WISDOM FROM ABOVE – FACTOR OF EIGHT ROSS SMITH

December 23, 2015October 1, 2016 Ross Smith

WISDOM FROM ABOVE – FACTOR OF EIGHT STUDY – COMPILATION) ROSS SMITH 060814

This is a compilation of several studies on this most important process of becoming like Christ, the embracing of the “Wisdom from Above “which constitutes the “Ethics of God” and then seeing these characteristics mature and manifest as the “Ethos of God” or His character.

The title “FACTOR OF EIGHT” will become more evident as you proceed through the study of the eight characteristics that constitute WISDOM, but in bible numerology the number “8” represents “spiritual fatness”.

EIGHT: sh’moneh in Hebrew, from the root shah’meyn “to make fat” or “to cover with fat” which means to super-abound.

The attached “MY OBSERVATIONS” page is for you to append the insights and understanding that will accrue as you apply your “thought and study” as suggested in MARK 4:24 and to also record the progress you make as you submit to the recommendations of JAMES 3:17.

Each “characteristic” has extensive implications that will only become evident as we proceed to the place where we can truly SHOW, not claim, that we have received this “Wisdom from Above”. A word of warning however, even though the Word of God says in JAMES 1:5 that “if we lack wisdom then just ask the Lord for it” there are expectations that Father has of us so that we appreciate the value of this sovereign impartation of His character, just as we understand that to accrue “patience” we have to face “tribulation, likewise with Wisdom it has its price.

Proverbs 5:1-2 MY SON, be attentive to my Wisdom [godly Wisdom learned by actual and costly experience], and incline your ear to my understanding [of what is becoming and prudent for you], that you may exercise proper discrimination and discretion and your lips may guard and keep knowledge and the wise answer [to temptation]. (AMP)

These are just some additional thoughts following the study on “LIBERATION FROM AGITATING PASSIONS AND MORAL CONFLICTS”.

As we embrace the Wisdom/Ethics of God then we will evidence His Ethos.

WISDOM = The Ethics of God

KNOWLEDGE = The will of God

UNDERSTANDING = The work of God

INTELLIGENCE = The blessing of God

By embracing the above 4 principles we will then have to add an additional one as follows: –

ETHOS The “ethos” or character or morality of God

(Wikipedia … Ethos forms the root of ethikos (ἠθικός), meaning “moral, showing moral character

Embracing the ethics of God (or the Wisdom from above) is not cheap experience, everything of self has to submit to that “The Wisdom from above”. Does that mean that I am no longer “me”? No, it means that “me” reverts back to Father’s original design, “made in his image and likeness”, it means I become more Christlike. And if I am more Christlike, that means I am able to reflect His character, or in other words “Manifest His “Ethos”, and demonstrate His “morality”.

In 2^nd Peter 1:4 he speaks of us being “Partakers of the divine nature”. A similar expression is found in Hebrews 12:10 which indicates that we “Might be partakers of his Holiness”. I am sure this does not mean that we are absorbed into the divine nature so that we lose our individuality. This is confirmed by the Word in relation to our heavenly abode which indicates we will have a separate and individual existence. In all the representations of heaven in the Bible, the idea of “individuality” is one that is prominent and we are identified as worshippers in that dimension.

Can I suggest that both the references in Peter and Hebrews are directing us to embrace the “moral nature” of God and because we are renewed we become participants of the same “moral nature”. This would be true Christlikeness for we would have the same views, feelings, thoughts, purposes, and principles of action. It is interesting that we are exploring James 3:17 which describes Fathers “ethos or morality” in such vibrant clarity but using different words. May I respectfully suggest that these studies also warrant revisiting?

Whilst the word seems simple enough and the plan uncomplicated, the route is tortuous only because I am not close enough to hear the whispered directions of that “still small voice”.

It is worth considering 1^st Peter 3:4 which refers to (in ISV) “the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which God values greatly”. It was drawn to my attention by Linda that the original word (G2272) includes a translation as “properly keeping one’s seat (sedentary) that is, (by implication) still (undisturbed, undisturbing): – peaceable, quite. It is in this state of mind and condition of spirit that will enable the clarity of Fathers instructions to be clearly discerned.”

Using some poetic licence I think Peter was actually saying “don’t get out of your pram, I’ll pick up your dummy”. But having learned to be “quiet” the bible is suggesting we are able to maintain it, “The imperishable quality”, how good is that?

The “determination” required will only be activated when we realise what the goal is Father has for our life. That is why we need to regularly revisit the “THEN’S” of Isaiah 58 which will become the “ethos” that we so desperately require. The “IFS” will have been dealt with as God gives us the 8 components of “Wisdom from Above”. Keeping in mind what Jeremiah 29:11A says, “I have a plan for your life”, which includes all these attributes that we have “diligently” cultivated.

The assistance to attain to this level comes from my application of 2^nd Peter 1:5, “the adding” or the “transforming”. The goal becomes “Conformed to His image and likeness”. (SEE ‘HIERARCHY OF HOLINESS”)

I look forward to the outcome of this principle and confidently expect that as I apply the “thought and study” to this matter that is appropriate then I will receive adequate “virtue and knowledge”.

Proverbs 4:6 If you love Wisdom and don’t reject her, she will watch over you.

A FACTOR OF EIGHT – #1 – PURE ROSS SMITH

If there is anything you remember from this message this morning it is this, and you should write it down in large letters at the top of the page. “EXAMINE MY MOTIVES”. My original statement was EXAMINE “YOUR” MOTIVES, but I was quickly alerted to the fact that I was a prime candidate here.

And while we are in a receptive mood let us also record what Paul said to the Colossians:-

Colossians 2:20 If then you have died with Christ to material ways of looking at things and have escaped from the world’s crude and elemental notions and teachings of externalism, why do you live as if you still belong to the world?

Biblical definition of numeral “8”.

EIGHT: sh’moneh in Hebrew, from the root shah’meyn “to make fat” or “to cover with fat” which means to super-abound.

You will recall we studied “BREAKFAST” in Isaiah 58 that in verse six it identified eight activities that precede the fulfilment of God’s promises, which are extensive, relating to the life that we should live, and would result in Spiritual Fatness.

Similarly in 2 Peter 1 we found that there were eight qualities which we were encouraged to develop with all our might. I was then interested to see that in Philippians 4:8 there was another factor of eight, comprising “True, Honest, Just, Pure, Lovely, Good report, Virtue, Praise”, a few things that were appropriate for us to think about instead of the mundane

Philippians4:8 For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honourable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].

Then recently my attention was drawn to the proposition “VALUES DRIVE OUR ATTITUDES DRIVE OUR BEHAVIOUR”, and this coerced me into exploring this cliché due to the fact that I have been strenuously exercised against being “Vague” and consequently I have been looking at the implications. As we proceed hopefully we will understand the implications of “VAGUE” whilst I proceed with the study on the subject.

Whilst I have some grasp of the essence of ATTITUDES and BEHAVIOUR, I had to admit to myself that I really needed to understand the “VALUES” component, as this is the pedestal for the other two components to rest on.

Because the world at large places great value on things temporal and material, this

infection has also blighted the church. We tend to be “vague” about crystallising the real meaning of “values” and we gloss over much we read without extracting the nutrition.

The reason I keep referring to the term “Vague”, is because it impinges significantly on the outcome of our walk with the Lord and the establishment and implementation of our “VALUES”. There are two groups of people, (1) those who faithfully and energetically run the race, (2) and those who have “sat down and parked themselves inside the door of salvation and are not concerned about purifying their hearts from the contamination of this world”.

This coupled with my studies in Ephesians 5:15–17 it has caused my focus to be fine-tuned, for part of this Scripture states “Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is.” As a consequence I set out to determine what “VALUES” really means, because I really want to know “what the will of the Lord is” and as a consequence have had to put my study on Ephesians 5 on hold.

But before we proceed let me ask a question, “If we are not sure of what the will of the Lord is, then do we qualify as vague, thoughtless and foolish”. I ask this question because of recent studies on “HE WHO KNOWS TO DO RIGHT AND DOES IT NOT TO HIM IT IS SIN”, (James 4:17) and consequently if we are not adhering to that injunction then we must be “VAGUE” with its attending penalties and repercussions. Does it mean that we do not understand God’s will? And if we do not understand it we will be unable to “firmly grasp it”. Gods will is clearly enunciated throughout the bible and so this is further incentive for consistent and thorough study.

CONTINUING ….. There are a number of relevant analogies/descriptions of different “Values” throughout Scripture. (1) In 2 Chronicles 9:20 Solomon was so rich that “silver was not counted as anything in the days of Solomon”. (2) The comparison of Father’s value of us as opposed to the birds of the air. (3) In 1 Peter 1:7 it indicates that our faith is infinitely more precious than the perishable gold just to name a few.

The apostle Paul in writing to the Colossians in chapter 2:20 begins his exhortation with, “If then you have died with Christ to material ways of looking at things” and then begins to at admonish them for having such improper “values”. Dare I suggest that these “material ways “is to confine our concepts to the mundane.

So after some musing and a veritable scamper through the Scriptures I was relieved to find that there is specific clarification of what God considers “VALUE”. I could not find any reference to the term “Value for Money,” in fact this concept is derided.

Before proceeding it is worthwhile identifying why we should go to such lengths to explore such a simple term, with such profound results, and yet so poorly understood. The apostle Paul again comes to our aid with such eloquence to describe the outcome of those who have truly established their “values” and have applied the principles of the word.

Philippians 3:8-14 Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One), And that I may [actually] be found and known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law’s demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith. [For my determined purpose is] (Keep this statement in mind for further down the study) that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], (this is understanding) and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], (this is expectation) and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope] That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body]. Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration] (another name for “motive”): forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.

I suspect this sort of testimony can only be made after we have obtained “WISDOM”.

Can we identify Paul’s Motives? Do we identify WITH Paul’s motives?

I find in the word that the principle “VALUE” that we need to appreciate is “GOD’s WISDOM”. We have for an extended period of time understood Wisdom to be “applied knowledge” and to a large degree this is accurate, however it is also incomplete. It is also in the convolution of those principles of our previous studies involving “Factor of Eight” that propel us past the place of spiritual leanness to spiritual fatness.

The elimination of “vague” is dependent upon “LOVE” which you will recall is the last “quality” referred to in 2 Peter 1 and is preceded by seven other things we are incited to develop. The development of this quality is clearly enunciated in: –

Philippians 1:9-10 And this I pray: that your love may abound yet more and more and extend to its fullest development in knowledge and all keen insight [that your love may display itself in greater depth of acquaintance (the elimination of “vague”) and more comprehensive discernment], So that you may surely learn (it requires study to learn) to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of REAL VALUE [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, (purified) you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble].

The procurement/evidence of LOVE will enable us to recognise “REAL VALUE”, and the incubation of love will result in full development in knowledge and all keen insight, and it is out of this understanding or knowledge that we then can proceed to that further “FACTOR OF EIGHT” neatly packaged up in “WISDOM”, as follows: –

James 3:17 But the WISDOM from above is first of all pure (undefiled); then it is peace-loving, courteous (considerate, gentle). [It is willing to] yield to reason, full of compassion and good fruits; it is wholehearted and straightforward, impartial and unfeigned (free from doubts, wavering, and insincerity).

Let me put them in list form both for clarity and objectivity: –

1.Pure

2.Peaceable

3.Gentle

4. Accommodating

5. Full of mercy

6.Good fruit

7.Impartial

8.Not hypocritical

The difficulty we face is twofold, how we appropriate GOD’s WISDOM so that we can apply it in the practical manner for which it is intended, and what are the attributes so that we can identify the value and develop it. The patriarch Job obviously contemplated what was valuable, and probably had a greater understanding than most because of the accumulation of material wealth that he had experienced, then lost, then recovered. His ruminations are spelt out in:–

Job 28:12-20 But where shall Wisdom be found? (what a good question?) And where is the place of understanding? Man knows not the price of it; neither is it found in the land of the living. The deep says, [Wisdom] is not in me; and the sea says, It is not with me. It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price of it. It cannot be valued in [terms of] the gold of Ophir, in the precious onyx or beryl, or the sapphire. Gold and glass cannot equal [Wisdom], nor can it be exchanged for jewels or vessels of fine gold. No mention shall be made of coral or of crystal; for the possession of Wisdom is even above rubies or pearls. The topaz of Ethiopia cannot compare with it, nor can it be valued in pure gold. From where then does Wisdom come? And where is the place of understanding?

This is a great question from a man who has obviously attained to greatness in his community and evidenced great business acumen. This passage identifies that Job had not only an academic appreciation of the value of natural resources, but was able to relate the commercial with the spiritual.

From human ingenuity and contrivance, Job turns to the consideration of “WISDOM“. “Where,” he asks, “is this to be found?” It is a wholly different thing from cleverness and ingenuity. It inquires into causes and origins, into the ends and purposes of things. Perfect wisdom can, of course, only dwell with God (verse 23). Man must be content with something much below this. With him “the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding” (verse 28).

This again raises the conundrum because with our research our understanding of verse 28 is indeed vague. How does “the fear of the Lord” constitute wisdom? The dilemma is where we start.

Proverbs 4:7 THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM is: get Wisdom (skillful and godly Wisdom)! [For skillful and godly Wisdom is the principal thing.] (the most valuable) And with all you have gotten, (The acquisition of WISDOM is only part of the complete answer) get understanding (discernment, comprehension, and interpretation). (And this aspect constitutes a complete study apart from what we are exploring today)

Let us also understand that wisdom on its own is insufficient for the Bible repeats the instruction:-

Proverbs 4:5 Get skillful and godly Wisdom, get understanding (discernment, comprehension, and interpretation); do not forget and do not turn back from the words of my mouth.

The difference here between “skilful and godly wisdom” and “understanding” is that the first comes from above so that we can safely accommodate the information encompassed in “understanding”, because if we had the understanding without the Wisdom it would be a dangerous condition, flaunted because of our misplaced motives

James 1:5 IF ANY OF YOU IS DEFICIENT IN WISDOM, let him ask of the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.

I can easily tell if you have WISDOM, I just have to look for the qualities associated with this characteristic.

And so we are given the starting point for the accumulation of the attributes of WISDOM, identifying clearly that this quality is not academic, is not brought about by striving, (But does come through “costly experience”) but is a resource provided by God himself, and evidenced in SPIRITUAL FATNESS, and this is where the “FACTOR OF EIGHT” again becomes relevant. But there is a progression that is profound.

WISDOM like WORSHIP is a life style, and has qualities like those in 2 Peter 1:5-7, but God does not zap us with them, but tests us by the experiences we pass through to determine our motives and prove our reliability.

Proverbs 5:1-2 MY SON, be attentive to my Wisdom [godly Wisdom learned by actual and costly experience], and incline your ear to my (God’s) understanding [of what is becoming and prudent for you], that you may exercise proper discrimination and discretion and your lips may guard and keep knowledge and the wise answer [to temptation]. (Information)

Ephesians 1:8 Which He lavished upon us (speaking about the riches and generosity of His gracious favour …. Comments mine) in every kind of wisdom and understanding (practical insight and prudence),

It is not convenient here to explore “UNDERSTANDING” and probably we will not properly understand it until we have grasped the full intent and content of “WISDOM”.

The first quality of “WISDOM” is “PURE”. But pure what? Without a proper understanding of purity we will be at a disadvantage in our pursuit of this hugely important characteristic, so let’s explore.

No 1 Quality =PURE: When we think about “pure” we tend to measure it by things like “pure gold”. Pure gold is generally considered to be 24 carat, however even this is not pure. Carat purity is measured as 24 times the pure mass divided by the total mass, and the best 24 carat gold is 99.95% gold and the rest an alloy. So we have to have a better measure of “pure”.

This is where some of our previous exploration becomes relevant because we understand that “heart” and “attitude” are synonymous. And as we set out in this study the launching pad was “VALUE” which drives our “ATTITUDE”. And so if we are to “purify our hearts” it actually means “a change of attitude”. The Amplified version adds the explanation “of your spiritual adultery”, or in other words our “two timing”.

This is where you will have to stay with me because I believe the process of “purifying our hearts” is actually “EXAMINING OUR MOTIVES”. So it is probably convenient at this point to review the various scriptural premises relating to “pure heart”. Let us see what it looks like when we alternate the words, “pure heart” and “pure motives”.

Matthew 5:8 Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous–possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God’s favour and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) ARE THE PURE IN HEART (with pure motives …. Comments mine), FOR THEY SHALL SEE GOD!

So Matthew again reinforces the proposal that we need to have a PURE HEART and if our attitudes are anything other than in line with the purposes of God, then we jeopardise our destiny.

Conversely however we should look at the first part of the verse where such elaborate provision has been made for those who are “Pure in Heart” with a very important rider “regardless of their outward conditions”. The wisdom that attends PURITY does not have the outward appearances that would invite us to rate a man as “WISE”, we need to look much deeper than that.

“Purity of Heart” is a significant requirement throughout Scripture: –

Psalm 24:3-4 Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, (proper motives) who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false, nor sworn deceitfully.

Psalm 73:1 A Psalm of Asaph. TRULY GOD is [only] good to Israel, even to those who are upright and pure in heart. (or with proper motives)

Proverbs 16:2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits (the thoughts and intents of the heart). (The New English Testament translates “weighs the spirits” as “evaluates the motives”.)

1Timothy 1:5 Whereas the object and purpose of our instruction and charge is love, which springs from a pure heart (pure motives) and a good (clear) conscience and sincere (unfeigned) faith.

Titus 1:15 To the pure [in heart and conscience] all things are pure, (starting with their motives) but to the defiled and corrupt and unbelieving nothing is pure; their very minds and consciences are defiled and polluted.

1Peter 1:22 Since by your obedience to the Truth through the [Holy] Spirit you have purified your hearts (examined your motives) for the sincere affection of the brethren, [see that you] love one another fervently from a pure heart.

Again I find this is an area where we have been “VAGUE” for we do not fully understand what “purity of heart” really means. Let me pause and ask you what your concept is of “pure of heart”.

(It is probably convenient to take notes of our general understanding of “purity of heart”)

Every action we undertake has an underlying motive, a large proportion of our communication has an underlying motive, the way we dress has an underlying motive, and the way we drive has an underlying motive. Any time anyone does anything, it is for a reason, and with a motive. Perhaps it’s the motive of feeling good about yourself , or is pleasing God, or merits for your future. We will carry within ourselves a unique mixture of pure and impure motives.

Let me list some motives: –

To gain advantage

To impress someone

To ridicule someone

To get my own way

To massage my pride

To protect myself

To avoid a situation

To save Mission energy

To luxuriate in laziness

To obtain what I want

For example, do I act differently in accordance with the situation, that is, wear a different face for different people or different conditions.

As you go through our day and through the events of the day we need to pay attention to what is motivating us to whatever we are doing. Why are we more generous in some situations than in others, is it just from the satisfaction of doing good or is there some obvious payoff?

Consider these following Scriptures: –

1Corinthians_4:5 So do not make any hasty or premature judgments before the time when the Lord comes [again], for He will both bring to light the secret things that are [now hidden] in darkness and disclose and expose the [secret] aims (motives and purposes) of hearts. Then every man will receive his [due] commendation from God.

2Corinthians 1:12 It is a reason for pride and exultation to which our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world [generally] and especially toward you, with devout and pure motives and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God (the unmerited favour and merciful kindness by which God, exerting His holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, and keeps, strengthens, and increases them in Christian virtues).

2Corinthians 10:2 I entreat you when I do come [to you] that I may not [be driven to such] boldness as I intend to show toward those few who suspect us of acting according to the flesh [on the low level of worldly motives and as if invested with only human powers].

Philippians2:3 Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves].

1Thessalonians 2:5 For as you well know, we never resorted either to words of flattery or to any cloak to conceal greedy motives or pretexts for gain, [as] God is our witness.

James 2:4 Are you not discriminating among your own and becoming critics and judges with wrong motives?

James 4:3 [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you all ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives. Your intention is [when you get what you desire] to spend it in sensual pleasures.

Revelation 20:13 And the sea delivered up the dead who were in it, death and Hades (the state of death or disembodied existence) surrendered the dead in them, and all were tried and their cases determined by what they had done [according to their motives, aims, and works].

You will recall that we discussed previously that “thoughts are actions in rehearsal” and can I suggest that the way we think is a consequence of our motives.

What is our motive in giving advice or more importantly others giving advice to us?

Proverbs 12:13 The wicked is [dangerously] snared by the transgression of his lips, (or speaking out with improper motives) but the [uncompromisingly] righteous shall come out of trouble.

1Thessalonians 2:5 For as you well know, we never resorted either to words of flattery or to any cloak to conceal greedy motives or pretexts for gain, [as] God is our witness.

James 2:4 Are you not discriminating among your own and becoming critics and judges with wrong motives?

Revelation 20:13 And the sea delivered up the dead who were in it, death and Hades (the state of death or disembodied existence) surrendered the dead in them, and all were tried and their cases determined by what they had done [according to their motives, aims, and works].

You will recall right at the outset that I refer to the Scripture when Paul says “BUT MY DETERMINED PURPOSE”, can I rephrase this statement to read, “MY PURE MOTIVE”.

I must at all times “EXAMINE MY MOTIVES”. I must “purify my heart” so that I can embark on the ship of WISDOM

MY OBSERVATIONS

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FACTOR OF EIGHT #2 – PEACEABLE ROSS SMITH 26062014

PEACEABLE is different to PEACEFUL. The latter can be real or alternatively, consist of ambivalence, nonchalance or just plain laziness. However it is interesting to note that there has to be conflict for peace to be evidenced, and we will come to that. Also there are two kinds of peace, if we are to be simplistic about it, can you think what they are? …… INTERNAL & EXTERNAL. Whilst out study is concentrated on PEACEABLE the convolution of PEACE broadens the subject on many fronts, for Peace and Peaceableness are inextricably bound together. For that reason we cannot appreciate “PEACEABLE” without considering the fruit.

PEACABLE however is a characteristic of WISDOM that cannot be mimicked or manipulated, it is observable and practical, real and reliable, and it is of benefit to all who are exposed to it

PEACE together with Grace is described in 2 Peter 1:2 as “perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity, and freedom from fear and agitating passions and moral conflicts”. (There is another study on “Liberation from Agitating Passions”)

This compendium of benefits and attributes would seem worthy of aggressive pursuit in its own right, for who would want to live outside of that provision, but it is afforded us through KNOWLEDGE of God and is given of God where we see in verse 3, “He has bestowed upon us all things through the full personal knowledge of Him who called us”. (2 Peter 1:3)

But with all the recommendations made in this respect, peace is not mentioned as a component of WISDOM. The first component we have looked at previously was “PURE” and now we come to the second component which is “PEACEABLE”.

The dictionary gives a definition of PEACEABLE as “promoting calm, inclined or disposed to avoid strife or dissension”. This is hardly an adequate description for a condition born out of Righteousness and with tangible results far greater than “promoting calm”, involving a relationship with God that will affect everything and everyone around us.

HEBREWS 12:11 “a harvest of (peaceable ) fruit which consists (I like the term “exists”) in righteousness—(which is as follows ) in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, RESULTING IN right living and right standing with God”

But peace is also the soil in which the fruit of righteousness is sown, the fertile soil in which the soul in communion with Christ is rooted, and we have superficially explored this previously in “HIERARCHY OF HOLINESS”.

Again in Ephesians 6, “the breastplate of righteousness is a vital part of the PEACEMAKERS armoury.

Righteousness – Integrity, holiness, purity of life, sincerity of piety. The breast-plate defended the vital parts of the body; and the idea here is that the integrity of life, and righteousness of character, is as necessary to defend us from the assaults of Satan, as the coat of mail was to preserve the heart from the arrows of an enemy.

It is true that no one can successfully meet the power of temptation unless he is righteous, as that a soldier could not defend himself against a foe without such a coat of mail. A want of integrity will leave a man exposed to the assaults of the enemy, just as a man would be whose coat of mail was defective, or some part of which was missing, and so the man of war, who went out to “MAKE PEACE” or be a “PEACEMAKER” is compromised

As in the sowing of the fruit of righteousness, so also in its production is it connected with peace. Exercise will bring the “peaceful fruit of righteousness.” Peace will fill the heart while the fruit is borne, even if the conditions and circumstances through which we pass are not “joyous, but grievous.” The Lord passed through constant trial and sorrow while on earth, for He was “A Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” There was no need for chastening with Him, for all in Him was purity and perfection, but, having passed through sorrow as Man, He is able to enter sympathetically into all our sorrows, and He who had ever commanded, learned obedience by the things which He suffered.

Hebrews 12:11 For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a PEACEABLE fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness–in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God].

The word “chastening” in this verse is the Greek word “paideia”, an old Greek word for the education or instruction of a child. It comes from the word “pais”, the Greek word for a boy. However, as time passed, the word “paideia” came to signify the education of all children.

Philippians 1:10-11 So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of REAL VALUE [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]. May you abound in and be filled with the fruits of righteousness (of right standing with God and right doing) which come through Jesus Christ (the Anointed One), to the honour and praise of God [that His glory may be both manifested and recognized].

ISAIAH 32; 17 The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.

Hebrews 12:11 says that this discipline will yield “… the PEACEABLE FRUIT of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” The word “exercised” is the Greek word “gumnadzo. This word “gumnadzo” depicts radical discipline! It was the word the ancient Greeks used to portray the athletes who exercised, trained, and prepared for competition in the often barbaric athletic games of the ancient world. It is where we get the word gymnasium.

This word “gumnadzo” (“exercise”) portrays people who want to develop and change so much that they are willing to put themselves through vigorous, demanding, and strenuous discipline in order to bring about change and to achieve the results they desire. Now Hebrews 12:11 uses the word “gumnadzo” to tell us that if we will discipline the flesh, we will see great results in our lives, for we will begin to yield “… the peaceable fruit of righteousness….” Is this not what the spirit of the Lord has been saying to us for many many months?

Isaiah 32:17 And the effect (or the application) of righteousness will be peace [internal and external], and the result of (the application) righteousness will be (Peaceableness or) quietness and confident trust forever.

Philippians 1:11 May you abound in and be filled with the fruits of righteousness (of right standing with God and right doing) which come through Jesus Christ (the Anointed One), to the honor and praise of God [that His glory may be both manifested and recognized].

Isaiah 61:11 For as [surely as] the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring forth, so [surely] the Lord God will cause rightness and justice and praise to spring forth before all the nations [through the self-fulfilling power of His word].

Luke 19:42 Exclaiming, Would that you had known personally, even at least in this your day, the things that make for peace (peaceable … comments mine) (for freedom from all the distresses that are experienced as the result of sin and upon which your peace–your security, safety, prosperity, and happiness–depends)! But now they are hidden from your eyes.

Eph 2:14 For He is [Himself] our peace (He is out “peacemaker … comments mine) (our bond of unity and harmony). He has made us both [Jew and Gentile] one [body], and has broken down (destroyed, abolished) the hostile dividing wall between us,

In fact this verse is clearly identifying that Jesus was a PEACEMAKER, He was “PEACEABLE” in every respect. If we are to follow the pattern can we adopt the full scriptural intention of being PEACEABLE which means “complete reconciliation, physical and emotional, between feuding parties, seeking the well-being of others and of one’s self. This description emerges from the Jewish term “Salome” which is interpreted as “the uninjured, safe, sound, and whole”.

If Father wants us to be “PEACEABLE” then He will surely provide the means, because within ourselves exists ego, self-gratification, ambition, self-serving, all which are conditions of the flesh and have to be overcome by the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 4:7 AND GOD’S PEACE [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

This is the enabling with which we have been provided and by adopting that “tranquil state of soul, fearing nothing, being content” the result is one which “transcends all understanding” and this enables us to operate in a dimension which is “PEACEABLE”.

Isaiah 26:3 You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. (the inclination and character can be termed its ”Ethics and Ethos” …. Comments mine)

Romans 14:19 So let us then definitely aim for and eagerly pursue what makes for harmony and for mutual upbuilding (edification and development) of one another.

Hebrews 12:14 Strive to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and holiness without which no one will [ever] see the Lord.

MY OBSERVATIONS

FACTOR OF EIGHT – #3 – GENTLE ROSS SMITH 03072014

Following on in James 3:17 the third quality “GENTLE”:-

DICTIONARY DEFINITION OF “GENTLE” “Mild, calm, kind, tender, moderate, placid, temperate,” just to name a few of the synonyms that relate. The opposite is “harsh or rough” as a basis for evaluating gentleness.

“Gentleness” is required both externally and internally. We are often able to exhibit gentleness in an external manner but inwardly we endure the turmoil that accosts us as we subdue the urge to “give them a serve”. We require the “Inward adorning” of 1 Peter 3:4 but we also need the “self- control” of 2 Peter 1:6

“Gentle” ….. makes men gentle, moderate, and humane, so as that they bear, and forbear; they bear with the infirmities of the weak; readily forgive injuries done them; do not rigidly exact what is their due, but recede from their just right for the sake of peace and love; and do not bear hard upon others for their failings, but cover them with the mantle of love

We all probably have some mental image of what it means to be “Gentle”, and in a day and age where this quality is rare in our society, where violence against women proliferates, where child abuse abounds, where innocent people are molested even while they go about their own business, where television invades our homes with pictures of atrocities of war and campus shootings, how then do we understand “GENTLE”? It really means “hard to provoke and easily pacified”.

Because this is the third quality of “WISDOM” it shows that we have a lot to learn and apply in a very short space of time, for if we are going to be part of “His church” and to be “without spot or wrinkle”, or to see “these signs shall follow them that believe” then we need to get more than our head around these qualities, we need to demonstrate them.

The Word of God in 1 Peter 3:4 sets down some guidelines, and although the particular scripture is directed towards ladies, probably because they need it more than men!!!!! It is a direction that is very relevant.

1 Peter 3:4 But let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of A GENTLE AND PEACEFUL SPIRIT, which [is not anxious or wrought (This is another indicator of a lack of “Gentle”. Comments mine) up, but] is very precious in the sight of God.

If we read this verse in KJV it says “the hidden man of the heart”, but I like the Amplified because it covers all bases in “hidden person of the heart”, even though the scripture is aimed at the ladies.

Note here Peter refers to the “Inward Adorning” but then if we compare

Isaiah 61:3 To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion–to give them AN ORNAMENT (A GARLAND OR DIADEM) OF BEAUTY instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit–that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.

It is also consequential that Peter incorporates the second quality of “Wisdom” in this verse, for we firstly have to be “peaceable”. But it goes further, you will recall that when we looked at James 3:18 it not only incorporated all the recommendations regarding “peace” but had a potent rider on the end, “FREE FROM FEARS AND AGITATING PASSIONS”. How similar is this to 1 Peter, “NOT ANXIOUS OR WROUGHT UP”.

As children we were probably exposed to the bedtime prayer of “Gentle Jesus Meek and Mild”, but without the understanding of what “Christlike” really means then the sentiment is lost in meaningless repetition.

“Competition” does not augur well for gentleness, that need to win seems to pervade our whole nature when we are engaged in some competitive activity, and this undermines our sense of gentleness and temperance, our killer instinct starts to show its ugly head.

Paul said “we are running a race”, but there are conditions Paul applies to this contest, there is “temperance and restrictions in all things”.

1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but [only] one receives the prize? So run [your race] that you may lay hold [of the prize] and make it yours. Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a wreath that will soon wither, but we [do it to receive a crown of eternal blessedness] that cannot wither.

The restrictions that we impose are not “legalities” or “self-imposed rigor of devotion”, but the restriction of those impulses which can and do cause us to be less than “gentle”, a temperate attitude in all things.

1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are legitimate [permissible–and we are free to do anything we please], but not all things are helpful (expedient, profitable, and wholesome). (let us use some poetic licence here and rephrase to “not all things are done “gently” …comments mine) All things are legitimate, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life].

I need to determine “What may I do?” and, “What must I do?” the first is legal the second is expedient.

Colossians 2:20 If then you have died with Christ to material ways of looking at things (that is, looking at the situation through Gods eyes ….comments mine) and have escaped from the world’s crude and elemental notions and teachings of externalism, why do you live as if you still belong to the world? [Why do you submit to rules and regulations?

Colossians 2:23 Such [practices] have indeed the outward appearance (this is the external component … comments mine) [that popularly passes] for wisdom, (they may look good and massage the persons ego … comments mine) in promoting self-imposed rigor of devotion and delight in self-humiliation and severity of discipline of the body, but they are of NO VALUE in checking the indulgence of the flesh (the lower nature). [Instead, they do not honor God but serve only to indulge the flesh.] (this is the internal component)

It would seem to me that the inability to be “GENTLE” is birthed in the necessity to assert oneself. This follows on the study “Liberation from Agitating Passions”, for if we were free from this yoke then we would find it much easier to be “Gentle, mild, calm, kind, tender, moderate, placid, temperate,”

Before someone tries to capitalize by claiming that they have this ability or quality, it may require exploration to see if what we really are is a wimp or a pacifist, or vague, or unaware, or conceited, or just plain out of touch!!!

There are times when our “gentleness” will necessitate a review, you cannot be gentle when dealing with demon spirits, there is the requirement to assert God’s authority and you will recall that on many occasions Jesus “Commanded”. In the Amplified Bible it uses the term “commanded” over 400 times, and I would conclude that there were many instances where the “command” was strenuously applied. For example:-

Luke 9:21 But He strictly charged and sharply commanded them [under penalty] to tell this to no one [no one, whoever he might be],

But also we are instructed how to respond to people who may not have experienced the grace of God:-

Pro 15:1 A SOFT ANSWER turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger.

Proverbs 25:15 By long forbearance and calmness of spirit a judge or ruler is persuaded, and soft speech breaks down the most bonelike resistance.

Having a quiet spirit means being peaceable by the way you carry yourself or how you respond to people or difficult situations. And being gentle is how you appear to people. We don’t have to worry about those people who would take advantage our “gentleness” because the bible says:-

Romans 8:33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect [when it is] God Who justifies [that is, Who puts us in right relation to Himself? Who shall come forward and accuse or impeach those whom God has chosen? Will God, Who acquits us?]

I know that being quiet when you could give someone a piece of your mind might make you cringe, but God loves it! The reason is because it shows Him that you trust Him to take care of the situation. And I can tell you from experience, He takes care of the situation! We don’t have to fret or take matters into our own hands. God’s got it! And when we do this, we experience God’s grace, which is His unmerited favor.

The next time you want to say something that could cause a hindrance of a mighty move of God in your life, choose to be quiet and humble yourself! Bite your tongue. Try to be gentle in your speech. Guard your thought life and renew your mind with the word of God.

Gentle means “not insistent on one’s own rights” or ‘not pushy’, ‘not selfishly assertive, not demanding one’s own way”.

Let’s take a quick inventory. How do we measure up to God’s view of gentleness?

What is my attitude toward the circumstances in my life?
How do I act when I have the power to control a person or situation?
What is my attitude toward God’s Word?
What is my attitude toward a division in the Body of Christ?
What is my attitude toward those who disagree with me?
How do I handle rejection? How do I relate to others?
How do I use my emotional, political, personal power?

The gentle person accepts God’s dealings as for his good without disputing with Him. He will not fight God. He looks at life and sees Gods hand in all his circumstances. With deep conviction he can say with the apostle Paul:-

Romans 8:28 and we know that GOD CAUSES all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose

This is what a gentle spirit is not: contentious (inclined to argue), bitter, unstable, troubled, fearful, loud, obnoxious, worry prone, prone to cursing, quick to get angry, easily dismayed, easily upset, emotionally unbalanced, careless, impatient, doubtful, foolish, abrupt, irritable, proud, insensitive, self-absorbed, self-seeking, over confident, and with a low-self-esteem.

What is gentleness? It is the humble and meek attitude of wanting to help other people instead of wanting to be superior to them. This attitude flows from a spirit of real love for the individual—having true, outgoing concern for their well-being. Such an attitude is shown in how we think about and treat others and what we say to them.

Philippians 4:5 tells us to “let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.” Why does God want those He is working with to be concerned with how gently they think, act or talk? God has all the power in the universe, yet He is gentle with us, and He wants us to learn to be like Him. Then, when He gives us power, (or if we look at the study on “Knowledge and Understanding” we see that we cannot have “Power” if we do not have “Understanding” ….. comments mine) He will know that we will not use it cruelly or rashly.

Humility is closely connected with gentleness, so we need to also consider how God views humility. James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5 both say, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” God resists pride, including our prideful justifications for not being gentle to those who have offended us, who have been harsh to us or who we don’t feel deserve gentleness. These attitudes are prideful and lead to rationalizing away the need to be gentle.

It is probably convenient to see what the original Greek word means.

GENTLE – Επιεικης· Meek, modest, of an equal mind, taking everything in good part, and putting the best construction upon all the actions of others. Gentle – Mild, inoffensive, clement. The word here used (ἐπιεικὴς epieikēs) is rendered “moderation” in Philippians 4:5; patient in 1 Timothy 3:3; and gentle in Titus 3:2; James 3:17, and 1 Peter 2:18. It does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament.

Everyone has a clear idea of the virtue of gentleness – gentleness of spirit, of deportment, and of manners; and every one can see that that is the appropriate spirit of our professed walk with the Lord. It is from this word that we have derived the word “gentleman”; and the effect of true religion is to make everyone, in the proper and best sense of the term, a gentleman. How can a man have evidence that he is a true Christian, who is not such? The highest title which can be given to a man is, that he is a Christian gentleman.

“Gentleness” is not apathy but is an aggressive expression of how we view people. We see people as so valuable that we deal with them in gentleness, fearing the slightest damage to one for whom Christ died.

When it comes to the difficult behaviour of some people, give them the benefit of the doubt. They may be drowning in some circumstance right before your eyes. And you would never ask anyone to drown with a smile on their face. Remember to say what you mean but don’t say it meanly

Strong men can always afford to be gentle. Only the weak are intent on “giving as good as they get”

MY OBSERVATIONS

FACTOR OR EIGHT – #4 – EASILY ENTREATED ROSS SMITH 06072014

As I mentioned with the quality of “GENTLENESS” is if often easy to be gentle “externally” but is so doing are we gentler “inwardly”?

To be “EASILY ENTREATED” means that we respond without any sense of retaliation, recrimination or retribution, having willingly and gladly accommodated the other person’s point of view and whether we are convinced of its accuracy, we ponder the content with the view to refuting it by our life, not by our argument.

EASY TO BE ENTREATED; or those who readily yield to the superior judgments and stronger reasoning’s of others; and are easily induced to hope and believe all things, and entertain a good opinion of men, and their conduct; and are far from being proud, arrogant, obstinate, and overbearing:

According to James 3:17, one of the signs that God’s wisdom is at work in a person’s heart is that he is “easy to be entreated.” Such a person is approachable, reasonable, willing to listen, to be persuaded, and to yield. He is not stubborn, obstinate, controlling, or overbearing. The “wisdom that is from above” produces a mildness of disposition, a meekness of spirit that characterizes true gentleness

James 3:13 Who is there among you who is wise and intelligent? Then let him by his noble living show forth his [good] works with the [unobtrusive] humility [which is the proper attribute] of true wisdom.

When someone has (or is being told by others that he really does have) an “it’s-my-way-or-the-highway” attitude, that is a sign that another kind of wisdom is at work in his heart. This is the wisdom that “descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. This ungodly wisdom may display knowledge, shrewdness, and tactical or logical skill in arguing its point. But according to James, it produces confusion or disorder, a state of instability and disturbance where nothing is as it should be. It opens the door to all kinds of evil, driving away peace and harmony.

“And easy to be entreated” The Greek word is ”Eupeithes” and does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament. It means easily persuaded, compliant. Of course, this refers only to cases where it is right and proper to be easily persuaded and complying. It cannot refer to things which are in themselves wrong.

The sense is, that he who is under the influence of the wisdom which is from above, is not a stiff, stern, obstinate, unyielding man. He does not take a position, and then hold it whether right or wrong; he is not a man on whom no arguments or persuasions can have any influence. He is not one who cannot be affected by any appeals which may be made to him on the grounds of patriotism, justice, or benevolence; but is one who is ready to yield when truth requires him to do it, and who is willing to sacrifice his own convenience for the good of others.

The quality of being easily entreated is a mark of true piety and of a Christ-like spirit. Where it is wanting, spirituality is always below normal. It is not hard to settle troubles if people want to have them settled; for if they really want them settled, they are willing to settle them the right way. Peace and harmony mean more to them than any other consideration, except truth. Division and discord cannot exist unless people are willing to have it so; that is unless one or both parties place a higher value upon something else than they do upon peace and harmony.

What does it mean to be easily entreated? It means to be kind and just reasonable and self-sacrificing in one’s attitude toward others. The man who possesses this quality habitually manifests this temper in his life. There are those who are very tenacious of their rights. They feel that people do not respect their rights, as they should; so when any question involving them arises, they feel as though they must “stand up for their rights.” They often lose sight of everything else; kindness, mercy, forbearance, patience and Christ-likeness–in fact, nothing counts but their rights. Their rights they will defend; and very often their rights prove to be wrongs, or in insisting on their rights they do that which wrongs others. Really spiritual people are not so particular and insistent concerning their rights. They would far rather sacrifice their rights than to contend for them, unless something vital is involved, which is rarely the case. When a spiritual man is compelled to defend his rights, he will do it in a meek and quiet way, a way that has in it nothing offensive or self-assertive. When they were about to scourge Paul unlawfully, his only assertion was to quietly ask, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and un-condemned?” (Acts 22:25). But there are those who will not yield in the least; they know their rights, and they will not yield to any one! Very often their rights would look quite different if such persons possessed more of the spirit of Christ.

Another thing that hinders is self-will. So many people like to have their own way. If others will do their way, such persons can be very gracious and kind; but if they do not have their way, they manifest a very different disposition. They are ready to “balk;” their kindness is gone; they become stubborn; if there is trouble, they are very slow to yield. It is very hard for them to submit even when they are convinced that they should do so. When they do seem to yield, it is often only an outward yielding, the heart remaining the same. How much trouble this self-will makes, and how different it is in spirit from him who said, “Not my will, but thine, be done!” We are commanded to submit ourselves one to another. When we demand that all the submission be on the part of the other person, it shows that we are self-willed, that we care more about having things go our way than we do about having them go right, or than we care to manifest a Christ-like disposition.

Still another thing that prevents our being easily entreated is pride. A lady was recently talking with me about a conversation she had just had with some other ladies. She had been advocating a certain doctrine, which they did not receive. In speaking of it she said: “I grew a little warm in the discussion of it. I did not mean to let them beat me.” So many people have this disposition. They will not be “beaten.” They will hold to their position even when they are in the wrong, and know it. If they did not take such a position, they might acknowledge the other to be right; but when they have taken the stand, they will not yield. What is the trouble? Pride in the heart is the secret. This disposition always has its root in pride; humility never acts in this way. Pride keeps people from acknowledging truth; it keeps them from changing their attitude. Pride of opinion keeps them from being willing to listen patiently to others who differ with them. Pride is at the root of many church and personal troubles; pride is what they feed on, and the only way to cure them is to get rid of the pride.

Where this heavenly wisdom abides, there will not be a disposition to assert one’s own rights, to be self-willed, or to hold fast to one’s own ways; on the contrary, if its blessed presence fills our souls, we shall be merciful, kind, forgiving, long-suffering, pitiful, and we shall have the same tender feeling for our brother who has done us wrong as the father had for the prodigal. We shall be ready to run to meet him. We shall be ready to forget all the past. Our hearts will be filled with joyfulness at the expected reconciliation. O brethren, there is nothing needed quite so much today and every day, as that heart-quality that makes people “easy to be entreated.”

MY OBSERVATIONS

FACTOR OF EIGHT #5 — MERCY ROSS SMITH 07072014

We are exploring the principles of James 3:17 and the 5^th quality is “MERCY”, and James calls it “FULL OF COMPASSION” where KJV says “MERCY” which really means “disposed to show compassion”. It is also translated “LOVING KINDNESS”.

Lamentations 3:22-23 It is because of the Lord’s MERCY AND LOVING-KINDNESS that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. (I like this rider on this scripture as it indicates the utter stability of God and that means that I can rely on God’s mercy at all times, that is, times that I do not abuse the privilege … comments mine)

The weakness of human nature adopts the attitude “at your mercy” not “FULL OF MERCY.

Matthew 5:7 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) ARE THE MERCIFUL, FOR THEY SHALL OBTAIN MERCY!

We are always grateful for mercy when we have encountered the wrath of some individual or organisation, but do we understand the real essence of this quality.

What is mercy, or compassion? It is sorrow at the suffering of a fellow-creature, and, along with that sorrow, an earnest desire, if possible, to relieve suffering, be it physical, mental, emotional, financial, or even imagined. It does not ask the question, “Is the individual of my party, or Church; does the man deserve relief?” It simply asks the question, “Does he suffer?” We are to go further and to pity the person as a sinner, and to show mercy to him simply because he is a sinner.

It is proper for us to look at the rewards of those who not only expect MERCY but have the ability to show MERCY as in Matthew 5 ….. and all these benefits are not dependent upon the conditions around us …. We cannot claim any credit because they are “REGARDLESS OF THEIR OUTWARD CONDITION”.

I have a little confession to make regarding the virtue of MERCY or COMPASSION. Many years ago now Ruth and I were at a sailing club restaurant waiting in line to order. There was a little Asian man a couple in front of us in the line and as he went to order he asked “Could I please have the pensioner’s meal today”. The lady behind the till was very polite and told him that there were no “pensioner meals” today, so he turned and walked out. To this day I feel the shame of not having stepped up and said to the waitress, “just serve him what he would like on my account”, because obviously he did not have the resources to choose from the regular menu. I have tried to make up for that “disaster” and have had a couple of opportunities when people have been at the checkout and find they don’t have enough money to pay for their selection, and begin to remove items so that they can pay. It has never been more than a few dollars but I was acutely aware that Father was giving me an opportunity to see if I had learned anything.

You will recall the story in Matthew 9 where Jesus was reclining at the table and all the tax collectors came and sat down with Him. The Disciples got a bit hot under the collar, or in today’s terms, LACKED MERCY, but see what Jesus had to say.

Matthew 9:12 But when Jesus heard it, He replied, Those who are strong and well (healthy) have no need of a physician, but those who are weak and sick. Go and learn what this means: I DESIRE MERCY [that is, readiness to help those in trouble] and not sacrifice and sacrificial victims. For I came not to call and invite [to repentance] the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God), but sinners (the erring ones and all those not free from sin).

The thing I like about Father’s attitude is that He never changes, He is always merciful, because I always need His mercy, and He confirmed in His word that I can depend upon it, because I can depend on me to mess things up. I take great solace in the scripture referring to His compassions being “New every morning”, but I don’t have to wait till morning, it could be too late.

Luke 1:50 And His mercy (His compassion and kindness toward the miserable and afflicted) is on those who fear Him with godly reverence, from generation to generation and age to age.

Psalm 103:17 But the mercy and loving-kindness of the Lord are from everlasting to everlasting upon those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, and His righteousness is to children’s children- (how blest are those children whose parents comply, and how blest the parents to know Father will extend His mercy to our family …. Comments mine)

Do we understand the enormity of the words “everlasting to everlasting”? The physicists tell us that the universe is so extensive that light from the stars on the outer perimeter can take billions of years to reach the earth. I see that as one “everlasting” in dimension and if that is how wide this “everlasting” is in a horizontal sense, then the 2^nd “everlasting” must be of a similar dimension in the vertical sense. The Psalmist have some appreciation of God’s mercy when he exclaimed in: –

Psalm 57:10 For Your mercy and loving-kindness are great, reaching to the heavens, and Your truth and faithfulness to the clouds.

Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

The quality of mercy is the capacity to feel and express unusual compassion and sympathy for those in difficult or crisis situations and provide them with the necessary help and support to see them through tough times. That is like Paul said to the Romans that we have to operate in spirit, not in the flesh, inferring that a social gospel is inadequate.

There is another interesting example found in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Those people who were most expected to demonstrate their piety, that is the Priest and the Levite chose to bypass this “certain man” (what does a “certain man” mean? Something to look at later) even though we was half dead and stripped naked. This particular route was used by the “clergy” to travel up and down to Jerusalem to fulfil what was often their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, to serve in the Temple. One would have thought that they would have had a heightened sense of piety after this excursion. But it took the compassion of an unlikely individual where there is no indication of why he should be travelling this route. I suspect that due to the treatment he had received as a “Samaritan” had made him realise that there was a necessity for compassion not just as a theory but in practical application.

We have to have the ability to “walk in another’s shoes” and to feel the pain and burdens they carry, just like the Good Samaritan. It requires the desire to make a difference in the lives of hurting people without being judgmental. It means that we may have a difficult time evaluating the intentions of others and at times we may appear naïve, even weak and lily livered, but mercy is stronger than the strong man.

Unless we forgive we are not forgiven and forgiveness does not just extend to where we have been maltreated, but even where we have been misunderstood, misquoted, misrepresented etc etc.

We are all called to be merciful because God has been merciful to us The Greek word for the spiritual gift of mercy is “Eleeo”. It means to be patient and compassionate toward those who are suffering or afflicted. The concern for the physical as well as spiritual need of those who are hurting is covered by mercy. Those with this attribute have great empathy for others in their trials and sufferings. They are able to come alongside people over extended periods of time and see them through their healing process. They are truly and literally the hands and feet of God to the afflicted.

The Holy Spirit gives the attribute of mercy to the church, viz, US, to love and assist those who are suffering, and walk with them until The Lord allows their burden to be lifted. The gift of mercy is founded in God’s mercy towards us as sinners and is consistently expressed with measurable compassion. They are sensitive to the feelings and circumstances of others and can quickly discern when someone is not doing well. They are typically good listeners and feel the need to simply “be there” for others

Galatians 6:2-3 Bear (endure, carry) one another’s burdens and troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfil and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it]. For if any person thinks himself to be somebody [too important to condescend to shoulder another’s load] when he is nobody [of superiority except in his own estimation], he deceives and deludes and cheats himself.

Paul stretches us further in his exhortation to the Romans when he prescribes that when showing MERCY, we have to have a particular “presence” about us.

Romans 12:8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with GENUINE cheerfulness and JOYFUL eagerness.

Jude 1:22 And refute [so as to] convict some who dispute with you, and on some have mercy who waver and doubt.

In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5 :7, one of the Beatitudes is “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy”. Mercy is what we express when we are led by God to be compassionate in our attitudes, words, and actions. It is more than feeling sympathy toward someone; it is love enacted. Mercy desires to answer the immediate needs of others and alleviate suffering, loneliness, and grief. Mercy addresses physical, emotional, financial, or spiritual crises with generous, self-sacrificial service. Mercy is a champion of the lowly, poor, exploited, and forgotten and often acts on their behalf.

A good example of mercy is found in;-

Matthew 20:29–34: “As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us”. The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us” Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” He asked. “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed Him.” Notice that the blind men associated mercy not with a feeling but with an action.

Psalm 85:7 Show us Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, and grant us Your salvation.
Notice here again that “Mercy and loving kindness” are joined together as a quality but then there is the action, that of providing our salvation.This bedrock understanding that our hope depends on Christ’s mercy alone and not in any merit of ours should inspire us to follow Christ’s example of compassionate service and show mercy to others as it has been shown to us.
When we are tempted to be a little outrageous in our attitude to others we should reflect that He is a God of Justice and manifested Himself as the Father of Mercy. Justice renders to each their due and calls each to assume responsibility for themselves. Mercy goes beyond the issue of who is responsible. Mercy is simply love’s response to suffering.

Mercy is Never Condescending. The goal of the enemy is to use suffering to rob those made in God’s image of their human dignity. Our goal in the work of mercy is always to restore that dignity and honor it. “Charity” (can I interpose the term “social gospel) that belittles the recipient is never true mercy. It may relieve some bodily suffering but only causes a deeper suffering of alienation and humiliation, the realization that they are less than adequate. The one giving mercy cannot look down on the recipient of mercy. In fact the merciful humbly understand that they always receive as much or more as they give when they work to alleviate the suffering of the needy.

Ephesians 2:4-7 But God–SO RICH IS HE IN HIS MERCY! Because of and in order to satisfy the great and wonderful and intense love with which He loved us, Even when we were dead (slain) by [our own] shortcomings and trespasses, He made us alive together in fellowship and in union with Christ; [He gave us the very life of Christ Himself, the same new life with which He quickened Him, for] it is by grace (His favor and mercy which you did not deserve) that you are saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation). And He raised us up together with Him and made us sit down together [giving us joint seating with Him] in the heavenly sphere [by virtue of our being] in Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One). He did this that He might clearly demonstrate through the ages to come the immeasurable (limitless, surpassing) riches of His free grace (His unmerited favor) in [His] kindness and goodness of heart toward us in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 103:8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and plenteous in mercy and loving-kindness.

Psalm 130:3-4 If You, Lord, should keep account of and treat [us according to our] sins, O Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with You [just what man needs], that You may be reverently feared and worshiped.

The merciful person is merciful toward himself as well as others. This does not mean that he makes light of his sins and takes God’s forgiveness for granted. It means rather that he does not plague himself with neurotic guilt and remorse, surrendering to sinful scruples which are the death of the soul. It means that he trusts in the loving-kindness of God and knows, as Paul has said, that no works of his own will ever deliver him from the need of God’s mercy and love.

The Catholic Church has a prescribed theory for mercy as follows:-

The Corporal Works of Mercy are these kind acts by which we help our neighbours with their material and physical needs.

Feed the hungry

Shelter the homeless

Clothe the naked

Visit the sick

Bury the dead

Give alms to the poor

The Spiritual Works of Mercy are acts of compassion, as listed below, by which we help our neighbours with their emotional and spiritual needs.

Instruct
Advise
Console
Comfort
Forgive
Bear wrongs patiently

Grace is when God gives us what we don’t deserve and Mercy is when God doesn’t give us what we do deserve

Nothing can make injustice just, except mercy. It is fanciful to adopt the mantra of the world, “God have mercy on my enemies, because I won’t!!!!

Proverbs 3:3-4 Let not mercy and kindness [shutting out all hatred and selfishness] and truth [shutting out all deliberate hypocrisy or falsehood] forsake you; bind them about your neck, write them upon the tablet of your heart. So shall you find favor, good understanding, and high esteem in the sight [or judgment] of God and man.

James 2:13 For to him who has shown no mercy the judgment [will be] merciless, but mercy [full of glad confidence] exults victoriously over judgment.

Psalm 85:10 Mercy and loving-kindness and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

MY OBSERVATIONS

FACTOR OF EIGHT – #6 – GOOD FRUITS ROSS SMITH 07072014

Where James 3:17 states “FULL OF GOOD FRUITS” leads me to conclude that there also must be “BAD FRUITS”.

Grapes of wrath – Revelation 14:19 and Deuteronomy 32:32.

Bad fruits are easily recognised, when we visit the greengrocer you will notice that all the produce is inspected quite thoroughly before being placed in the trolley. We like our fruit to be like Christ wants the church, “without spot or blemish”. Some of the more obvious bad fruits are anger, malice, hatred, envy, strife. These are the obvious ones, and like natural fruit, sometimes the skin looks okay but the contents are corrupt.

There is a scriptural principle that corresponds with this thought, and let me read that Scripture with some paraphrase: –

2 Timothy 3:5 For [although] they hold a form of piety (or the skin looks good on the fruit) (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. (when you get to the inside the contents are rotten)Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them]. (don’t buy that fruit)

Colossians 1:10 That you may walk (live and conduct yourselves) in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him and desiring to please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing and increasing in and by the knowledge of God [with fuller, deeper, and clearer insight, acquaintance, and recognition].

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. (this sort of fruit is readily recognised and generally appreciated and enjoyed … comments mine)

John 15:16 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed you [I have planted you], that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit may be lasting [that it may remain, abide], so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name [as presenting all that I AM], He may give it to you. (note the incredible associated benefit of “fruitfulness”, we reach the stage where we are recipients of Gods readiness to respond to our requests … comments mine)

Matthew 7:15-20 Beware of false prophets, who come to you dressed as sheep, but inside they are devouring wolves. You will fully recognize them by their fruits. Do people pick grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? Even so, every healthy (sound) tree bears good fruit [worthy of admiration], but the sickly (decaying, worthless) tree bears bad (worthless) fruit. A good (healthy) tree cannot bear bad (worthless) fruit, nor can a bad (diseased) tree bear excellent fruit [worthy of admiration]. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and cast into the fire. Therefore, you will fully know them by their fruits.

By their fruits ye shall know them, an intelligent approach by “Fruit Inspectors”.

This test is a reasonable one.
It is a sensible one.
It is a simple one.
It is a just one.
It is a sure one.
It is one which men apply continually in judging of each other’s conduct.
It is one which the Judge will apply on the final day

1 John 3:9-10 No one born (begotten) of God [deliberately, knowingly, and habitually] practices sin, for God’s nature abides in him [His principle of life, the divine sperm, remains permanently within him]; and he cannot practice sinning because he is born (begotten) of God. By this it is made clear who take their nature from God and are His children and who take their nature from the devil and are his children: no one who does not practice righteousness [who does not conform to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action] is of God; neither is anyone who does not love his brother (his fellow believer in Christ). (clearly a simple test, with obvious recognisable results, corresponding to the pattern set out in God’s Word for our benefit, both now and for eternity …. Comments mine)

Luke 6:43-45 For there is no good (healthy) tree that bears decayed (worthless, stale) fruit, nor on the other hand does a decayed (worthless, sickly) tree bear good fruit. For each tree is known and identified by its own fruit; for figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor is a cluster of grapes picked from a bramblebush. The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks.

I am not an expert in determining what sort of tree it is, there are some trees I do recognise because I have something to do with them, such as cherry trees or mango trees, but that about where it finishes. I sometimes recognise banana palms if they are in a plantation but at other times they might just be a palm tree!!!

But when I see fruit I readily recognise that fruit and particularly when it is a fruit I like. I cannot wait sometimes for a particular season to come around where that fruit is in season and I can indulge myself. But if I see that fruit on a tree then I can also recognise what sort of tree it is, because it is “by its fruit I recognise the tree”. If you see apples hanging on a tree, you can be sure it is an apple tree. If you see a vine-like plant growing in your garden, you may not recognize it, but once you see a watermelon growing on the vine, then identification of the plant is easy. If you see tomatoes hanging on a plant you can be sure it is a tomato plant. That is why when people see the “fruit of the spirit” being borne by us they can recognise the “stock” from which are grafted into, and this fruit then will satisfy them as we manifest the qualities of JAMES 3:17, and we will receive Fathers endorsement by answered prayer.

That’s why we have to have acorns, we are “oaks of righteousness”, and that will be the reason some people will think we are “nuts”, because the evidence of fruit born of the spirit will be confronting.

Fruit when it has matured seldom needs any further preparation before it can be used, many fruits can be eaten with the skin on, but watermelon needs to be “skinned”, it has a thick “hide” and this suggests it is not easily offended. This analogy carries through to what James is talking about when he says “Full of good fruits”, that is, fruit of our spiritual maturity that ensures that we can offer that fruit to those around and they will both enjoy it and be nourished by it. So this gives me a clue to what I need to look for as a “Fruit Inspector”!!

Fruit is the Expression of Life. Fruit is that which is produced by a living organism. Fruit is the result of life. Dead trees do not produce fruit. Rocks do not produce fruit. Only a living plant or vine or tree can produce fruit. The fruit of the Spirit is the result of God’s life. No one can have God’s fruit unless they have God’s life.

The secret of fruit bearing is to stay healthy. Why don’t some trees or vines produce good fruit? There could be a number of possible problems: frost, disease, caterpillars, other harmful insects, etc. A healthy tree produces good fruit. The believer must stay spiritually healthy and in a right relationship with the Lord. He must resist such diseases as legalism (thinking that he can please God by his own works and formalism (thinking that outward acts of religion can cover up a lack of inner power and reality. These diseases choke out the life of Christ and dim one’s view of the cross. The believer must abide in Christ and stay connected to Him because being connected to the true Vine is the only healthy place to be

Fruit-bearing, or fruitfulness, is much better seen as quality than quantity. Though both are important and scriptural, God’s priority seems to be “being” over “doing”. God looks for “brought forth” products from the essence of a person’s being. These are personal characteristics coming from the nature of the whole tree.

Some think Jesus said, “Go and do witnessing.” He didn’t. But He did say, “Go and be my witnesses.”, or bear fruit

Remember, fruit is not a gift. Fruit is produced and grown. It is much more biblical to see the fruit of the Spirit as personal characteristics that are worked out because of the nature of what’s inside; because of attitudes made about obedience. You can’t talk about fruit without talking about obedience

Romans 7:5 When we were living in the flesh (mere physical lives), the sinful passions that were awakened and aroused up by [what] the Law [makes sin] were constantly operating in our natural powers (in our bodily organs, in the sensitive appetites and wills of the flesh), so that we bore fruit for death.

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] For whatever a man sows, that and that only is what he will reap.

“Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.

MY OBSERVATIONS

FACTOR OF EIGHT #7 – WITHOUT PARTIALITY ROSS SMITH 14072014

Further in James 3:17…. “Without partiality”, or without “bias”.

To me this seems to be one of the most challenging qualities to embrace, for if I look at my life and behaviour I have “preferences” in so many areas that it concerns me where to start. If I get really “pedestrian” about this subject I can identify my preference for grain bread over wholemeal, or warm weather over winter, or suits over jeans, or labor over liberal, or restaurants with kids or without kids.

This may seem to be a rather simplistic listing of things that affect my life style but I have no doubt that as you conduct some introspection you will find areas of “PARTIALITY” that are contrary to Fathers disposition. And in this arena I would suggest that if we start with controlling our impulses with such mundane area then we will find the process will be similar when dealing with people, and that I believe is James target. We may need to start with some definitions rather than rely on out prejudice.

“IMPARTIAL” candid, disinterested, dispassionate, equal, equitable, even-handed, fair, indifferent, just, nonpartisan, objective, square, unbiased, unprejudiced. The quality or state of not being prejudiced towards or against any particular side or party.

NOT PARTISAN …. Is this more relevant? Do you seem to like some people over others, if so why? Probably because their attitudes mirrors our attitudes. We hear this term more in relation to Government decisions, but of late we have not hear much of it, they speak of “partisan support”, what they mean is that they agree with the other side. It dissipates very quickly if it doesn’t suit their purposes.

Impartiality renders to everyone his due, without being swayed by self-interest or worldly honour, and determined to do equal justice to all, according to their moral worth.

Can you relate, “There are some people whom I find difficult to accommodate, their behaviour of bearing grates with me, then there are others I just can’t stand and as a consequence I trust that I will never have to deal with them. Sometimes the task seems insurmountable, that person is just so perverse that I get agitated at the sound of his voice, or the way he licks his knife etc”. Am I affected because some covert habit in me is unconsciously triggered?

Now if I am honest, this is completely at odds with the instructions of James 3:17, so now I have a task ahead of me to find the determination to petition Father until I get all the qualities of the “WISDOM FROM ABOVE.”

I find it interesting that each “quality” that arises in the study of this verse, that I note two things. Firstly, I am afforded adequate opportunity to evidence that I have been awarded one or more of the qualities sought, but comfortingly, I sometimes amaze myself by the response/reaction that occurs, and then I recognise that Father is responding to my continuous prayer, for “Wisdom and Understanding”, but as yet have not fully accepted the challenge.

The original word, adiakritos, signifies “to be without suspicion, or free from judging, making no undue surmises nor differences in our conduct towards one person more than another.”

How corrosive are some of these areas when they are not properly addressed, like “suspicion”, you know like “I wonder what he/she is up to, what is their motive?” Or the second one, “I’m sure it was him/her that made that comment”.

“Anti-discrimination” This has become a catchcry of some elements of society, we have discrimination in the work place, discrimination against women, discrimination in relation to the indigenous, in religion, etc. etc. etc. Whichever way you turn someone is intent on gaining advantage by claiming they were discriminated against.

DISCRIMINATION (or PARTIALITY) … recognition and understanding of the difference between one thing and another.

Romans 2:11 For God shows no partiality [undue favor or unfairness; with Him one man is not different from another]. [Deut. 10:17; II Chron. 19:7.]

Deuteronomy 10:17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, the terrible God, Who is not partial and takes no bribe.

We have spoken about “Christlikeness” previously and here again is a significant indicator of a “Christlike” nature. It is not just an outward display but an inward attitude.

Deuteronomy 21:16 Then on the day when he wills his possessions to his sons, he shall not put the firstborn of his loved wife in place of the [actual] firstborn of the disliked wife–her firstborn being older.

How often in families do we see dispute, and frequently it comes into stark focus when a family member dies. I have on several occasions had to function as “Executor” for an estate and have been appalled at the avarice and dissention that exists. It is not as a result of the passing of that individual, it is a deep seated animosity that has never been dealt with. Deuteronomy spells it out, he had a “favourite” wife and a “disliked” wife.

Colossians 3:25 For he who deals wrongfully will [reap the fruit of his folly and] be punished for his wrongdoing. And [with God] there is no partiality [no matter what a person’s position may be, whether he is the slave or the master].

We do not need to be concerned about the behaviour of other folk when they are acting unbecomingly, we have to reach that state where we are content to leave the matter in Fathers hands, He is far more capable in addressing those issues that we are, and we are wasting good emotional energy, providing an opportunity for the enemy to stir up our agitating passions, and acting in opposition to the Word of God. How foreign it seems that we should just let the other person go on their merry way whilst they take advantage of me, step on me, treat me as inferior or even stupid.

2Samuel 22:48 It is God Who executes vengeance for me and Who brought down [and disciplined] the peoples under me,

But Paul extends the principle quite alarmingly when he penned:-

Romans 12:14-19 Bless those who persecute you [who are cruel in their attitude toward you]; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief]. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits. Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone. IF POSSIBLE, AS FAR AS IT DEPENDS ON YOU, (can I pause here, because I often use the “IF POSSIBLE” but then neglect “DEPENDS ON YOU” because I adopt the position that “IT IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE I AM UNDEPENDABLE”!!!!) live at peace with everyone. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for [God’s] wrath; for it is written, VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY (REQUITE), SAYS THE LORD.

James 2:1 MY BRETHREN, pay no servile regard to people [show no prejudice, no partiality]. Do not [attempt to] hold and practice the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ [the Lord] of glory [together with snobbery]!

Here come another challenge, we might not show any partiality but we have to be careful that in being able to rise above the insults, or the mistreatment, we then get smug about the fact. What this means actually is that we refrain from telling someone else how good we were at ignoring so and so.

James 2:9 But if you show servile regard (prejudice, favoritism) for people, you commit sin and are rebuked and convicted by the Law as violators and offenders.

This chapter of James is chock full of good advice in advancing beyond our present state of “Partiality”, it is a glaring reflection of the areas that Father is trying to rid us of.

1Timothy 5:21 I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the chosen angels that you guard and keep [these rules] without personal prejudice or favor, doing nothing from partiality.

Proverbs 24:23 These also are sayings of the wise: To discriminate and show partiality, having respect of persons in judging, is not good.

Job 12:11 Is it not the task of the ear to discriminate between [wise and unwise] words, just as the mouth distinguishes [between desirable and undesirable] food?

Job has balanced the equation in identifying that there are some things we need to discriminate against. We are not expected to accommodate illegal or immoral behaviour, but we are encouraged in these instances to “Let you lives be such a contrast as to expose and reprove and convict” (Ephesians 5:11)

Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for full-grown men, for those WHOSE SENSES and MENTAL FACULTIES are trained by practice to discriminate and distinguish between what is morally good and noble and what is evil and contrary either to divine or human law. (doesn’t seem to include “mouths, tongues, outbursts!!!!)

Job 32:21 I will not [I warn you] be influenced by respect for any man’s person and show partiality, neither will I flatter any man. For I know not how to flatter, [wasting my time in mere formalities, for then] my Maker would soon take me away.

How good a testimony is that, and to put it on paper seems very brave, but Job says “he will not waste good emotional energy”

Lev 19:15 You shall do no injustice in judging a case; you shall not be partial to the poor or show a preference for the mighty, but in righteousness and according to the merits of the case judge your neighbour.

How does this sit then when we are called up for Jury Duty?

To be a good juror you need to be fair, impartial and willing to keep an open mind.

THERE is no mention of juries in the Bible; the jury system was a much later development in the history of human law. A kind of jury was introduced into Britain by the Normans but there have been many changes in both function and nomenclature since then.

Romans 13:1-6 LET EVERY person be loyally subject to the governing (civil) authorities. For there is no authority except from God [by His permission, His sanction], and those that exist do so by God’s appointment. Therefore he who resists and sets himself up against the authorities resists what God has appointed and arranged [in divine order]. And those who resist will bring down judgment upon themselves [receiving the penalty due them]. For civil authorities are not a terror to [people of] good conduct, but to [those of] bad behaviour. Would you have no dread of him who is in authority? Then do what is right and you will receive his approval and commendation. For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, [you should dread him and] be afraid, for he does not bear and wear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant to execute His wrath (punishment, vengeance) on the wrongdoer. Therefore one must be subject, not only to avoid God’s wrath and escape punishment, but also as a matter of principle and for the sake of conscience. For this same reason you pay taxes, for [the civil authorities] are official servants under God, devoting themselves to attending to this very service.

FACTOR OF EIGHT #8 — WITHOUT HYPOCRICY ROSS SMITH 15072014

Romans 12:9 [Let your] love be sincere (a real thing); hate what is evil [loathe all ungodliness, turn in horror from wickedness], but hold fast to that which is good.

In Luke chapter 1 Jesus warned the disciples about “the yeast of the Pharisees” which was hypocrisy. What he was trying to educate the disciples in was about to value. Luke then comes to our rescue in Luke 12:34 which reveals that you can find someone’s heart if you discover what he or she truly values.

No matter how much value we place on everything else, we are more valuable to God. We act out what we believe not what we know. Our actions our lifestyles and our decisions are all reflections of our belief systems. We may say otherwise, and, intellectually we may know better, but we’ll live out what we truly believe.

Luke 12 again warns against hypocrisy. The primary meaning of the word is “pretending”. True disciples who follow Christ and lead others to do likewise place great temptation to be hypocritical. Jesus said “be on your guard”. In other words, if we are going to live free of hypocrisy we must proactively guard against it. The bottom line of hypocrisy is the need for people to think more highly of us than we really are.

IT’S EASIER TO ACT THAN TO CLEAN UP OUR ACT

Hypocrisy has so much to prove. Ironically, it seeks to prove what is not even true. When we realise how true value to God we don’t have anything to prove and consequently can eliminate hypocrisy.

Hypocrisy is the claim or pretense of holding beliefs, feelings, standards, qualities, opinions, behaviors, virtues, motivations, or other characteristics that one does not in actual fact hold. It is the practice of engaging in the same behavior or activity for which one criticizes another.

Both the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts have tend to broaden the intention of the term “hypocrisy”:-

From H2610; moral filth, that is, wickedness: – hypocrisy.

From H3584; literally a failure of flesh, that is, emaciation; figuratively hypocrisy: – leanness, lies, lying.

From G5271; acting under a feigned part; that is, (figuratively) deceit (“hypocrisy”): – condemnation, dissimulation, hypocrisy.

From G1 (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of G5271; undissembled, that is, sincere: – without dissimulation (hypocrisy), unfeigned.

Hypocrisy is one of the most difficult human conditions to correct – mainly because those with the problem are not aware of it. Wisdom require us all to take the logs out of our own eyes, and escape from our ceaseless, petty, and divisive moralism.

Where does the term hypocrisy originate?

“HYPO” = UNDER

“CRISY” = SIFT OR DECIDE

We use the term, “he’s hypo” meaning he is overactive, but in fact what is meant is “Hyper” active. “HYPO” relates however to so many areas, we have “hypothyroid”, “hypoactive”, hypothesis”, ”hypodermic”. The last one is interesting because this is where people get under our skin, or needle us!!!

I am finding that praying for “The Wisdom from Above” has its downside, just like praying for “Patience” has a down side. The bible says that “tribulation works patience” and I find that the more I ask for Wisdom the greater the opportunity afforded me to not just accept, but implement the eight different qualities of the “Wisdom from Above”, and some of them have really sharp claws.

And so the term has come to mean “A deficiency in the ability to sift or decide”. It is the art of affecting qualitied for the purpose of pretending to understand a virtue.

I think “HYPOCRISY” is like a 7-11 store, handy when you need it!!! How often do we use 7-11, and how often is hypocrisy convenient?

Deceitful is a similar term and it means insincere, hypocritical, underhanded, false, dishonest, treacherous, sneaking, double-dealing, tricky, cunning, and crafty. Such a person is altogether untrustworthy.

Jeremiah 17:9 says, The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly perverse and corrupt and severely, mortally sick! Who can know it [perceive, understand, be acquainted with his own heart and mind]?

Our “heart is desperately sick or weak”, implying it knows better but deceives anyway. This is where the first quality of Wisdom applies, that is “PURITY” and as we understand it that means PURITY OF MOTIVE OR HEART ATTITUDE. Who can fathom its corruption, manifested in the incessant transgression of is this commandment?

Human nature is a reflection of the spirit of the prince of the power of the air, whom Jesus identified as the father or generator of lies (John 8:44). Satan had so deceived himself, he thought he could overcome his Creator!

Proverbs 11:9 With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbour, but through knowledge and superior discernment shall the righteous be delivered.

Satan is a destroyer who passes this carnal attribute along to those who will follow him. Unless the hypocrite repents, he destroys himself too.

This is also the lesson of:-

Proverbs 26:26-28. Though his hatred covers itself with guile, his wickedness shall be shown openly before the assembly. Whoever digs a pit [for another man’s feet] shall fall into it himself, and he who rolls a stone [up a height to do mischief], it will return upon him. A lying tongue hates those it wounds and crushes, and a flattering mouth works ruin.

The proud hypocrite deceives himself into ignoring realities in the conduct of his life that the meek and humble person quickly recognizes and takes into account. The proud person’s vanity pushes him into conduct that will end in shame. The humble person’s attitude, on the other hand, is a vivid contrast, for his wisdom prevents him from pursuing the same conduct. This in turn produces even more wisdom when good fruit is produced because it reinforces his right decision.

Proverbs 11:2 When swelling and pride come, then emptiness and shame come also, but with the humble (those who are lowly, who have been pruned or chiselled by trial, and renounce self) are skillful and godly WISDOM AND SOUNDNESS.

This pride seen in Proverbs 11:2 literally means “boiling up,” or we might say, “puffed up.” It can mean “to overstep the boundaries.” The proud person has an inflated opinion of himself and/or his possessions, abilities, powers, and accomplishments. This exists because pride has deceived him about his importance. He is the center of the world! The day is coming soon when everyone’s proud ego will be deflated, and man’s haughty self-regard will be stripped away.

Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, (what a precise description of “attitude”) so is he. As one who reckons, he says to you, eat and drink, yet his heart is not with you [but is grudging the cost]. (that is that inability to “sift or decide”)

In one sense, what we are cannot be hidden. This proverb cautions a person to understand that people can be two-faced, playing the role of an actor or a hypocrite. The words that come out of the mouth may be far different from what the heart really means. The heart, however, cannot really be hidden; it will reveal its true intentions and feelings in time. It is good to understand this and thus protect ourselves.

2 Timothy 3:5 For [although] they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them]. (how many people qualify, easy to determine, see if they do what they say and evidence it by their conduct. But scarier is the rest of the verse indicating we should not have anything to do with “hypocrites”. I then must ask myself, “how lonely could I be” … comments mine)

James 1:8 [For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides]. (this is good soil for hypocrisy, that definition “”A deficiency in the ability to sift or decide” … coments mine)

James 4:8 Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery]. (that description really puts “hypocrisy” into a new dimension, it is just not being unsure, it is equated with adultery)

Matthew 24:51 And will punish him [cut him up by scourging] and put him with the pretenders (hypocrites); there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.

Matthew 7:1 DO NOT judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves.

Some people use this verse proof that we should do no judging whatsoever: “Judge not, that you be not judged.” Here, the Greek word for “judge” is krino, meaning to condemn, avenge, damn, sentence, or levy a punishment

krinō = kree’-no Properly to distinguish, that is, decide (mentally or judicially); by implication to try, condemn, punish: – avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.

Though it is certainly hazardous to evaluate the problems or behaviour of others, the context answers the question of whether we are to do so. We should consider our weaknesses and sins very carefully, to the point of overcoming them, before we make judgments on others. How can we condemn someone else when we may have even bigger problems? He instructs us to remove the hypocrisy and then we can help our brother with his difficulties.

Matthew 23:25 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, pretenders (hypocrites)! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but within they are full of extortion (prey, spoil, plunder) and grasping self-indulgence.

In other words, their outward expression was one of being pious and righteous, but inwardly their “Attitudes” or hearts were compromised. Jesus declares the Pharisees “hypocrites” because they looked like they led “clean” lives, but inside they were greedy and self-indulgent. In the light of our studies, THEY LACKED WISDOM FROM ABOVE

A person indulges himself, or becomes “hypocritical” by taking unrestrained pleasure in his pursuit of enjoyment and showing undue favor to his desires and feelings. By excessive compliance in gratifying our own desires, we pamper, humour, and spoil ourselves.

Pamper:- = implies inordinate gratification of desire for luxury and comfort with an enervating effect, regardless of how it affects anyone else.

Humour:- = indicates yielding to moods or whims. Do we sulk, yell, berate, belittle, harass, nag, etc?

Spoil:- = stresses the injurious effects on a person’s character. Self-indulgence is excessive satisfaction of our sensual appetites and desires for the specific purpose of pleasing the self, again no matter how it affects anyone else..

Put them altogether and we get “HYPOCRISY” or the inability to sift and decide.

MY OBSERVATIONS

STUDY TO BE QUIET ROSS SMITH

December 22, 2015April 20, 2017 Ross Smith

STUDY TO BE QUIET ROSS SMITH 141115

The principle that we have been privileged to experience, that of Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God”, is something we are now becoming practiced in, but not perfect in. There is the continual tendency for our minds to wander and for other things to occupy us. And so in my complaining to Father of my inability to properly implement this principle I was made aware that I could train for a qualification so that this KEY would be effective.

1 Thessalonians 4:11 (KJV) And that ye STUDY TO BE QUIET, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

1 Thessalonians 4:1 (AMP) To make it your AMBITION AND DEFINITELY ENDEAVOUR TO (A) LIVE QUIETLY AND PEACEFULLY, to (B) mind your own affairs, and to (C) work with your hands, as we charged you,

This eliminates indolence, there are three parts and the work is on 2 fronts, “Ambition and Endeavour”.

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ [in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ (the Messiah) lives in me; and the life I now live in the body I live by faith in (by adherence to and reliance on and complete trust in) the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Recall Linda message last week, “The Proving of your Faith”,

The same Greek word is used but translated as “study” and then “ambition” Gk5383. But it is noteworthy that “BE STILL” is different to “BE QUIET”, but both are demands, not suggestions. Do we still fidget while being “still”, if so, there is still disruption within and being “quiet” will be disrupted by selfishness.

“Be still ….. and know”

“Be Quiet ….. as we commanded you”

But there is an additional benefit to this pairing, and verse 12 of 1 Thess 4 contributes a compendium of results, which are important because we can do a “self check”:-

1 Thessalonians 4:12 SO THAT you may (a) bear yourselves becomingly and be (b)correct and (c) honourable and (d) COMMAND THE RESPECT OF THE OUTSIDE WORLD, being (e) dependent on nobody [self-supporting] and (f) having need of nothing.

“Self supporting” includes financially, emotionally, spiritually, socially.

“Need of nothing” is different to “wanting”.

There are 5 results of implementing verse 1, all clearly laid out in verse 12, and OBVIOUS

So now it says:-

“Be still” and you will know

“Be quiet” and the world will know, but it all includes work!!!

Proverbs 21:25 The desire of the slothful kills him, for his hands refuse to labor. (Explanation …. all day long the slothful does nothing but “wish”)

2 Peter 1:8 is the remedy “For as these qualities are yours and increasingly abound in you”, (See “The Factor of Eight”) and Deuteronomy 23:21 is the consequence, “When you make a vow to the Lord your God, YOU SHALL NOT BE SLACK in paying it, for the Lord your God will surely require it of you, and SLACKNESS WOULD BE SIN IN YOU.”

But then there is also another type of work involved, one which suffers neglect and ignorance, or sometimes maybe even defiance.

Hebrews 12:14 STRIVE to live in peace with everybody (the same as “study to be quiet” … comments mine) and PURSUE that CONSECRATION (this includes “contemplation, concentration, meditation, dedication” … comments mine) and HOLINESS without which no one will [ever] see the Lord. (This should produce enough incentive for us to comply, or are we so self centred that we can’t see the consequence?)

The word “STRIVE” comes from old French “strives” and means “to quarrel or dispute”, but in this context it means “to exert much effort or energy – Endeavour, to struggle or fight forcefully, contend. You can “strive against, for, to do, toward.”

My contemplation ranged far and wide as I tried to gather my thoughts so that I would comply with both requirements, “BE STILL and BE QUIET”, and wondered how, in the midst of all that transpired round about me it was possible to reach that sublime point nominated in scripture. It was then I felt impressed with the following statement:-

“I WILL BE GOD IN SPITE OF EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS, AND I WILL BE GOD BECAUSE OF EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS”.

What confidence that inspired, no matter how poorly, or how well I was doing at implementing the Lord’s demands, no matter how tumultuous the society around me, no matter what threats posed by Governments or terrorists, God intends that I realise and understand that He is in total control, and I can enjoy that place called “THERE” by applying the principles He espouses, BUT IT INVOLVES WORK!!!

It is remarkable to look back and recall that we explored the subject of “Liberation from Agitating Passions and Moral Conflicts”, for in it we saw that AGITATING PASSIONS can be one of the most disruptive mechanisms we can encounter. They can be multi-faceted but seldom are they multi-tasking, because there is an “obsessive compulsive” component involved. And now I see how important that lesson was for me, when I find that I have to “STUDY TO BE QUIET”

Ecclesiastes 4:6 Better is a handful with quietness than both hands full with painful effort, a vain striving after the wind and a feeding on it. (nothing nourishing and nothing substantial)

People who choose to live in contention, where they are always arguing and contending, and blaming upon one another, though they have plenty of dainties, they will live uncomfortably; they cannot expect the blessing of God upon them and what they have, nor can they have any true enjoyments, much less any peace in their own consciences. The world has created a materialistic expectation where there is never enough, no matter what it is or what it consists of, it is epidemic.

Isaiah 30:15 For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning [to Me] and resting [in Me] (that’s the “being still” bit) you shall be saved; in quietness (That’s the “quiet” bit) and in [trusting] confidence shall be your strength. BUT YOU WOULD NOT

BEING “QUIET” INVOLVES PEOPLE, AND CANNOT BE PROVEN IN A STATE OF ISOLATION

If we proceed to the next verse (16) it brings into focus again the use of horses, or as we have seen, reliance on idolatrous excuses rather than deferring to the directions of the Word, where we can then experience a greater result than the one we agitate for. If we were able to compile the scripture people have “adjusted” for their own benefit, we would have another translation, and the underlying cause for such distortions is because they do not “STUDY TO BE QUIET”

HUMILITY HAS A HARD TIME WITH SELF AWARENESS

Isaiah 30:16 And you said, No! We will speed [our own course] on horses! Therefore you will speed [in flight from your enemies]! You said, We will ride upon swift steeds [doing our own way]! (or write our own translation … comments mine)

Any professional jockey will tell you, no matter how good you are, there will be times that you fall off your horse. We are only “part timers”, still holding onto some idolatrous horses and chariots, but look out for the fall from that idolatrous thing. It can be a preference, resentment, behaviour, a habit; we maintain these patterns often because they afford us some form of mistaken, “security blanket”. The awful part o his I that our tantrums, our tizzes, our meltdowns, all of which are the opposite of “QUIET”, affect other people so dramatically and so damagingly, as we drift along oblivious to the harm we have caused.

But when we come to the next chapter there is the reinforcement of the principle of “QUIETNESS”.

Isaiah 32:17 And the EFFECT of righteousness will be peace [internal and external], and the RESULT of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever.

Do we understand the different between “EFFECT” and “RESULT”? If we are sick we often take a drug and it is the “EFFECT” of that drug which addresses the condition, but the “RESULT” is “RESTORATION”. In this case the drug is “RIGHTEOUSNESS”.

Whilst away, we sometimes camped out and the silence of the evening almost hurt, the birds would cease their chorale, and nothing seemed to move, and I was reminded that this was the sort of peace that Father intends us to experience, but not in remote locations away from the hustle and bustle of the day, but amidst the turmoil the world promotes. Thessalonians confirms this by continuing to say, “Work with your hands”, not “sit on your hands”. In MATTHEW 8:24, Jesus was asleep in the boat in the middle of a violent storm, the boast was filling with water, but “HE WAS QUIET”.

DO NOT LOOK TO ESCAPE, BUT TO ESCALATE (increase in extent or intensity)

We may concentrate at the moment on “BE STILL AND KNOW”, but we need to reflect on the context, because it brings into focus the conditions existing, so let me read this Psalm.

Psalm 46:1-11 To the Chief Musician. [A Psalm] of the sons of Korah, set to treble voices. A song. (not a dirge .. comments mine) GOD IS our Refuge and Strength [mighty and impenetrable to temptation], a very present and well-proved HELP IN TROUBLE. (Trouble is inescapable of we are to succeed. Job 5:7 But man is born to trouble as the sparks and the flames fly upward. Unconscious objects will follow the law of their nature, that’s how sure we will have trouble … comments mine) THEREFORE we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling and tumult. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her right early [at the dawn of the morning]. The nations raged the kingdoms tottered and were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted. THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our Fortress and High Tower). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has wrought desolations and wonders in the earth. He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow into pieces and snaps the spear in two; He burns the chariots in the fire. LET BE AND BE STILL, AND KNOW (RECOGNIZE AND UNDERSTAND) THAT I AM GOD. (This is different to “acknowledge”, or the giving of mental assent .. comments mine) I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our High Tower and Stronghold). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! (Repeated 3 times in that brief passage)

“LET BE” (Psalm 46:10) is the same instruction as “BE QUIET”

With chapter 4 of the Epistle to the Thessalonians, some practical application commences. The apostle exhorts and entreats the Thessalonians to make progress in the Christian life, and to practice those commandments which would result in achieving the qualification referred to. So this word “STUDY” is different to the word “STUDY” that we have engaged in over the years, that of plumbing God’s Word.

The word rendered “ye STUDY” (philotimeomai G5389), means properly, “to love honour, to be ambitious, it is to be regarded as a sacred duty; a thing in which our honour is concerned”.

Secondly, G 4692 Probably, strengthened from G4228; to “speed” (study) that is, urge on (diligently or earnestly); by implication to await eagerly: – (make, with) haste unto.

Thirdly G 4704 From G4710; to use speed, that is, to make effort, be prompt or earnest: – do (give) diligence, be diligent (forward), endeavour, labour, study.

So whilst I have been conscientiously studying the word for some period of time, and finding great enjoyment in that which is exposed and explained, but now face a new dilemma, how to “STUDY TO BE QUIET”

On reflecting on this injunction I was reminded that WORLDLY AMBITION EXCLUDES QUIETNESS.

1 Corinthians 11:18-20 For in the first place, when you assemble as a congregation, I hear that there are cliques (divisions and factions) among you; (This is the misplaced ambitions of men who have not learned the secret of “Being Quiet” … comments mine) and I in part believe it, for doubtless there have to be factions or parties among you in order that they who are genuine and of approved fitness may become evident and plainly recognized among you. (This will be EVIDENCED by that sweet smelling aroma of His presence that attends those who qualify, and radiate that “quietness … comments mine) FOR I AM FEARFUL that somehow or other I may come and find you not as I desire to find you, and that you may find me too not as you want to find me–that perhaps there may be factions (quarreling), jealousy, temper (wrath, intrigues, rivalry, divided loyalties), selfishness, whispering, gossip, arrogance (self-assertion), and disorder among you. (or can be translated “Idolatrous behaviour”. Stop and reflect on just the last week and see if we have been engaged in any of these traits)

And so we can rewrite this phrase but in so doing, write it carefully, so that its intention cannot be distorted.

“BE AMBITIOUS NOT TO BE AMBITIOUS”

So it is necessary to preface this “rewrite” to obviate any potential for misconstruing the embrace of this verse. It certainly does not mean that we should not pursue the highest potential in our occupation or profession and personal life, but to do so without all the clamour, self-promotion, vindictive behaviour, and all the other well-known and well used paths to worldly success. But this also applies outside the workplace and more particularly in our home; for it is in the home that we no longer have to wear the cloak of respectability or the mask of duplicity, because in the home the “real person” becomes obvious. It is the devils job to disrupt families and he is so grateful when we give him a hand!!!!

Ecclesiastes 6:11 Seeing that there are [all these and] many other things and words (or “carry on” .. comments mine) that increase the emptiness, falsity, vainglory, and futility [of living], what profit and what outcome is there for man? (This is a clear indication of the “noise” that interferes with our ability to “Be Quiet”)

The previous 10 verses spell out in great definition what I call “THE COMPENDIUM OF FUTILITY”. Verse 1 sets the scene:-

1 Thessalonians 4:1 FURTHERMORE, ( moreover, further, in addition, besides, too, as well, not to mention, what’s more, to boot, additionally, into the bargain)BRETHREN, we beg and admonish you in [virtue of our union with] the Lord Jesus, that [you follow the instructions which] you learned from us about how you ought to walk so as to please and gratify God, as indeed you are doing, [and] THAT YOU DO SO EVEN MORE AND MORE ABUNDANTLY [attaining yet greater perfection in living this life]. (HEBREWS 10:5 and all the more faithfully)

1 Corinthians 3:3 For you are still [unspiritual, having the nature] of the flesh [UNDER THE CONTROL OF ORDINARY IMPULSES]. For as long as [there are] envying and jealousy and wrangling and factions among you, (I would like to think we could replace these terms with the one phrase “WORLDY AMBITIONS” or alternatively “LACK OF QUIET” … comments mine) are you not unspiritual and of the flesh, BEHAVING YOURSELVES AFTER A HUMAN STANDARD and like mere (unchanged) men?

How many times recently have we been chastened by the Lord by showing that there are those who have ears to hear but are deaf, and have eyes to see but are blind? In spiritual terms this is “under the control of ordinary impulses”

If we do the will of God for any end or benefit of our own, if we do anything except to honour God, then we are in fact doing our own will. The term “self righteous indignation” is an anomaly. The hardest people to reach with the love of God are not bad people, they know they are bad, the hardest ones to exhibit Gods love are this who rule out the possibility, that they could be wrong

All of us can no doubt cite examples of where misplaced ambition has resulted in poor health, broken families, bankruptcy, suicides and other behaviours which were intended to gratify the flesh but served only to satisfy the devil. Our system of government is a prime example of politically ambitious individuals engaging in political and character assassination to satisfy their own egotistical appetite, and resulting in individuals being thrown on the scrap heap from the apex of their achievement.

We can of course quote numerous Scriptures which support our being efficient and successful, and I am sure that you are familiar with what they say, but do we comply in what we do?

Joshua 1:8 (These are the conditions .. comments mine) This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall MEDITATE on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. (And this is the result .. comments mine) FOR THEN YOU SHALL MAKE YOUR WAY PROSPEROUS, AND THEN YOU SHALL DEAL WISELY AND HAVE GOOD SUCCESS. (Properly placed ambition, and active engagement … comments mine)

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to GIVE YOU HOPE IN YOUR FINAL OUTCOME.

Jeremiah 45:5 AND SHOULD YOU SEEK GREAT THINGS FOR YOURSELF? SEEK THEM NOT; for behold, I will bring evil upon all flesh, says the Lord, but your life I will give to you [as your only booty and] as a [snatched] prize of war wherever you go.

And so now I need some direction as to the methods involved in STUDY which will lead to a condition of “quietness”, which will enable me to abandon the cacophony that attends what the world calls “normal” and embark upon a crusade of rehabilitation which will inevitably guide me to a place called “THERE”. (“THERE” is a place by Me)

2 Timothy 2:15-16 STUDY AND BE EAGER (Be ambitious … comments mine) and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, (because he has “worked with his hands” … comments mine) correctly analysing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skilfully teaching] the Word of Truth. But avoid all empty (vain, useless, idle) talk, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.(Or the consequences of neglecting the priority that Father requires for the preference or ambition that the world nominates as appropriate for success. … comments mine)

The word STUDY used here comes from the Greek and means (From G4710;) “to use speed, that is, to make effort, be prompt or earnest: – do (give) diligence, be diligent (forward), endeavour, labour, study.” This hardly represent most of the Christian population today, who find that to attend church once a week, maybe read a chapter or two of the bible, but more than that is to overdo things.

So what are the areas that I need to work on to attain that qualification in “QUIETNESS” that I am ordered to do so.

Verse 4 of I Thessalonians 4 sets up the conditions that should prevail, and the apostle here requires is that everyone should obtain the mastery over his own body

1 Thessalonians 4:4 That each one of you should know how to POSSESS (control, manage) (The word here rendered “possess” rather signifies “ACQUIRE.” And involves effort, much the same as 2 Peter 1 … comments mine) his own body in consecration (purity, separated from things profane) and honour.

There is another, more regularly used term, not as confronting or demanding as 1 Thessalonians 4, but still assiduously avoided so often, that term is “SELF CONTROL”.

GK 2932 “Possess” A primary verb; to get, that is, acquire (by any means; own): – obtain, possess, provide, purchase.

We therefore “acquire” the state of “Quietness” that Paul refers to and we do so through an ambition to fully mature.

2 Corinthians 4:7 However, WE POSSESS (in this case the word “possess” does mean we own that gift but for a special purpose … comments mine) this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves.

Notice that there is, and has to be, an evidence that we “POSSESS”, and that evidence is so very Christlike, and so provides us with a scale on which to measure our progress to the qualification of “BEING QUIET”. But it involves more,

Mark 11:25 And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, (or some “DISQUIET” … comments mine) forgive him and LET IT DROP (the same instruction as that of Psalm 46:10, “LET BE”) (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop.

Matthew 5:22-25 But I say to you that everyone who continues to be angry with his brother or harbors malice (enmity of heart) against him (WHO HASN’T LEARNED TO BE QUIET … COMMENTS MINE) shall be liable to and unable to escape the punishment imposed by the court; and whoever speaks contemptuously and insultingly to his brother shall be liable to and unable to escape the punishment imposed by the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, You cursed fool! [You empty-headed idiot!] shall be liable to and unable to escape the hell (Gehenna) of fire. SO if when you are offering your gift at the altar you there remember that your brother has any [grievance] against you, Leave your gift at the altar AND GO. First make peace with your brother, and then COME BACK and present your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way travelling with him, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. (WHERE YOU WILL HAVE PLENTY OF TIME TO STUDY TO BE QUIET … COMMENTS MINE)

Jesus had a full and very pressured life. His days were always long, His nights were often short. His time was constantly punctuated by the cries of enemies and friends. He was sought out by individuals, hunted by friends, invaded by crowds. He had hurried or no meals at times, and collapsed in fatigue to the point of sleeping through a storm. Yet in the midst of constant pressures all about Him, He lived in an aura of constant peace. He lived and breathed the fragrance of a world of heavenly tranquility.

Isaiah 32:17 And the EFFECT of righteousness (or studying to be quiet) will be peace [internal and external], and the RESULT (the qualification, or the results achieved) of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 FIRST OF ALL, then, I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men, For kings and all who are in positions of authority or high responsibility, that [outwardly] we may pass a quiet and undisturbed life [and inwardly] a peaceable one in all godliness and reverence and seriousness in every way.

Some people say that they have their “quiet time”, which in fact is nothing more than retreating from their activities and sitting or lying in a position that allows them to shut their eyes and forget the world charging on without them. They do not realise that the Word didn’t say “Have a quiet time”, it says, in paraphrase, “You need to learn how to be quiet ALL THE TIME regardless of any and everything”. A “quiet time” is the “Be still and know” time, as we have seen a very different condition to “Study to be Quiet”.

It is easy to tell if you have qualified, or passed the test of your studies to “BE QUIET”, we will encounter people who have a unique, and sometimes I wonder if it is not a God given ability, to yank our chain or rattle our cage. We qualify if we can maintain our” QUIET” if we fail to react.

It is not our devotions that Father is looking for; it is our dedication, our wholeheartedness, those characteristics that enable others to see Christ in us, not that we should have our “feel good” times in His presence.

To be effectively “quiet” I have to study, but study what? Every day I have to continually quiz myself in all situations, “WILL, OR DOES THIS GLORIFY GOD” and studiously avoid anything that will disturb either my, or someone else’s “QUIET”.

Philippians 2:14 Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining [against God] and questioning and doubting [among yourselves],

IN OTHER WORDS “BE QUIET”

HEIRARCHY OF HOLINESS ROSS SMITH

December 21, 2015April 26, 2017 Ross Smith

HIERARCHY OF HOLINESS ROSS SMITH

INTRODUCTION

Linda spoke recently on “FRUITFULNESS” and this opened up a can of worms as far as study is concerned, for the convolution of bearing fruit and the development of love is a continuing theme throughout the word of God. As you read this study keep in mind that the ultimate goal is for us to evidence God’s love, a characteristic or life style that we have yet to grasp the real meaning of, but in studying the road map of the Word we will reach the destination, and find that it exceeds our wildest expectations.

The continuing push of the spirit over many months now has been for our development, that is, our ability to disassociate ourselves from things that would interfere, to excel in the ability to draw near to God, and to produce a result which will be glorifying to God, salvation to the masses, and satisfaction to the ministers.

For this to occur there has to arise that determination to divest ourselves of “every weight that so easily beset us”. (Hebrews 12:1).

The route is clearly defined, the process spelled out with simplicity, and the application a simple acceptance of the fact that God’s purpose for us far excels any ambition or program we may have imagined. But it requires “energy” for fulfillment.

Whilst we may have evolved in our minds the manner in which we would serve the Lord, often our concepts are distorted so that in fact we are expecting the Lord to serve us. If our prayer life consists of “Lord do this, do that, bless this one, heal that one”, then this clearly identifies that our arrangements are back to front. It is “Let your requests be made known”

There is one very clear page in Father’s Atlas which succinctly describes the route in incontrovertible terms, and establishes precise “mileage pegs” by which He can gauge how determined we are to succeed.

It is a well-known fact that I have some ambivalence in the matter of exercise, my lifting of weights is restricted to a loaded fork, my excursions are enhanced by the use of a Ford Territory, and my gymnastics are confined to the agility of my mind in solving crosswords.

Because this study probably will contain a lot of tangents that are all worth following, I would remind you of the word SELAH, which is generally accepted to mean “pause and calmly think about that”. This word should come to us each time we are tempted to engage in debate or conflict with someone, we should just “STOP AND THINK!!!”

So I would encourage you to often “SELAH” as you study these notes because the Bible adjures us not only to study, but also to THINK and HEAR,

Mark 4:24 And He said to them, Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] (Further explained in 2^nd Peter 1) that comes back to you–and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.

This will become more obvious when we get further down in the study, as you study, then think, then listen.

THIS STUDY IS FRAMED AROUND 2^ND PETER 1:2-11

One thing as we commence this study, you will find that there are EIGHT (8) components to the manner in which we are to grow in our spiritual dimension, AND AS WE HAVE PREVIOUSLY DISCOVERED, THE NUMBER 8 REFERS TO “FATNESS” and so we again stimulated to grow fat spiritually.

PART A

Two very important verses occur before we explore what and how the “Fruitfulness” of our lives develops.

2 Peter 1:2 – 3 May GRACE (God’s favor) and PEACE (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity, and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in [the full, personal, precise, and correct] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).

Two terms are used her that we MUST grasp and understand, AND APPLY, if we are going to achieve God’s purpose for our lives. They are GRACE and PEACE.

Do we really understand GRACE? We understand that it is “GOD’S UNMERITED FAVOUR” but look at how Peter spells it out, (1) What it consists of (2) tells what it achieves, and (3) how to appropriate it.

God’s favour
It includes peace (all necessary good, spiritual prosperity, freedom from fears, agitating passions that disturb, poor behavior) or moral conflict
Knowledge of God

As if that were not enough to get us excited, Peter then goes on to enlarge the matter by describing (1) Where it comes from, (2) What it is good for (3) how to appropriate it.

His divine power
Everything we require
Knowledge of God

Romans 1:5 It is through Him that WE HAVE RECEIVED GRACE (God’s unmerited favor) and [our] apostleship to promote obedience to the faith and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the nations.

The “WE” includes us, and includes our ministries

Strong’s Concordance gives added clarity from the Greek, as follows:-

GRACE “The merciful kindness by which God, exerting His holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection and kindles them to the exercise of all Christian virtues” (SELAH … 2^nd Peter 1 )

ALSO “That which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness, grace of speech”.

2 Peter 1-5 says “His precious and exceedingly great promises”. This is indeed GRACE and as yet I don’t think we appreciate how “Precious and Great and Exceeding” that is and In this case includes “freedom from fear and agitating passions and escape from moral decay”.

How do you identify a person who has accepted “His Precious and great exceeding promises”? Firstly by their FRUIT and secondly by their APPLICATION

Romans 5:2 Through Him also WE HAVE [OUR] ACCESS (entrance, introduction) by faith into this grace (state of God’s favor) in which we [firmly and safely] stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God.

Then verse 5 comes into sharp focus, and as we proceed we will see how GRACE and FAITH and EXERCISE or ADDING come into play.

GRACE and PEACE are mentioned some 18 times in the New Testament, so it is of some great consequence, and it is interesting that they go together. That should be the case with us, we have appropriated God’s GRACE for our salvation but have we appropriated God’s PEACE for our lives.

PEACE IS OFTEN DIFFICULT BUT ALWAYS DESIRABLE!!!

Just a quick stock take of the attributes of Grace listed above will enable us to determine if our concepts of grace match our profession of grace.

It is also interesting to note that in the books of Timothy and Titus that an additional component is added to the benediction, as follows: –

1 Timothy 1:2 To Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace (spiritual blessing and favor), MERCY, and [heart] peace [be yours] from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

The GRACE we have received is by the favour of God,

The MERCY springs from that Grace and is pardoning, purifying and supporting. Mercy is an extension of Grace

The PEACE is the consequence of this manifest MERCY with peace of conscience, Peace with God, internal happiness, quietness and assurance

GRACE refers to the sins of man whist MERCY refers to their misery.

The application of this benediction would seem to be directed more to MINISTERS (of every kind) rather than widely to the church. It would seem that Ministers need more GRACE than other men to discharge their duty faithfully and MERCY to pardon what is amiss in them.

James 4:6 But He gives us more and more grace (power of the Holy Spirit, to meet this evil tendency and all others fully). That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace [continually] to the lowly (those who are humble enough to receive it).

Proverbs 3:34 Though He scoffs at the scoffers and scorns the scorners, yet He gives His undeserved favor (Grace) to the low [in rank], the humble, and the afflicted.

HIS PRECIOUS AND EXCEEDINGLY GREAT PROMISES

2 Peter 1:4 By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, (“for this good reason” …. Comments mine) so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world BECAUSE OF COVETOUSNESS (LUST AND GREED), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.

Salvation is the result of Heaven’s GRACE. This beautiful truth should never be minimized, at the same time, it must not be perverted. Unfortunately, all too often those with only a superficial concept of “grace” have hijacked the term and foisted upon it a sense alien to scriptural teaching. The fact that we are “UNDER GRACE” is distorted to excuse the inexcusable.

2 Peter 1:3 clearly defines that we have been provided with everything that is necessary to attain to the excellence of the true representation of our profession and uses terms to describe the characteristics of Jesus Christ which are to be replicated in us, and as evidence of the GRACE of God.

GRACE is given to us to both enjoy and appreciate, is not just a ticket to heaven, or an insurance policy for our destination, but a “commodity” of enormous intrinsic value, backed up by a guarantor of unlimited resources and unparalleled interest in our application/exercise/employing every effort, in demonstrating the enormity of our inheritance by our closely following His plan. Grace has been manifest to us …… Now it has to be evidenced through us.

For this to occur Peter repeats in verse two and again in verse three, “the full personal, precise and correct knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord”, or “the full personal knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” Keep this little word handy for use later in this study.

Verse 2 affords us GRACE and PEACE (multiplied) and it comes by “the full personal precise and correct knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord”

Verse 3 then affords us another avalanche of blessings, we have “ALL THINGS that (are requisite and suited) TO LIFE ANG GODLINESS, and how do we get those “things”? “through the full personal knowledge of Him Who called us”

In both cases it involves THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD. This relationship is vital for us and sought after by Him.

Daniel 11:32 And such as violate the covenant he shall pervert and seduce with flatteries, BUT THE PEOPLE WHO KNOW THEIR GOD shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do exploits [for God].

This is not just knowing ABOUT God, it is KNOWING HIS GRACE, out of which will emanate the evidence, that perpetual state of PEACE that Peter referred to in 2 Peter 1:2, which forms that conjunction of LIFE AND GODLINESS

Colossians 2:2 – 3 [For my concern is] that their hearts may be braced (comforted, cheered, and encouraged) as they are knit together in love, that they may come to have all the abounding wealth and blessings of assured conviction of understanding, and that they may become progressively more intimately acquainted with and may know more definitely and accurately and thoroughly that mystic secret of God, [which is] Christ (the Anointed One). In Him all the TREASURES of [divine] wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God) and [all the RICHES of spiritual] knowledge and enlightenment are stored up and lie hidden. (also refer to the study “Formality and Intimacy”)

We must never underestimate both the RICHES of the knowledge of God and the TREASURY of understanding that will elevate us into that dimension of spiritual intimacy that we will become a true reflection of the Lord.

If we fast forward at the moment to 1^st Peter 1:6 we see that one of the “additives” we need is “knowledge”, but significantly verse 8 identifies “knowledge” as a “quality”, so now our study and meditation comes into much sharper focus, for “knowledge” is a QUALITY, TREASURE AND RICHES.

Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for Lack of knowledge; (This is the opposite of Daniel 11:32) because you [the priestly nation] have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you that you shall be no priest to Me; seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children.

This peace does not come from medication or absolution. It originates as part of the harvest of righteousness and again Peter goes on to describe how pervasive this quality can be.

2 Peter 3:14 So, beloved, since you are expecting these things, be eager to be found by Him [at His coming] without spot or blemish AND AT PEACE [in serene confidence, free from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts].

“Free from spot or blemish is the result of GRACE

PEACE IS THE BEDMATE OF GRACE

But he also adds other vital components “GRACE AND PEACE IN ABUNDANCE,” both of which issue out of the knowledge of God.

Isaiah 32:17 And the effect (the doing) of righteousness will be peace (a fruit) [internal and external], and the result (the result of “doing”) of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever. (a state or condition)

Here we have a “Cause and Effect and Result”, GRACE forms the basis or is the CAUSE, and the EFFECT is to develop in us that right standing with God which then produces a RESULT, which is PEACE

RIGHTEOUSNESS IS THE EVIDENCE OF GRACE

How intimately are RIGHTEOUSNESS and PEACE related to each other, and if we extrapolate, our “right standing with God”, or righteousness, it will enable us to live in a perpetual state of peace. Now emerges another startling piece of information.

James 3:18 And a HARVEST of righteousness is grown from THE SEED OF PEACE planted by PEACEMAKERS. (ISV)

Conversely if we sow in contention we will reap contention, the exact opposite of what Father intends.

2 Peter 3:14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, MAKE EVERY EFFORT ( You will notice as we proceed how we are instructed to “exercise” or “make every effort) to have the Lord find you at PEACE and without spot or fault. (Or living righteously ….. comments mine)

How do we obtain God’s peace?

Romans 5:1 THEREFORE, SINCE we are justified (acquitted, declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, (that’s GRACE … comments mine) let us [grasp the fact that we] have [the peace of reconciliation to hold and to enjoy] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). (PEACE is the attending phenomena that God gives with GRACE …. Comments mine)

It is worthwhile remembering here that not only do we have “THE PEACE OF RECONCILLIATION” but we also have the “MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION”

2 Corinthians 5:18 But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].

The sinful mind is hostile to God, but the “saved” mind, the mind captured and controlled by the Holy Spirit, reflects the very life and peace of God’s Spirit, albeit imperfectly, as in:-

Romans 8:6 Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] is death [death that comprises all the miseries arising from sin, both here and hereafter]. But the mind of the [Holy] Spirit is life and [soul] peace [both now and forever].

Paul proceeds to dilate the reach of PEACE to reach not only that which we feel inwardly, but also “all times and in all ways”.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all.

The peace of the “Lord of Peace” is perfect. “Give you peace always.” That points to perpetual, unbroken duration in time, and through all changing circumstances, which might threaten a less stable tranquility.

Christ’s peace is perpetual and multiform, unbroken, and presenting itself in all the aspects in which tranquility is possible for a human spirit.

We are responsible for firstly accepting the PEACE from Father, then evidencing that PEACE on a universal basis.

Romans 12:18 If possible, AS FAR AS IT DEPENDS ON YOU, live at peace with everyone.

We must not only PRODUCE peace, we must also PRESERVE peace.

Hebrews 12:11 For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness–in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God].

Hebrews 12:14 STRIVE to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and holiness without which no one will [ever] see the Lord.

PEACE AND HOLINESS go together, peace with God, peace in our own mind and conscience, peace amongst ourselves, peace with all men. OTHERWISE WE WILL NOT SEE THE LORD!!!!!!

A statement of great consequence that caught my eye in 2 Peter 1:2 in particular is “freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts”.

To paraphrase this statement would be “to have a peaceful mind and appropriate behavior”. It is such a significant aspect of successful living that Peter has repeated this truth in his first book: –

1 Peter 3:11 Let him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him search for PEACE (HARMONY; UNDISTURBEDNESS FROM FEARS, AGITATING PASSIONS, AND MORAL CONFLICTS) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!]

This is the “DOING” as in ISAIAH 32:17 … see previous page

We must not be smug about having received GRACE, for with GRACE we have also been given God’s PEACE, which included “Freedom from fears and AGITATING PASSIONS ….. and moral conflicts”

What you may ask is the initiator for these “agitating passions” or “fits of pique”? (anger, resentment, indignation)

1 John 2:15 – 16 Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world–the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one’s own resources or in the stability of earthly things]–these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself]. (I would categorise these things as “Moral Conflicts” …… comments mine)

I’m not suggesting that we should not be passionate, but because of the chance of causing agitation in others, “Godly passions” will not accommodate NATURAL agitations, Father will see to that. We should have “peace that passes understanding,” because we have peace “not as the world gives”, but we should be very passionate about our pursuit of GRACE and PEACE.

This lack of “peace” is contrary to God’s intention for us. Secondly however, our behavior may cause “agitating passions” in other folk. So what we do, or want, or practice, or talk about, needs to be adjusted so that others do not become agitated.

AGITATING PASSIONS or AGITATING BEHAVIOR is a two-way street. We may personally encounter agitating passions when we are either unable to have what we want, do what we want, achieve what we want. These sensations constitute “greed” or “covetousness”, sometimes called “fits of pique” and are described in verse four of 2 Peter 1

Psalm 85:10 Mercy and loving-kindness and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

The basis for “Agitating Passions” is well described in:-

James 4:2-3 You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask. [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives. Your intention is [when you get what you desire] to spend it in sensual pleasures.

Because Linda’s study majored on the aspect of “FRUITFULNESS”, it would seem convenient to make some observations in relation to FRUIT. Natural fruit comes in many varieties, all with their particular “qualities”, and without exception contain seeds. This is true even of bananas even though they may not be obvious. Likewise with the fruit of the spirit with its many “qualities” also contains seed.

The seed is the reproductive part of the fruit, but the seed does not produce more fruit, IT PRODUCES TREES, which when adequately cultivated can produce further fruit.

Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the [uncompromisingly] RIGHTEOUS IS A TREE OF LIFE, and he who is wise captures human lives [for God, as a fisher of men–he gathers and receives them for eternity

More “TREES” are not the result of programs, but the result of fruit which has fallen to the ground, the soil of which can be good bad or indifferent, but the soil is not our responsibility, just the sowing of the seed from our fruit. But we have to produce FRUIT before we can sow seed.

Hebrews 6:7 – 8 For the soil which has drunk the rain that repeatedly falls upon it and produces VEGETATION (or trees ….. comments mine) useful to those for whose benefit it is cultivated partakes of a blessing from God. But if [that same soil] persistently bears thorns and thistles, it is considered worthless and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.

This verse is confirmation that the “seed of peace” produces “VEGETATION”, it does not say it produces fruit, that comes as a result of the tree maturing, the fruit falling into good soil, the seed then germinating.

Isaiah 61:3 to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; THAT THEY MAY BE CALLED TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, the planting of Jehovah, (The Prince of Peace ….. comments mine) that he may be glorified.

Matthew 5:9 Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, (read “SEED” …. Comments mine) for they shall be called the sons of God!

Let us reflect on the process described in James 3:18: –

Harvest of RIGHTEOUSNESS
Grown from seed of PEACE
Planted by PEACEMAKERS

Matthew explains the incredible qualities of the person who not only evidences the fruit of the spirit but is a producer and repository for the fertile part, the reproductive part, THE SEED. Our fruitfulness is mandatory, likewise our “seediness” or evidence, and production of PEACE.

It is important to note that SUCCESS does not exist in NUMBERS, but NUMBERS exist in SUCCESS. So we may need to have our spiritual meters recalibrated. For example BHP has a very large number of shareholders, but this only after they produced “fruit” from ore and coal. This fruit in the form of shares and dividends does not contain any seed, and so cannot be reproduced in the shareholder, this “fruit” is generally squandered.

Some fruits are more “seedy” than others, for example, bananas don’t have significant seed visually, however the Pomegranate, Passionfruit and Pawpaw all have very obvious seed content. Which one of these should we be?

PART B

In the following Part B of 2 Peter 1:4 there is a term used where the application of this characteristic has been severely compromised, or maybe even ignored.

2 Peter 1:5 FOR THIS VERY REASON, ADDING YOUR DILIGENCE [to the divine promises], employ every effort……… here it comes again!!! (SELAH)

That term is DILIGENCE and without this particular trait the individual becomes complacent, slack, lazy, unproductive, unattractive and as a consequence, a reproach on the Name of Jesus.

Before we proceed with this study I would invite you to review your concept and understanding of the term DILIGENCE in the space below.

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As we look at the word DILIGENCE as a word study, HEBREWS is very succinct in adding depth to this terminology: –

Hebrews 6:11 – 12 But we do [strongly and earnestly] desire for each of you to show the same DILIGENCE AND SINCERITY [all the way through] in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and DEVELOPMENT of [your] hope until the end, In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through FAITH (by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by practice of patient endurance (hold this idea until we get to “ADDING” …. Comments mine) and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises. (Recall 2 Peter 1-4 which spells out “precious and exceedingly great promises…. And Hebrews says it is “an inheritance”))

HEBREWS joins DILIGENCE and SINCERITY and they are so coalesced as to be inseparable, and then employs another term, DEVELOPMENT which is an outcome or a result or a consequence of DILIGENCE.

Before we proceed let us clarify the true meaning of DILIGENCE

DEFINITION FROM WIKIPEDIA….. “DILIGENCE”, in Christianity, is the effort to do one’s part, while keeping faith and reliance in God. In other words, diligence and faith are two sides of a mystery. One doesn’t know how, despite one’s effort, it all works out. But diligence when combined with faith assures spiritual success. Diligence as one of seven virtues describe as thoroughness, completeness and persistence of an action, particularly in matters of faith. (WOW!!)

Strong’s Concordance – G4710 – From G4692; “speed”, that is, (by implication) despatch, eagerness, earnestness: – business, (earnest) care (-fulness), diligence forwardness, haste.

From FREE DICTIONARY —– conscientiousness in paying proper attention to a task; giving the degree of care required in a given situation, the trait of being painstaking and careful.

DUE DILIGENCE, a term used in the material world, is the necessary amount of diligence/application/research required in a professional activity to avoid being negligent. This commonly arises in major acquisitions where the legal principle of caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) requires the purchaser to make a diligent survey of the property or service.

Here is a provocative thought: – DILIGENCE IS REQUIRED BEFORE DEVELOPMENT CAN OCCUR

DILIGENCE ALSO REQUIRES APPLICATION, THERE HAS TO BE A GOAL, AND IN OUR CASE THE GOAL IS TO FULFILL GOD’S PLAN FOR OUR LIFE.

DILIGENCE is not just an attitude but REQUIRES an attitude, it is also ENERGY. 2 Peter 1 provides the premise for this energy to be expended and enumerates the consequential benefits.

2 Peter 1:3 – 4 For His divine power has bestowed upon us ALL THINGS that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (VIRTUE). By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature. (THAT IS, THEY BECOME THE REIPIENTS OF GRACE AND PEACE……. comments mine)

We will come back to these two verses to explore the term VIRTUE as used here as it provides explanation and clarity to the process of our development.

No matter what other people think say or do, the only object of our DILIGENCE is to “The Divine Promises”, all of which are encompassed in Grace and PEACE. It is because we have these divine promises spelled out in the word, that enables the next steps to occur, that is the “exercise”.

DILIGENCE is further described in: –

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal (read “DILIGENCE” … comments mine) of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] (read “DEVELOPS VIRTUE”….. comments mine) what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].

I like the extension the Amplified Version adds to this verse “perfect in His sight FOR YOU”. Each of us is so unique that Father has prepared a particular walk, ministry, location, test, reward etc etc, especially for each individual.

The application of DILIGENCE has a transforming effect, producing new ideals and new attitudes, which will clearly identify the route we are to follow and the fruits (proof) that we are walking in Fathers ideals for our life.

DILIGENCE is not adorned ceremonies – – – nor flaunted with piety – – – but observed in TOTALITY.

DILIGENT PRACTICE SHOULD ACTIVELY AFFECT PERFORMANCE

Proverbs 4:23 Keep and guard your heart with all VIGILANCE (read, “diligence” ) and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. (Or “Performance”)

KJV reads, “out of it are the issues of life”, or “The Fruit”.

Proverbs 12:24 The hand of THE DILIGENT will rule, but the slothful will be put to forced labor. (What a great alternative!!)

Proverbs 13:4 The appetite of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, (Or “all day long the slothful does nothing, but wish” … comments mine (but the appetite of THE DILIGENT is abundantly supplied.

TO MAKE PROGRESS REQUIRES DILIGENCE

Now that we have some understanding of the importance of DILIGENCE let me identify some synonyms to further clarify its importance.

Meticulousness )
Assiduousness )
Scrupulousness )
Conscientiousness )
Carefulness ) HOW DO YOU SCORE?
Thoughtfulness )
Attentiveness )
Persistence )
Industriousness )

The following two verses then become clearer as we embrace both the definitions and synonyms for DILIGENCE.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (This requires “DILIGENCE”)

If we jump ahead a little we will see in 2 Peter 1:5 a term we have yet come to understand, that is “EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT” (SELAH)

Work is where we (hopefully) learn DILIGENCE, and it is interesting that DILIGENCE relates to DIET.

2 Thessalonians 3:10 For while we were yet with you, we gave you this rule and charge: If anyone will not work, neither let him eat.

So how much we like to eat should somehow be aligned with how much we love to work, how diligent we are at the tasks we are employed in. It does not mean we love our work, but we have learned to love work, OR, BE DILIGENT. It is the ethic that is important, and with the proper ethic comes the proper effort.

Now is a good time for us to review and revise our concept and understanding of the term DILIGENCE so now in your own words describe both the meaning and the importance of DILIGENCE.

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PART C

We now have a new dimension to comprehend, and as our understanding of the character of DILIGENCE, Peter has introduced a challenging concept.

“ADDING” ….. a sense of expansion, such as “add to your family” or “add another bedroom” or “add to your waistline”. There is an enlargement inferred, and in this case “required”. There can be no component of indolence in DILIGENCE. But “ADDING” to the divine promises requires that we first understand what these divine promises are and then how to apply diligence.

Doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result, is FOLLY.

2 Peter 1:5 – 7 For this very reason, ADDING your DILIGENCE [to the divine promises], EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT in :-

So we see where we are to ADD … to the divine promises. “(He) has bestowed upon us ALL THINGS that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness,” so then we have no excuse not to “ADD”

There are however something’s we cannot “ADD”. The old adage, “the things you can change worry about, the things you can’t change don’t worry about”

Matthew 6:27 And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the span of his life?

Remember we needed to hold the thought of HEBREWS 6:11-12, as follows:-

Hebrews 6:11 But we do [strongly and earnestly] desire for each of you to show the same DILIGENCE AND SINCERITY [all the way through] in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and DEVELOPMENT of [your] hope until the end, In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through faith (by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by PRACTICE of patient endurance and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises.

No matter what other people think, say or do, the only object of our diligence is to ADD IT TO THE DIVINE PROMISES. It is because we have these divine promises spelled out in the Word, that enables the next step to occur, that is “EXERCISE”.

So Peter comes to our rescue so that we do not have to look far for what these “PRECIOUS AND EXCEEDING GREAT PROMISES” comprise.

We escape from the moral decay
And become sharers (partakers) of the diving nature, or as ISV puts it, “Participate in the divine nature”.

The first occurred when we accepted Jesus Christ into our lives and experienced the enormity of sins forgiven and adoption as a result of GRACE

The second occurs as we ADD and EXERCISE, AND EMPLOY EVERY EFFORT. (See 2 Peter 1:5)

Pause just for a moment and consider how much time we fritter away each day, time that we could involve the Lord in even while we are discharging our responsibilities, for in our work, play, rest etc. etc, we need to have a consciousness of God so that “Every Effort” is preserved by our DILIGENCE….. that meditating day and night (SELAH)

PART D EXERCISE

Before we proceed with our exploration of those obligations we have incurred as a result of being afforded God’s GRACE and PEACE, it is probably appropriate to refresh our minds as to the all encompassing term “EXERCISE”.

We can exercise in many different ways, our mind, our prerogatives, our options, our body. Movement is involved in exercise but not only physical, but is also spiritual.

1 Timothy 4:8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but (“the exercise of”…… comments mine) godliness is PROFITABLE UNTO ALL THINGS, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

2 Peter 1:5 – 7 introduces a whole new dimension to exercise, because here Peter is referring to “qualities”.

Verse 8 begins with “For as THESE QUALITIES ARE YOURS and increasingly abound in you, they will keep [you] from being idle or unfruitful unto the [full personal] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One.”)

So God has given us the “qualities”, sometimes they lie dormant, but they can increasingly abound as we exercise.

In the athletic sense people employ “Personal Trainers”, and it is interesting to observe the spiritual parallel. At the risk of being repetitive we are all familiar with the injunction of Scripture which prescribes that “one has a Psalm, one has a hymn, one has a spiritual song”. Why are these depositions given us, quite simply for the building up of the body, we become “personal trainers” in a spiritual sense.

Ephesians 4:16 For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, BUILDING ITSELF UP IN LOVE.

Ephesians 4:7-8 Yet GRACE (God’s unmerited favor) was given to each of us individually [not indiscriminately, but in different ways] in proportion to the measure of Christ’s [rich and bounteous] gift. (note the emphasis here …. “in proportion decided by Christ Himself, not our perceived ability …. Comments mine)

1 Peter 4:10 As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), (employ it exercise it, add to it, employ every effort ….. comments mine) employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God’s many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].

So our excuses to avoid exercise are dealt a deft blow, because Paul has instructed the Ephesians church to engage in “A BODY BUILDING PROGRAM”. Before we proceed it is useful just to list the “qualities” we are encouraged to “add and develop”, as follows:-

Faith
Virtue
Knowledge
Self control
Steadfastness
Godliness
Brotherly affection
Christian love (See 2 Peter 1:5-8)

PART E. THE NECESSITY AND PROCESS OF EXERCISE

Today there is a great emphasis placed on physical fitness, not that you would notice should you take time to observe some of the trolleys that emerge from Woolworths, however the proliferation of gymnasiums and the plethora of advertisements offering membership continue to flourish “ad nauseam”.

Obviously, exercise is a necessary part of our daily life, and the old saying “use it or lose it” certainly has some credibility. The different types of exercises are designed to match your age, size, gender, preference, lycra style etc so that no one has any excuse that the personal trainer finds valid.

Similarly in the spiritual realm there is a great need for EXERCISE, but here we find that a large proportion of Christians are “couch potatoes”. This is why we must concentrate our attention to regular bible study, both as individuals and equally, or more importantly to bible study group.

Some people find it difficult to study for themselves and as a consequence they have to be taken gently through the initial “exercises” until they develop adequate spiritual fitness to be able to exercise themselves.

The concentration however, for us as Gods people, is to concentrate our efforts to progress to spiritual fitness, whist not neglecting our physical frame, and we revert to scripture for support.

1 Timothy 4:8 For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is to come.

Paul was quick to remind Timothy of his responsibilities in spiritual fitness and he uses different terms but with the same intention.

2 Timothy 1:6 That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].

Every exercise has unique and particular emphasis to develop that part of the body requiring “BUILDING UP”, and the list below will assist us in recognizing the process.

2 Peter 1:5-7 For this very reason,

adding your diligence [to the divine promises],

employ every effort in

exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in
exercising virtue develop knowledge (intelligence), And in
exercising knowledge develop self-control, and in
exercising self-control develop steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in
exercising steadfastness develop godliness (piety),
And in
exercising godliness develop brotherly affection, and in
exercising brotherly affection develop Christian love.

My specific exercise program for …………………………………….

Insert the relevant name here

FIRSTLY COMES THE EXERCISING OF OUR FAITH

“EXERCISING your FAITH to develop VIRTUE (excellence, resolution, Christian energy)”. (2nd Peter 1:8}

Firstly, note that there is no “adding” here only exercising. We have already begun the adding process previously by being “DILIGENT”, but we can feel challenged because of what we conceive as our “little faith”, “weak faith”, “much faith” as all are laid out in scripture. Our faith may be imperfect, but only because we have not employed it in a proper fashion, but none is lacking in faith, just lacking in exercise.

Romans 12:3 For by the grace (unmerited favor of God) given to me I warn everyone among you not to estimate and think of himself more highly than he ought [not to have an exaggerated opinion of his own importance], but to rate his ability with sober judgment, each according to the degree of faith apportioned by God to him. (See, we have been afforded this “quality” and in Godly proportion, and He supplies “not according to our need but according to His riches in Glory)

Luke 17:5-6 The apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith (that trust and confidence that spring from our belief in God). And the Lord answered, If you had faith (trust and confidence in God) even [so small] like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, Be pulled up by the roots, and be planted in the sea, and it would obey you.

Do I sense some degree of rebuke here, Jesus was saying to the Apostles “I’ve already given you faith, big enough faith to produce miracles, so don’t ask for more faith, just use what you have got, START EXERCISING IT!!!

1 Corinthians 13:13 And so faith, hope, love abide [faith–conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope–joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love–true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but the greatest of these is love.

1 Timothy 1:19 Holding fast to FAITH (that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence)

MY CONCEPT OF FAITH ……. “The revelation of the Divine mind apprehended by a mortal spirit with such conviction as to overturn the reason of that mortal mind, and the evidence of the visual, also the persuasion of the majority so that the establishment of proper priority is not a matter of decision but a matter of fact.”

When we embark on this route of seeking HOLINESS I expect that we will be given ample opportunity to EXERCISE OUR FAITH and embark upon a journey of DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT only comes out of EXERCISE whether it be physical, mental, emotional, and above all SPIRITUAL. So the first “quality we have to “DEVELOP” though exercise is VIRTUE.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].

It is of consequence that our understanding of RIGHTEOUSNESS contains the elements that Noah was able to embrace in:-

Hebrews 11:7, “(He) became an heir and possessor of righteousness (that relation of being right into WHICH GOD PUTS the person who has faith)”.

NEXT WE HAVE TO EXERCISE THAT VIRTUE

There are numerous synonyms for VIRTUE and so we can at least extract a couple for our “exercise program” from this list.

SYNONYMS … Goodness, virtuousness, righteousness, morality , ethicalness, uprightness, upstandingness, integrity, dignity ,rectitude , honesty, honorableness, honorability, honour , incorruptibility, probity , propriety, decency ,respectability ,nobility , nobility of soul/spirit, nobleness, worthiness, worth, good , trustworthiness, meritoriousness, irreproachableness, blamelessness, purity, pureness, lack of corruption, merit;

VIRTUE = behaviour showing high moral standards.

Personal virtues are characteristics valued as promoting collective and individual greatness. The opposite of virtue is vice, which aids in defining some of our characteristics which may not qualify as virtuous.

Peter describes VIRTUE in 2 Peter 1:5 as “EXCELLENCE, RESOLVE, CHRISTIAN ENERGY” whilst MATTHEW describes it in more measurable terms as, “having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity”.

It is our duty to desire, and aim at, and press towards perfection in grace and holiness, and consequently WE MUST STUDY to conform ourselves to the example of our heavenly Father using His example of perfection.

Mark 4:24 And He said to them, Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you–and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.

Matthew 5:48 You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect.

RIGHTEOUSNESS AND VIRTUE ARE SYNOYMOUS!!!

It is the exercise of this “Quality” of VIRTUE that brings us into greater awareness both of the character and nature of God, that understanding of “How God thinks” which when we grasp it, enables us to “Act like God acts”.

AS WE EXERCISE VIRTUE WE “DEVELOP” KNOWLEDGE (Intelligence)

This introduces us to the debate as to what we understand, for the Pharisees had great understanding of the law but zero understanding of the character and nature of the true Christ. Even when confronted by the Apostles they still refused to accept that there was truth outside the law as they understood it.

This is still true today, there is much “exposing” of the Word of God, but very little “explaining”. The New Testament description of real preaching is “THE GIFT OF PROPHESY” which does not relate to a FORETELLING ability but a FORTHTELLING ability. It is a characteristic that every Christian should be developing so that we can “Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you.”

The God given skill of unraveling the spiritual intricacy of the Bible to make it digestible to the hearers comes out of the exercise of VIRTUE DEVELOPING KNOWLEDGE. Do we for one moment think that Father would entrust us with that sovereign impartation of divine knowledge if we did not exhibit some propensity to engage in the exercise of VIRTUE.

Luke 24:27 Then beginning with Moses and [throughout] all the Prophets, He (Jesus) went on explaining and interpreting to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning and referring to Himself.

Acts 17:10-11 Now the brethren at once sent Paul and Silas away by night to Beroea; and when they arrived, they entered the synagogue of the Jews. Now these [Jews] were better disposed and more noble than those in Thessalonica, for they were entirely ready and accepted and welcomed the message [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God] with inclination of mind and eagerness, SEARCHING AND EXAMINING THE SCRIPTURES DAILY TO SEE IF THESE THINGS WERE SO.

This becomes increasingly important as spurious religions, sects, cults, various occult procedures become popular, as men seek for entertainment rather than engagement, where the principles of the Word become too onerous for society at large, where long standing principles affecting marriage and sexual relations hatched in hell receive endorsement.

Ephesians 4:11-14 And His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His intention was the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people), [that they should do] the work of ministering toward building up Christ’s body (the church), [That it might develop] until we all attain oneness in the faith and in THE COMPREHENSION OF THE [FULL AND ACCURATE] KNOWLEDGE OF THE SON OF GOD, that [we might arrive] at really mature manhood (the completeness of personality which is nothing less than the standard height of Christ’s own perfection), (Recall this referred to VIRTUE … comments mine) the measure of the stature of the fullness of the Christ and the completeness found in Him. So then, we may no longer be children, tossed [like ships] to and fro between chance gusts of teaching and wavering with every changing wind of doctrine, [the prey of] THE CUNNING AND CLEVERNESS OF UNSCRUPULOUS MEN, [GAMBLERS ENGAGED] IN EVERY SHIFTING FORM OF TRICKERY IN INVENTING ERRORS TO MISLEAD.

Remember in verses 2 and 3 of 2 Peter 1 there was a sentence used ”the full, personal, precise and correct KNOWLEDGE OF GOD and of Jesus our Lord”. See again how this fits so precisely. As we proceed the process intensifies, for the application or EXERCISE of Knowledge will develop self control

THE EXERCISE OF KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPS SELF CONTROL

How relevant is that to today’s society? There is currently before our Parliaments and in some instances already legislated to severely penalize those who engage in assault and thuggery when drunk or simply out of control. Each week there are instances of people being either seriously injured or even killed with one punch, children refusing to attend school or even taking their own life due to bullying, courts issuing AVO’s where the spouse or now more regularly, the ”partner” are subjected to abuse, drivers raging or using mobile phones. There is a graphic dearth of SELF CONTROL.

2 Timothy 3:3 [They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman), relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), intemperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good. (AMP)

2 Timothy 3:3 (ISV) without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good,

SELF CONTROL starts with a very simple exercise, one where we have ultimate choice, where we frequently make the wrong choice and for the compendium of reasons set out in 2 Timothy 3, but we have a remedy.

James 3:2 For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. AND IF ANYONE DOES NOT OFFEND IN SPEECH [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, ABLE TO CONTROL HIS WHOLE BODY AND TO CURB HIS ENTIRE NATURE.

As God’s servants there is also instruction as to how we behave but it also includes a liberal dose of self control:-

Titus 1:8 Instead, he must be hospitable to strangers, must appreciate what is good, and be sensible, honest, moral, and SELF-CONTROLLED.

We talk about “self control” but what does it really mean?

People with self-control master their moods. They do not let their moods master them. Most of what gets done in the world is accomplished by people who do the right thing even when they don’t feel like it:

Proverbs 25:28 Like a city with breached walls is a man without self-control.

PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL WATCH THEIR WORDS. They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths, like James 3:2 proposed.

Proverbs 13:3 (TEV) A careless talker destroys himself.”

PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL RESTRAIN THEIR REACTIONS. How much can you take before you lose your cool?

Proverbs 19:11 Good sense makes a man restrain his anger, and it is his glory to overlook a transgression or an offense.

PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL STICK TO THEIR SCHEDULE. If you don’t determine how you will spend your time, then others will decide for you:

Ephesians 5:15 Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people),

PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL MANAGE THEIR MONEY. They learn to live on less than what they make and they invest the difference. The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!

Proverbs 21:20 There are precious treasures and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a self-confident and foolish man swallows it up and wastes it.

PEOPLE WITH SELF-CONTROL MAINTAIN THEIR HEALTH. That way they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements

1 Thessalonians 4:4 That each one of you should know how to possess (control, manage) his own body in consecration (purity, separated from things profane) and honor,

In what areas do we need to develop for self-control? The disciplines we establish today will determine our success tomorrow. But it takes more than just willpower for lasting self-control. It takes a power greater than just ourselves:-

2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and DISCIPLINE AND SELF-CONTROL.

THE EXERCISING OF SELF-CONTROL [DEVELOP] STEADFASTNESS (PATIENCE, ENDURANCE)

We can often hide the fact that we are engaging in some form of behavior that constitutes lack of self control, we have long practiced the art so that we can appear to be handling things, however the test comes when we are called upon to DEVELOP STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE.

These three qualities only become evident under pressure, and the prerequisite obviously is SELF CONTROL.

2 Thessalonians 1:4 And this is a cause of our mentioning you with pride among the churches (assemblies) of God for your STEADFASTNESS (your unflinching endurance and patience) and your firm faith in the midst of all the persecutions and crushing distresses and afflictions under which you are holding up.

James 1:3-4 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith (this takes us back to the beginning where we had to exercise our faith, and this stage now evidences the “proving”) bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. But let ENDURANCE AND STEADFASTNESS AND PATIENCE have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully DEVELOPED (the same term employed in 2 Peter 1 over several activities) [with no defects], lacking in nothing.

What is it that a parent looks for in a child, IT IS DEVELOPMENT. If there is slow or no development there is a quick trip to the Doctor or Pediatrician to determine if there is some reason, why is it that my child who is now ? years old still cannot????

The same principle applies spiritually, if there is an obvious deficiency then we need to revert to the Great Physician and have that child of God attended to. But shamefully, we tend to ignore the “Under developed” person, they are sometimes too demanding, too remote, too busy, or even in some very senior Christians, too stupid!!!! Our SELF CONTROL comes in to play here as we evidence the “steadfastness, endurance and patience” that is the daily lot of some parents with poorly developing children.

The time is coming where our true profession of faith will come under scrutiny as lawlessness and godlessness continue to erode the Christian principles our nation was built upon. Only those who have EXERCISED SELF CONTROL will have any chance of maintaining their STEADFASTNESS in the face of such interrogation and possibly retribution for their adherence to “the faith”. Many will fall away, many will deny the Christ, some will go on to victory.

Luke 21:19 By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls.

It is not a task that we can do by sheer will power, the preceding processes have to be applied, and with DILIGENCE, but then as we exercise our self control we can expect the addition of the Grace of God to evidence the “qualities” the Word demands.

Romans 15:5 Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, (Peter gets to this at the end of his list of “qualities”)

It is interesting to see how Romans expresses this thought now, for Peter has declared the way to develop STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE but Father is looking on to see how we are doing, and to revert to a recent study, He gives “THE ENABLEMENT”. What a comforting thought, for whilst I am “working out and exercising” in the development of these “qualities” Father says He will, as a means of encouragement, assist me to reach the goal.

The man who has reached this acme of SELF CONTROL will then be easily recognised by his calm demeanour while the storm rages around him. This will be particularly true when that mutual harmony, that supernatural sympathy is radiated from a spirit that is at peace with God and so can be at peace with man, despite the circumstance.

There will be no occasion in this man to look for retribution, there will be no resentment at wrongs done to him, he will not object to the taunts and torments of his provocateurs, he will not seek a way of escape other than that which the Lord would provide, and the effect of this SELF CONTROLLED man who now has DEVELOPED STEADFASTNESS, PATIENCE and ENDURANCE will be to further enrage his tormentors as they cannot disturb his reliance on his God.

The word describes PATIENCE in several ways: –

patience (an even temper, forbearance)
patience (perseverance and forbearance)
patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].

Now, to exercise Christian patience in a right manner, we must let it work. It is not a stupid, but an active thing. Stoical apathy and Christian patience are very different for in the first instance men become, in some measure, insensible of their afflictions, but by the other they become triumphant in and over them. We must take care, in times of trial, that patience and not passion is the quality at work in us;

I have only one cause for complaint here, and that is that when we set out to evidence PATIENCE then we frequently meet with people or circumstances to test how we are doing. And the sense of failure is not to condemn me, but to spur me to greater exercise so that I succeed next time. The encounter is identified in scripture as TRIBULATION

Romans 5:3 Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce PATIENT AND UNSWERVING ENDURANCE.

It is in the process of undergoing these trials that we have to exercise SELF CONTROL and when someone is yanking our chain or rattling our cage the reaction is not always as required, but often, and unfortunately, predictable.

Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised.

Maybe Paul should have inserted here “IF YOU NEED PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE, THEN YOU HAD BEST PRACTICE YOUR SELF CONTROL

THE EXERCISING OF STEADFASTNESS DEVELOPS GODLINESS (PIETY)

The original design Father put in place was that recorded in Genesis:-

Genesis 1:27 So God created man in His own image, IN THE IMAGE AND LIKENESS OF GOD He created him; male and female He created them.

James 3:9 With it (that unruly member, our tongue … comments mine) we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men WHO WERE MADE IN GOD’S LIKENESS!

So we had a good start but in the intervening period we have deteriorated thanks to the events of the Garden of Eden. But we cannot lay it all at Adam’s feet, we have made a fair contribution to the state or condition we now find ourselves in.

But all is not lost, by the exercising of that pesky “quality” of STEADFASTNESS we can develop that “quality” of GODLINESS. This is going to be a confronting experience for those we would then encounter, for Godliness cannot be concealed. It is evidenced in our behaviour, in our communication, in our relationships, in our ministry, in our patience and endurance, in the peace we radiate, so that we are so different to the world at large that Father will be pleased to commune with us. But GODLINESS cannot be limited to those outward displays of inward piety.

A true man of God has qualities of inner piety – the characteristics of a spiritually mature person. This is not a phony façade put on to please or impress people. The source of this godliness is the Word of God. The godly person has not only learned doctrine academically, but he has also seen that word applied to his life in edification over a period of years.

Indications that you are maturing in GODLINESS include:

accepting God’s pruning in order to have increased fruitfulness;
demonstrating the patience to live by His timetable;
investing yourself professionally and personally for the benefit of others;
and being content, even when circumstances are less than optimal.
In addition, long periods of worry will diminish, but when fear does arise, you will rest in God’s sufficiency.

The term GODLINESS is also translated PIETY and both of these terms are not easily understood as they have been “adjusted” down through the years to fit in with religious concepts. But there are a number of synonyms that will help us to better understand what

PIETY…… veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being, and love of his character; loving obedience to the will of God, and earnest devotion to his service, duty; dutifulness; filial reverence and devotion; affectionate reverence and service shown toward others.

Commentators, both religious and secular have difficulty in clarifying the characteristic of “GODLINESS” and in most cases revert back to a simile of “HOLINESS”. Now while holiness is certainly a hallmark of Godliness it does not constitute “GODLINESS” as this is a far more extensive and exalted.

The best some commentators can suggest is “CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS”, which will lead us to recognise how puerile is the comprehension and the appreciation of the magnificence of our Lord.

GODLINESS or GODLIKENESS means that the whole spectrum of God’s nature is to be developed in us, His panoply of abilities, of knowing, of caring, of intervening, but most of all, HIS LOVING. While there is either faction or fracture this constitutes a contamination of love, for love “covers a multitude of sins”, another facet of Godliness and therefore factions cannot be retained in a vessel seeking to be Godlike.

One of the alarming aspects of people assuming GODLINESS is that they are replete with so many objectionable character traits, yet will claim to embrace the concepts yet deny the evidence.

2 Timothy 3:5 For [although] they hold a form of piety (read “GODLINESS) (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them].

KJV says, “Form of Godliness”, but the worst part is that we must sever contact with those who qualify as having only “a form”.

John 5:30 I am able to do nothing from Myself [independently, of My own accord–but only as I am taught by God and as I get His orders]. Even as I hear, I judge [I decide as I am bidden to decide. As the voice comes to Me, so I give a decision], and My judgment is right (just, righteous), because I do not seek or consult My own will [I have no desire to do what is pleasing to Myself,

HOLINESS IS THE ROUTE TO GODLINESS

It is of no coincidence that the exhortation of Peter confirms in 1 Timothy 4:8 the fact that GODLINESS and TRAINING go together. The “exercising of all the virtues or qualities that Peter has enumerated are again summed up in this one verse.

1 Timothy 4:8 “but GODLINESS (SPIRITUAL TRAINING) (or to use Peter’s term, “Exercise”…… comments mine) is useful and of value in everything and in every way”

7.EXERCISING – GODLINESS [DEVELOP] BROTHERLY AFFECTION,

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary: Re BROTHERLY AFFECTION

“Of or pertaining to brothers; such as is natural for brothers; becoming to brothers; kind; affectionate; as, brotherly love. Like a brother; affectionately; kindly.”

Those who have brothers will find that this description often does not fully describe the sensation of having one so close as the flesh and blood of a brother. It also exists, but probably not to the same manner, where one has a sister, and in this case the love is enhanced by a sense of obligation for “protection”.

The prevalence for “brotherly affection” only occurs 3 times in the New Testament but carries with it a significant onus or responsibility, and without it we can never obtain the goal Father has for us.

1 Peter 1:22 Since by your obedience to the Truth through the [Holy] Spirit you have purified your hearts for the SINCERE AFFECTION OF THE BRETHREN, [see that you] love one another fervently from a pure heart.

There are two kinds of love expressed here, and we need to be aware of the connections and implications. “Brotherly love” is “Philadelphia” whereas “Love one another is “Agape”, a much more strenuous and demonstrated love.

There are 7 Greek words for love and they are all slightly different, and just for information sake they are listed here briefly but with clearer definition below.

Agape love is love without any payment in return. This refers to love in the purest sense of the word.
Philos refers to the love of a friendship.
Eunoia is love out of kindness, while
Eros is a sexual love.
Hetairos is a brotherhood type of love and
Aphrodisios refers to the goddess of love.
Storgy is the love a mother has for her kids, or in more general terms, the love one has for their dependents.

Only two of these words really have relevance, and are directly involved in this study

PHILEO: This Greek word for love signifies, “…spontaneous natural affection, with more feeling than reason” Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines phileo as, “to be a friend to…fond of an individual or object; having affection for (as denoting attachment); a matter of sentiment or feeling”.
AGAPE: This Greek word for love is by far the one that appears most frequently in the New Testament. It is, “…generally assumed to mean moral goodwill which proceeds from esteem, principle, or duty, rather than attraction or charm… [it] means to love the undeserving, despite disappointment and rejection…Though agape has more to do with moral principle than with inclination or liking, it never means the cold religious kindness shown from duty alone, as scriptural examples abundantly prove”

How much is wrapped up in that single verse in 1 Peter 1:22, firstly the outcome from our intense study of the Word so that we have both the restraining influence where digression is possible and secondly the encouragement that attends that determination to succeed in God.

Then Peter specifies that with the aid of the Holy Spirit we have purified hearts and can then experience the same confidence that the Psalmist expressed in:-

Psalm 119:11 Your word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against You.

SINCERE AFFECTION is something to be cherished. In so many areas today we see the superficial veneer of affection held together by the glue of respectability, not because of any real heartfelt Godlike emotion.

Brotherly love in the biblical sense is an extension of the natural affection associated with near kin, toward the greater community of fellow believers, that goes beyond the mere duty to “love thy neighbour as thyself”, and shows itself as “unfeigned love” from a “pure heart”, that extends an unconditional hand of friendship that loves when not loved back, that gives without getting, and that ever looks for what is best in others.

Now Peter says we can tie things together, we have purified our hearts, therefore we can love “FERVENTLY” from that pure heart.

Paul expands the idea when he wrote to the Romans, and it is noteworthy how both Peter and Paul adopt the same language, but Paul explains it a little more succinctly, as we see.

Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], GIVING PRECEDENCE AND SHOWING HONOR TO ONE ANOTHER.

Paul makes another “assumption” in 1 Thessalonians 4:9, a lesson some people have obviously skipped in their spiritual education, for we see on every hand the dissention that attends what is called “The Church” at large, and it is only as He builds “His Church” that we will fully understand that “love for all Christians”

1 Thessalonians 4:9 But concerning brotherly love [FOR ALL OTHER CHRISTIANS], you have no need to have anyone write you, for you yourselves have BEEN [PERSONALLY] TAUGHT BY GOD TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Hebrews 13:1 Let LOVE for your fellow believers continue and be a fixed practice with you [never let it fail].

This is the same “Philadelphia” love as above.

IN EXERCISING BROTHERLY AFFECTION [DEVELOP] CHRISTIAN LOVE.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And so faith, hope, love abide [faith–conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope–joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love–true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. (AGAPE)

This chapter 13 of 1 Corinthians sets a challenge for us of enormous proportions, for it reaches from mere communications conducted either in intelligible or unintelligible form right though the whole spectrum of human experience and relations, demands and provision, from the moving of mountains down to the incredible durability of this form of love, “IT NEVER FAILS” Verse 10 prescribes that all the features and futures that we hope for, and develop faith for, will at that time disappear, but love will endure.

Love is of God’s nature—faith and hope are only of God’s creation and appointment. God loves, but God neither believes nor hopes, He has no need of either, but adjures us to take on His nature “For God is Love”

1 John 4:8 He who does not love has not become acquainted with God [does not and never did know Him], FOR GOD IS LOVE.

What a sobering thought, if we are unable to express love in the manner described in 1 Corinthians 13 then there is the suggestion that we may have a false concept of our relationship to God, because of our poor relationship with man.

It is regrettably a repeat that the word “LOVE”, like other similar terms, has been hijacked by the world, motivated by the enemy, so that the purity and sanctity and sacred intention has now been relegated to the pursuit of self satisfaction in whatever form a person desires. The ultimate end of this self-indulgence is well documented.

Jesus greatly expanded the scope and importance of love, saying love of God and love of fellowman are the most important of all the commandments. The apostle Paul said Christian love was the greatest and most essential of all the spiritual gifts.

Throughout the New Testament, we are encouraged and commanded to live in peace with all God’s people and commit ourselves to genuine love and caring for others. Those are the ways we can put our faith into practice in everyday life.

Faith, hope, love – are the sum of perfection on earth; love alone is the sum of perfection in heaven.

A paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13 may assist us in the application of this principle as it makes a lot more sense in many instances.

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8 IN PARAPHRASE

I will be tolerant…… giving you generous respect

I will be patient with you

I will be kind to you

I will not be envious of you, your achievements, what you have

I will not become jealous

I will not boast of, or exhibit, an exaggerated opinion of my own importance or ability

I will not be conceited or proud or act arrogantly

I will not be rude or act unmannerly towards you

I will not act unbecomingly

I will not insist on my own rights or insist on my own ways, for I will not be selfish

I will not be touchy, fretful or upset

I will not resent anything you do or say

I will take no account and pay no attention to anything you do against me

I will not support you or condone or hold with you in any unrighteous or unjust speaking or doing, but I will rejoice and encourage you when you choose the truth and live uprightly

I will overlook and forgive and cover with silence any and everyone of your shortcomings

I will have faith and believe in you

I will pray, hope for, expect and anticipate the very best for you in all circumstances

I will not waiver in my support for you

I will not let you down….. you can count on me

EXERCISE RESULT

PLEASE NOTE, THAT FROM “FAITH” TO “LOVE” TAKES EIGHT STEPS, THE BIBLICAL NUMBER FOR “FATNESS

FAITH TO VIRTUE

VIRTUE TO KNOWLEDGE

KNOWLEDGE TO SELF CONTROL

SELF CONTROL TO STEADFASTNESS

STEADFASTNESS TO GODLINESS

GODLINESS TO BROTHERLY AFFECTION

BROTHERLY AFFECTION TO LOVE.

Ross Smith

HOME BIBLE STUDY

Month: December 2015

WISDOM FROM ABOVE – FACTOR OF EIGHT ROSS SMITH

STUDY TO BE QUIET ROSS SMITH

HEIRARCHY OF HOLINESS ROSS SMITH

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