of love”.

That, my friends, is the CATCH 22.

Job is a righteous man who lives “under the yoke of the law” which condemns sin but provides NO WAY OUT!

Even the most JUST man that ever lived stands condemned by the sin of humanity. There is no deliverance for sinful man. No human is perfect enough to pay the price of death demanded by the sin that came into the world through Adam and Eve.

This Satan knows quite well. This Satan is counting on!

But God is writing a new narrative and the theme of the long-awaited Messiah is running throughout the Old Testament like a crystal clear brook in a hot barren desert. God is preparing his people. He is also pointing them to this HOPE!

No heartbreak can be healed without God’s intervention. Not even Job in all of his holiness is ENOUGH to take on Satan or all of his accusers.

It is helpful for us to take a look at the book of Job through New Testament eyes.

“For this reason, NO ONE will be declared righteous in his sight by works of the law, for through the law we become aware of sin.” (Romans 3:20)

Even Job, declared JUST by God, couldn’t take on Satan nor his three friends who played on TEAM LAW. We can blame them for their words but did they know grace?

The phrase CATCH 22 is defined as, “A problematic situation for which the only solution is denied by a circumstance inherent in the problem or by a rule”.

Do you see what I mean? The “Rule” is the “Law” and it only condemned sin and sinners. The people in the Old Testament could only have their sins rolled back… They were waiting for the perfect sacrificial lamb and that could not be an animal.

Like the “Three Amigos” the law is a MISERABLE COMFORTER!